<h1>It’s tempting. You just graduated. You’re not ready to commit to the 9–5 yet. A working holiday sounds like the perfect mix of freedom and fun.</h1><h2>But is taking off right after graduation the best career move?</h2><p>On the <strong>BBK Network</strong> podcast, Hiredly’s VP of People &amp; Culture <strong>Joselyn Lau</strong> shared practical advice and raised important considerations that every fresh grad should think about before booking that one-way ticket. Taking a working holiday after graduation isn’t a mistake—but it <i>is</i> a decision that comes with trade-offs. If you go in with clear intentions, keep your skills sharp, and return ready to contribute, the experience can be incredibly enriching.</p><hr><h2>1. You <i>Might</i> Fall Behind—And That’s Okay (If You’re Prepared)<img src="https://assets.hiredly.com/cms/image_2025_03_26_113528997_82aba2025f.png"></h2><p>Joselyn acknowledged the biggest concern fresh grads have: “Will I fall behind in my career?”</p><p>The truth? Maybe. If you take a year off while your peers build skills, experience, and networks, you <i>might</i> come back feeling lost or left behind.</p><p>But that doesn’t mean you’re doomed. What matters is how you <i>use</i> your time away—and how you prepare for your return.</p><p>👉 Related read: <a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/successful-career-switch-in-malaysia?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=should_you_go_on_a_working_holiday_after_graduation?&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Successful Career Switch in Malaysia</a></p><hr><h2>2. Know What Industry You’re In (Or Want to Be In)<img src="https://assets.hiredly.com/cms/image_2025_03_26_113546692_5941ee766e.png"></h2><p>In fast-moving industries like tech, Joselyn warned that even six months away can leave you out of the loop. New tools and frameworks emerge quickly—and the longer you stay away, the more catch-up you’ll have to do.</p><p>On the flip side, for creative roles like content creation or sales, international experiences can <i>enhance</i> your skillset and portfolio—especially if you build a blog, create videos, or pick up new soft skills abroad.</p><p>👉 Related read: <a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/in-demand-content-creator-skills-2025?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=should_you_go_on_a_working_holiday_after_graduation?&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">In-Demand Content Creator Skills for 2025</a></p><hr><h2>3. Employers <i>Will</i> Ask You About It—So Have a Good Story<img src="https://assets.hiredly.com/cms/image_2025_03_26_113611313_121f6aecc1.png"></h2><p>A gap year isn’t a red flag, but how you explain it matters.</p><p>Joselyn emphasized that when you return to the job market, employers want to know how the experience shaped you. Did you grow your independence? Did you gain communication skills? Were you productive with your time?</p><p>If you can connect your working holiday to what you bring to the workplace, it becomes a strength—not a setback.</p><p>👉 Related read: <a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/addressing-employment-gap?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=should_you_go_on_a_working_holiday_after_graduation?&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">How to Address an Employment Gap</a></p><hr><h3>Not sure if it’s the right move for you? Take the <a href="https://hiredly.typeform.com/to/K4idZTDK?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=should_you_go_on_a_working_holiday_after_graduation?&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Hiredly Work Personality Test</a> to see what career paths align with your style and goals. And if you’re looking to grow your network, get real-world advice, and connect with ambitious peers, join the <a href="https://hub.hiredly.com/young-leaders-community?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=should_you_go_on_a_working_holiday_after_graduation?&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Hiredly Young Talent Community</a>. Whether you’re staying or going, <a href="https://my.hiredly.com/jobs?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=should_you_go_on_a_working_holiday_after_graduation?&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Hiredly </a>is where your next opportunity begins.</h3><p>&nbsp;</p><h3><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=crxQbzHIVFE" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Check out the full BBK episode here</a></h3>

A working holiday sounds exciting—but is it worth delaying your career? We break down the pros, cons, and real risks of taking a working holiday right after graduation.