When futureproofing your career, remember that while certain trends may be universal, it’s essential to adapt them to your personal situation. We’re already seeing ongoing advancements in technology, impacting all job roles, however, the ways in which it affects each role, and the pace of adoption, may differ.
Forbes (2024) emphasises the ‘landscape of work is undergoing a seismic shift, driven by technological breakthroughs and evolving societal dynamics’. Other factors driving change are not only skills shortages but also people shortages, changing demographics and workforce expectations, along with economic uncertainties.
To futureproof your career, focus on these three important aspects.
Automation and Productivity: Yes, as technology advances roles are becoming automated. However, there is an increasing focus on using AI tools to enhance human capabilities and to increase productivity. The prediction is that technology will handle more routine tasks, leaving humans to become even better at the ‘human’ side – enhanced communication and collaboration, emotional intelligence and strategic thinking. Upskilling to work alongside the tech and AI will be critical.
Reskilling and Continuous Learning: The reports that jobs are changing are not new. Jobs are continuously evolving and some jobs will eventually cease to exist and new ones are created. The key is to be adaptable and open to learning new things and new ways of working. Inevitably, this means adapting to new systems and technologies. Regardless of age or career stage, be prepared to take advantage of reskilling and upskilling opportunities in the workplace and/or outside of work. Explore the options and be proactive about your learning. Invest in you and your future!
Adaptability and Agility: Change is a constant and is unavoidable. The dynamics of the work environment are forever changing; therefore, adaptability is a vital skill in futureproofing your career. It’s useful to embrace the mindset that nothing stays the same forever; this gives us room to look for new opportunities to grow personally and professionally. Resisting change that you truly have no control over is wasted energy. Focus on what you can control and/or what you can influence. Futureproofing requires both personal and professional agility.
Staying up to date with industry trends and gathering insights on the future of work, as well as being proactive, adaptable, and open to new learning opportunities, will allow you to futureproof your career in an increasingly unpredictable world.
If you're interested in exploring ways to future-proof your career, we're here to help. Contact me at powerup@careerforceaustralia.com.au or call 0409 894 131 for more information.