In 2026, many new graduates are asking a hard question: if AI can do simple office work, what happens to entry-level jobs? Recent data suggests the pressure is real. Revelio Labs found that entry-level openings in graduate-type roles were more than 35% lower than in January 2023, and highly AI-exposed entry-level jobs had fallen by over 40%. SignalFire also reported in May 2025 that new graduates were being hit hardest in tech as AI took over more routine beginner tasks. Still, AI is not doing everything alone: Anthropic’s Economic Index found that current AI use is still slightly more about helping people than fully replacing them, with 57% “augmentation” and 43% “automation.” (reveliolabs.com)

At the same time, companies have not stopped hiring graduates. In fact, NACE said on April 15, 2026 that employers expected to hire 5.6% more new college graduates from the Class of 2026 than from the year before, although hiring is uneven across industries and 45% of employers described the market as only “fair.” NACE also found that nearly 70% of employers now use skills-based hiring, which means they care less about only GPA or major and more about what a person can actually do. (naceweb.org)

So, what do companies want from new graduates now? NACE’s latest survey says the top skills are teamwork, problem-solving, and clear communication. Employers do not just want these words on a resume; they want real examples from internships, part-time jobs, projects, or club activities. NACE also reports that nearly all employers value internships, and more than 40% value on-campus work and apprenticeships. In short, companies want proof that a graduate can learn, cooperate, and solve real problems. (naceweb.org)

AI skill is also moving from “nice to have” to “basic.” On April 20, 2026, NACE said more than one-third of entry-level jobs now require AI skills, nearly triple the level in fall 2025. LinkedIn says AI literacy is now one of the most in-demand skills across jobs, and Microsoft and LinkedIn found that 76% of professionals believe they need AI skills to stay competitive. But human strengths still matter deeply: the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 says analytical thinking remains the top core skill, while resilience, flexibility, leadership, and AI and big data are rising fast. The message for new graduates is clear: learn to use AI, but do not become like AI. Be the person who can judge, explain, create, and work well with others. (naceweb.org)