How to cultivate Career Adaptability
Study. Work. Retire.
The three-step work model used to be linear, a straight line. You studied, got a job and then worked (often at the same company for decades) until you received a golden handshake. Today, it’s akin to Mr Messy. A scribbly line where people might pause at self-employment for awhile, engage in portfolio work, transition to a different career altogether, or retire, and then reenter the workforce.
This ‘messy’ era demands more of graduates than the traditional skills their parents had entering the workforce. It necessitates a concept called career adaptability. That is, the skills, attitudes, and behaviours that enable us to proactively respond to challenges, changes and opportunities in our careers.
It’s about empowering graduates today to not just react to change, but to shape their career trajectories in the face of continuous disruption. Research shows that those with higher career adaptability have greater career satisfaction and personal wellbeing too.
The Four Cs of Career Adaptability
Career adaptability can be strengthened and developed by practicing each of its 4 domains:
- Planning (formerly Concern):
- For graduates, this means setting clear career goals, understanding industry trends, and developing strategic career plans, considering short, medium, and long-term perspectives.
- Engaging in strategic career reflection: values, priorities, skills, challenges, career paths, industries, and further studies.
- Anticipating potential career impacts (positive or negative) and develop contingency plans.
- Curiosity:
- Graduates must cultivate a desire to explore new technologies, industries, and career paths.
- This includes staying informed about emerging AI applications, seeking out learning opportunities, and embracing continuous learning.
- This can be done by demonstrating curiosity through informational interviews, shadowing, secondments, and short-term projects.
- Confidence:
- For graduates, building self-efficacy and belief in one’s ability to navigate career transitions is essential.
- Confidence is built through practical application and mastery.
- It’s key for grads to develop the courage to navigate new roles and challenges.
- Control:
- For graduates, this means taking ownership of career development and actively managing their career transitions.
- This involves developing strong self-management skills, building professional networks, and making informed career decisions.
- In a dynamic workplace, control empowers graduates to influence outcomes and steer their own course.
Why career adaptability matters for graduates in 2025
AI-Driven job transformations
Graduates will enter a workforce where AI is rapidly reshaping job roles. Career adaptability ensures they can pivot and thrive in these evolving environments.
Continuous learning
The pace of technological change demands lifelong learning. Career adaptability equips graduates with the mindset and skills for continuous upskilling.
Career resilience
In an uncertain world, Career adaptability builds resilience, enabling graduates to bounce back from setbacks and embrace new opportunities.
Enhanced employability
Employers increasingly value graduates who demonstrate Career adaptability, as they are better equipped to navigate change and drive innovation.
Practical strategies for graduates
- Identify in-demand skills, especially those related to AI, and pursue continuous learning through online courses, workshops, and certifications.
- Build strong professional networks and seek mentorship from experienced professionals.
- Engage in internships, shadowing, projects, and volunteer opportunities to gain practical experience and develop transferable skills.
- Become proficient in leveraging digital tools and platforms, including AI-powered applications.
- Practice anticipating and planning for potential career disruptions and transitions.
NEW WORKSHOP: DEVELOPING CAREER ADAPTABILITY
This targeted workshop, designed for new graduates, focuses on developing the four Cs of Career Adaptability in the context of their career development. Participants will learn practical strategies for planning, learning, and self-management, empowering them to thrive in the dynamic future of work.
