Fresher hiring sees a significant decline, particularly in IT sector! What should you do?

• Amid news of sub-par placements even at top-tier engineering colleges, students are worrying about their future
• Experts advise preparing for the worst and acquiring additional skills through industry-certified courses
• Continually update your profiles on job boards and expand your network on platforms such as LinkedIn

Last week news began trending that claimed more than 30% of IIT Bombay students could not get placements. Later, the institution displaced these concerns and revealed that only 6.1% of eligible students are actively seeking employment. However, the fact remains that fresher hiring this year has taken a hit across almost all colleges across the country.

“Direct fresher hiring from colleges has significantly decreased, owing to the general sluggishness in the economy,” says Karthikeyan Kesavan (Director & head of perm Placement) Adecco India, a workforce solutions provider.

The dip in fresher hiring may seem more pronounced in the IT sector, which traditionally hires the majority of new engineering entrants to the workforce. Typically, the IT sector absorbs 20-25% of the 1.5 million engineering graduates in India annually.

“Companies have had to cut back on freshers' hiring due to a weak deal pipeline, recessionary fears in the US, and the need to utilise existing resources effectively,” says Krishna Vij, Business Head, TeamLease Digital, a job portal for tech freshers.

According to NLB Services, a talent solutions company, the IT industry has seen a dip in the freshers hiring intent from 49% in H1 2023 to 42% in H1 2024.

What should you do?

Uncertain economic conditions come in cycles and if you are a fresher it is just a coincidence that you trying to find your first job in the middle of one. Nothing to do with how good your skills are. But, to navigate such challenging times better, there are things you can do that increase your chances of getting hired.

Acquire relevant skills through certifications

In the 21st century, having a degree may not be enough. You need skills that are relevant to the job you are applying for, and proof that you have them. In addition to your regular degree, acquire one or two skills preferably through certification. There are many industry-certified courses available both online and offline.

Before you enrol on any such courses, talk to your seniors or those already in a job to find out which are the skills in demand.

It is essential to stay proactive and not give up. “Developing a combination of technical competencies and soft skills is crucial, alongside participation in hackathons and collaborative projects to showcase practical abilities,” says Vij.

Update your profile and network

Getting a job off-campus is a time-consuming process. It involves a lot of preparation and results may not be immediate. The first step is to let potential employers know that you are available for hire.

“Continually update your profiles on job boards and expand your network on platforms such as LinkedIn, particularly with regards to target companies. Increase engagement and enhance visibility within the talent acquisition community,” says Kesavan.

Seek out a mentor

In difficult situations, sound advice always comes in handy. “Connecting with industry peers, experts and mentors can make a huge impact on one’s professional journey,” says Sachin Alug, CEO, NLB Services.

Freshers must find appropriate networks that play a vital role in their learning, scope of opportunities and creating a sustainable career. From your college professor to your neighbour to your senior, you may find a good mentor if you continuously seek genuine help.

Take up a part-time job

If you are not getting a job consider taking up part-time gigs which are related to your field of work. Working part-time to utilise one’s time in a productive way can be a good idea for many candidates.

“This not only empowers them financially but also allows them time to prepare for their full-time professions. While aspirants may choose part-time jobs as a temporary occupation, the focus must not shift from enhancing one’s skills in the direction they want to excel in,” says Alug.

Finally, it is important that one maintains a positive attitude, resilience, and adaptability throughout the job search process.