Recently, I participated in an unsettling Twitter chat, focused on career planning.
Usually that’s not a controversial topic, but this particular discussion disturbed many participants. Why? Because we projected the number of jobs a typical Millennial will accumulate over the span of a career in our so-called “New Economy.”
Do The Math
Consider these estimates from reputable sources:
• By 2020, 40-50% of all income-producing work will be performed by short-term contractors, freelance workers and “SuperTemps” • The length of a career already averages 48 years — by 2020 it will be 50+ years • Today, the average time-in-service for a Millennial at any company is 2.6 years
Admittedly, I am not really good at math. But this data is pretty conclusive…
At 2.6 years per job, over 50+ years in the workforce, plus several temp assignments and contracts means that Gen Y can expect to hold 20-25 jobs over the course of a career.
Here’s the problem… or, rather, several problems:
No One Told Gen Y
Those statistics genuinely scared #InternPro participants — most of whom are Millennials. No one had done the math. Plus, between parents, educators and old-school career experts, there seems to be a halo effect surrounding an old paradigm: lifetime employment. Many Millennials seem to believe that once they graduate and get that first job, their job search is effectively over. They are unprepared for the fact that it’s really just the beginning of a continuous process.
Traditional Higher Education Hasn’t Noticed
Many higher education stalwarts — not exactly known for quickly adapting to changing economies and markets — still feature old-school theory taught by tenured professors who’ve never held a position outside academia. Instead of teaching the skills that will be in demand in the “Freelance Economy,” we’re still shoving 1970’s courses and curriculum down the throats of unsuspecting students. Higher education must change fundamentally. To remain relevant, academics must start emphasizing transferable, marketable career skills.
We Aren’t Entrepreneurial Enough
Successful SuperTemps, solopreneurs and freelancers rely on one skill above all else: entrepreneurism. Why? Because, going forward, our livelihood depends on our ability to sell our skills, our value proposition and our niche — continuously.
In fact, with the average duration of a job search at about 40 weeks, there will almost never be a time when we’re not selling… us.
Old School Recruiters Haven’t Adapted
It doesn’t help that recruiters still haven’t caught-on. Old-school recruiters, unwilling to accept new workforce trends, discount job seekers whose resumes show they move every two to three years. They still consider this “job-hopping” — and many will not interview candidates with this tendency. They are labeled “disloyal” and a “long-term risk”.
Here’s the reality: between economic conditions, Gen Y’s penchant for moving on when they become restless or feel undervalued, and the inevitable entrepreneurial spirit that is becoming pervasive among job seekers, recruiters who stick to this now antiquated “rule” will lose out on high-quality talent. In the meantime, their competitors will thrive.
Fasten Your Career Path Seatbelts
Without a doubt, our new economy is already here. Members of Gen Y who cling to old standards — through fear and/or influence by parents, higher education and recruiters — will clearly continue to struggle. They will continue to do as trained — and will continue looking for jobs that no longer exist.
However, young professionals who recognize the new workplace for what it is, and learn the career skills required to win…
• Strategic planning • Goal setting • Sales and digital marketing • Effective follow-up • Customer service • Integrity-based self-promotion
…will not only embrace the new economy, they will surround themselves with success.
What’s your reaction to the “average” career path of the future? How would you suggest that Millennials prepare to manage their careers more successfully? Share your thoughts in the comments area.
(Editor’s Note: This post has been adapted from YouTern, with permission.)
https://talentculture.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/1327908_14330343-2.jpg350700Aaron Elderhttps://talentculture.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/TCLogo_web-272x60-1.pngAaron Elder2013-10-24 12:23:522020-05-27 16:27:3425 Jobs in One Career? Brace Yourselves
Question: What was your favorite job to-date? Now tell me, how did you learn about that job? And how did the hiring manager decide that you were the best candidate?
Did friends, family, former colleagues – any people you know – make a difference in helping you locate and land that satisfying opportunity? I bet you said yes.
Certainly, other factors count. Skill, speed and smarts – even serendipity – can play a role in making a strong career move.
But after a week of #TChat discussions about how to stay ahead of the curve in today’s job environment, I’m reminded that one factor matters most. The key is not how fast or how elegantly you travel along your professional path – it’s how many others you bring along for the ride.
Hint: The Secret Sauce is Social
No matter how rapidly the world of work evolves – desired skills, business environment, job hunting tools – relationships are the common denominator that defines the trajectory of every career. Truth is, connectedness creates powerful career leverage.
How we build and maintain relationships may shift as technologies and customs change. But at the end of the day, relationships matter. They’re the fuel that drives professional momentum. And professional communities like TalentCulture are living proof.
Digital forums may never replace the impact of direct contact. But they create a whole new context for connectedness that the world has never seen. And that can translate into far richer learning, collaboration and professional opportunities for career-minded individuals.
But don’t take my word for it. Look at what experts say…
NOTE: To see specific highlights from yesterday’s “Career Management” #TChat session on Twitter, watch the Storify slideshow at the end of this post.
#TChat Week-in-Review
A special thanks to career management and mentoring expert, Mark Babbitt, Founder and CEO of the popular internship portal and blog, YouTern. His leadership through the week’s #TChat activities kept us all focused, engaged and open to new ways of managing our careers.
Google+ Hangout Video: As a prelude to his appearances later in the week, Mark Babbitt talked with TalentCulture community manager, Tim McDonald, about key challenges in today’s job market.
WED 12/19 #TChat on Twitter: The community returned from the holidays in fine form, ready to share ideas about career management challenges, opportunities and strategies for success. Thanks to everyone who contributed thoughtful input!
Here’s just a taste of the interaction from last night’s #TChat stream… (For full highlights, watch the Storify slideshow at the end of this post.)
Biggest career management challenges?
There’s no such thing as job security any more, but a good network provides security. @AlliPolin
Learning when to stay, leave or pivot in your career / job is a heavy thought for many people. @CyndyTrivella
What job hunting activities matter most?
Get comfortable with the relentless pursuit of community and meaningful connection. Employed or not. Your next dream job starts here. @SocialSalima
Social media isn’t going to get you hired. The relationships you build there, though, just might. @talemetry
Build your community – BEFORE you need it! @susanavello
Whatever the technology – must be used to get face-to-face with hiring manager! @RichardSPearson
Best tech for finding a job is a handshake and positive attitude! The rest just gets us to the handshake. @JanisSpirit
# # #
Closing Notes & Highlights Slideshow
NOTE TO BLOGGERS: Did this #TChat session inspire you to write about career management or other “world of work” issues? We’re happy to share your thoughts. Just post a link on Twitter (include #TChat or @TalentCulture), or insert a comment below, and we’ll pass it along. There are many voices in this community, with many ideas worth sharing. Let’s capture as many of them as possible.
WHAT’S AHEAD: Next week, we shift our focus to Gratitude and Employee Recognition. Be sure to mark your calendar – first for #TChat Radio, Tuesday, Jan 15, at 7:30pm ET. And then for #TChat Twitter Wednesday, Jan 16, at 7pm ET. Look for a full preview on Monday, January 14 via @TalentCulture and #TChat. Til then, keep rockin the World of Work!
Q1: What are the biggest career management challenges for professionals today and why? #TChatMark Babbitt
A1: Politicians, Medical Workers, Tax Attorneys #TChatTom Bolt
A1. Constant iteration – and Maintaining aftermath #tchatCream.hr
A1 If you always do what you always did – you will get the same results. Biggest hurdle for some? Change. #tchatEmilie Mecklenborg
A1: Making the most of the job experiences you have had! #tchatLegal Option Group
A1: Finding a company that not only matches your goals, but one you can trust to stay in business and do the right thing. #TChatchrys peterson
A1 Being visible and developing relationships both in and out of the organization is key and a challenge! #tchatAlli Polin
A1: Realizing that if you need help, you have to ask it. You can’t expect others to read your mind. #tchatRob McGahen
A1. Staying relevant and in demand when things change so rapidly- have to take control of your development #tchatJane Watson
A1 Learning when to compromise but not compromising yourself. #tchatFord Careers
A1 Knowing what career paths are feasible and what steps I need to take to get there. #tchatAshley Lauren Perez
A1: I find a lot of career challenges involve not knowing yourself before leading others in the workplace. #TChatAndrew Henck
A1 – knowing that no job is permanent – always planning for the next while exceeding expectations on current… #tchatRichard S Pearson
A1 Another challenge, taking the time to truly engage with others, colleagues, clients, etc #TChatClaire Crossley
A1. Keeping up with the changing technology. How to stay relevant when there are so many innovations #tchatCream.hr
A1. Biggest challenge is to keep moving forward rather than becoming complacent or stuck. #tchatSabrina Baker
A1 Owning the career path, listen to your heart, not someone’s suggestions #tchatDustin Haverkamp
A1: Identifying short & long term goals – charting a path to get there #TChatAndy Osburn
A1. The biggest career challenge for professionals today is building the skills they’ll need for tomorrow. #TChatTalent Generation
A1: Biggest career challenge – Staying relevant in essential conversations. #TChatJon M
A1) lots of information out there to manage. You need to hire an intern to keep up! #tchatRich Grant
A1: Staying relevant and marketable. #tchatKevin W. Grossman
A1 With staffing reductions, balancing home and work can be a challenge due to extra hrs. @ work. #TchatCyndy Trivella
A1 – The biggest challenge is to stay ahead of change & manage market expectations #TChatLeAnna J. Carey
Q2: What are the top three activities job seekers should focus on this year and why? #TChatMark Babbitt
A2: 1. Think positive 2. Reach out to other ppl you know who are connectors 3. Scan CL and LinkedIn like your life depends on it! #tchatLegal Option Group
A2: Networking, personal meetings, staying true to plan (don’t let gear derail the focus. #TChatTodd Noebel
A2: Share your expertise… Listen to experts… Shut up. <= 3 more things #TChatTom Bolt
A2. FOLLOW YOUR PASSION. Seriously. #tchatCream.hr
A2 Never give up! #jobseeking and rejection can be depressing but don’t stop trying and try new ways. Only takes 1 #job offer. #TChatJanis Stacy
A2: building relationships, focused networking, & following those that have what you seek #tchatSkyWay Leadership
A2: Recognizing your talents and how they apply/transfer to diff jobs/careers, networking & building relationships. #tchatchrys peterson
A2. Community building. Surround yourself with those that find purpose and strength in helping group be successful. #tchatVictorio Milian
A2: Be aggressive with your job search, but don’t forget to take time for yourself. #tchatRob McGahen
A2: Network, Network, Network (BUT)…>>>>>>>Know when to ask!!!! #TChatSusan Avello
A2: Become a connector of people, ideas and intent. #TChatMeghan M. Biro
#tchat a2 building a platform to deliver valuable outcomes to their audience while increasing their reach and impact!Bruno Coelho
A2: Adjust your plan… Execute the plan… Measure results… Rinse and repeat. #TChatTom Bolt
A2. If you have a reactive mindset vs. a proactive mindset the world will pass you by #tchatBridget Webb
A2: Know your value, network with those who can propel your forward and and be adaptable to the market #tchatJen Olney
A2 build a strong online portfolio, participate in local networking groups & educate yourself through books & online resources #TChatHolly Chessman
A2 – technology, self-branding and cultural sensitivity #tchatmatthew papuchis
A2. Follow up, Networking, and Soul Searching. Do what you love #tchatCream.hr
A2: Send an informational interview request to a contact in your desired field/sector atleast once a week #TChatAndrew Henck
A2 – Innovation skills, Social Business, Results – Because business sustainability & growth are monumental to our biz economy #TChatLeAnna J. Carey
A2: Revamping that video resume, networking on all levels and focusing on a career, not just a job! #TChatSpark Hire
A2 Clean cross-platform Social Media presence / Learn languages / No Drugs #TChatEnzo Guardino
A2. A successful job search isn’t about what you do, it’s about who you know. Never stop networking. #TChatTalent Generation
Q3: What are the hot professions today and what are employers looking for in every employee? #TChatMark Babbitt
A3 folks that are on high tech marketing are always in demand – as are those who can write well #TChatHolly Chessman
A3: As they say in NBA, I can tech you basketball. I can’t teach you to be 7 feet. #TchatCLOUDTalent
A3 Hire for potential! #tchatMarla Gottschalk PhD
A3. People who are loyal to their values. #tchatSalima Nathoo
A3 employers are looking for candidates that have tangible evidence that they can be successful at the job. bring out the brag books! #tchatAshley Lauren Perez
A3 I love multi-talented candidates. Can pitch and close, knows HTML in a pinch! #tchatRobert Moore
A3: Problem solvers, for sure! Not just BS’rs. They’re’s plenty of those to go around! #TChatSusan Avello
A3: I want cynical, critical, idealist, hard-working empaths, please. #tchatKevin W. Grossman
A3 Often times, #job seekers R so nervous in the interview, they don’t take time to assess if the company fits their culture needs. #TchatCyndy Trivella
A3 Seems employers want already full time employed problem solvers. #TChatJanis Stacy
A3. Know what you can teach. Offer to build that capability on your team. #tchatJustin Mass
A3: If you can read this, employers want you: 010111010101011010 #TChatTheJobChaser
A3: Employers want innovators and collaborators. #tchatRoger Veliquette
A3) looking for passion, honesty, integrity, & a willingness to learn #TchatPortland John
A3: They seek a proactive person with a positive attitude! Dn’t forget how much value is placed on a persons “fit” within the co. #tchatLegal Option Group
A3 People who can laugh and not take themselves too seriously are always on the “we like that” list with employers. #TchatCyndy Trivella
A3) NACE – National Assoc of Colleges & Employers surveys regularly about this question. Soft skills wins out #tchatRich Grant
A3. Experience, knowledge and successes are important of course but soft skills are just as relevant. #HR #career #tchatBridget Webb
A3 Employers are looking for someone who will engage beyond the status quo, lead outside the box and co-create. #tchatSalima Nathoo
A3. Hot jobs? UI/UX Designers. In demand skills? Adaptability, flexibility, combos of skills (e.g. Creative + tech-savvy) #tchatJane Watson
A3 Creative problem solvers with depth of experience #tchatRobert Moore
A3: Employers want people who can MULTI-TASK; do many jobs. #Tchatchrys peterson
#tchat A3 Online Dreampreneurs will rock 2013! Every Entrepreneur with a worthwhile Dream can make a meaningful impact Online!Bruno Coelho
#tchat A3 employers are looking for: on the plus side: proactive, passionate, focused. On the minus but real: charismatic, attractive.Franny Oxford
Q4: Will the online profile eventually be the demise the resume? Why or why not? #TChatMark Babbitt
A4) Resumes = lack of creativity! Job seekers must be innovative, showcase their talents #TChatPortland John
A4: the resume is only a filter & not a good one at that – having better information will always lead to better decision making #TChatAndy Osburn
A4: Problem with resumes is they are push-based. Need #digitalweaver that is pull-based so that skills are contextual to job. #tchatCLOUDTalent
A4 Your personal brand and social media are your 3D resume #tchatEmilie Mecklenborg
A4: first thing a potential employer does is “google” you. So in some respects, your search results is modern day aggregated resume. #tchatmatthew papuchis
A4:Online profiles will create a one-stop-shop as recruiters will be able to not only evaluate work exp & evaluate social presence.#TChatLidia Cords
A4: Important to be ready with both: resume (electronic, no more paper) + online profile. #tchatAnne Messenger
A4 over 80% of resumes are intentionally misleading. 70% of grads say they’ll lie to get a job. It’s horrendous #tchatCream.hr
A4: Some say that it seems to be headed that way. Do #recruiters look at social media profiles before contacting an applicant? #Tchatrecruiterbox
A4 I hope I never have to write another resume again #justsaying #tchatRobert Moore
A4: A quality online profile will fortify the resume. It gives a qualitative view of the person. #TchatJohn R. Bell
A4 Dead and gone. Because you can be whoever you want to be on paper and everybody knows it. #tchatCream.hr
A4) I think resumes started dying when we started using online application management systems. #tchatJennifer Tozer
A4: Online profiles basically ARE resumes – just updated more frequently. It’s progression, not replacement. #tchatBright.com
A4: Resumes are still important, but online profiles help complement what you show on paper. #TChatKC Job Seekers
A4: Paper resumes communicate so little about who a person is and what they can do for you. Online profiles are already here. #tchatMatt Hirschfelt
A4. Online profiles will definitely enhance the resume and change the format. Not sure about going away entirely. #TChatSpark Hire
A4 Full resumes will give way to very personal cover letters, linked to online profiles. Needs customized focus to balance skills. #tchatStephen Abbott
A4 One day, surely. As is, reading through a CV is faster and somehow, more personal (reading between the lines) #TChatEnzo Guardino
A4. The online profile probably won’t replace the resume. But it’s already just as important. #TChatTalent Generation
Q5: What are the best technologies job seekers should be using in their search and why? #TChatMark Babbitt
A5: Be you…on and offline. It’s just that simple #tchatJen Olney
A5 Use technology, but don’t use it as a crutch to keep U from IRL interactions. Technology is a means to an end, not the end result. #TchatCyndy Trivella
A5 Vast amount of articles, white papers on every industry. Research current trends and pay attention to shifts in your field. #tchatFord Careers
A5: The best tech. for finding a job is #some by far. It’s been progressing steadily and I see no decline any time soon! #tchatLegal Option Group
A5: We live in a world of clutter. Anything that breaks through it with the right purpose & conviction is a candidate’s advantage. #TchatJohn R. Bell
A5. First jobseekers should be networking. Technology LinkedIn and of course twitter #TchatGuy Davis
A5 Connect and build relationships on #SoMe – use the one that makes you most comfortable – but do it! #tchatAlli Polin
A5: 2013 Social Video is a hot Technology for effective Job Search. #TchatSean Charles
A5: Best technologies for job seekers? Google, chats (#tchat, #hfchat), LinkedIn, Glassdoor, networking data base. #tchatAnne Messenger
A5: Building your community – BEFORE you need it! <<<<< Key! #TChatSusan Avello
A5. Tech is out. Direct referrals from friends and colleagues more effective with much less gaming than tech #tchatShane Granger
A5. Ask yourself….”Who do you know and who should you know?” Then find a way to connect/build relationship via #socialmedia #tchatBridget Webb
A5: Whatever the technology is – must be used to get face-to-face with hiring manager!!! #tchatRichard S Pearson
A5: Use technology + #social to take charge of your career, your destiny and your “life story” #TChatMeghan M. Biro
A5) I have not tried this but someone told me about http://jibberjobber.com for keeping track of contacts #tchatRich Grant
A5. Money and a smartphone. Money to maintain yourself and a phone to stay connected with people. #tchatVictorio Milian
A5: Sites and services that give you a glimpse inside to all the people, places and thing you’re interested in. #tchatKevin W. Grossman
A5 Best technology: tablet tech. Bring it into a job interview and show off your portfolio. That’s what I call #dynamicinterviewing #TChatTheJobChaser
A5: technology aside, nothing can replace the personal connections you have. So focus on technologies that will enhance relationships #tchatmatthew papuchis
#Tchat A5 Knowing which, can require trying many to know which works best 4 U. Not using technology will NOT play in UR favor.Cyndy Trivella
A5 Mobile Tech.>Better networking, search opportunities, be accessible and respond promptly to enquiries, wherever & whenever #TChatEnzo Guardino
00Kathleen Krusehttps://talentculture.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/TCLogo_web-272x60-1.pngKathleen Kruse2013-01-10 19:46:072020-05-25 16:07:53Connecting Career Dots: #TChat Recap
You’d think that those of us who collaborate online have already mastered the virtual workplace. And for the most part, we have. We communicate via a variety of tools and services:
E-mail
Phone
Instant Message
Video Chat
The Big Social 3 (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn)
Other Online Networks
Webinar
Podcast
Blog
Wiki
Intranet
All being done via:
Landlines
Cell phones
Smart phones
The Internet
Tablet computers
Laptop computers
Desktop computers
Carrier pigeons
Two cups connected with string
Telepathic messages
Maybe not the last three, but if you do use any of those, do please let me know.
Beyond the tools and services, the true measure of working virtually is the fact you are autonomous, accountable, personally responsible, self-managed and productive — but not in the “time put in” sense, more the productivity in aligned business output over the course of the day and week.
Those of us who have worked virtually for years within organizations and/or with clients not in the backyard don’t think twice about what it means to work alone in a home office.
Maybe, although I think we need more live interaction throughout the year. So whether than means formal company gatherings a few times a year, meeting at events a few times a year, leasing space in a coworking facility like I do, we all still need a little face time.
And that’s what helps to keep your company culture solidified — the face time — look me in the eyes, baby.
Last night during #TChat, where the topic was — Managing virtual teams and dispersed global organizations while maintaining workplace culture. Is it possible? — Amy Ruberg mentioned: Trust is earned, fragile, and travels in both directions.
That really sums up the daily workplace transactions, together in a shared office or at home in a virtual one, and for me solidifies culture as well.
Unfortunately many companies don’t trust well and still have archaic policies that don’t jive with the realities of the mobile/virtual workforce.
Can you imagine conducting a virtual meeting across a variety of devices while still having a no-electronic-device policy during meetings?
Wouldn’t that make everyone vanish in thin air?
Another defining point from last night — if you can’t manage virtual teams should you be in a managerial position at all?
82 of Fortune Magazine’s 100 Best Companies to Work listed the fact that they offered telecommuting. So, the key concept behind workshifting – being able to work productively from anywhere – are embraced by the companies considered to be the crème de la crème in Corporate America. This comes right after the Federal Government implemented the Telework Enhancement Act of 2010, mandating Federal Agencies to implement telework policies.
Next week’s topic: Workplace Culture Clash or Party? Multi-generational diversity and the innovation factor.
Join us every Tuesday night from 8-9 p.m. ET (5-6 p.m. PT) on Twitter via hashtag #TChat. Remember we welcome global input! Join in from wherever you might be. Our live chat is hosted by @KevinWGrossman@MeghanMBiro, @TalentCulture, and @Monster_WORKS. Please Tweet or DM us for more scoop!
https://talentculture.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/TCLogo_web-272x60-1.png00Kevin W. Grossmanhttps://talentculture.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/TCLogo_web-272x60-1.pngKevin W. Grossman2011-02-23 11:06:522020-05-20 16:53:28Managing Virtual Teams: #TChat Recap
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