Are you going to graduate soon but have the current job scarcity and mass layoffs been overshadowing your graduation adrenaline? Well, it is a situation that is unavoidable, but can surely be tackled.

Finding a job as a software engineer right after graduation is not a daunting task anymore. And this article is here to help you land the perfect software job along with helping you where to find them.

Read on!

Steps to follow to find the perfect software job, right after graduation:

Become skilled in any of the programming languages

It goes without saying that skills in a programming language are essential if you want to work as a software developer. No business would consider or employ a software engineer unfamiliar with coding or programming (is it even a thing)!

Therefore, if you want to start a career in software development or switch careers without any previous expertise, you should become skilled in at least one programming language. Python, Java, Swift, and other widely used and valuable programming languages are only a few examples. You can choose one (or more) of these languages and begin learning at any level, from beginner to advanced.

Prioritize data structures and algorithms.

You may think of data structures and algorithms as the foundation of software development. Nearly all major tech companies, like Google, Amazon, Uber, etc., examine and grade candidates based on their knowledge of data structure and algorithm ideas. So, if you want to grab a software engineer job right after your degree, you need to be more concerned with data structures and algorithms. From fundamental subjects like Array, Queue, etc. to advanced data structure concepts, you can begin upskilling on data structures.

Build a strong project portfolio

Regardless of your prior employment history (which you don’t have of course, as you are a fresher), employers always expect you to demonstrate your talents during the recruitment process, which is where projects come in. If you have a strong portfolio of your own work, you may be given preference for a job position over others (even over more experienced candidates).

Project development is essential because it allows you to put all of your programming knowledge—including your understanding of programming languages, algorithms, databases, and other topics—into practice. This process not only confirms your coding abilities but also boosts your self-confidence. In the meanwhile, you can utilize websites like Github, Bitbucket, etc. to publish your projects online. Additionally, rather than focusing on quantity, attempt to create a small number of high-quality projects.

Take part in coding competitions

(These competitions and badges act as your student experience in the professional world!)

One of the finest ways to learn about computer programming and evaluate your abilities is through coding challenges and competitions. Additionally, these programming competitions might be your route to your dream software company. There are many well-known coding challenges websites, such HackerRank, TopCoder, CodeChef, etc., where you can take part in the many competitions they constantly host. You receive a variety of badges and certifications from these platforms, which you can display to the interview panel to demonstrate your skill set. These programming tasks also enable you to acquire the critical thinking and logic-building skills necessary to become a skilled programmer.

Get in touch with the experts

Last but not least, in order to find a suitable opportunity, you must contact professionals. Yes, even if you possess all the necessary qualifications, you still can't expect to land a job at your ideal company while idly lounging about at home. To acquire the green light, you must network with people in the industry. You can contact corporate representatives directly via email, add them as contacts on social media sites like LinkedIn and Meetup, and browse the company website to check for openings.

You must realize that in order to seize opportunities and launch a great career, you must go forward. Additionally, you can go to a variety of important activities like seminars, get-togethers, and conferences. This will help you increase your professional network.

These are the main methods you should use to land a job as a software developer if you lack expertise. Although there are a few other suggestions for the same that might be taken into account.

• Make an effective cover letter and resume.
• Create a credible web presence.
• Make inquiries about the intended business.
• Practice your soft skills, such as communication and time management.

Gain knowledge through an internship

It can be advantageous to finish an internship or work contract if you have little to no experience as a software engineer in order to advance your career. For instance, you can finish an internship to receive credit towards your degree if you decide to pursue a bachelor's degree in software engineering. An internship is a great method to expand your software engineering experience, and it can also help you improve your skills and qualifications. Search for internship openings at tech firms so you may gain knowledge from seasoned software engineers and developers.

Where to look for paid, software engineer internships?

Indeed, it might be difficult, but not impossible, to find a legit internship or fresher job as a software developer. So, here’s a little secret!

CareerChat by McKinley Rice is a budding site to look for Software Engineering internships and fresher jobs. The openings here are hand-picked, hence, the authenticity is on the house!

Benefits of finding a software engineer internship through CareerChat:

• Opportunity to work for international clients.
• Paid internship opportunities
• Hybrid or remote work setting (based on the clients)
• P&Bs of up to 4LPA
• Work in major IT cities like- Hyderabad, Bangalore, Noida, & Pune. 

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