TECH4GOOD
I have watched several graduation ceremonies lately and read numerous social media posts from friends expressing joy with their kids' achievements. I know how it feels, having been there before, both as a graduate and as a parent. The parent’s joy, pride, excitement, and relief on the part of the graduates are emotions usually felt after the ceremonies.
The cap, gown, and diploma signify the culmination of years of hard work, yet beneath the celebratory facade often lies a bothering uncertainty. New graduates today are catapulted into a rapidly evolving landscape. The skills and knowledge that secured their degrees may soon be overshadowed by emerging technologies such as AI, shifting economic conditions, changing societal expectations, and fluid industry demands. Unlike when I joined the workforce many years ago when the job market was a static landscape, it is now a dynamic, ever-shifting terrain.
Early on, they must adopt a proactive career approach to navigate this dynamic landscape and avoid becoming obsolete. What strategies can they explore to navigate this uncharted territory and ensure that their hard-earned degrees remain a launchpad for a successful career rather than a ticket to obsolescence?
They can start by learning about the business of their company and the industries in which they work. They need to internalize their company’s reason for being. Even at the early stages of their career, staying informed about industry trends and developments is essential. Reading industry publications, following thought leaders on social media, and participating in relevant webinars and conferences would help them anticipate changes and position themselves as future-thinking professionals.
A recent World Economic Forum study says that 44 percent of the workforce may need to be trained on new skill sets in the next five years. Its global Future of Work report released last year highlights that “Artificial intelligence … is expected to be adopted by nearly 75 percent of surveyed companies and is expected to lead to high churn – with 50 percent of organizations expecting it to create job growth and 25 percent expecting it to create job losses.”
One of the most effective ways to avoid obsolescence is to commit to lifelong learning. The skills acquired during formal education are just the beginning. The workplace is constantly evolving, and so are the needed skill sets. They can continuously educate through online courses, workshops, and certifications. We now have several learning platforms that offer a plethora of courses that can help professionals stay updated with emerging skills and technologies.
Cultivating a growth mindset is essential for new employees. It is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. Embracing this mindset is crucial for navigating a rapidly changing job market. Instead of fearing challenges, they should view them as opportunities for growth.
In today’s digital age, technological proficiency is non-negotiable. Even if the field is not directly related to technology, having a basic understanding of digital tools and platforms can significantly enhance employability. Familiarizing themselves with technologies relevant to their industry, including emerging ones like artificial intelligence, can set them apart from their peers.
While technical skills are crucial, soft skills are equally important. Employers value attributes such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability. These skills are often what differentiates an ordinary employee from a great one.
Building a solid professional network is essential for career success. Attending industry events, joining professional organizations, and connecting with people in the same field on professional social media platforms like LinkedIn can provide valuable insights, job opportunities, and mentorship. Cultivating relationships with people from different backgrounds and industries can broaden one’s perspective.
Adapting to change is a critical skill in the modern workplace. Young professionals should be open to new experiences and willing to leave their comfort zones. This might mean taking on new responsibilities, learning new skills, or even changing career paths. Taking a proactive approach to one’s career can set an employee apart from peers. Employers will always value individuals who can navigate change with a positive attitude, are always seeking positive changes, and are willing to learn.
In a competitive job market, personal branding can help one stand out. Personal branding is about how the world sees you, both online and offline. Ensuring that one’s LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and reflects one’s skills, experiences, and achievements would help create a positive image.
While it’s important to stay dedicated to one’s career, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for long-term success. Burnout can hinder productivity and an employee’s overall well-being. A balanced lifestyle can enhance creativity, improve mental health, and improve effectiveness.
Staying relevant in a rapidly changing workplace requires a combination of continuous learning, adaptability, and proactive career management. By embracing these strategies, new graduates can ensure they remain relevant, become valuable assets to their employers, and build successful, fulfilling careers.
(The author is an executive member of the National Innovation Council, lead convener of the Alliance for Technology Innovators for the Nation (ATIN), vice president of the Analytics and AI Association of the Philippines, and vice president of UP System Information Technology Foundation. Email: [email protected])