Common conflicts emerging adults face while on the job

Between the ages of 18-30, emerging adults usually launch their career paths. This may be a smooth process for those who have had a clear vision for their future and have received support in pursuing their interests. Yet, the progression towards a satisfying career can be a real struggle for many young adults. Complications arise and conflicts occur. Emerging adults face problems like defining their values in relation to the requirements of a job or the environment within a company, they may question whether or not the demands of their chosen career outweigh the rewards, and some may have a difficult time advocating for their needs. Emerging adults may benefit from professional assistance with their career development in order to understand and overcome the common conflicts faced while on the job.

Views and values

Imagine new college grads tackling their first job. Starting out, they eagerly take on extra tasks, going above and beyond the required job duties, hoping their bosses will take note. They learn new skills, mature in their roles, and strengthen their professional relationships. However, as the months pass, the excitement of the new job begins to fizzle and assignments become monotonous. College grads may not feel as though their complete skill sets are being utilized and they fall into the rut of a day-to-day grind. They start to feel drained and even taken for granted. College grads start to wonder whether their position is valued and question the view of their organization.

Commonly, emerging adults feel stuck in a job they do not believe will ultimately move them toward their long-term goals. They may choose to stay in their position because of the convenience and familiarity of the job, or they might not have the time or energy to expend looking for other employment. Whatever the case, emerging adults compromise their self-worth if they remain in a role which offers little professional value.

Support yourself

Standing up for yourself in the workplace can be tricky, especially when you do not feel as though your professional needs are being met. Whether you need additional resources to complete a project, believe that you have been overlooked for a promotion, or would like to resolve a conflict with a coworker, change will not be made until you voice your concerns. Many emerging adults are too inexperienced and intimidated to articulate their concerns to figures of authority. However, emerging adults can become their own best advocate in the workplace with planning, practice, and persistence.

Process conflicts with professional help

Emerging adults often benefit from career counseling, like the services offered at Yellowbrick’s Career Development Center. A career counselor can assist an emerging adult in processing common conflicts encountered while on the job. With the help of a career counselor, an emerging adult will be more likely to sustain satisfying employment while handling the complicated aspects of navigating a meaningful career path.