The ‘perfect’ first job and other work myths debunked

You’re looking for your first job, and you are bombarded with the extraordinary career achievements of young people who apparently succeeded overnight. From social media to the well-meaning words of friends and family, it can feel like the world expects you to get everything right, right now.

But this is completely normal. In a recent podcast by Eurostat — the EU’s official statistics agency — two guests recall their first jobs and discuss how the transition from education to employment is an important yet often misunderstood stage in young people’s lives.

Expectations overload

While rapid digital advancements have opened countless new paths and career opportunities, they also carry a deep burden. Competition has increased, changing skills needs and causing major shifts in the job market. According to Riccardo Gatto from Eurostat, young people are especially vulnerable. ‘The labour market has changed for everyone, but particularly for those who are entering it now.’

What’s more, social media has led to the so-called comparison trap: young people are constantly measuring their lives against that of influencers and their peers, which can make them feel like they’re not achieving enough. When it comes to work, the pressure to succeed can be especially damaging for your self-confidence and detrimental to your mental health.

Changing the narrative

So, how can you silence all this noise and free yourself from unrealistic expectations? Below are some common myths about what your work path should look like and why you should not believe them.

I should find my dream job right away. When launching your career, nothing short of ‘perfect’ will do: your top-choice company, a good salary, quick recognition and a bright future ahead. In reality, your first job will most likely be a stepping stone to better opportunities. Most people in the same place as you have little to no idea what career fulfilment looks like, simply because they haven’t gained enough work experience to compare options. Taking the time to explore a work environment that may fall a bit short of your initial expectations will help you figure out what you want.

My degree will teach me everything I need to become good at my job. Education is undoubtedly important, but it’s not the whole story. According to Francis van der Mooren from Statistics Netherlands, ‘young people are under a lot of pressure to choose the right education and to be successful in the labour market instead of developing in a more natural way.’ She explains that becoming a qualified worker is a gradual process: while education provides a foundation, many essential skills are learned on the job, through experience and guidance from more experienced colleagues.

I’ll remain in the same industry for a long time. As the job market evolves, new skills are increasingly required. Technological innovations, shifting industries and new ways of working mean that many fields are radically being transformed, and where you started might not be where you end up. The key is spotting the changing trends and adapting accordingly.

So what’s the main takeaway? Let go of unrealistic expectations and allow yourself to explore, learn and grow at your own pace. In time, you’ll arrive at a career that suits you best!

Ready to spread your career wings? Let EURES show you the way. The campaign ‘Your career takes you places’ is dedicated to supporting university or vocational training students, trainees and apprentices looking for their first job abroad. Visit the dedicated webpage for regular updates on new opportunities, and look out for the #withEURES and #EURESjobs hashtags on social media.

European Training Foundation - Employability and transition to work

Read more:

European Job Days

Find EURES Advisers

Living and working conditions in EURES countries

EURES Jobs Database

EURES services for employers

EURES Events Calendar

Upcoming Online Events

EURES on Facebook

EURES on X

EURES on LinkedIn