Wow! 2016 has been one hell of an extraordinary year and has left us feeling a little uncertain about what is to come in 2017. Not only did the UK vote to exit the EU but a bonkers billionaire is in control of one of the most influential countries in the world. Furthermore, global warming is at an all time critical level and technological advancements mean more jobs will be replaced by robots. As everyone winds down for the festive season, we take a look at some top tips to stay positive and protect your career from the storm.
The jobs market will be affected in these uncertain times whether you’re on the hunt for a new job or not. Jobseekers need to take a proactive about managing their careers and holding onto valuable employment in these unpredictable times. Here’s our top tips to survive turbulent times and excel in your career.
Specialise — but generalise too
Become an expert in your field while also keeping up to date with general moves and changes in your industry. In a precarious job market you need to position yourself as a jack-of-all-trades but a super-duper-wizard-expert in your one particular field. Employees today need to have a well-rounded skill set and be willing to throw yourself at any task but also have that secret spice that makes you more employable than your competitors.
Become indispensable
This is where dazzle a potential employer and cement your position in the company permanently. In tough times redundancies are inevitable but there are a few things you can do to make sure your head doesn’t roll. Make yourself utterly indispensable. Whenever there is a problem you solve it before it arises. You are reliable, organised, diligent and always go the extra mile. Proactively get involved with the success of the company by proposing solutions and ways to improve. Take a moment to consider your skills and what you personally do for the company, then develop and build upon those skills.
Be ready for robots
2017 in an uncertain year, but one thing that we can probably guarantee is tech advancements are paving the way for automation to replace all of our jobs over the next 20 years. Luckily there is no need to panic yet and there are a few things you can do to protect your career from robots. Take time to develop your personal brand and invest in developing superior skills. Some industries are more at risk of automation than others, but no matter what industry, a robot can never replace your USP.
Keep calm and carry on
Yes the world is an uncertain place right now and there are likely turbulent times ahead but it doesn’t mean the end of the world for your career. It just means you have to be more alert and prepared to ride the waves. Expect the unexpected. How is your employer doing financially? Is the overall industry healthy? Watch out for telltale signs that it might be time to jump ship to save your own career or start building your life raft. Don’t worry too much. You can’t protect your career against every hypothetical danger. The job market will always have good times and bad times.