How to prepare for jobs that don’t exist yet

How to prepare for jobs that don’t exist yet

Artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are changing existing roles and creating new jobs in ways we cannot always predict, so how can we prepare for jobs that don’t even exist yet? According to recruiting experts Hays, human skills, upskilling, an innovative employer and cultural intelligence will help safeguard your employability.

“Advances in technology are disrupting the world of work and the future jobs in demand, making it difficult to know how to develop your skills,” says Nick Deligiannis, Managing Director of Hays in Australia & New Zealand.

“However, there are certain behaviours that you can work on now to help you prepare for the jobs of the future,” he said.

According to Nick, these include:

• Hone human ‘soft’ skills: While sought-after technical expertise will continue to evolve, certain soft skills will remain a constant prerequisite for most jobs in the future. Why? Because these are the human skills that can’t be imitated by technology, such as the ability to connect with people and form professional relationships.

• Stay inquisitive and willing to learn: Keep on top of trends and changes relevant to your profession by reading reports, journals and news articles, watching videos, listening to podcasts, attending networking functions and seminars, and participating in online discussions. With technology advancing at a faster rate than our skills, demand for professionals with the technical expertise needed to fill the gaps will grow. Be aware of where these skill gaps are emerging.

• Upskill, constantly: Once you identify skill gaps, take action to upskill. Say yes to new opportunities that push you out of your comfort zone, and don’t silo yourself. Be as adaptable and widely employable as possible.

• Work for an innovative employer: Consider how forward-thinking your current employer is. Are they innovative and pioneering, using the latest technology and consistently bridging their skills gaps? If not, it might be time to look elsewhere.

• Adapt to flexible working practices: Employers are creating flexible headcounts by adding temporary and contract employees to their team. Professional interim candidates with high levels of skills and experience are filling even the most specialist role, so be open to the rising popularity of this form of employment and consider temporary assignments when you are next job-searching.

• Develop your cultural intelligence: International mobility is on the rise, a trend being facilitated by advances in technology. So too are globalised workforces. Make sure you can quickly adapt to new cultures, increase your cultural intelligence and open your mind to the increasing number of overseas opportunities.

Nick adds, “Disruption in the world of work is indiscriminate and inevitable, and everybody, no matter what your job title, must be prepared to adapt to stay relevant.”

Nick’s insights on this issue were first published in his blog for Silicon Republic here.

Hays, the world’s leading recruiting experts in qualified, professional and skilled people.

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