Are you too young to start your first job? When is the right age to begin your professional journey? Young Indians are entering the workforce earlier than ever, but is this trend beneficial or detrimental? While early success can be enticing, it may come at the expense of personal growth, rest, and a traditional childhood. Experts are divided on this issue, asking when ambition becomes a catalyst for growth and when it accelerates the transition into adulthood too quickly.
In today's digital age, social media platforms like Instagram showcase young entrepreneurs and freelancers achieving success at a young age. This can create a sense of FOMO (fear of missing out) among others, prompting them to question if they are falling behind. For many young Indians, the desire for financial independence and the pressure to keep up with peers drive them to start working early. However, is this a wise decision?
A Deloitte study revealed that 53% of Gen Z individuals worldwide felt unprepared for their first jobs, indicating that ambition often surpasses readiness. While earning money can provide independence, rushing into the workforce too soon may lead to a loss of peace, academic performance, and the joy of learning. In India, 26% of Gen Z respondents are already working alongside their studies, and the youth unemployment rate stood at 16.03% in 2024 for ages 15-24, highlighting the challenges of finding work.
So, when is the right time to start working? Ankur Agrawal, founder of The LHR Group, an executive search firm, believes that the 'right age' is subjective and depends on individual readiness. He emphasizes that maturity, not pressure, should be the driving force behind entering the workforce. The 2025 Deloitte India survey further supports this, as 94% of Gen Z and 97% of millennials prioritize practical, on-the-job learning over formal academic theory.
Agrawal suggests that short internships or project work can be beneficial for testing the waters, building discipline, confidence, and time management skills without compromising studies. However, he warns that taking on full-time jobs too early can be risky, as it may negatively impact studies or overall well-being. The World Bank's Global Economic Prospects report (June 2025) corroborates this, highlighting how youth entering low-skill jobs prematurely often face long-term career stagnation.
The Indian Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS, April 2025) revealed a concerning trend: the number of young people taking up part-time work during studies has risen sharply in urban areas. While this may seem progressive, many are doing so out of necessity rather than curiosity. With rising education costs and social media glorifying hustle culture, the pressure to 'start earning' early can be overwhelming. Agrawal notes that platforms often reward extremes, and when young individuals see their peers earning substantial amounts, they start believing it's the norm.
However, beneath the shiny reels lies a silent trade-off: sleepless nights, missed classes, and constant comparison. Experts advise students to focus on learning-rich opportunities instead of rushing to become entrepreneurs or founders. It's perfectly fine to not have everything figured out at 19. Additionally, the International Labour Organisation's report reveals that over 92% of India's labor force works in the informal sector, where job security and growth are limited.
Parents and schools also play a significant role in this equation. A Pew Research study (March 2025) found that Indians generally believe adulthood milestones, like starting work, should come earlier than in many other countries. This expectation often influences families, with parents pushing their children to build 'perfect resumes' by securing early internships, multiple certifications, and leadership roles before graduation. Agrawal warns that this approach can backfire, as parents should instead focus on providing guidance and support.
He suggests that schools and colleges should offer career counselling, mentorship, and skill-building workshops, emphasizing practical communication, teamwork, and ethics. By balancing academics, social life, and work, students can learn and earn effectively. Agrawal concludes, 'Career is a marathon, not a sprint. The right time is when you can run it without losing yourself.'
So, the question remains: when is the right age to start working? There is no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on individual curiosity, readiness to learn, and the ability to manage responsibilities and rest. If you feel curious and prepared, go for it. But if you're rushing due to peer pressure, take a step back and reassess. Start with small, flexible experiences like campus roles, volunteering, freelancing, or summer internships, allowing work to enhance your learning journey rather than dominate it.
