Staff Reporter
For most graduates, the reality is that the crappy, lame, “I-didn’t-study-for-so-long-to-end-up-here” job is better than sitting at home waiting for your perfect job to come along and find you (which, unless your name is Kim Kardashian, isn’t going to happen).
We know that these jobs are not what you studied for, but the bleak unemployment stats mean that many will not find immediate employment in their field of study.
Of all youth aged 15–34, 38.2% are unemployed,.Taking any job is in fact a strategic career move.
Here are four reasons why you should take that “crappy” job.
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 in finding out about new opportunities which will assist you in moving up the proverbial ladder.
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. Often in major corporations there is a lot of room for growth.
2. 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, rather it is something you pick up working in a real job. Experience offers transferable skills which can serve you as you grow your career.
3. 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.
4. INCREASE IN SOCIAL CAPITAL
Studies have found that a lack of social capital contributes to unemployment. In other words, if among your immediate circle (family and friends), a few are employed, then the chances of you finding employment decrease exponentially. But, once in the workplace, you will then 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.
With approximately 3.3 million young people aged 15-24 not in employment, education or training, graduates looking to secure employment, should not overlook entry level jobs, no matter how far they are from their qualifications.
