Making ends meet is a struggle for many. This is why a lot of people feel like they are left with no choice but to accept the first job offer they receive after going through several unsuccessful job applications and interviews. This is how underemployment usually happens.
While one shouldnโt be ashamed of working whatโs available as long as itโs a legal job, it doesnโt mean you should settle. This is particularly the case if you have a good set of qualifications and experience.ย
Read on to know the signs that tell whether you are actually currently underemployed and get some tips that can help you take action toward professional growth and career success.
Sign #1: You never use your technical skills
If you never get the chance to use, practice, and continuously develop the skills youโve earned at school and developed in your previous work experience, then youโre definitely underemployed. For instance, if youโre working as an admin clerk when you should be in the accounting department.
What you should do about it:
If youโre currently unable to perform your primary skills, remember that any work experience is still a valuable experience. No matter what it is that youโre currently doing, youโll be able to get something out of it. However, this doesnโt mean you have to do what youโre doing now forever.
If you canโt find a new job just yet, you can choose to keep growing and practicing your skills outside of your day job. Take online courses and/or check out part-time opportunities that may suit you.
You should also consider talking to your manager and telling them about your skills and experience. Express your willingness to do something related to them. Your manager may actually have an opportunity for you.
Sign #2: Youโre willing to do anything
If youโre someone who has multiple skills and is flexible enough to learn and do different tasks, then you probably donโt mind doing practically anything at work. While this exhibits flexibility, it may also show desperation. If youโre willing to do anything just to show youโre useful and to of course get a salary, you might be underemployed.
What you should do about it:
What you should do first is to assess your skills and goals. At the same time, see where you are right now and explore what opportunities are available in your industry or location that match your skills and goals. You should also consider moving or freelancing if you think it will allow you to grow professionally.
Sign #3: You canโt relate to your coworkers
If you notice that you canโt relate to your coworkers, itโs a classic sign that youโre not where youโre supposed to be. It means that youโre probably in the wrong industry, which is why your skills and interests donโt match those of your colleagues.
What you should do about it:
Even if your current work circle isnโt where youโre supposed to be in, you can find ways to make the most of it. You can try and learn new skills from your colleagues. Then, you can join groups and forums outside of your work to allow you to stay in touch with your desired network.
Sign #4: Youโre bored often
Being bored at work sometimes happens even to the best of us. However, if youโre bored often and constantly, it simply means youโre uninterested and unmotivated, possibly because of a mix of the reasons listed above.
What you should do about it:
Before you quit your current job, you should first know the reason why youโre bored so youโd know what is it that you have to watch out for when you look for new opportunities. You should also maintain a good performance in your current job even if youโre bored to tears every day.
Sign #5: You canโt maximize your working hours
Underemployment isnโt just about doing something that doesnโt match your skills. If youโre in the field you want to be in but youโre not able to maximize your working hours in your current position, it means your skills are not fully utilized.
What you should do about it:
If your current employer canโt hire you full time, but you like what you do, you should consider getting a second job. You can check out remote opportunities that you can do during your spare time.
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Photo by You X Ventures on Unsplash
