A Bengaluru-based software engineer, fresh out of college in 2023, has turned to Reddit in a desperate bid to secure full-time employment. In a post titled “Burn my resume but please help,” the engineer detailed his struggle to find a job for nearly two years despite holding a BE in Information Science and Engineering.
In his candid post, the techie shared a redacted version of his resume, highlighting proficiency in Python, Java, DevOps, cloud computing, and machine learning. He also mentioned his hands-on experience in building web crawlers, integrating APIs, and developing AI models. “At this point, I am willing to work remotely, for free,” he wrote, emphasizing his readiness to gain practical experience despite his dire circumstances.
The post resonated with many on the platform, with several users offering to help. “Bro, email me your CV. I work in a hiring firm,” one user commented, while others suggested opportunities that offered work-from-home or hybrid arrangements. The engineer explained that remote work was a necessity due to personal reasons, notably his uncle’s accident that left him with eight fractured ribs, though he remains open to relocation.
This plea for employment reflects the broader challenges facing fresh graduates in today’s tech job market. The industry has been hit by hiring freezes and reduced recruitment for entry-level roles, exacerbated by global economic uncertainties, shifts in client spending, and the impact of automation and artificial intelligence.
In a related trend, a 32-year-old woman recently quit a childcare job within 10 minutes of starting, overwhelmed by the chaotic environment of “screaming babies,” after months of job hunting. Her experience further underscores the difficulties many job seekers face in finding roles that match their skills and interests.
As the conversation gains momentum online, the engineer’s post has sparked discussions about the systemic issues in the recruitment process for fresh graduates. With an outpouring of support from the Reddit community, his story serves as a stark reminder of the hurdles that new professionals encounter in an increasingly competitive job market.