Image Credits: reynermedia via Flickr
On your first full-time job after graduation, you are bound to make minor to costly mishaps. Keep in mind that it is okay to make these mistakes especially at the beginning of your career. It helps you to learn and as you bounce back, you will be tougher than you ever were before.
On that note, here are the Common Career Mishaps Young Employees (In Their 20s) Make…
1. WAITING GAME
First on the list is the irrational belief that you will magically land your dream position without any ounce of effort. No matter how skilled you are, you need to search for the job yourself. Some people maybe lucky as companies personally look for them after they graduated, however what if you are not one of them? Worry not. By working hard, you can achieve your goals and so much more.
And, once you are accepted for the job, do not forget to dress for the part. There is no right or wrong way to dress except if the company provides the uniforms. Nevertheless, the best thing for you to do is to wear conservative or non-revealing clothes in the first few days then adjust from there.
2. NEGLECTING THE IMPORTANCE OF NETWORKING
Resources and connections play a huge part especially in the business, marketing, and advertising world. Being able to keep in touch with your fellow graduates will help a lot. As young professionals, it will benefit you to attend networking events to increase your knowledge about the working environment. Also, having access to job opportunities at a young age is indispensable.
3. FAILING TO NEGOTIATE
Being fresh to the “working scene”, you may be prone to underrate your worth. This is why it is important to evaluate your skills, education, and experiences. Find out the average salary per year through PayScale.com. It provides salary information for a particular position from its global online database. For example, the average pay for a Sales Representative at Pharmaceuticals is S$46,006/year.
And, if you already got the job yet you feel underpaid and overworked, ask for a pay raise. If you do not ask then you would not get it. Realize that your bargaining strength is all in your head. You can do it!
4. LEAVING A JOB TOO SOON
There is nothing inappropriate with leaving a job unless you have not taken everything into consideration. When faced with a difficult situation at work, young employees often think that quitting will solve it.
You may be away from your annoying colleague but you are faced with unemployment and debt. Is it really worth it to quit? In this situation, it is best to weigh-in the benefits and consequences of your future actions first.
5. LETTING YOUR INFLATED EGO AFFECT YOUR CAREER
Your huge ego can translate in your Resume/C.V., your interview, and your actions. Instead of only boasting your strengths, find the skills that can help the company to improve and put it in your Resume/C.V.
Lastly, do not overestimate your abilities because you are merely starting a journey. Ask politely if you do not know how to solve an issue. This simple gesture can save the company hundreds of dollars.
Image Credits: Sara Ashley via Flickr
