How to get an entry-level job in 2024

A new class of employees is ready to enter the workforce — can employers keep up with their expectations? 

Entry-level workers are interested in gaining experience and new skills, while also engaging in a supportive work environment. While that may seem like a lot to ask from a first job, a few top companies are able to deliver. Resume.io ranked the best and worst companies for entry-level workers, based on employee reviews. Tech companies including Salesforce, Microsoft and Meta took a few of the top spots, while service industry organizations like Whole Foods, McDonalds and Starbucks fared more poorly. 

Entry-level employees should do their research before applying to any role, advises Amanda Augustine, resident career expert for Resume.io. 

“It might seem like the most important thing is to get your resume through the door, but it’s actually incredibly important to do your research [before] you decide whether or not to accept a job offer,” Augustine said. “Check company review sites to understand which companies are more likely to provide a supportive work environment and the right company culture for you.” 

See which companies were the most in-demand for new grads: 10 best and worst companies for entry level employees

Not all jobs will lead to a life-long career, but it’s still important to find the right fit to get employees off on the right foot. WalletHub recently ranked 108 entry-level positions based on factors including immediate opportunity, growth potential and job hazards to determine the best and worst entry-level jobs in 2024, giving each job a total grade out of 100. 

Engineer is at the top of the list, with more job openings than in any other career and a higher median salary at over $102,000. Other top jobs include environmental, health and safety engineer, as well as certified nursing assistant at a nursing home. Meanwhile, the worst entry level job is welder, ranking high in job hazards and having a lack of growth opportunities. 

Check out the full list of the best entry-level jobs available today: 20 best entry level jobs of 2024

Once entry-level workers get started, keeping them engaged can be a big challenge for employers. While tactics like return to office have been the go-to by organizations to foster greater collaboration and productivity, the reverse is actually the reality.  

Forty-two percent of employees feel they’re showing up solely for the purpose of being seen by their bosses and managers, according to BambooHR. As a result, more than 79% of employees now use performative tactics such as making sure they’re seen and timing their arrival and departure from work to make it look like they’re working more than they are. It may be time to rethink how constructive office work is for employees of any age. 

Here’s how to make work more engaging — or rethink RTO: Your employees may look like they’re working — but they’re not

Young employees are eager to build community, and employee resource groups are an important way to do so. At Liberty Mutual, their LGBTQ ERG has been supporting employees for a decade, with opportunities to connect, give back to the community and create professional and personal relationships for their 5,000+ members. 

“The goal of the ERG is to create an inclusive space for support and belonging, provide opportunities for career development and foster partnerships across the company to support the business,” says Brad Opsahl, VP and senior director of state operations, and co-chair of Pride@Liberty. “It’s knowing that I have a seat at the table, and that Liberty values me.” 

Read more about Liberty Mutual’s ERG, and why community is vital to employee satisfaction: Liberty Mutual’s LGBTQ ERG celebrates 10 years of supporting inclusivity at work