Pros and Cons of Working in the Internet and Social Media Industry

Pros and Cons of Working in the Internet and Social Media Industry was originally published on Vault.

There are many pros and cons to working in the Internet/social media industry. It’s important to know what’s attractive and challenging about the industry so that you can be prepared to meet any challenges that come your way along your path to success.

Pros

1. Cutting edge. It’s cool to be on the cutting edge of technology.

2. Smart coworkers. The industry is loaded with creative, well-educated people who are often inspiring to work with.

3. Career diversity. Jobs are available for people with every type of skill set, personality type, and educational background, and there are many opportunities to transition to other careers in the field.

4. Financial rewards. Technical and marketing workers often receive high salaries and good benefits. Getting in on the ground floor of a promising start-up can translate into a big payoff if the company goes public.

5. Geographic freedom. Opportunities are available throughout the United States and in foreign countries.

6. Independence. Creative entrepreneurs can start their own businesses and build them into the next Google or Facebook.

7. Great perks. Top companies offer excellent perks such as free cafeterias, paid maternity and paternity leave, complete medical/dental benefits, and the opportunity to telecommute.

9. Good opportunities for advancement. With the right combination of education and experience, you can advance to a managerial or executive-level position.

Cons

1. Limited job security. The industry is constantly expanding, contracting, and restructuring. Expect to change jobs, and sometimes even cities, frequently.

2. Deadlines. Deadlines are constant. This can create a stressful work environment.

3. Long hours. Expect to work long hours as project deadlines loom. If you helm a start-up, plan to work 24/7 to launch your site or product.

4. Compensation. Some jobs, especially at start-ups, are low-paying and don’t provide benefits. 5. Lack of geographic freedom. Many top tech companies are located in California, the Pacific Northwest, and on the East Coast. That’s great if you already live there, but bad if you don’t want to relocate.

6. Sedentary work environment. Be prepared to spend a lot of time sitting in front of a computer.

7. Constant learning. Technology changes constantly, and you will have to work hard to stay up to date.

8. Fewer opportunities for women. The tech industry is male-dominated, which sometimes creates uncomfortable or even hostile work environments for women.

The above was adapted from the Vault Career Guide to the Internet and Social Media. The full guide can be purchased and downloaded here.