Every job has trade-offs. Part time work has advantages but also drawbacks, especially in Singapore’s context.
Pros:
- Extra income. Helps students cover expenses, pay bills, or save.
- Skill development. Communication, customer service, time management, teamwork, adaptability.
- Flexibility. Many part time roles offer flexible hours—weekends, evenings, shorter shifts.
- Networking. Meeting people, engaging with different businesses can open doors for future opportunities.
- Low barrier to entry. Many jobs don’t require extensive prior experience.
Cons:
- Limited income. Hourly pay may be low; few or no benefits (like leave, CPF) may apply depending on wage thresholds.
- Schedule conflicts. Classes, exams, assignments may clash with work, leading to stress.
- Physical strain. F&B and delivery jobs can be tiring, especially during peak periods or in Singapore’s hot weather.
- Job instability. Part time roles may depend on demand; shifts may be cut; hours may vary unpredictably.
- Less progression. Many part time roles have limited career growth unless the employer offers more responsibility or leads to full time.
Understanding these helps make better choices—you assess which roles suit you, how many hours you can take, and how to plan your long-term career trajectory.