The term ‘success’ is highly subjective, yet for many, it conjures up images of an immaculately groomed individual in a crisp suit, exuding an unmistakable aura of authority as they stride confidently through the workspace. However, success manifests differently in everyone. For some, accomplishing their daily tasks and perfectly fitting into their assigned roles is just what they desire, while others aspire to steadily ascend up the professional hierarchy, embracing increased responsibilities along the way.
Career success does not just happen by chance; it typically emanates from sheer hard work and making the most of every opportunity that one encounters. Upon commencing their professional journey, university graduates are granted a one-of-a-kind opportunity to shape their careers the way they wish. To achieve their aims, there are certain things they need to do and skills they ought to hone, including:
1. Adaptability
With the continuous evolution of the world, the professional landscape is also constantly transforming. New jobs emerge while others become obsolete, and those in the workforce must adapt to these changes. Whether it’s a technological advancement, a novel regulation, or a market fluctuation, the modern-day workforce must be prepared to make swift decisions and alter their approach to meet the demands of their role and respective industry as they modify.
The Institute for the Future, a United States-based research organisation, estimated that by 2030, 85% of jobs that will be prevalent have yet to be created. Paul Mullen, a career advisor with Measurability.ie, opines that this implies that most professions we will be engaged in by then are currently nonexistent.
“As a consequence,” he explains, “being inflexible would lead you to struggle. For instance, a marketer a decade ago would be almost outmoded if they weren’t conversant with social media. Today, Web3 has emerged, creating challenges for those unacquainted with it. Similarly, an accountant unaware of blockchain technology will soon become irrelevant.”
2. Resilience
In today’s ever-evolving world, it’s becoming less frequent for one to hold a single job for the entirety of their working life. Previously, the norm was to complete education, secure a position in a firm and remain there until retirement. However, nowadays, people are more prone to switching roles throughout their career, either willingly or involuntarily.
Mullen suggests that changes, including job losses, which are sometimes beyond individual control, are par for the course. The key lies in demonstrating resilience, brushing off setbacks, and reentering the employment arena. According to Mullen, some people inherently possess resilience while others need to build it up, often by placing themselves in stressful tasks or risk-laden scenarios. Success, he says, is about holding steadfast and recovering from the inevitable pitfalls of one’s working journey.
Moreover, Mullen highlights the importance of human interactions, despite discussions around machinery, automation, and robots. The business universe continues to revolve around human connections. Early career professionals stand to gain by establishing relationships with work colleagues. If you master networking, Mullen asserts, “Job opportunities will seek you out rather than you seeking them”. Networking ought to be part of your daily routine – a continuous process, not just reserved for when you require something.
With the rise of social media, including platforms such as LinkedIn, networking is now more accessible and simplified. Regularly engaging with people, both online and offline, is key, states Mullen.
Equally important in the workplace is emotional intelligence, often associated with romantic relationships. Mullen emphasises the need to be self-aware, to actively listen, and consider the feelings of others. He advises individuals to immerse themselves in situations where they can exercise these skills by genuinely engaging in conversations and deeply understanding their colleagues’ viewpoints.
Lastly, having self-confidence is vital.
Upon stepping into a new profession or role, it may often appear intimidating to voice your opinions. However, it is crucial to remember that your confidence plays a significant part in your new position. The company opted for you with the belief that your contributions would bring added benefits. It’s now your task to validate their trust. According to Mullen, there’s no such thing as over-confidence in the workplace.
He suggests that confronting your anxieties and trying out things that make you uncomfortable contributes to your confidence pool. When your confidence is high, you’re more likely to take initiative, stand out and voluntarily participate in matters.
As Mullen further explains, the more you indulge in these activities, the more you interact with your colleagues and increase your visibility within the company. Your visibility is instrumental, as those who seize opportunities are usually the ones who are noticed in the organization.
So, voicing your opinion is vital. Even if your suggestions aren’t implemented immediately, your interest in the subject will be noted by your colleagues, potentially involving you in the project in the future.
Mullen stresses the importance of continuous learning. Technological advancements are expected to impact two-fifths of the existing essential skills by 2027, as per the Future of Jobs Report 2023 by the World Economic Forum. It predicts that every worker will need to refresh half their primary skills every five years. Crucial to success is the persistent pursuit of learning and honing new skills. Learning should not cease at the end of one’s academic career, as Mullen highlights.
This doesn’t necessarily denote obtaining formal qualifications. Utilize platforms such as YouTube University to continue learning and enhancing skills. Being technologically sound and in touch with trends in your field can help broaden your knowledge, thus improving the prospects of development at work.
According to Mullen, frequently questioning, “what’s the next technology?” will keep you ahead, as technology will occupy an increasingly crucial role in everyone’s job in the upcoming years.
Be vigilant about the developments in your professional field and make certain that you stay abreast with the latest technologies and skills. This way, you can remain relevant and employable, regardless of future transformations within the industry.