New grad cheat codes: breaking the “experience required” gatekeeping

Okay but seriously… if you’ve been job hunting post-grad, you’ve definitely run into this cursed energy: “entry-level” positions asking for 3+ years of experience, a whole tech stack, and probably your firstborn child as collateral.

You’re sitting there like: Bestie, make it make sense. How am I supposed to have that kind of experience for a job that pays in pizza parties?

Here’s the plot twist: they know you don’t have all of that. Most of those job postings are wish lists, not hard rules. HR copy-pastes what the “perfect candidate” would look like, knowing almost no one checks every box.

Here’s what’s actually non-negotiable. Someone who:

• Won’t ghost after orientation
• Shows up and tries
• Can try to figure it out (aka Google things) without a meltdown

So if you’ve been spiraling over not hitting 100% of the bullets, pause. This blog is about the actual cheat codes to break through that gatekeeping, survive the chaos, and maybe — finally — land that first job.

Cheat code #1: apply strategically (not like you’re desperate)

Yes, you should apply even if you don’t tick every box… but only if you can actually picture yourself not hating the role. Mass applying to 100 jobs is burnout waiting to happen.

Here’s the vibe check: if the role sounds interesting and you’ve got some of the main skills, send it. If it’s completely out of your lane? Skip it.

Cheat code #2: make your school stuff count (it’s not “fake” experience)

The biggest mistake new grads make? Pretending college work doesn’t count. Bestie, it does.

That group project you carried, the research paper that turned into a legit presentation, the volunteer work, the nonprofit TikTok you ran—all of it translates into real-world skills.

Write it like it matters: what you built, organized, or improved. Because that’s exactly what recruiters are looking for in entry-level jobs for recent graduates.

Cheat code #3: read between the lines (they’re not actually expecting a unicorn)

If you see “assistant,” “coordinator,” or “associate” in the title, that’s code for “we’ll train you.” These are the roles designed for people starting their careers.

But you still have to play the game. Tailor your résumé and cover letter with keywords so the applicant tracking system (ATS) doesn’t auto-reject you before a human even looks at it. Annoying? Yes. Necessary? Also yes.

Cheat code #4: track your moves (or lose your mind)

Nothing feels worse than getting a call and forgetting which job it was for. Or realizing you applied to the same posting three times.

Keep a tracker (spreadsheet, Notes app… whatever works). Future you will thank you for staying organized. Think of it like keeping receipts for your effort, not boring homework.

Cheat code #5: network without the ick

Networking doesn’t have to be corporate cringe. Start with your own circle: professors, classmates, recent grads who survived the process. Even telling your friends, “hey, I’m job searching, keep me in mind” counts.

Most opportunities for new graduate careers come from random connections, not just job boards. It’s less “elevator pitch,” more “hey, know anyone who’s hiring?”

FAQs about getting a job after college (without experience)

What’s the fastest way to get a job after college?
The fastest way to get a job after college is to target entry-level roles that are designed for new graduates, often labeled “assistant,” “coordinator,” or “associate.” These are usually trainable jobs. Apply strategically, and make sure you highlight class projects, internships, and volunteer work as real experience.

Do employers really expect new grads to have experience?
Employers do not really expect new grads to have years of experience, even if job descriptions make it seem that way. Most listings are wish lists. What employers actually want is someone who’s coachable, reliable, and willing to learn.

How do I make my résumé stand out as a new grad?
You can make your résumé stand out as a new grad by reframing your schoolwork and projects into achievements. Instead of “wrote a research paper,” try: Conducted independent research on consumer behavior and presented findings to a 30-person class, earning top feedback for clarity and insights.

How many jobs should I apply to as a new graduate?
The number of jobs you should apply to as a new graduate depends on your energy, but quality matters more than quantity. Two or three intentional, well-tailored applications per day will serve you better (and protect your mental health) than sending 50 generic résumés into the void.

What should I do if I keep getting rejected from jobs after college?
If you keep getting rejected from jobs after college, remember this is normal for new grads. Rejections often have more to do with timing, applicant volume, or internal hires than your skills. Adjust your approach: track your applications, tailor your materials, and lean on your network for leads.

Protect your energy

Job searching after college can feel like a full-time job, but it shouldn’t consume your whole life. Limit yourself (like two focused applications a day) and step away. Rejections aren’t about your worth. They’re usually about timing, numbers, or randomness you can’t control.

Your mental health matters more than any one job posting. The right opportunity will come, and you’ll actually be ready for it.

TikTok isn’t your only career coach (meet Jema)

Job hunting after graduation is messy, and no, TikTok doesn’t have to be your only career coach (though shoutout to the creators who got us this far 💀).

You deserve more than recycled hacks and “just manifest it” energy. That’s where Jema comes in — the career sidekick that helps you actually map your next move instead of relying on the algorithm to do it for you.

Because your future deserves more than For You Page advice.

Jema can help.