Fresh graduates aiming for SDE roles often stumble during the hiring process, undermining their chances in a fiercely competitive market. Recruiters and career experts say that avoidable mistakes—from weak resumes to poor coding preparation—remain the most common hurdles.
The Rising Demand and Intense Competition
India produces more than 1.5 million engineering graduates every year, according to the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE). Yet, industry reports show that fewer than 20 percent are directly employable in software engineering roles without additional training.
Globally, the demand for software engineers continues to rise. A 2024 survey by Statista estimates that the global developer population will reach 29 million by 2030. However, competition has intensified as companies seek not just technical skills but also problem-solving ability, communication, and adaptability.
Dr. Ananya Gupta, a career consultant at IIT Delhi, observed: “Most freshers underestimate how comprehensive the hiring process has become. It is no longer about writing code alone. Employers evaluate communication, collaboration, and long-term potential.”
1. Using Generic or Untailored Resumes
The first mistake is sending the same resume to every job posting. Employers confirm that generic applications rarely succeed because they fail to highlight skills relevant to the specific role.
A Naukri.com study (2023) revealed that customised resumes were 40 percent more likely to pass initial screenings. Experts recommend aligning resumes with job descriptions, using keywords strategically, and presenting technical projects that demonstrate depth.
2. Listing Skills Without Evidence
Simply listing “C++, Python, Java” does not impress recruiters. Evidence of application is essential. Projects, internships, and GitHub contributions provide credibility.
Ravi Kumar, Senior Engineer at Infosys, explained: “Every fresher can claim they know Python. But if they can point to a project where they solved a real-world problem, it speaks volumes.”
3. Overlooking the Value of Projects and Portfolios
Employers often view projects as more telling than academic grades. Small, functional applications, capstone projects, or open-source contributions can showcase ability. Recruiters say applicants who maintain a GitHub profile or personal website gain a clear advantage.
4. Weak Preparation for Coding Assessments
Coding tests remain the first barrier. A HackerRank 2023 survey found that 70 percent of freshers fail initial online assessments, mainly due to poor problem-solving speed or overlooking edge cases.
Candidates are advised to practice on platforms like LeetCode and Codeforces, focusing on algorithms, data structures, and time complexity. Explaining logic during coding rounds is as important as producing the solution.
5. Ignoring Communication and Soft Skills
Employers emphasise that software engineers rarely work in isolation. Freshers who struggle to explain their thought process often lose points in interviews. Clear communication, teamwork, and the ability to adapt to feedback are considered essential skills.
6. Neglecting Version Control and Code Quality
Recruiters expect familiarity with Git and clean coding standards. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft stress regular commits, structured documentation, and unit testing. Writing messy or untested code can be a decisive rejection factor.
7. Lack of Research About the Company
Arriving at an interview without knowledge of the company’s products or technology stack signals disinterest. Recruiters say candidates who study recent projects, company culture, and industry news often stand out.
8. Being Overly Selective in Applications
Some freshers apply only to large multinational firms, ignoring mid-sized companies and startups. Experts caution that smaller firms provide valuable exposure, faster learning, and sometimes greater responsibility.
Professor Meera Nair of the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) noted: “Every role adds to the foundation. Overlooking smaller companies limits growth and learning.”
9. Not Seeking Feedback or Learning from Rejections
Rejections are common, but many candidates fail to analyse mistakes. Career coaches suggest reviewing coding errors, improving communication, and adjusting resumes after each attempt. Seeking feedback when possible can accelerate improvement.
10. Giving Up Too Early
Persistence is crucial. Hiring managers report that many successful candidates faced multiple rejections before securing their first role. Continuous learning and consistent applications often distinguish successful freshers from those who give up prematurely.
Additional Mistakes Freshers Often Overlook
Weak Online Presence
Recruiters increasingly check LinkedIn, GitHub, and other platforms. A weak or outdated profile may reduce credibility. Maintaining an updated online presence demonstrates professionalism.
Overconfidence or Underconfidence
Both extremes can harm an application. Overconfidence can appear arrogant, while underconfidence may raise doubts about competence. Balanced self-presentation is vital.
Global vs. Indian Expectations
While Indian firms value coding proficiency and adaptability, global firms often add system design and culture-fit evaluations. Remote work opportunities have expanded hiring pools, making competition international. Candidates must therefore prepare to meet both technical and cultural expectations.
Practical Checklist for Success
- Resume: Tailor for each role; highlight relevant projects.
- Portfolio: Maintain GitHub or personal website.
- Preparation: Practice coding under timed conditions.
- Communication: Explain solutions clearly.
- Company Research: Understand role, culture, and products.
- Persistence: Treat rejections as feedback, not failures.
Looking Ahead: Future Skills for SDE Careers
Beyond traditional coding, companies increasingly value familiarity with artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Continuous learning is no longer optional.
Sundar Rajan, HR manager at a Bengaluru-based tech startup, emphasised: “We want freshers who are curious, adaptable, and willing to learn new tools. The technology will change, but the mindset must remain flexible.”
Case Study: From Rejection to Success
A 2022 graduate from Pune, who preferred anonymity, shared his journey. After repeated rejections due to poor coding speed, he dedicated three months to daily practice on coding platforms. By refining his resume and building a GitHub portfolio, he later secured an SDE role at a mid-sized firm.
“I realised my first applications were rushed and careless. Once I fixed the basics, interviews became easier,” he said.
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Conclusion
The demand for SDE roles continues to grow, but success depends on preparation, adaptability, and persistence. By avoiding common mistakes and focusing on practical skills, freshers can improve their prospects in both domestic and international job markets.
As Professor Nair summarised: “A fresher’s first job does not define their entire career. But it sets the tone. Preparation and discipline make the difference between missed chances and lasting opportunities.”
