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 us a job we 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 hard work is reward with more work. This is one of the harsh realities 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 in most cases you’ll 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 of finding an alternative to the traditional 9 to 5 can take years, that’s why I wanted to share with you things I wished someone told me before embarking this journey.
1. Find validation somewhere else
Many high-achievers and perfectionists dedicate a significant portion of their studies to self-improvement. They earn impressive degrees and produce high-quality work during their internships. They often believe their superiors will recognize their hard work, just like their teachers did. However, this expectation is far from the truth. In the corporate world, people often notice when you make mistakes but may not always acknowledge your hard work. They may view your efforts as simply fulfilling your job duties. It’s important to remember not to expect too much, as even in the best-case scenario, you may still face disappointment.
In many workplaces don’t provide the validation we often seek, making it essential to cultivate a strong sense of self. Validate your own achievements, set clear career goals, and reward yourself for milestones. Nurturing hobbies and a vibrant social life can also contribute to your overall fulfillment. Remember, it is not the job of your job to validate you but it should either teach you something valuable or compensate you fairly. If it fails to do either, leverage your experience to negotiate a better position and salary.
2. Hard work is reward with more work
If you are a model employee, your manager will see you as someone reliable. You’ll be the first to be choose for the next big project, sometimes without consideration of your workload. Saying “no” and setting boundaries becomes crucial when you’re already overloaded with work. Otherwise, burnout awaits.
The working world has changed a lot these last years, particularly since the covid crisis and the rise of AI. Human ressources departments of the more affected fields doesn’t have a budget to hire or train. Therefore one employee will sometimes have to do the job of 2 people. In some cases you’ll have to self teach your new job.
3. Be Strategic from the beginning
That’s where we have to be strategic, you don’t have to be an average employee but you have to change your mindset. You’re not in college anymore, you’re not here to please people. When you start a new job simply you may be observing of how employees behave, how they perform.
You can notice how high performers are recognized. At the beginning don’t try too hard, fulfill the tasks you’ve been asked for and respect the deadlines. But don’t show all your cards from the beginning, see if you will get you a bonus by going the extra mile or that you’ll be considered by your manager.
Remember, some companies may exploit your time and energy unless you protect yourself with boundaries.
