Journey of a First Salary: Reflections and Lessons

Many career paths begin with a pivotal first job, and it's always fascinating to look back on those early days. From humble beginnings to monumental achievements, these moments form the foundation of our professional lives. Here, we delve into the tales of starting salaries and the experiences they offer.

Early Career in a Startup

My first salaried role came at a startup named ByteSavvy in 2019, when I graduated from college. Back then, the starting salary of 45,000 rupees per year might have seemed modest to some, but to me, it felt like striking gold.

The startup environment was dynamic, with everyone wearing multiple roles. The coffee machine was a sanctuary where colleagues could unwind and connect over shared projects. This environment was not merely about earning a paycheck; it was about immersing myself in the real world, learning new skills, and finding my place in the tech industry.

Challenges at the Start

The early days were, without a doubt, a whirlwind of experiences. I remember a mix of excitement and imposter syndrome as I navigated through coding challenges and deciphering industry jargon. But those moments of triumph and panic were instrumental in my growth.

Triumphs: Pushing my first feature live was a defining moment of confidence and achievement. Challenges: Realizing I had accidentally deleted hours of work sparked a sense of panic and the need for better backup practices.

Through it all, a team of experienced mentors guided me, offering invaluable advice and support. This supportive network made a significant difference as I transitioned from a student to a professional.

Reflecting on Financial Realities

One of my first jobs, on the other hand, was a challenging experience. Before joining TCS, I worked as a full-time engineer in a college startup in Gurgaon. This was unofficial work without a traditional employment contract and included no PF (Provident Fund) or other benefits. Earning Rs. 8,000 per month was just enough to manage my college expenses.

Travel Costs: I had to travel to the office on weekends, incurring a daily cost of 150 rupees. Weekly travel expenses amounted to Rs. 300, and monthly costs were around Rs. 1,200. Lunch Expenses: Buying lunch from the canteen every day added an additional 1,200 rupees per month, or approximately 120 rupees per day. Monthly Take-Home: After subtracting travel and lunch expenses, I received Rs. 5,500 per month. Out of this, I gave Rs. 2,000 to my mother for daily household expenses, leaving Rs. 3,500 for college and savings.

Despite the financial constraints, I never indulged in smoking, drinking, or partying. The money was spent on bunk trips and canteen food, but that was the extent of my expenses at the time.

Lessons Learned and Future Prospects

Looking back, those early experiences were both challenging and enlightening. They taught me the value of hard work, adaptability, and the importance of seeking mentorship. The modest starting salary of Rs. 8,000 was indeed the best investment in myself.

Now, six years later, my salary has grown to Rs. 1.85 lakh per month at IBM, where I manage content. This trajectory reflects the growth and progress that can be achieved through perseverance and dedication.

In conclusion, the journey of a first salary often marks the beginning of a lifelong career. Whether it's a modest startup or a larger corporation, these experiences shape our characters and prepare us for the ongoing adventures and challenges that lie ahead. So, hang in there, and trust that your path is fraught with opportunities for growth and success.

Key Takeaways:

Starting salary can set the foundation for long-term career growth. Mentorship and support are crucial in navigating early career challenges. Financial management is key, even in modest salary situations.