As the class of 2023 approaches graduation, Robert Half International Inc. (NYSE: RHI) has released a report on five important trends to keep in mind when launching their careers. It turns out, employers typically conduct four interviews with an entry-level candidate before making a hire and the whole process often takes around five weeks. Additionally, employers are now utilizing situational questioning to get a better understanding of a candidate’s interpersonal abilities and soft skills, which are highly relevant in the current hybrid and remote work environments.

Another key takeaway from the report is the importance of preparation and follow-through. Robert Half’s survey showed that 67% of managers say researching the company, 51% recommend maintaining a respectable online presence, and 49% suggest sending a thank-you note are all critical steps that can help applicants stand out from the crowd.

As for where to search for work, the report revealed that less than 29% of entry-level jobs are advertised as hybrid or fully remote. However, off-site opportunities are more prevalent for tech, finance and accounting roles. Therefore, fresh graduates should look into these fields to increase their chances of success.

“The class of 2023 can look forward to plenty of opportunities,” said Paul McDonald