Has anyone decided to work in their family's business right after finishing high school? I'm considering this option to save money and gain experience, but I'm worried I might miss out on other opportunities. Any advice or experiences would be great!
Working in your family's business can certainly be rewarding. One of the main benefits is that you're likely to have a role of responsibility or decision-making power earlier on than in many other jobs. It can also provide an opportunity for you to build essential skills like management, marketing, and finance in a real-world setting.
However, there are few considerations you might want to weigh before making your decision.
Firstly, think about your long-term career goals. If your family's business aligns with what you want to do in future, then it might be an ideal place to start your career journey. But, if you're more interested in a different field, you might want to consider alternatives like apprenticeships, internships, or study programs that align more closely with your aspirations.
Secondly, working in a family business can sometimes blur the professional-personal boundaries. It's essential to create a clear distinction between your work and family life to maintain work-life balance.
Lastly, college can provide opportunities to broaden your horizons, form diverse networks, and explore various academic fields. If you're hesitant about the cost, community colleges or online programs may offer affordable alternatives.
It's also worth noting that you don't have to decide between working and college right away. You could initially take a gap year to work, and then reassess whether you want to continue working, attend college, or perhaps do both at the same time.
Remember, everyone's journey is unique and it's important to choose what feels right for you. You might also consider seeking advice from individuals who have faced a similar decision, like a career counselor or family business owners within your community.
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