The previous two years have taught us so much in relation to the manner in which we build and plan our careers and working life. The main lesson has been that we should be prepared for anything and that nothing is constant. We have also learned that the one way to stay ahead and mitigate against the biggest of risks to career and future earnings is to plan ahead in the following ways:-
Build leadership skills
No matter what sector you are working in or the position you currently hold. It has been proven that in times of economic and workplace uncertainty, it is the leadership that are looked to for solutions. Being in leadership will also provide you with the earliest of warnings as to the state of the business and your own job security. It's always better to be at the helm in times of crisis. Thus, one of the top tips to future-proof your career is to access further training and development through examples such as the Washington University TLCenter to build such skills and qualifications to be able to move up the career ladder.
Hone specific role-related technology skills
The technology is now available to improve and adjust most jobs out there, if not all. Information technology as a basis or foundation for improved business processes and systems is a common start. However, there are appropriate tech improvements and advancements that will serve to make most jobs out there easier and more efficient or effective. The skill is to be able to identify the aspects of the role you have or jobs that you do that can be improved and advanced using available technology or software. Then to learn and be in a position to use these skills and tech know-how to benefit the company.
Commit to the path you have chosen
If you simply commit to what you're doing now and spend the time and effort to build the skills and knowledge to persist, you will be great at what it is you do. It is this commitment that will see you able to move into other roles and also be considered for such moves and internal staff development over those who may not be as committed to the tasks at hand and the firm as a whole. If you're not committed to what you do, then, unfortunately, there is almost no way that you will be able to build a sustainable career.
Build a professional network
If you're good at what you do, then you will be able to build a cogent professional network with like-minded professionals in the sector and in your field. These connections and a great online professional network will arguably be the best way that you will be able to find the next great work opportunity. Learning from others that are in the sector about what's hot and what's not is a great way to ensure that your career is protected and that you are able to be flexible in its development.
Future-proofing a career has arguably never been easier, simply based on the wide variety of internet-based training and development courses and opportunities available for all sectors and industries. The three ideas mentioned herein are but the tip of the iceberg but will go a long way to ensuring that you have the career that you want and for as long as you need or want.
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