studying for and preparing for job interviews than I did on any exam I would ever take.

In 2008, I was flying out to interview with the company I would ultimately get an offer from and that I am still with today. The BYU alum who had stuck his neck out for me and got me the interview said, "Prepare for this interview like your life depended on it. Study harder for it than any exam you've taken / will take at BYU. This is way more important." He also encouraged me to network like crazy, to reach out to other people at the company and pick their brains. He said, "The best candidates I have interviewed are hungry, and know our business inside and out. The worst are the entitled ones with perfect grades at top schools who don't know jack about our industry or company."

Nearly 15 years later, these lessons have made such a big difference. Certainly there are some fields where technical skills are all that matters. But for most jobs I know of, the soft skills count just as much. I don't know this individual in the linked thread, and can't speak to their specific situation. But if you're batting 0 / 350, you're doing something really wrong. I have seen so many candidates for a job that have done zero research into companies, have made zero effort to network or connect, and then when they either want a new job or get let go, they're scrambling to find something. Even if you have a great job, continue to explore your options and stay in touch with others. You may simply find something better, but if you are in the sudden position of needing a job, you will have a nice network and many times, will have a new job waiting.

Lastly, if you are in school, spend a bit more time connecting with and exploring careers of interest. Research companies, talk to successful family friends, etc. Take your nose out of your books a little bit more, and network. The whole reason you're going to school--presumably--is to get a killer job. So spend a lot of time really looking for one while you're there. Don't just wait for companies to show up at career day. Reach out and connect early.