Intro

This chapter explores the challenges faced by recent graduates transitioning from academia to the tech workforce. It offers personal insights and actionable strategies to help listeners effectively navigate the job market's complexities.

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Episode notes

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.

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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

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Where to find Nikhyl:

Twitter/X

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Where to find Carly:

She Leads Podcast

Twitter/X

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Join The Skip:

Skip Coach

Skip Community

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Find The Skip:

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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 nikhyl@skip.community

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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