Graduating Into Uncertainty? How to Actually Land Your First Tech Job

In this episode, I’m joined by my co-host Carly Malatskey to share the early-career playbook most people wish they had at 21. Whether you're fresh out of college, navigating your first job, or advising someone who is — this episode is for you.–Key topics• Why your first job should feel like a sprint, not a stroll• How to tell if your job is setting you up — or holding you back• The truth about internships (they matter more than your degree)• How to stand out when applying — and why “spray and pray” fails• Why it’s okay (even smart) to view your first job as a stepping stone• Red flags and green flags once you’re hired• How to network in a way that doesn’t feel transactional• The mindset shift that separates top performers early in career• Why working in-person still gives you an edge• How to take real risks when you have the least to lose–Where to find Nikhyl:Twitter/XLinkedIn–Where to find Carly:LinkedInShe Leads PodcastTwitter/X–Join The Skip:Skip CoachSkip Community–Find The Skip:WebsiteSubstackYouTubeSpotifyApple Podcasts–Don't forget to subscribe to The Skip to hear me coach you through timely career lessons. If you’re interested in joining me on a future call, send me a note on LinkedIn, Threads, or Twitter. You can also email me at [email protected]–Timestamps(00:00) Why most grads feel lost — and what to do about it(01:44) How to navigate the 2025 job market(03:29) Why hustle still wins (yes, even now)(08:24) What to really look for in your first job(15:03) Why seeking feedback is a career unlock(17:30) Choose your boss — not the logo(20:02) Why taking risks early pays off later(28:35) How to tell a compelling career story(32:15) Job hunting that actually works(37:38) Making the leap from college to career(42:18) Why you should work while studying(46:13) How to maintain a network(55:10) Green flags and red flags once you’re hired(58:55) Your first job is a launchpad — not a life sentence(63:12) Final advice we wish we heard at 21 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theskip.substack.com