Cast your thoughts back to those days as a bright-eyed bushy-tailed university graduate finding your feet and getting your first real job. The nerves…the uncertainty of not knowing who you were going to have to deal with…
Depending on how the recruitment process unfolded, you may have met with just the head honchos of the business or you might have been introduced to your prospective colleagues before your first day. If you weren’t going in blind and you were fortunate enough to experience the latter, you would at least have had a brief moment to average out the age range and figure out if you’d be employed with your age mates or individuals who could practically be your parents.
No matter how long ago you started working, it unquestionably is that much more overwhelming starting a new job and being the most junior in age and experience. Between the millennial slander, being overlooked and continually being underestimated, being the youngest in the office can suck big time. Your instruction doesn’t carry nearly as much weight and you will have to work three times as hard to prove your value and work ethic in the business. But believe it or not, there’s more good to gain from it than bad. Here’s why being the youngest employee in the office is actually the best:
1. The Eons Of Experience Around You
You are in the perfect position to absorb as much knowledge and learnings as you can from the more experienced professionals you’re employed with. Try to identify at least one strength from the ones you work closely with that will help you become better at your job. For example, one colleague may be renowned for preparing and delivering the best presentations and another could have mad copywriting skills. Seek their advice and bounce your ideas off of them. You have the front row seat to engaging with the best in the business. Do yourself a favour and immerse yourself in their skills and expertise .
2. Imperfections Are Not Judged As Rigorously
Being young and not as experienced affords you some room for imperfection. You won’t be expected to have it as together as some of the more senior professionals should. This is not to give the excuse to underperform but rather scope to learn about what works, what doesn’t work and how it can be done better. You’re allowed to put your hand up for help or ask questions without feeling bad about it.
3. Opportunities To Share New Knowledge
Being from the younger generation means that you’re probably highly likely to be more tech-savvy and familiar with the latest trends and digital offerings than your more older colleagues. Chances are they will probably reach out to you more for assistance or ideas in those areas. See this as a great way to break the ice and start building great relationships with them in those moments where you interact.
4. Flexibility In Your Career Journey
You being in the early stages of your career allows you endless possibilities to decide where you go next. While the more senior colleagues are further along their professional journeys and probably have less motivation and reasons to take a different or new career direction, you have more of an ability to decide where to from here. You are in a great position to see what the growth prospects in the business are. Can you see yourself higher up the ladder in a few years or will you be better off seeking new opportunities elsewhere? The choice is yours and there’s room for it.
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