Finding a job isn't easy, period. There is perhaps no greater feeling than to succeed in an interview and hear "you're hired" as you slowly transition from being a student to being a working professional.
During your first job, you will face a lot of new challenges—some personal, others professional, but all of them important. In this article, we'll go over some of the most common problems you may encounter at your first job, along with their solutions, so you know what to expect and how to handle them.
1. You Will Be Underpaid
Landing a job as a fresher is certainly a commendable achievement. But don't expect too much right away. First-timers are often underpaid, as you will soon discover.
Your level of expertise and reliability is simply not comparable to that of an experienced professional, despite your high raw performance. Hiring a fresher is as risky as it is beneficial for employers.
Solution:
Search for freelance gigs on the side that are relevant to your skillset. At its core, having a job means renting your time. And while an in-house job does ensure you a steady income and teach you soft skills, it can't offer you the freedom to use your time your way.
Most freelancers charge based on the actual work they produce rather than a monthly salary. Therefore, if you are a fast worker, freelancing would be more profitable for you because you are rewarded based on your performance (a variable metric) and not according to your time (a fixed metric).
Budget your expenses and cut back on all unnecessary expenses to make the most of the money you are getting. You might find it difficult to stick to a budget at first, but you will learn how to prioritize your hard-earned money.
It's okay to splurge every now and then, but don't lose track of your long-term goals. The more you save and invest, the better your future will be.
2. You Will Feel Overwhelmed by Your Duties
Taking on responsibilities that have an impact on the company can be scary. You may often feel overwhelmed and exhausted by learning about the company, its products, the software systems, your duties, and deadlines to complete tasks assigned.
Some of these shocks and setbacks are to be expected. A few companies provide additional training and meetings to deal with the enormous pressure freshers might face. But the majority of employers don't invest enough in their employees.
Solution:
- To balance work stress, create a schedule and follow it with discipline.
- Organize your tasks according to their priority level and urgency.
- Put the assigned deadlines on your to-do list. This will help you save time and avoid getting distracted from your goals.
Make sure to take regular breaks and leave your work bubble every once in a while to get your mind clear. When your mind is cluttered with tasks you have on your list, talk it out loud with your colleagues.
You can declutter and organize your thoughts by talking to a colleague to help you cope with the stress and anxiety. You will definitely save a lot of time and grief by following their experienced guidance and managing stressful situations.
3. Your Personal Life Will Take a Hit
Students often believe that once they are out of college, they will have all the time in the world to relax and hang out with their friends.
The reality is that while you won't have to worry about professors and assignments anymore, your duties and deadlines will still require your attention.
Solution:
To deal with the unexpected pressures of being an adult, every fresher undertaking their first job must ingrain the concept of work-life balance. Try to wrap up all your tasks and work during your office hours and manage your time well.
Bringing home more work will only burn you out and impair your productivity. Take a break from the office on weekends by engaging in activities that will fully take you off work. Make the most of your two days off so you can prepare your mind and body for another 5 days of work.
4. You Will Need to Learn How to Socialize
Another common issue that most freshers face at their workplace is hesitation in building relationships.
Because professional relationships do not enjoy the same level of frankness as personal relationships, being nervous is expected since you currently lack those soft skills. And yet, socializing is an essential part of being an engaged team member and a good employee.
Solution:
Get assistance if you need it! Since you are a new employee, asking questions is not only expected of you, but also recommended. Having your coworkers or seniors answer your questions regarding your daily tasks will be helpful and prevent you from losing any work in the future.
In fact, once a colleague helps you, they are more likely to help you again. This is because of something called the Ben Franklin Effect. You shouldn't be afraid to ask questions, ask for help, and express your opinions in a team meeting. Be inviting to criticism if you receive it—it's a part of socializing. However, don't let your position dictate your competence.
The First Step to a Better You
As a fresher, landing your first job will be full of challenges. You can expect a bumpy journey rather than a smooth sailing one. Regardless, it is extremely rewarding if you approach with the right attitude. You should put your best foot forward at your first job, as it's the stepping stone to a successful and lucrative career.
First jobs are primarily about learning experience rather than earning money. Do not burn yourself out in the midst of trying to impress your superiors. Taking breaks is as important as being productive for making the most of this enriching experience.