What Your Mum Didn’t Tell You About Finding a Job
Your parents meant well, but let’s be honest—they didn’t grow up in the world of TikTok résumés, AI recruiters, and remote job offers. The job market has changed dramatically, and sticking to outdated advice can hold you back. But don’t worry, we know you love your Mums, and we do too.
Mum said “Get a degree, and you’ll land a great job.”
Our answer is : “Sorry Mum, Degrees Don’t Equal Careers Anymore”
- Reality Check: Many employers prioritize skills and experience over education. A degree might open doors, but it’s not the golden ticket it used to be.
- Tip: Focus on building a portfolio, gaining certifications, or mastering skills through online platforms like Coursera or Skillshare.
Mum said : “Create a polished résumé and send it to many employers.”
Our answer is : “Your Résumé Isn’t a Static Document”
- Reality Check: Tailoring your résumé for each job is critical, and adding creative elements like video introductions or portfolios can set you apart.
- Tip: Use tools like Canva to design eye-catching résumés or build a website showcasing your work.
Mum said : “Just answer the questions and impress them.”
Our answer is :“Interviews Are a Two-Way Street”
- Reality Check: Interviews are as much about you evaluating the company as them evaluating you.
- Tip: Ask insightful questions to gauge company culture, growth opportunities, and team dynamics.
Mum said : “If you’re good enough, you’ll get the job.”
Our answer is : “Rejection Is Part of the Process”
- Reality Check: The best candidates still face rejections—it’s not always about you.
- Tip: Treat rejections as learning experiences, and refine your approach instead of taking them personally.
Mum said : Mum said : “Focus on a stable 9-to-5 job.”
Our answer is : Side Hustles and Passions Are Legit Career Paths
- Reality Check: Freelancing, side hustles, and monetizing your hobbies can lead to fulfilling careers.
- Tip: Build a personal brand and explore multiple income streams—it’s the Gen Z way.
Mum said: “Chase prestigious job titles.”
Our answer is : “Job Titles Are Just Labels”
- Reality Check: Focus on roles that offer skill-building and growth opportunities, regardless of the title.
- Tip: Choose roles based on their alignment with your long-term goals, not how fancy they sound.
Mum said: “Choose a job with a high salary—it’s all about financial security.”
Our answer: “Money Matters, but It’s Not Everything.”
Reality Check: While salary is important, prioritizing it over passion and work-life balance can lead to dissatisfaction and burnout.
- Why They Say This: Thai mums want their children to have comfortable, stable lives, and a high salary seems like the safest bet.
- Why It Might Be Misguided: While money is important, prioritizing only salary can lead to burnout or dissatisfaction. Choosing a role that aligns with one’s passions and long-term goals often brings greater success and happiness.
Mum said: “Don’t take risks—play it safe.”
Our answer: “Calculated Risks Lead to Growth.”
Reality Check: Many successful careers involve taking risks, whether it’s starting a business, changing industries, or pursuing an unconventional path.
- Why They Say This: Risk is often associated with uncertainty, and Thai mums prefer to see their children in secure, predictable roles.
- Why It Might Be Misguided: The most successful careers often involve some level of calculated risk—whether starting a business, switching industries, or pursuing an unconventional passion.
Conclusion: Rewrite the Rules
Finding a job in today’s world requires thinking differently, embracing change, and leveraging modern tools. Your parents may not have told you this, but that’s okay—we still love our Mum’s.
About the author : Thanaysit is Huneety Thailand recruitment consultant and community manager of the Thailand at work community by Huneety.
