What kind of job market will 2026 graduates face after they turn their tassels? Cindy Meis, director of undergraduate career services at the Tippie College of Business says it’s complicated, competitive, and changing faster than many realize. 

Employers are still hiring, she said, but it feels slower, more intentional, and in many cases more conservative. Organizations continue to evaluate budgets, team structures, and long-term workforce needs while AI continually reshapes the candidate experience. 

“Students are no longer just applying for jobs, they are navigating tracking systems enhanced with AI, AI-supported resume reviews, automated screening tools, digital assessments, and prerecorded video interviews,” Meis said. “The reality is they are now expected to blend technical skills, communication, adaptability, and digital fluency in ways previous graduating classes simply were not.”

That can feel overwhelming, especially when students are trying to figure out how to stand out in an environment where technology is filtering and shaping much of the hiring process before human interaction even begins.

Meis offers this advice for new graduates looking for jobs:

—Understand the first job is not the forever job. 

“Early career success is often less about landing the ‘perfect’ role and more about gaining experience in a professional environment and proving you can contribute and grow,” she said. “Jobs one and two are often the building blocks of a career, not the final destination.”

—Be more intentional and targeted in search strategies. The strongest candidates identify specific companies of interest, monitor company career pages directly, attend recruiting events, connect with alumni and recruiters, and build relationships before opportunities even become available.

“Technology may drive much of the hiring process, but human connection, curiosity, and engagement still matter,” she said. 

—Be flexible and adaptable. Some of the strongest career growth happens when graduates stay open-minded about where and how they begin and not worry about things like title or even industry. Sales, customer engagement, operations, business development, retail, and other client-facing roles continue to create meaningful pathways into long-term career success.

 “Sometimes the title, industry, or exact duties matter less than simply getting into a professional setting where transferable skills can develop and momentum can begin,” she said.

—Remain coachable and be open to opportunities while recognizing that securing that first role may take longer than expected. 

“It can feel frustrating and discouraging, but remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint,” she said.

Media contact: Tom Snee, 319-384-0010 (o); 319-541-8434 (c); tom-snee@uiowa.edu