Welcome to the job market! It's an exciting yet sometimes overwhelming journey. So, where do you begin? Most graduates typically take their first step with an entry-level job as they "enter" the workforce.
What is an Entry-Level Job?
An entry-level job is a position that typically requires little to no prior work experience. While some entry-level jobs may ask for some experience, especially in specialised fields, they are generally designed for individuals who are new to the workforce. These roles are intended to help employees develop essential skills and gain valuable experience.
We want to shed some light on what you can expect from an entry-level job as you kick off your career journey and we have some inside info into why employers have entry-level jobs.
Why Do Employers Offer Entry-Level Jobs?
Let’s shift the perspective for a moment and explore why employers create entry-level roles. Understanding their motivations can help you see why they want you to join their team.
Some of the main reasons why employers hire entry-level staff:
- Additional Support: Companies often need extra help during peak times or for specific projects, and these roles are typically overseen by senior professionals who guide the work.
- Talent Development: Many organisations seek to build a strong talent pipeline by hiring junior employees who can grow and advance within the company.
- Company Values: Some businesses prioritise giving back by offering internships and entry-level roles, aligning with their commitment to fostering growth and opportunity.
- Diversity and Inclusion: Age diversity is increasingly valued, with employers recognising the benefits of having a varied workforce that includes different perspectives and experiences.
What to Expect in an Entry-Level Job
Based on the reasons employers hire entry-level talent, we’ve put together a list of what you can expect when signing your first job contract and stepping into the job market:
Support Tasks
Entry-level roles often arise from a team’s need for additional support, which is why the job description frequently includes tasks that are more administrative than strategic. These support tasks are essential for your learning and growth. Even seasoned professionals take on similar responsibilities at times, so it's important to approach them with a positive and open mindset.
Guidance and Mentorship
It's unlikely that an entry level job will lead a team, so you will form part of a team where you report into a line manager. The benefit of this is that you will have a senior colleague or mentor guiding you through your responsibilities and helping you learn the ropes.
On-the-job Training
Entry-level roles typically offer on-the-job training to help you build your skills and adjust to the work environment. Since one of the main goals of hiring entry-level employees is to cultivate a future talent pipeline for the business, employers are often eager to invest in the growth and development of their junior staff.
Opportunity to Contribute Your Insights
Many companies actively seek entry-level employees for their innovative ideas and fresh perspectives. These organisations value the unique viewpoints and insights that younger generations bring to the table. As an entry-level employee, you can expect to be encouraged to share your thoughts and ideas on various projects. Employers often seek input from new hires to leverage their contemporary thinking and creative solutions, which can significantly contribute to the company's growth and innovation. This not only enriches the workplace with diverse perspectives but also provides you with a platform to make a meaningful impact early in your career.
Consider Contract Positions
Don’t shy away from contract or temporary entry-level jobs as they can help build your CV. These roles can serve as stepping stones, providing valuable industry experience and enhancing your workplace readiness. Consider fixed-duration contracts, independent contracts (freelancing), and internships to gain experience and open up future opportunities.
Identifying Entry-Level Jobs
To identify entry-level jobs, start by examining the job labelling, as these positions are typically marked with the term "entry-level" in the job specification, either at the top or bottom of the listing. Additionally, the language used in the job description can be telling; entry-level positions often include terms like "assist," "support," and "junior," rather than words such as "manage," "lead," or "direct."
Looking for a job on RecruitAGraduate means that most jobs are entry-level, we focus on entry-level opportunities, although it's important to note that some listings may require advanced degrees. By keeping an eye out for these indicators, you can effectively pinpoint suitable entry-level positions.
By understanding what to expect from an entry-level job, you can better prepare yourself for the opportunities and challenges that come with starting your career. Register with RecruitAGraduate to get job alerts from entry-level jobs tailored to your field of study.