Although recent college grads have complained about the job market, there's another side to youth and work. Organizational cost-cutting and layoffs can create opportunities for Gen-Yers and younger Gen-Xers to quickly move up the ladder and acquire new responsibilities.
There are a number of drivers for these work opportunities. As companies have laid-off workers, they're also adjusting to operating with leaner staffs. What that means is that some young professionals are being handed opportunities that normally (in today's environment, "normal" is going away) would have been offered to those with more experience under their belts.
The second driver, though often first in company priority, is that young workers with less experience provide companies with an obvious way to reduce labor costs. Although age-related layoffs can be a complicated matter for companies, there are ways to get around that problem, not least of which is a buy-out. The auto industry has bought out thousands of workers, both union and non-union. It's common knowledge that when the auto industry got back into the hiring business, it hired workers at less than half what those who were let go were making. That's one example of what has happened to firms in nearly all industries.
It's also true that when the economy goes south, firms look for people who will go above and beyond the usual worker expectations. That means longer hours and an entrepreneurial approach to your job. But it can also provide numerous opportunities to build your experience base as well as your resume.
What are the important qualities for taking advantage of a boom time? It's important to develop a corporate mindset, one that supports firm strategies and takes action. The underlying attitude of contributing beyond your job and valuing others' thinking and profession goes a long way toward success. Finally, a cross-unit focus that emphasizes both your willingness to give advice and ask for help, as well as your willingness to do joint work with other units will be key to developing a positive reputation throughout the firm.
The downside to lack of experience is that on occasion, you'll find yourself in over your head. Never fear. Learn to ask your boss as well as your colleagues for advice and help. You'll need the insights as well as the structure others can give you if you're to be successful in developing your experience base.
Some will complain about enlarged expectations, but unusual expectations can be a goldmine for younger workers.