Employment status: What it is, what it affects and what it is used for

Occupational status is a fundamental concept in the world of work that defines a person's position in an organisation and reflects their responsibilities, skills and hierarchical level. We will look at the different aspects of occupational status and their impact on the careers of professionals. We will also look at the different types of occupational status and how they change over time.

Employee and self-employed status

There are two main types of worker: those who work for someone else and those who work for themselves. They have different ways of working and different legal statuses. A company hires workers and determines their working conditions, pay and rights. On the other hand, the self-employed are professionals who carry out their activities without being bound by a labour contract. They run their own business, whether they are auto-entrepreneurs, self-employed professionals or others, and are responsible for their own social security. Their remuneration depends on the volume of sales.

Executive and non-executive

Another criterion for categorising professional status is the distinction between executive and non-executive. Executives hold positions of responsibility in the company and are responsible for supervising, directing or co-ordinating the activities of other employees. Their status offers a number of advantages such as higher remuneration, greater responsibility and better social protection. Non-managerial employees, though, occupy lower positions in the hierarchy and do not enjoy the same benefits as managers. They may work in technical, administrative or sales positions.

The importance of professional status in a career

Remuneration is a key element of professional status because it reflects the value placed on the position and its responsibilities. Employees with good occupational status tend to receive higher salaries and better benefits such as paid holidays.

Career prospects

Professional status also affects career growth and advancement opportunities within a company. Managers with more experience can get promotions and advance in their careers.

Labour conditions

Employees with high professional status tend to have better working conditions, such as more flexible working hours, better work-life balance and a more pleasant working environment. It is definitely a sign of confidence in you as a professional and indicates that you are reliable and highly skilled, that you don't need constant supervision to ensure the quality of your work. Your level of responsibility professionalism gives you the opportunity to give you a comfortable environment in which to work and increase your efficiency.

Changes in professional status over time

Professional status is not static and may change over time in line with changes in the organisation, the economy or legislation. You also have the right to influence your own career development. Further training and retraining courses can be your springboard to new career opportunities. Your professional mobility, whether horizontal (job change) or vertical (promotion), can lead to a change in your professional status.

Legislative and economic changes

Legislative and economic changes can also affect professional status. For example, the adoption of new labour or social security laws may change the status of workers, and economic fluctuations may lead to restructuring or the creation of new jobs.

Work life is very important because it affects things like the type of contract, the level of authority and what you have to do. It affects pay, career prospects and working conditions. Although your status may change over time, you should try to improve it by investing in training and being aware of mobility opportunities.