By Sachin Jain, Executive Director – Corporate Relations, Lamrin Tech Skills University Punjab
Starting your first job is one of the most transformative moments in a young person’s life. Over the last 20 years of working with corporates, recruiters, and industry leaders across India, I’ve seen one clear truth:
👉 Corporates don’t expect freshers to know everything — they expect them to be ready to learn, contribute, and grow.
Today’s job market is dynamic, fast-evolving, and driven by technology. While degrees and certificates matter, companies hire freshers based on their mindset, adaptability, and readiness to work in real situations.
Based on extensive corporate interactions at Lamrin Tech Skills University (LTSU), here is a crystal-clear view of what companies truly want from fresh graduates.
1. A Positive, Learning Mindset
Freshers who come with the attitude of “I am here to learn and grow” win instantly.
Corporates say they can train skills, but they cannot train mindset.
They need candidates who:
- Accept feedback openly
- Show curiosity
- Are self-motivated
- Don’t say, “Yeh mera kaam nahi hai”
A growth-oriented mindset is the biggest differentiator.
2. Basic Communication Skills
You don’t need perfect English, but you must be able to:
- Express your thoughts clearly
- Write simple emails
- Speak confidently in meetings
- Listen carefully
Good communication builds trust — and trust builds careers.
3. Reliability & Discipline
Corporate leaders often tell me:
“We need freshers who show up on time and take ownership.”
This includes:
- Punctuality
- Meeting deadlines
- Completing tasks without excuses
- Being dependable in day-to-day responsibilities
A reliable fresher becomes a valuable employee quickly.
4. Understanding of Work Ethics
Today’s companies expect freshers to demonstrate:
- Professional behavior
- Respect for colleagues
- Integrity in work
- Confidentiality
- Accountability
Work ethics are not just “HR topics” — they define whether you will be trusted with bigger responsibilities.
5. Basic Industry Awareness
No company expects freshers to be experts, but they do expect:
- A basic understanding of the industry
- Awareness of trends and tools
- An effort to update knowledge through online learning
Freshers who show initiative stand out immediately.
6. Problem-Solving Ability
Corporates want candidates who can:
- Think logically
- Analyze situations
- Suggest solutions
- Ask the right questions
You don’t have to solve everything — but you should not freeze when a challenge comes.
7. Teamwork & People Skills
No job is solo today.
Companies want freshers who can:
- Work with others
- Adjust in teams
- Respect diversity
- Contribute positively
Collaboration is a core skill in every industry.
8. Basic Digital Skills
In today’s workplace, minimum digital skills are non-negotiable:
- MS Excel & Word
- Email etiquette
- Basic data understanding
- Using digital tools confidently
A fresher who is digitally smart becomes instantly productive.
9. Adaptability & Flexibility
Industry leaders tell us often:
“We need freshers who can adapt to changes quickly.”
This means:
- New tools
- New processes
- Fast-changing roles
- Dynamic work environments
The more flexible you are, the faster you grow.
10. A Sense of Responsibility
Freshers who take ownership show that they are serious about their careers.
Responsibility means:
- Doing your work with sincerity
- Understanding the impact of your role
- Taking initiative without being told
Companies promote responsibility — not degrees.
Final Message to Students
As someone who has mentored thousands of students and worked closely with hundreds of corporates, my message is simple:
🎯 Your first job is not about what you know — it’s about how you learn, behave, and contribute.
🎯 Corporates invest in freshers who show potential, discipline, and commitment.
If you bring the right mindset, the right habits, and the willingness to grow, no company can stop your progress.
