Hello Cool Girls ! In recent months, I’ve noticed a growing movement on TikTok with young people in their twenties voicing their concerns about the corporate ladder. From a young age we’ve been told that a degree and hard work will guarantee you a job you like and a great salary. This message is not only delivered by our parents but is also perpetuate by the educating system. So imagine our surprise, when with a brand new diploma we found out that most of us will be offered minimum wages jobs that barely cover our basic expenses due to the inflation. This is one of the harsh realities of climbing the corporate ladder many of us faced when starting their careers and makes them reconsider climbing the corporate ladder as a long-term solution.
But if i have to be honest unless you’ re coming from a wealthy family you’ll probably have to start your career with a traditional job. It can be a beneficial experience in these cases:
- if you find a mentor willing to teach you
- if you have the opportunity to learn a high income skill
- or if you simply need to find who you are
This process can take years, that’s why I wanted to share with you things I wished someone told me before embarking this journey.
Don’t shine too bright..
1. The Corporate Ladder a Political Place
If I could describe the corporate ladder I would say it’s mostly a political place where what’s matter is talking to the right persons and not shaken too much their egos. In other words, “be good, but not quite as good as your manager” or you could make someone feel threatened. They might perceive it as a way to undermine their competence.
Unfortunately If you break this rule it could hinder you career progression. You have to be conscious that even if your goal is not to seek a promotion but just do your job, your efforts will be sometimes misconstrued as a potential competition. It is one of the harsh realities of climbing the corporate ladder.
2. Realities of Climbing the Corporate Ladder 5 Signs that someone you work for or with feel threaten
I’m not saying that to scare you sometimes people are far to be fairplay, instead of recognize your value they will use any tactics to discredit you or simply put you in place. I identified 5 different signs that someone you work for or with feel threaten:
- Micromanagement: This involves excessive supervision to create doubt in your abilities.
- Gaslighting: This is a manipulative practice where individuals deny past statements or actions, causing self-doubt and confusion.
- Withholding information: This can be used to hinder your work progress.
- Social exclusion: This might involve being deliberately left out of important meetings.
- False accusations: To damage your reputation.
3. 4 Steps to protect yourself
Remember, some people behave poorly due to personal struggles. Try not to take their behavior personally. If you encounter this situation, know that you’re not alone.
Here are some steps you can take:
- Confide in someone you trust: Talk to a friend, family member, therapist..
- Document the situation: Keep a record of incidents, including emails, texts, and the dates of events. This can be helpful if you choose to take further action.
- Report the situation: If you feel comfortable and safe only, consider reporting the situation to your Human Resources department.
- Develop an exit plan: If the situation is severe or you feel unsafe, consider creating a plan to leave the workplace.
Disclaimer
I intended to provide general information and is not a substitute for professional advice. If you are experiencing any of the issues listed above, I recommend that you seek guidance from a qualified professional, such as a human resources representative, lawyer, or therapist.. Local resources and regulations can provide further support and guidance.
