Graduating college marks the end of one journey and the exciting beginning of another. However, with roughly 38% of employers saying that they avoid hiring recent graduates, finding that first job can be challenging. What should new grads do? Stick strictly to their field or consider opportunities outside of it? Sadly, it is not an easy answer.
The pros of stepping outside your field
Jobs outside your field can help you acquire a diverse skill set and gain experiences you may not have otherwise. These skills can be transferable and might give you an edge in your future career pursuits within your chosen field.
Every job is an opportunity to expand your professional network. The connections you make in varied industries might offer unexpected doors to a new job or provide insights and mentorship valuable to your career growth.
Financial pressure post-graduation is real. A job outside your field can provide the financial stability needed as you work to pursue longer-term career goals, such as further education or waiting for the right opportunity to open up.
Working in a different field sometimes uncovers passions and interests you had never considered.
The drawbacks of switching sectors for first employment
There’s a potential risk of getting sidetracked from your intended career path. This might make it harder to break into your chosen field later, especially if skills from the current job are not transferable.
Working outside your field might underutilize your specialized skills and knowledge. This can be frustrating and feel like a step back in your career.
A job outside your field may not align with your passions or career goals. This can lead to lower job satisfaction and a lack of motivation.
Despite these drawbacks, stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to personal and professional growth in unexpected ways. Taking a job outside your field is not a step back but a strategic move forward. — an opportunity to build resilience, expand your skill set, and perhaps even discover a new passion. With a focused approach, what seems like a detour can actually be a stepping stone towards your ultimate career goals.
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Paul Bramson is renowned as a powerhouse on keynote stages and in training arenas. He is widely regarded as being one of the most impactful speakers, trainers and C-suite coaches in the world today. Paul is recognized as a leading authority and thought leader in the areas of communication, leadership and sales boasting media mentions in Forbes, Fast Company, Fortune, BuiltIn, Yahoo, and MSN. With an extensive 25-year tenure, Paul has continually ignited and empowered professionals, leaders, and teams across all echelons. His ability to captivate and engage audiences originates from an authentic zeal, unique aptitudes, and an unyielding dedication to professional and personal enhancement.