Graduate Faces Tough Choice: Security Guard Job with Higher Pay or Pursuing Dreams?

**SINGAPORE:** A graduate's recent post on Reddit has shed light on a growing concern among job seekers in Singapore: the struggle to find suitable employment with decent salaries. The individual, who has been actively hunting for a job in his field, revealed he is now contemplating a career switch to become a security guard due to the more attractive starting salary it offers.

In his post on the Reddit forum ‘Ask Singapore,’ he shared his frustration, noting that entry-level jobs in his chosen industry only pay between S$2,200 and S$2,600 a month. He mentioned receiving an offer of S$2,200 owing to his lack of experience, which has left him disheartened. In contrast, security officer positions reportedly offer starting salaries ranging from S$2,600 to S$3,000, making them significantly more appealing.

While acknowledging the demanding nature of security jobs, involving long hours and shift work, the man expressed his exhaustion after several months of applying for positions and facing continuous disappointments with low salary offers. Turning to the Reddit community, he reached out for advice from fellow graduates and seasoned security officers, contemplating whether accepting a security position would be a wise decision for his career path.

Responses to his query were mixed. Some Reddit users cautioned against pursuing a career as a security guard, arguing that it could lead to a dead end with little chance for career advancement. One commenter noted, “Those old men in their 70s who’ve dedicated their lives to the job are still earning surprisingly low salaries. It's just a temporary raise, but ultimately leads nowhere.”

Conversely, other Reddit users advised him to take the job for the experience, suggesting that gaining any form of work experience could prove beneficial in the long run. They highlighted how such a step could enhance his resume and put him in a better position to negotiate a higher salary in future job applications.

Beyond the security field, many individuals in Singapore, particularly those facing extended unemployment, are exploring alternative job opportunities, including gig work, delivery services, tutoring, and freelance positions. These alternative roles have become temporary solutions for people while they continue searching for jobs within their desired profession.

Interestingly, some individuals have opted to stay in these gigs permanently. For instance, an IT support engineer recently mentioned switching careers to become a delivery driver, expressing dissatisfaction with the monotony of his previous job.

Recent graduates are now faced with critical decisions regarding their career paths. Should they chase after immediate but low-paying positions, or aim for longer-term growth even if it involves higher risks of unemployment? Experts recommend thoroughly evaluating job offers based on overall compensation, including benefits, and considering whether the salary meets living expenses.

If an offered salary is below industry standards, potential employees should gather data to help negotiate better pay. Websites like Indeed suggest approaching employers with questions about salary flexibility and negotiation ranges, enabling job seekers to present informed counteroffers.

Ultimately, navigating the workforce during this competitive period requires careful deliberation. As various paths open up, graduates must weigh their long-term career aspirations against immediate financial needs, making sure not to overlook opportunities that provide valuable experience. Should the pursuit of dreams be put on hold for financial stability, or is it better to persevere through the struggle of low-paying offers? The answer may well define the future for many entering the job market today.