Many people who enter the workforce for the first time aspire to be employed in a traditional corporate job. To be sure, there are many benefits to be had in a corporate job, especially in the Philippines; a career in the corporate world often means a structured career path, a consistent income, and various other opportunities to enjoy the stability and prestige of corporate life.
However, a traditional corporate job is not the sole pathway to a rewarding and fulfilling career. If you’re exploring your options and looking into jobs in Makati and elsewhere in Metro Manila that are outside the conventional 9-to-5 grind, here are some viable alternatives:
1) Trades
Trades offer a fulfilling path for those with a knack for hands-on work. If you’re willing to learn and master practical skills, you can become an electrician, carpenter, technician, or dental hygienist. These professions often require technical training or apprenticeships to build expertise.
Many workers find great satisfaction in seeing the tangible results of their labor and creating or fixing something with their hands. While a career in the trades involves physical demands and specific safety regulations, it also provides one with a sense of accomplishment and great potential for self-employment and entrepreneurship.
If you’re considering getting into trades, it’s best to embrace a proactive attitude toward continuous learning and prepare yourself to adhere to your industry’s standards. It’s also a good idea to find a mentor or enroll in a training institute to sharpen your skills and broaden your network of clients.
2) The Service Industry
The service industry attracts individuals with strong interpersonal skills and a passion for customer satisfaction. People who find success in this field go the extra mile when it comes to providing excellent service, and work opportunities range from hotels, restaurants, retail settings, logistics, and the like.
Qualities like patience, good communication skills, and a friendly demeanor are all valuable assets in the industry. While formal education might not be a primary requirement for some service-oriented jobs, you’ll likely have to go through exhaustive on-the-job training.
Being part of the service industry will offer you plenty of opportunities to engage with people, which is good if you see yourself as a people person rather than a person who likes to push paperwork. However, it can also be quite challenging to handle different personalities while going about your tasks. You’ll be able to find success in this field if you’re adaptable, a quick thinker, and someone who’s customer-focused.
3) Freelancing and the Gig Economy
What if you’re keen on being in a flexible work arrangement? If so, freelancing and being part of the “gig” economy can offer you a gateway to independence.
Writers, graphic designers, and even rideshare drivers belong to this category, and they often enjoy the benefits of being their boss and only reporting to a physical office when it’s strictly necessary. As a freelancer in a sector like art or media, however, you’ll need to build a strong portfolio and market yourself effectively to get clients that match your area of expertise.
There are plenty of perks that come with pursuing a career in freelancing, such as being free to pick your schedule and choose the projects you want to work on. But remember that you also need to manage your time efficiently and navigate the uncertainty of variable income.
On the flip side, the gig economy also offers big potential for a rewarding and self-directed career. Just do your research on your market, be patient about securing good gigs, and work towards becoming a freelancer that many types of companies would want to work with.
4) Health and Wellness
If you have a passion for health and well-being, then a career in the health and wellness industry might be your calling. The field welcomes individuals who are committed to helping others live healthier lives.
No matter if you’re aiming to become a personal trainer, a massage therapist, or a nutritionist; you’ll need to have qualities like empathy, excellent communication skills, and a genuine interest in promoting other people’s well-being. Depending on the job you’re eyeing, you may be required to earn certain certifications or degrees.
People who choose to immerse themselves in this industry are often inspired by the tangible improvements they see happening in their clients’ health and lifestyle. If this sounds like it’s up your alley, now’s a good time to pursue an opportunity in this field.
5) Part-Time Jobs
Part-time jobs offer a flexible alternative for individuals who are seeking a balance between work and their personal life. Part-time roles, such as tutoring students, babysitting, or working as a part-time retail sales associate, all cater to those with specific time constraints or varied priorities.
The good news is, that a lot of part-time jobs offer workers flexible schedules and the opportunity to explore their other interests at the same time. Part-time workers often experience less work-related stress and more time for their pursuits, making it an attractive option for those with diverse responsibilities.
One notable disadvantage of getting a part-time job, however, is that these types of work often present lower earnings compared to full-time positions in the corporate world. You have to be ready for this reality if you want to work part-time only.
No matter which path you choose, just remember that every job, whether within or outside the traditional corporate framework, contributes to the fabric of society. These varied careers offer equal potential for doing meaningful work, and you don’t necessarily need to limit yourself to “hard corporate” when looking for job opportunities that are both rewarding and capable of providing you with a sustainable income.
Look to the suggestions above to find a career path that matches your goals and capabilities. Here’s to finding personal and professional fulfillment on the road less traveled!
