Choose the job that will help you grow your career

I trust this query finds you well. I came across your recent article titled Inject Your Cash In Areas You Can Tolerate the Risk, and I must say I am really happy because I found it helpful.

Now, I need your guidance. I am 24 years old and recently secured a job at a local bank in Nairobi where I earn a net salary of Sh36,000. The employer will increase the pay to around Sh45,000 early next year.

The problem is, there is pressure from my family and friends to leave this job and go back to my county because I can get higher pay there.

I am told that I can get a gross of Sh70,000. Is it wise to leave my bank job for the county one just because of money? Thank you. — John

It is a good thing that you have options to choose from at the start of your career. Traditionally, employment in the public sector has been considered safer compared to securing a job in the private sector.

However, no matter how appealing the opportunity is, it is always advisable to have a clear reason for switching employers since it is a significant decision that can affect your career growth as well as your future financial plans.

Whereas not all changes in life have a financial implication, the choices you make in the early stages of your adult life will probably have the biggest impact later in your profession.

There is no better time to build financial security than in the early years of your career, particularly as this is when you do not have a lot of financial responsibilities.

At your age, you are probably not looking for a job that will take you into your golden years. It is, therefore, important for you to set your personal goals and choose the job that will enable you to achieve your set targets.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

Evaluate your responsibilities at your career level in the two jobs and choose the one that allows you to use your education as well as enabling personal development. This is where your risk tolerance is tested. You must invest your efforts in a job whose risks you can tolerate.

It is advisable that you seek advice from people who have worked for many years in the public sector and get to know what it entails before making a decision.

It would also be appropriate for you to write down the pros and cons of each job and evaluate them on the basis of criteria such as remuneration, career progression, job satisfaction, benefits, and personal development.

IDENTIFY YOUR GOALS

Ultimately, a job is an investment and it requires much planning, just like any other venture into which you are likely to inject your savings. This makes it vital to have a financial plan to help you identify your goals and risk appetite.

Making good decisions can, therefore, make a big difference to your quality of life and ensure that you enjoy a successful career.