When I was in college, I had the stereotypical “college job.”
I worked in the food industry.
More specifically, I worked grueling hours for banquet events.
I was a vision in my black and white work attire and non-slip tennis shoes. My hair was pulled back into a classy, greasy ponytail. The smell of fried food and sweat exuded from me.
Hawt.
I told myself that picking up cake crumbs off of the floor built character. Dealing with disgruntled guests built patience. Working late hours built perseverance.
I’m not really sure what the crappy paycheck built…. It certainly wasn’t a savings account…
After I graduated college, however, I told myself that it was time for a change. I was ready to say goodbye to minimum wage (and polishing silverware) and say hello to a Big Girl Job.
And after a couple of years finding my footing, that’s exactly what I did. I landed a job working at one of the top consulting firms in the nation.
So below I’ve listed just a few of the incredible Benefits to Working a Big Girl Job.
1) The Literal Benefits
I recently smashed my kneecap, like the graceful gazelle that I am, into a doorknob. As I lay crippled and crying on the ground, I had three things go through my mind. 1) So this is how it all ends. 2) This is why I don’t try playing sports. 3) If I need to go to the ER, at least my work insurance will cover me. There is such a great relief in knowing that my work benefits can accommodate my clumsy lifestyle. On top of medical coverage, I have dental, 401k plan, and gym membership reimbursement.
2) Community of Forward Growth
There is nothing quite as inspiring as being surrounded by coworkers who are kicking your tail in productivity. Working a Big Girl Job means you’ll be working with people who are just as passionate about their work as you are. It makes you appreciate the cliché but incredibly true statement, “Teamwork makes the dream work.”
3) Better Income
One word – salary.
4) Better Resources
When you work a Big Girl Job, you get the benefit of working with great resources. Work laptops, databases, high-end technology, etc. Good companies actually give you the resources you need to get the job done and get it done right. What a concept.
5) Fun Corporate Events
When you’re working a Big Girl job, good companies will stress the importance of balance. Otherwise, you’re destined to the land of Burn Out. Some companies will plan fun events, or my personal favorite, provide free food. Just this week my work bought the whole office Emporium Pies. Um, yes. I’ll stick around if you continue to feed my pie addiction.
6) Inspiration to Achieve More
When you’re surrounded by brilliant, innovative ideas, it pushes your own desire to achieve more. You begin to set personal goals and implement steps in attaining them. Mediocrity becomes so foreign to you, and you feel passionate about going the extra mile.
7) Looks Great on Your Resume
No matter what steps you’re wanting to take in your career, a distinguished company and a faithful track record speaks volumes on a resume. Unless you’re wanting to be a heart surgeon. Then you should probably get a medical background…
8) Connections for the Future
When you’re working a Big Girl Job, you have the opportunity to make connections with the hardworking associates around you. According to my main man Isaac Newton and the Law of Inertia, “An object in motion continues in motion with the same speed and in the same direction unless acted upon by an unbalanced force.” Basically – hard workers will continue to be hard workers. You never know when the guy in the cubicle next to you later becomes a CEO.
9) Company Swag
One of the best benefits to working a Big Girl Job is the company merchandise swag. You’ll get coffee mugs, t-shirts, fleeces, water bottles…. Endless possibilities. And don’t even get me started on the food swag in the company break room…
10) Opportunity to Learn New Things
And lastly, working a Big Girl Job at a good company is like riding on the wings of a Pegasus. Embrace it, learn from it, and incorporate it into your life. Life is about learning new things, so learn as much as you can in each environment you’re in.
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Featured photo: Marius Boatca
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