It is impossible to accurately predict the future of work as things change at an ever-increasing rate. Although you can’t future-proof your job, you can future-proof your career.

By future-proof career, I mean taking the necessary measures to prepare yourself for a changing labour force, so you will have the skills and knowledge to handle the unknown jobs of tomorrow.

Instead of waiting for technology to replace you, proactively position yourself so employers can’t afford not to work with you.

Here are our 4 simple steps you can take to future-proof your career:

1. Think Digital

Many of you would have heard of “Digital Transformation” which is the process of using digital technologies to create new or modify existing business processes, culture, and customer experiences to meet changing requirements.

As we move from spreadsheets to smart applications for managing our businesses, we have the chance to reimagine how we do business and how we engage with our customers, with digital technology on our side.

Thinking, planning and building digitally sets you up to be agile, flexible, and ready to grow.

2. Never Stop Learning

In order to advance in your career, you cannot only depend on your past results. Continuous growth and development ensures that you remain relevant.

Take a close look at your current skill set and consider the skills that will make you more employable in the long run. After you’ve identified areas for improvement, create a personal learning plan to structure how you will gain those skills.

Take advantage of learning opportunities. Take on new responsibilities and apply for new positions. Attend training courses and other development programs, and find a mentor. Having somebody within your industry who you look up to and who you can have a productive chat with will go a long way.

Take control of your career by identifying where you want to go and what you need to do to get there.

3. Develop your Personal Brand

An individual’s personal brand determines how they are perceived by the public. The purpose of personal branding is to build your reputation, to create an image of yourself for the outside world, and to market yourself as an individual. In essence, your personal brand is the story that’s told about you when you’re not around.

Your digital brand becomes more significant as we work more globally and virtually. This will allow you to progress regardless of your location. In many cases, companies will assemble quality teams based on their digital performance history, without ever meeting in person.

Read up on how you can grow your Personal Brand in a recent post we did.

4. Keep up to date with Industry Trends

In order to future-proof your career, you need to know what the future holds for your industry. Your role will likely be affected by everything that happens in your field so it’s important to be proactive about it.

Follow changes in your industry, your profession, and the wider economy to stay up to date.

I’m a big fan of Personal Development

Ever since I joined the corporate world back in 2018 I’ve been obsessed with personal development. I was given the opportunity to work with various well-developed professionals (mentors) from a young age and that is what has been the driving force behind my personal development habits.

Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn or to message me on Whatsapp or via Email. It’s always great to connect and work with like-minded professionals. 👋