The Career Freshman: Five Benefits of Being in an Entry-Level Position

Earning Your Way Up The Ladder

This could be a positive and a negative all in one, but “paying your dues” as an entry-level employee is standard in most companies. It may seem like doing menial work like making copies and answering phone calls is redundant and disrespectful, but you never know if how you do it is being noticed.

Many mid and upper-level employees notice the little things an employee does and is willing to do for the company’s overall success, whether it’s picking up the slack for someone else or always being on-time even when no one else is in the office yet. Taking initiative and being a self-starter pays off in the long run, and paying your dues shows your executives that you are willing to prove to them your dedication, which they’ll remember once a -position or promotion opens up!

Being Able to Ask Questions

As an entry-level employee at a company that has seasoned professionals, you can be in a good position to ask questions and inquire about the company. Being able to move around to these professionals and ask how the company works, how it is growing and the changes it might face are freedoms you have as a lower-level employee. Many executives expect you to have questions about the company and where it is headed because it applies to you and your growth at the company. Don’t be afraid to use your naivety, in a sense, to investigate more about the company and its employees and where you fit in that picture.

Less Accountability, But More Responsibility

Don’t be fooled, it might be beneficial to be in an entry-level position because in the beginning, the eyes of upper-level management are not completely on you. But understand, this position is not one to slack on. You might not be held accountable on larger projects and assignments that mid-level executives take on themselves, but you are still responsible for your part. Learn to play your part and acknowledge that it’s a great thing to not have as much weight on your shoulders. As an entry-level employee, use that time to learn how to lift that weight of responsibility in the future so you can work your way up the ladder of success, starting with those first baby steps.

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