How to Get a Job After Graduation in India? 11 Proven Steps

Over 60% of fresh graduates in India struggle to secure a job within six months of graduation. High competition and a lack of experience make it difficult for freshers to secure roles. To secure a job, you need to build industry-relevant skills, leverage networking opportunities, and craft a strong, ATS-friendly resume.

You need the right mix of networking, skill-building, and a strong resume. This guide provides the best job search strategies for freshers, ensuring you learn how to get a job after graduation effectively.

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How to Get a Job After Graduation in India?

Finding a job after graduation in India is challenging due to high competition and a lack of industry experience. 

Many freshers struggle because they apply randomly instead of following a structured approach. To succeed, you must focus on networking, internships, upskilling, and an optimized resume. 

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Below are 11 practical steps to follow for securing your first job.

1. Leverage College Resources for Job Placement

Many students overlook valuable college resources that can help secure their first job. However, colleges are not just educational institutions—they are launchpads for careers, offering multiple avenues to connect with employers and gain industry exposure. 

By leveraging these resources effectively, fresh graduates can significantly boost their chances of securing a job.

• Placement Cells: Most colleges have dedicated placement cells that partner with leading companies to bring job opportunities to students. In recent years, AI-driven hiring platforms like HireVue and Talview have made virtual hiring more common, so students should ensure their online interview skills are strong. To maximize opportunities, students should:
  • Keep their resumes ATS-friendly (Applicant Tracking System optimized) so that recruitment software can filter them easily.
  • Attend pre-placement talks to understand what companies look for in fresh graduates.
  • Research companies beforehand and tailor applications based on their hiring trends.

Also Read: How to Create a Standout Resume for Freshers

• Career Counseling: Many students are unsure about how to align their skills with industry demand. Career counseling offices help bridge this gap by providing:
  • AI-powered resume feedback tools (e.g., VMock and Resumebuild) that highlight areas of improvement.
  • Mock interviews using behavioral analytics, where AI software provides insights on eye contact, confidence levels, and communication skills.
  • Guidance on trending industries—for example, fields like AI, Blockchain, and Cybersecurity are seeing a 1.6x increase in job demand. 
• Job Fairs: Colleges frequently organize job fairs where multiple companies hire fresh graduates. These events have evolved beyond physical fairs to virtual hiring expos, where companies use AI-powered assessments to shortlist candidates. For example:
  • Companies like TCS, Infosys, and Wipro have started conducting online hackathons (e.g., TCS CodeVita, Infosys HackWithInfy) to recruit talent directly.
  • Students should prepare an elevator pitch to introduce themselves in under a minute and make a strong first impression.
• Alumni Networks: The power of alumni networks is often underrated. Graduates who have secured jobs in top companies can provide referrals, which increase hiring chances significantly. In fact, referred candidates are 4X more likely to be hired than non-referred ones (as per a LinkedIn report).
  • Many IIT and IIM alumni groups have exclusive LinkedIn and WhatsApp communities where job openings are shared internally.
  • Platforms like Alumni Alliances and Graduway help students connect with past graduates working in top companies.
  • In tech-heavy industries like Data Science and AI, networking with alumni working at Google, Microsoft, and Amazon can give freshers access to internal job postings that are not advertised publicly.

Also Read: How to Land a Job with No Experience: A Beginner's Guide

While college resources provide a strong starting point, expanding your connections beyond campus can open even more job opportunities through networking.

2. Build a Strong Professional Network

Many job opportunities never get publicly posted, making networking one of the best job search strategies for freshers to tap into the hidden job market. According to LinkedIn, over 85% of jobs are filled through networking rather than online applications. A strong professional network can fast-track your job search by giving you direct access to referrals, industry trends, and hiring managers.

• Alumni Connections: Your college alumni network is a goldmine of opportunities. 
  • For instance, IIT and IIM graduates often form strong alumni communities, helping juniors get referrals in top firms like Google, McKinsey, and TCS. Reach out to alumni on LinkedIn or attend alumni meetups to gain industry insights. 
• LinkedIn Engagement: Recruiters often scout for potential candidates through LinkedIn. A study by Jobvite found that 92% of recruiters use LinkedIn to find candidates. Instead of just connecting with people, engage meaningfully by commenting on trending posts, sharing insights about new technologies like AI, Blockchain, or Data Science, and posting about projects you’ve worked on. 
  • Example: A fresher in digital marketing gained a job offer by regularly sharing insights on SEO updates and Google’s latest algorithm changes, which caught a recruiter’s attention.
• Career Events: With the rise of virtual job fairs and networking events, it's easier than ever to connect with recruiters. 
  • Events like NASSCOM conferences, LinkedIn Talent Connect, and TechCrunch Disrupt bring together industry leaders, hiring managers, and startups. Participating in these events and showcasing your knowledge about emerging technologies like Web3, cybersecurity, and machine learning can make a lasting impression.
• Informational Interviews: Many freshers hesitate to reach out to professionals, but this is a powerful strategy. A modern approach is to request a 15-minute virtual coffee chat with someone in your dream company. 
  • Platforms like Lunchclub and ADPList help freshers connect with professionals globally. Instead of just asking for a job, ask about industry trends, career growth tips, and the latest skills in demand. 

Also Read: 55+ Networking Interview Questions & Answers (Freshers & Experienced) 

Networking opens doors to hidden job opportunities, but your online presence ensures recruiters notice you. Strengthen your LinkedIn profile to make meaningful connections.

3. Optimize Your LinkedIn & Online Presence

Recruiters often check LinkedIn before shortlisting candidates. In fact, over 90% of recruiters use LinkedIn for hiring, and profiles with a professional photo receive 14 times more profile views than those without. 

A well-optimized LinkedIn profile increases your chances of getting noticed, which is crucial when learning how to get a job after graduation. It opens doors to both visible and hidden job opportunities. 

Here’s how to make your profile stand out.

• Profile Picture: Your profile is 21 times more likely to be viewed with a high-quality, professional headshot. Avoid casual selfies—opt for a well-lit photo with a neutral background, similar to corporate headshots seen in industry leaders’ profiles. 
• Headline: A compelling headline goes beyond just stating your job title. Instead of “Recent Graduate in Computer Science,” try "Aspiring Data Analyst | Python, SQL, Machine Learning | Passionate About Data-Driven Solutions". This improves visibility in LinkedIn search algorithms, making it easier for recruiters to find you. 
• Summary: Your LinkedIn About section should tell a story. Instead of listing generic skills, highlight real-life experiences and achievements. 
  • If you're a marketing fresher, talk about a Google Ads campaign you managed for a college project and how it increased engagement by 40%. If you're in software development, showcase a GitHub project where you built an AI chatbot using Python and OpenAI’s GPT models. Adding numbers and tangible results makes your profile more appealing.
• Experience: Even if you’re a fresher, recruiters look for practical application of skills. Instead of just listing "Intern at XYZ Company," describe your impact:
  • Bad Example: Intern at ABC Software, worked on Python scripts.
  • Good Example: Developed automation scripts using Python that reduced manual processing time by 25%, improving data workflow efficiency.
  • Pro tip: Add media files, GitHub links, or case studies to your experience section for maximum impact.
• Skills: The LinkedIn algorithm prioritizes industry-relevant skills. Profiles that list at least 5 key skills receive 17 times more profile views. Identify the most in-demand skills in your field. For example, in 2024, the top skills for fresh graduates include:
  • Tech Roles: Cloud Computing (AWS, Azure), AI & ML, Cybersecurity, Full-Stack Development
  • Marketing Roles: Performance Marketing, SEO, Google Analytics, Copywriting
  • Finance Roles: Data Analytics, Financial Modeling, Blockchain & Crypto Investment
  • Creative Roles: UI/UX Design, Adobe Creative Suite, Motion Graphics

A strong LinkedIn profile should highlight your expertise and make it easy for recruiters to assess your potential. Ensure each section is optimized with relevant details:

Also Read: How Can Students Leverage LinkedIn For Better Career Opportunities

Having a strong LinkedIn profile is just the first step. Now, you need real-world experience to make your profile more impactful and job-ready.

4. Gain Practical Experience Through Internships & Freelancing

Practical experience gives you an edge over other freshers. Employers seek candidates who can contribute from day one, and real-world exposure through internships and freelancing builds industry-relevant skills beyond classroom knowledge.

• Internships: Platforms like Naukri, and LinkedIn Jobs list internships across various industries. 
  • Tech companies like TCS, Wipro, and Infosys actively recruit interns for software development and data analytics roles. 
• Freelancing: Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal offer short-term projects in content writing, graphic design, and programming. 
  • If you're into AI/ML, Kaggle competitions help build hands-on experience. Companies increasingly outsource work to freelancers for tech-based tasks.
• Industry Projects: Collaborating with startups or faculty members on research-based or live projects can boost your portfolio. 
  • For instance, if you're into cybersecurity, working on bug bounty programs with platforms like HackerOne and Bugcrowd enhances credibility.
• Volunteering: NGOs and social impact organizations like Teach For India need marketing, data analytics, and operations support. Volunteering in leadership roles showcases your problem-solving and teamwork abilities.

Pro Tip: Highlight your projects on GitHub, Behance, or a personal portfolio website to stand out. Recruiters value a strong online presence that demonstrates real work.

Also Read: Top 30 Job-Oriented Professional Courses After Graduation

Once you've built hands-on experience, the next step is ensuring your resume reflects it effectively.

5. Craft a Resume and Cover Letter That Stand Out

Your resume and cover letter must highlight why you are the best candidate. A survey by TopResume found that 75% of resumes are rejected before they reach a hiring manager due to poor structure and lack of relevant details.

• Customize your resume: Avoid generic resumes. If applying for a software engineering role, focus on programming languages (Python, Java), projects, and GitHub repositories. If you're a marketing graduate, highlight SEO, Google Ads certifications, and campaign success metrics.
• Use metrics: Instead of “Worked on social media marketing,” say “Increased engagement by 40% through targeted Instagram campaigns.”
• ATS Optimization: Over 95% of Fortune 500 companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter resumes. Use keywords from the job description and standard formatting to get past ATS.

Also Read: How to Build a Resume For Your Dream Job

A strong resume gets you noticed, but relevant skills secure the job. The next step is upskilling to enhance your employability and industry readiness.

6. Upskill with Certifications & Industry-Relevant Courses

Employers prioritize candidates with up-to-date skills. In India’s job market, most of the hiring managers favored candidates with industry certifications.

• Technical Skills: The demand for AI, blockchain, and cybersecurity professionals has surged. Even non-tech professionals can benefit from learning data analytics and automation tools.

Learn blockchain basics with upGrad's Blockchain: A Quick Introduction and stay ahead in a tech-driven job market.

• Soft Skills: According to a Harvard Business Review study, strong communication skills make candidates 50% more likely to get promoted. Learning business communication, negotiation, and leadership is just as crucial as technical knowledge.

Boost your career prospects with upGrad's Enhance Your Potential: Soft Skills Courses and master communication, negotiation, and leadership skills.

• Top Platforms: Platforms like upGrad offer free courses to help you upskill in high-demand fields, making you job-ready with industry-relevant knowledge.
• Certifications That Matter:
  • Google Data Analytics – Ideal for business and tech roles
  • AWS Cloud Practitioner – Cloud computing skills are in demand
  • PMP (Project Management Professional) – Valuable for management roles

Also Read: Top 10 Highest Paying IT Certifications in India in 2025

With the right skills in place, targeting the right job opportunities becomes easier.

7. Find and Apply to the Right Job Opportunities

Applying randomly reduces success rates. A targeted approach improves efficiency and ensures you land the right role faster. Instead of sending out generic applications, focus on a structured, data-driven approach that aligns with industry trends, modern hiring technologies, and recruiter expectations. Understanding how to get a job after graduation requires using the right platforms and strategies tailored to your career goals.

• Job Portals: Apply on LinkedIn, Naukri, Indeed, and AngelList (for startups).
• Company Career Pages: TCS, Infosys, Deloitte, and Amazon regularly hire freshers—apply directly.
• Recruitment Agencies: Top agencies like ABC Consultants, Randstad, and TeamLease help place fresh graduates.
• Government Job Portals: Check NCS, UPSC, IBPS, and PSU listings for public sector roles.

Pro Tip: Join LinkedIn groups like “Jobs for Freshers India” to discover exclusive job opportunities before they’re posted publicly.

Also Read: Best Career Options in India 2025: High, Salary, Future Scope

Applying to jobs is just the first step—securing an interview is where the real challenge begins. Proper preparation can make all the difference.

8. Prepare for Job Interviews & Mock Assessments

Confidence in interviews comes with preparation. According to Glassdoor, 77% of candidates feel interviews are the most stressful part of job hunting. This stress often stems from uncertainty, lack of practice, and unfamiliarity with modern interview formats used by companies today.

The following table outlines the most common HR, technical, and behavioral interview questions, along with strategies to structure your answers for maximum impact.

Also Read: Top 30 Interview Question & Answers for Freshers

Acing interviews is just one part of securing a job; staying informed about industry trends ensures you remain competitive and relevant in the job market.

9. Stay Updated with Industry Trends & Market Demands

Employers today seek candidates who are not just skilled but also aware of emerging technologies and business shifts. For example, job seekers can use ChatGPT to draft personalized cover letters and practice mock interview questions based on job descriptions.

• Leverage AI & Automation for Career Growth: The rise of AI-driven tools like ChatGPT, Bard, and Jasper is reshaping multiple job roles. In software development, GitHub Copilot assists coders by suggesting real-time code completions, making development faster and more efficient. 

Enhance your freelancing skills and stay competitive by exploring free AI courses to sharpen your AI, coding, and automation expertise.

• Modern Approaches to Staying Updated: Subscribe to newsletters like Economic Times, YourStory, and Business Insider. Follow industry leaders and insights like Elon Musk, Sundar Pichai, Nikhil Kamath, etc.

Also Read: Best Data Analytics Courses in 2025: A Comprehensive Guide

Staying informed about industry trends is crucial, but tracking your applications systematically ensures you make the most of every opportunity.

10. Organize & Track Your Job Search Efficiently

Tracking your job applications is crucial for maintaining momentum and ensuring you follow up at the right time. Without an organized approach, it’s easy to lose track of deadlines, forget follow-ups, or miss out on potential opportunities. A well-maintained job application tracker can significantly improve your efficiency and success rate.

A structured follow-up approach can improve response rates. For example, a good practice is to follow up 3 days after a referral, a week after applying, and reapply after two weeks if there’s no response.

Modern Tools for Job Tracking

Skip manual tracking and use AI job tracking tools like:

• Trello or Notion – Organize applications using Kanban boards, set reminders for follow-ups.
• JibberJobber – A dedicated job search tracking platform that helps in managing applications, interviews, and follow-up emails.
• Google Sheets – Create a dynamic job tracker with auto-reminders using Google Calendar integration.

Also Read: Top 10 Short-term Job Oriented Courses in 2025

Staying organized improves efficiency, but setbacks are inevitable. If things don’t go as planned, having a backup strategy ensures you stay on track.

11. Have a Backup Plan & Stay Persistent

Not every job search goes as planned. How to get a job after graduation can feel challenging, especially with multiple rejections, lack of relevant experience, or skill gaps. These setbacks are common, but having alternative career paths ensures progress. 

Many successful professionals have taken unconventional routes to build thriving careers. Below are practical career strategies that can help fresh graduates stay ahead and continue growing professionally.

• Higher Studies: Consider pursuing an MBA, M.Tech, or professional certifications.
• Government Exams: Prepare for UPSC, SSC, or banking exams.
• Startup Roles: Join startups where learning opportunities are vast.
• Skill Development: Take time to gain expertise in high-demand fields like AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.

Must Read: 24 Trending Courses Online in 2025: Top Benefits and How To Pick One! 

Even with the best efforts, securing a job can take time. If you don’t land a job immediately, here’s how to stay proactive and improve your chances.

What to Do If You Don’t Land a Job Immediately?

In 2019, N. R. Narayana Murthy, co-founder of Infosys, revealed that he was rejected by multiple companies before building one of India's top IT firms. Not getting a job right after graduation is common in today’s competitive market. 

Most fresh graduates in India struggle due to a lack of industry-ready skills, but this does not mean failure—it simply signals a need to refine your approach and adopt the right strategies.

Key Points to Keep in Mind

• Expand Your Skill Set: 

Recruiters today prioritize candidates who have a growth mindset and proactively learn new technologies.

For example, full-stack development, blockchain technology, and AI-driven automation are among the most in-demand skills in 2024, as reported by LinkedIn’s Emerging Jobs Report. 

• Gain Experience with Internships & Freelancing: 

Many freshers struggle because of the “experience paradox”—you need experience to get a job, but you need a job to gain experience. The best way to break this cycle is by taking up internships and freelancing projects.

Freelancing platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal provide opportunities in content writing, graphic design, software development, and business consulting—helping you build a portfolio that attracts recruiters.

Also Read: Complete Guide to Computer Science Internships in 2025

• Consider Alternative Career Paths:

Traditional MNC jobs aren’t the only career option—there are many unconventional but lucrative opportunities available today.

For example: Many startups value skills and passion over degrees. Platforms like AngelList and Y Combinator’s job board list high-growth startup roles that offer faster career progression.

• Expand Your Job Search Strategy: 

Instead of applying to only big-name companies, focus on mid-sized firms, consultancies, and emerging industries.

Example: A BBA graduate struggling to find a corporate job landed a role in market research after cold-emailing a startup’s CEO with a brief industry analysis.

• Stay Updated & Keep Applying: 

Employers favor candidates who stay updated on AI-driven automation, blockchain adoption, cybersecurity advancements, and cloud computing trends. Subscribe to TechCrunch, Gartner, and McKinsey reports, follow LinkedIn influencers like Andrew Ng for AI and Vitalik Buterin for blockchain, and track emerging technologies shaping industries.

• Take Care of Your Mental Well-Being: 

Rejections are part of the job search process, but persistence pays off. Studies show that candidates who maintain a structured routine—including exercise, mindfulness, and networking—find jobs faster than those who don't.

Example: Sundar Pichai, Google’s CEO, once applied for a job at McKinsey & Co. and was rejected before eventually excelling in tech. 

Also Read: 6 Job-oriented Professional Courses After Graduation

If securing a job feels challenging right now, don't lose hope. The key is to focus on upskilling and improving your job readiness.

How to Get a Job as a Fresher? Upskill with upGrad

Landing a job as a fresher can be challenging, especially when employers seek candidates with industry-ready skills. The key to standing out is upskilling—acquiring the latest knowledge and expertise that align with industry demands. 

This is where upGrad comes in, offering structured learning, career support, and job placement assistance to help fresh graduates bridge the skill gap and secure their dream jobs.

Here are some recommendations: 

• Basics of Search Engine Marketing
• Introduction to Social Media Marketing
• Data Structures and Algorithms
• Analyzing Patterns in Data and Storytelling
• Master’s Degree in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science

Do you need help deciding which courses can help you excel in your career? Contact upGrad for personalized counseling and valuable insights. For more details, you can also visit your nearest upGrad offline center.

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