More employers intend to hire early career starters and graduates in 2025 than they did last year
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In an era where AI is automating many basic tasks, especially in administrative roles, entry-level job seekers may feel an increasing challenge. The shift toward remote work further complicates the job landscape, with many employers scrutinizing the future of the work-from-home model—especially in light of recent governmental discussions.
Contrary to these concerns, recent data from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) suggests a positive trend. Employers are expected to increase hiring for the Class of 2025 by 0.6% compared to last year. This small uptick indicates that there will be more entry-level positions available in the coming months than at the same time in the previous year.
Adding to this encouraging news is the finding that nearly 40% of employers are raising salary benchmarks for incoming early career professionals. This means graduates not only have new job opportunities but also the potential for higher starting salaries, easing the transition into their careers—whether they are starting anew or making a pivot.
Growing Opportunities in Remote Work
The demand for remote and hybrid entry-level positions is also on the rise. FlexJobs analyzed over 60 career categories and identified trends from job postings between January and April 2025. The most promising fields include customer service, medical and health, project management, and IT, among others.
Top Entry-Level Remote Jobs
FlexJobs has compiled a list of the ten most frequently posted remote entry-level jobs, along with average salary ranges from Salary.com:
- Customer Service Representative: $36,764 – $45,338
- Business Development Representative: $118,110 – $141,630
- Account Executive: $88,413 – $110,053
- Sales Representative: $45,202 – $81,569
- Licensed Insurance Agent: $47,371 – $70,663
- Customer Support Specialist: $47,751 – $59,851
- Financial Analyst: $63,292 – $76,401
- Administrative Assistant: $41,190 – $49,390
- Accountant: $52,221 – $73,992
- Project Coordinator: $55,227 – $70,854
Notably, positions in business development and account executive roles stand out, with salaries exceeding $100,000 annually. This highlights the lucrative potential of entering these fields as a new graduate.
Strategies for Securing Remote Entry-Level Jobs
Toni Frana, a career expert at FlexJobs, emphasizes that while entering the job market as a new graduate can be challenging, there are effective strategies to enhance your employability. Here are four key tips to improve your chances in 2025:
1. Identify Your Transferable Skills
Begin by recognizing your transferable skills—those competencies that are valuable across various industries and roles. These may stem from previous job experiences, internships, or academic projects. Highlighting these skills will give you a competitive edge, especially when you lack specific job experience.
2. Cultivate People Skills
Employers often cite a lack of strong work ethic and people skills among recent graduates. To differentiate yourself, invest in enhancing skills such as communication, emotional intelligence, and teamwork. Ensure your resume reflects these abilities and provide concrete examples during interviews to illustrate your capabilities.
3. Embrace Continuous Learning
Simply graduating is no longer sufficient. A commitment to continuous learning can significantly boost your marketability. Microcredentials can be especially beneficial, as studies indicate they can increase your hiring chances by 96%. Additionally, consider developing skills related to digital tools and remote work.
4. Personalize Your Application Materials
Customizing your application for each job is crucial. Tailor your resume and cover letter to speak directly to the job description and company culture. Use relevant keywords, highlight achievements, and consider adding a brief introductory video or portfolio link to showcase your creativity and skills, particularly in tech and creative fields.
This summer presents numerous career opportunities for entry-level professionals. Seize this chance to position yourself as an eager candidate ready to grow, contribute, and make a real impact in your chosen field.
Opportunities for Entry-Level Remote Jobs in 2025
As the job market evolves, the demand for entry-level positions is on the rise, especially in the realm of remote work. Recent data suggests a notable increase in hiring for recent graduates, which is promising news for those entering the workforce. With the changing landscape of work, understanding the trends in remote job opportunities can give you a significant edge.
Growing Demand for Entry-Level Graduates
According to recent surveys, employers are expected to hire more graduates from the Class of 2025 than they did the previous year. This growth translates to a slight increase in job openings, providing fresh graduates with more options to kickstart their careers. The emphasis on remote work models continues to evolve, positioning various sectors to welcome new talent.
Salary Trends in Entry-Level Positions
In tandem with increased hiring, many employers are also raising salary benchmarks for entry-level positions. Data indicates that over 40% of companies are willing to offer higher salaries to new hires, making it easier for graduates to find lucrative opportunities right out of college.
Top Remote Job Categories for New Graduates
An analysis of job postings reveals trending remote opportunities across various industries. Key sectors such as customer service, healthcare, and project management are particularly vibrant for entry-level roles. Here’s a quick look at the top categories with the highest volume of remote job postings:
- Customer Service
- Administrative Roles
- Healthcare
- Project Management
- Sales
High-Paying Entry-Level Remote Jobs
Among the plethora of remote job opportunities, certain positions stand out for their competitive salaries. For instance, roles such as business development representatives and account executives offer salaries exceeding $100,000 annually. Many industries recognize the value brought by new talent, and this is reflected in compensation packages.
Strategies for Landing Remote Jobs
To navigate the competitive job market successfully, developing a strategy is crucial. Identifying transferable skills is the first step; these skills can set you apart when traditional experience might be lacking. Enhancing interpersonal abilities like communication and teamwork can further bolster your appeal to potential employers.
Tailoring Your Job Application
When applying for positions, it’s essential to customize your application materials. Ensure your resume reflects the skills and experiences that resonate with job descriptions. Incorporating keywords, highlighting results, and even including a video introduction can enhance your chances of standing out in the applicant pool.