Freshers today are not who they used to be, and neither are their expectations.

As a campus recruiter, I meet hundreds of soon-to-be graduates every year. They are confident. Curious. Purpose driven. And they are asking far more thoughtful questions than just “What is the package?”

They want to know how their work will matter. How they will grow. Whether they will be supported. And most of all, whether they will be seen as more than just another new hire.

So what do today’s graduates really want from their first job? Here is what I have learned, and what we as employers can do to meet them where they are:

More Than a Paycheck, Purpose

“What will I be contributing to?” Today’s graduates want to feel connected to a larger mission. What we can do: Share the impact of their work, not just tasks but outcomes. Help them see how their role fits into the bigger p

Growth That Is Real, Not Promised

“Will I learn something meaningful here?” They are looking for more than orientation. They want real, structured learning and someone to guide them when things get tough. What we can do: Offer mentorship, learning pathways, and opportunities to experiment. Early career growth is a long-term investment.

A Culture That Welcomes, Not Intimidates

“Will I feel safe asking questions?” Freshers want an environment where they can speak up, be seen, and belong. What we can do: Foster a team culture that values empathy, patience, and feedback over perfection.

Flexibility That Reflects Trust

“Will I be micromanaged?” They care less about working from home and more about being trusted to deliver with autonomy. What we can do: Build systems that offer structure but allow space. Let them feel like owners of their time and output.

Feedback That Drives Growth

“How will I know I am doing well?” They want to grow, but they cannot if they do not know how they are doing. What we can do: Give regular, constructive feedback. Celebrate small wins. Make growth visible and conversations two way.

Why It Matters

If we want to attract and retain the best early career talent, we have to move beyond outdated assumptions. Freshers today are ambitious, self aware, and deeply values driven. They do not just want a job. They want a place to grow, belong, and contribute.

So what can we do as employers, HR leaders, and hiring managers?

• Redesign onboarding to focus on culture, connection, and confidence, not just compliance.
• Invest in mentorship that is consistent, authentic, and human.
• Create feedback rich environments where new hires are guided, not judged.
• Empower managers to lead with empathy and clarity.
• Celebrate progress, not just performance.
• Listen to what they value, not what we assume they want

Because when freshers feel seen, supported, and challenged, they do not just stay. They thrive.

Let us commit to creating workplaces that recognize their potential and build their confidence, not just fill positions.

Let us give them more than just a job. Let us give them a launchpad.

About Author

Kajal Jyotishi is a Team Lead – Talent Acquisition at Collabera, where she specializes in campus hiring and early talent strategy. She plays a key role in recruiting, onboarding, and mentoring freshers from top institutes across India.