Interning after graduation isn’t a sign of failure. Sometimes, before entering the professional world, you need a warm-up to improve your performance. Freshgraduates need to start seeing internships as a strategy, not just a learning phase, but an opportunity for you to take every step steadily to reach your career. Many people think that an internship after graduation is a waste of time. In fact, it can be a career-accelerating step. Who knows you will get an opportunity to be a full-timer in the company you’re applying for internships? Still, there is no guarantee that you will be given a permanent job after the internship. But… what are the challenges of taking internships after graduation? Companies will give you bigger expectations and responsibility. So the phenomenon of an intern having responsibilities that are similar to a full timer is actually pretty common and a no-wonder thought. Then what is the right choice? Those who want to gain work experience and build a network, an internship might be the right choice. Those who need a stable income and want to advance your career, looking for a permanent job right away might be better. There’s no right or wrong answer. For freshgraduates who’s reading this right now, before you decide, ask yourself: What do I need the most right now? Because the most important thing is to choose the option that best suits your needs and goals.
Why are entry-level job vacancies actually more difficult to penetrate than senior-level ones?
Have you ever wondered why entry-level positions are so hard to get? Even though the people applying are “all newbies.” The answer is simple. Entry-level positions aren’t the easiest because the competitors are not hundreds… but thousands. That’s what makes entry-level job vacancies are highly competitive. From thousands of applicants, skill gaps, CV screenings, to companies being super selective because these are the foundational positions of their teams. Many applicants have no proof of ability, only theory. On the other hand, C-level candidates are few, but all are proven. According to Kompas, using LinkedIn data, the BBC found that of nearly 4 million US job postings since the end of 2017, 35 percent were for entry-level positions, but also required years of relevant work experience. This shows narrows access for budding talent and takes more of their time transitioning from education to the professional world. Ultimately, competition at the entry-level level becomes much fiercer than for mid- to C-level positions. Even the recruitment process is also different, so the process is much more strict for entry-level where recruitment focuses more on leadership qualities and track record, rather than a rigid number of years of experience. Then what should fresh graduates do? They need to start targeting companies that opens for fresh graduates, startups that need fast learners, MT/ODP programs as a fast-track route. Instead of applying to 100, it’s better to apply to 20 relevant and complete applications. For fresh graduates who are reading this give up yet, entry-level isn’t impossible, it just requires the right strategy.
Not Just About The Money, Here’s Why Many Indonesian Workers Go Abroad
Why do so many Indonesians prefer to work abroad rather than in their own country? For some fields, salaries abroad can be many times higher than in Indonesia. Not only is it tempting, but it’s sometimes more than adequate for similar workloads. But the truth is, it is not just about the salaries they earn. Then what are other factors? According to Kontan.co.id, the number of Indonesian migrant workers (PMI) working abroad is very large, reaching more than 5.2 million people according to the latest data. This high number reflects not only the strong demand for Indonesian workers abroad but also a shift in preferences driven by better working conditions. Many Indonesians choose overseas employment because they find a level of structure and protection that is often lacking at their country. From health insurance, paid leave, clear contracts, to legally protected working hours, many workers feel their rights are better respected. These are the other factors that many indonesians workers go abroad. Remembering Indonesia’s economy and job market at worst, massive lay-offs, low wages, and skill mismatches. Many indonesians feel stuck with their career. In the end, they think working abroad might be more “reasonable” option. Not simply to join “follow the crowd” phenomenon, but because of economic factors, benefits, career opportunities, and a better work environment. What do you think? Is working abroad a choice or a necessity these days?
Under-Guaranteed Company Benefits: The Impact Is Bigger Than You Think
Imagine you put yourself into this position in which the salary is okay, the workplace culture is good,but the company’s benefit… not really worth it. This is why jobseekers need to think twice about the company’s benefit before signing contract. According to Glassdoor’s economic research, 51% of professionals are dissatisfied with their benefits package, and only 30% of employees are satisfied, and 19% are unsure. When companies offer good benefits, employees not only feel valued but also more engaged in their work. From insurance and pension plans to various other perks that make their lives more secure have a significant impact. This is why companies need to be serious about providing competitive benefits to retain top talent. Today’s company common problems are minimal benefit for their employees, such as no health insurance, no leave, no THR, etc. In short term impact, employees have to pay for all their healthcare with no job security guaranteed, no leave entitlement guaranteed, and work risks are borne personally. What about long term impact? Employees can experience long-term financial loss, with no work accident protection and no social stability and secure future. Why the impact is bigger than you think? Benefits are not bonuses. Benefits are basic protection that companies are required to provide. Here’s what you can check to be more aware on company’s benefit before signing a contract: Minimal benefits aren’t just about inconvenience, it’s about workers’ safety, risk, and future.
Researcher: An Underpaid Position with A Strategic Role
The role that shapes business direction is often the one valued the least. A bold statement and a fact. Imagine you get into a group project with you being the lead of finding learning materials that is relevant to the course, then all of the sudden the next day when your group presents, one of your coworkers act like they contributed, when in reality they didn’t help and get anything done the day before. That is how researchers are being treated in the industry. Researchers have a vital and yet strategic role, they think of innovation, improving the quality of life, and addressing various global challenges. Despite their essential role, many Indonesian researchers still endure modest living standards and salaries that do not align with their responsibilities or the impact they generate for national development. According to Kompasiana, in developed countries like Japan, research professors’ salaries can reach Rp 600 million to Rp 900 million per month. While in Indonesia, an experienced and highly educated research professors can only earn around Rp 5.2 million to Rp 8.8 million per month. Such circumstances indicate insufficient support from multiple parties for research endeavors, which in turn weakens the development and continuity of the research industry in Indonesia. It is also true that countries with strong research ecosystems have higher innovation competitiveness. But in Indonesia, those who are rich in knowledge must work with the intention of being sincere and selfless because they don’t get an outstanding income. Just like how they treated academician. The government should invest more in researchers. Supportive policies must be established to strengthen research development, particularly through incentives for researchers whose innovations contribute to public welfare. Also, strengthening collaboration with the private sector and international research institutions to increase resources and knowledge in research. Support Indonesian researchers by raising this issue!
Continuing Master’s Degree Just Because You Can’t Find a Job — A Solution or an Escape?
So many fresh graduates continue their master’s degree because it is difficult to get a job in this job market. Truth be told, it is not the main solution to the unemployment problem. Looking at the results of the Consumer Survey released by Bank Indonesia as of March 2024, a survey that measures the level of consumer confidence in economic conditions six months from now compared to now. The expectations index for the master’s degree respondent group plummeted by 20.4 points, from 152.4 in February to 132.0 in March 2024. Shown in the previous data, they are unsure about the availability of sufficient jobs in the future. Sure… master’s degree is useful, but only if you know why you need it. Let’s take step back to think that sometimes we feel like we have to get master’s degree, when in reality the job market needs are more relevant skills. Realistically, fresh graduates should evaluate and find alternative steps to take before deciding to pursue a master’s degree. Pursuing a master’s degree isn’t a shortcut. First thing first, you need to understand market needs and your own capabilities. A master’s degree does not automatically make people more employable if the main problem is a skill gap. Then what should i do? Evaluate and improve your skills by taking courses, build experience through freelancing, internships, collaborative projects. Continue your master’s degree only if you really need specialization, not because you run out of options.
