You may be responsible and capable enough to do the job, but you're too "inexperienced" to be paid as much as the person who did your job before you. Young employees are great -- they have energy and drive, many don't have the responsibility to family and outside commitments like some co-workers older than them. And the best part is that they'll work for cheaper. This article from Business Week discusses exactly that. It encourages the idea that some young adults are given the opportunity to advance quicker. However, as an actual young adult I have to say "Hey, wait a minute."
While having a job is a good thing, who's to say that just because you're a younger employee therefore means you don't deserve the pay for the work you do. Experience is valuable and for many positions it's necessary, however, that does not give companies the right to abuse this fact. This article points out that these individuals who have gained senior level experience are at an advantage because when the economy gets better, they can spearhead for promotions and better paying jobs. And while that's true, it also leads me to question whether job responsibilities will simply continue to inflate while salaries remain the same. Companies who get used to paying less for the same work may find it hard to increase payroll again. Or maybe not.
The key element here is not just building a resume but a career. Should young adults take advantage of jobs that give them more responsibility? Absolutely. But at what price? When looking at jobs & career paths its important to consider the best ways to do it. But much like internships, young adults have little choice but to be told the greatest form of payment is the knowledge & experience they are getting.
Good, cuz we were really worried that it was just about the money.
