Dear graduate, you should take that crappy job
Why you as graduate should take that “crappy” job ...
Breaking into the job market is hard, more especially for new graduates looking for the kind of jobs they studied towards, so here are some reasons why graduates should take a job they may not like:
1. A foot in the door is priceless in today’s economy
Before you get a job, you are a just another CV or a number. But once you get a job – even an entry level one – you have a face. You will be able to interact with senior staff members and even across departments. This access to a network of information and people allows you to be the first to find out about new opportunities that will assist you to move up the proverbial corporate ladder. Your existing manager can also vouch for you in internal vacancies, if you do a good job.
If you come across an opportunity within a large organisation – even if its way below what you believe you are qualified for – consider taking it.
There is often lots of room for growth in major corporations. Companies spot talent quickly, and if you distinguish yourself you will be noticed and recommended for a higher position.
2. There is strategy behind joining a specific organisation
Leading on from the above point, if there is a certain company that you would like to work in, it’s worthwhile taking on any position you come across in that organisation. It is much easier to move up a company’s ranks from the inside than from the outside. Giving preference to existing staff is common – they already know the culture, the operations and the company’s mission. Existing staff are a known quantity and it is also a lot easier to upskill and train them instead of someone from the outside.
3. Experience is king
Qualifications are one part of attaining employment, experience is the other. Experience even in lower positions makes you a more valuable asset to the organisation because it shows that you have resilience, tenacity and problem-solving skills. Experience cannot be taught, it is something you pick up while working in a real job. Experience offers transferable skills which can serve you as you grow your career. For example, a successful call-centre agent develops the ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and communicate effectively – skills that can be transferred to a sales environment or a management role.
4. In-house training
Once employed, companies often provide in-house training to their staff. It may be in the form of a learnership, or a technical training. These make you much more employable. On the job skills, training and experience are vital for an employee to remain competent, relevant and productive.
5. Increase in social capital.
Studies have found that a lack of social capital contributes to unemployment. In other words, if only a few of the people in your immediate circle (family and friends) are employed, then the chance of you finding employment decreases exponentially. But once in the workplace, you will have a brand-new network of people who are part of the formal economy. They come with their own contacts and experience and can be instrumental in helping you find a long-term career which is in line with your qualifications.
With approximately 3,3 million (32,4 per cent) out of 10,3 million young people aged 15 to 24 not in employment, education or training, graduates looking to secure employment should not overlook entry level jobs, no matter how far they are from what they’re qualified to do. Entry level jobs assist in giving graduates a leg up in gaining experience, creating a network of contacts and learning new skills, all of which can be transferred into other roles.
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