Is a Part-Time Job a Career Opportunity or Means to an End?

A part-time job means everything to a college student, as a steady source of income could ease the financial burden. It doesn't matter if it's a meager amount, as any sum is better than none at all. A professional doesn't see the same thing, as a part-time job can be seen as a conflict to the primary job. The same professional may have other needs, which the first job couldn't provide. Dilemma comes sooner or later.

Is a part-time job a career opportunity? Is it a means to an end? It's not a Catch-22 situation, as some suspect at first. It depends on a number of variables. The previous illustration would show that different people from different ages don't have the same view of a certain situation. Circumstances also play a part (if a part-time job is a lifesaver or not). The nature of the job could be a factor. If a student does well, then it could turn into a full-time job. A professional may end up in a crossroad, though.

How to Handle a Part-Time Job

Discuss your schedule with your boss. Don't let the thought of having more money blindsided by the reason that you have a part-time job. If you're a student, then you're aware that the coursework is your top priority. You need that job because you want to make your CV more attractive to recruiters. There are other students who are rather honest about their motives, as they often spend their allowance on pizza and beer. Your boss might give you a leeway, which can prevent you from stressing out sooner or later. It's not the same thing with a professional, though. There's a certain risk, as the primary job could suffer if not handle well. Furthermore, there's a dilemma of disclosing it. Most bosses would see a conflict of interest. If they haven't noticed it, then your actions would be a give away.

Keep an eye on the red signs. A conflict will arise sooner or later. It happens to everyone, so you must not deny (or hide) it. Stress will be the first sign. A change of attitude is the next sign followed by how your family and friends react to it. Health will be next. You don't want the last one to happen to you, as this could affect your performance in school (or office). It could have serious consequences in the workplace. (Think of termination.) When you notice these signs, the first thing to do is to take a break. You may want to sleep it off. (An exhausted mind wouldn't be able to make a sound decision.) If you've been working hard, then you deserve a holiday far and away. Deal with it right away.

Despair is a fool's response, so don't complain about the discomfort. No one forces you to look for a part-time job, not even doing it. You want it, as you’re fully aware that this set-up can solve your financial problems. (Some professionals rather look at it as career growth.) Let go of the (part-time) job if having too many things to do is affecting you. On the other hand, learn to handle the difficulties that arise sooner. What happens if this turns out to be your first job? There's a reason for celebration, as this would be a case of good luck. It's the same sentiment if you're a professional who is exploring other options. You don't need to fear about the possibility of going back to square one.

What’s Next For You

Let’s assume that you know the policies regarding the conflict of interest that happens when your two jobs clash at some point. If you really love your part-time job, then you must be toying with the idea that you would resign from your main job. You may not be able to perceive if your decision is right or wrong, but it doesn’t have to end that way. Discuss the situation with your tutor (or employer). Don’t be surprised if there would be a sympathetic ear. There’s nothing wrong about requesting for an extension, as you want to receive your diploma on time.

Having two jobs could be stretched you too far, but you sense a light at the end of the tunnel. What happens if it turns out differently? It’s not a total waste of time and effort. For one, you have earned something from it. You can also charge it to experience (whether you agree or not). Age is not a factor here, as you are the one who can decide on how you want your career to turn into.

If you want to hold on your part-time job, then it’s been understood that you’re not thinking of other options. You don’t have to think a lot (during your final days in college) while you wish nothing but the best for your soon-to-be ex-colleagues. It could be a start of a new cycle. Don’t be surprised if you would think of another part-time job along the way. A crystal ball is unavailable, though.