Four Tips to Overcome Boredom in an Entry-Level Job

Four Tips to Overcome Boredom in an Entry-Level Job
Jobsdb content teamupdated on 19 September, 2014
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Starting at the bottom in an entry-level job can be frustrated for any professional, particularly if you know that you could do the job of the CFO given half the chance. Many people get stuck in a rut and are never promoted because they allow boredom with an entry-level job to consume their daily lives. If you're bored, you're more likely to make mistakes or to offer substandard work; don't fall into that trap.

Unfortunately, you'll probably have to pay your dues for a few months until you can show your superiors that your skills and education far outstrips your current responsibilities. During that time, here are four tips to overcome boredom in your entry-level job.

1- Keep a Running To-Do List

One of the major causes of boredom in an entry-level job is a lack of structure. If you know that you can do your job in your sleep, initiative flies right out the window. To avoid this, keep a running To-Do list on your desk or in your computer and check items off as you complete them. It will make the work day pass much faster and you'll have proof that you've been a busy bee.

The only problem with this tip is that you might become overeager to finish your work and complete everything on the list three hours before you're scheduled to knock off for the day. If this happens, take the bull by the horns and ask your boss for more work. Explain that you've already completed your scheduled tasks and that you need something more to occupy your time. This will show your boss that you're fit for more than an entry-level job.

2- Make Friends in the Workplace

They say that misery loves company, so if you're having trouble overcoming boredom in an entry-level job, start making friends. There are probably other professionals in your office who are experiencing the same dissatisfaction with their work, so don't be afraid to buddy up. Share tips on what you're doing in terms of upward mobility and stay on top of your work by providing one another with motivation.

3- Volunteer for Non-Job-Related Activities

Just because you're experiencing boredom in your entry-level job doesn't mean that you can't get involved with the office on a social or practical scale. Have you considered offering to host the office Christmas party or organize the office softball team? Get involved with your boss and coworkers and express a desire to become part of the team. Those who root for success for all are promoted faster than those who stick to themselves.

4- Go the Extra Mile

When you're bored with an entry-level job, your obvious goal is to move up through the ranks, and the best way to do this is to put in a little extra effort. For example, if you are asked to prepare a spreadsheet for a financial review, consider updating the old template and providing an extra report to go with it. Showing initiative is the number one way to get ahead and out of your entry-level job.

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