Jobseekers throng a job fair in this file photo.
IT’S normal if you’re a fresh graduate to have that desperate urge to secure a job right after graduation since many of your friends and peers seem to have started on their career path.
However, in the excitement of accepting your first serious job offer, there are things that you may overlook, especially if you’re eager to start earning your own money.
Job scope
As a fresh graduate, you cannot afford to accept a job without first finding out what your future employers expect of you. Be clear on the job scope and other responsibilities that come with your job designation.
It is also important that you know the working hours in advance to see if it suits your lifestyle. Some jobs might have typical office hours, while others may require you to work at odd hours.
It is also important for you to consider the commuting time between home and work, as this would affect your working schedule.
And before accepting that job offer, do try to do a bit of online research on the company to know what they’re working on.
Benefits
With responsibilities come the benefits and when it comes to employee benefits, the first thing that comes to mind might be your salary.
However, apart from the salary, other aspects that you should consider include your annual leave, overtime pay, health benefits, pension plans, and bonuses.
Employee rights
While the first job may be a wonderful and pleasant experience for some, others might not be so lucky, having to put up with unfair treatment at work.
In Sarawak, the welfare and interest of workers are protected under the Sarawak Labour Ordinance, which protects employment rights in terms of wages, payment for extra work done, annual leave, sick leave, paid public holiday, termination, and lay-off benefits.
Some employees might still be unaware of their employment benefits and rights, so do try to equip yourself with a bit of knowledge on these matters to safeguard your welfare and interests.
For fresh graduates, getting a job is your first step into adulthood; but before you rush into your decision, try to look into these few things and carefully analyse them before saying “I accept!”.
This is a weekly column by SarawakYES! – an initiative driven by Faradale-M Sdn Bhd and supported by Angkatan Zaman Mansang (Azam) Sarawak-to provide advice and stories on the topics of education and careers to support Sarawakians seeking to achieve their dreams. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.