If you’re like most unemployed Americans, you may soon reach the point where you’d be willing to take almost any job just to earn some income. If you are unemployed and not receiving unemployment benefits, this is a good idea. But what if you are receiving unemployment benefits? Should you take a low-paying, entry-level job? Before making your decision, keep these points in mind.
travel cost
Will gas prices ever go down and stay low? The first week, you are surprised by the high gas prices. Week two, you surprise yourself even more. In the past, it was common for job seekers to commute an hour each way to work a stable, high-paying job. This practice is still done today, but it is expensive. It is recommended that the job seeker accept entry-level jobs that require minimal travel to and from work, unless affordable public transportation is an option.
Child care cost
If you are a parent considering an entry-level job, the cost of childcare must be taken into account. Child care costs vary greatly from state to state. The worst mistake you can make is to end up working just to pay for childcare. So your entry-level job translates to a weekly paycheck of $275. But wait! You have 3 children and the cost of child care is $200. That leaves you just $75 each week. When you factor in travel time and expenses, you’re basically just paying for having your kids babysit while you work.
Ability to move up the company ladder
Entry-level jobs are commonly used to describe two types of jobs. First it is a low paying job. It’s a well known secret that entry level jobs pay less. Instead of marketing the job as a low-paying position, the company typically markets it as an entry-level job. The second is an entry-level job, where good performance allows you to move up the company ladder (either with a raise or promotion).
Job seekers looking to make ends meet right now need to focus on moving up the company ladder. For example, let’s say you have experience as a retail store manager, but can find and are offered only assistant store manager positions. They pay less and the title isn’t as high as official store manager, but is the company known for promoting from within? If so, a few months or a year on the job could see you move up the company ladder to a higher-paying, non-entry-level position.
What else can you do
If you are receiving unemployment benefits, you are still receiving a steady paycheck. Even though that check is probably less than what you made at your last job, it’s still money. You are in a unique position where you can use this time to further your skills, education, and training.
For example, let’s say you’re looking for office administration jobs. During the job application process, why not take some training courses at a community college or vocational training center? They’re ideal for writing on a job application and can help fill any job gap.
The same is true for volunteering. Why not volunteer at the front desk of your local pet shelter to answer the phones? Volunteer experience is always ideal, but a must for any resume when that volunteer work gives you work experience.
