Forget the career advice your parents, colleagues, or teachers once gave you.

Today’s world is different – and constantly evolving. A prime example? Artificial intelligence (AI) has become an everyday part of our lives in less than two years. We use AI for writing, processing information, answering questions, and communicating with chatbots. This proves that we live in a dynamic era known as VUCA, which stands for:

• V – Volatility
  The world is changing faster than ever before, with greater impact. Startups can rapidly adapt their business models and transform entire industries in record time.

• U – Uncertainty
  Frequent changes and their significant impact lead to increasing uncertainty. What is true today may no longer be valid tomorrow.

• C – Complexity
  Everything is interconnected, making it difficult to find simple solutions. The world is no longer black and white, and answers are rarely straightforward.

• A – Ambiguity
  Situations do not have just one correct solution. What is right today may be wrong tomorrow – everything depends on perspective.

What does this mean for the careers of people in their 20s and 30s?

1. Adaptability is essential
   The world is changing technologically, politically, and socially. To be successful, you must be willing to keep learning and adapting. A lifelong career in one company is no longer a reality – changing not only jobs but even professions will become increasingly necessary.

2. Technology is not the problem – mindset is
   We can implement technological changes quickly, but changing the way we think is much harder. The biggest obstacle will not be technology itself but the people who refuse to adapt to it.

3. Clear goals are fading – vision is key
   Having specific career goals is no longer enough. It is crucial to understand how you can use and develop your skills for future career opportunities.

4. Understanding the bigger picture
   It is no longer enough to focus solely on your department or company. Understanding industry connections and tracking trends across different fields is essential.

5. Investing in yourself
   Spend time researching, learning, developing professional and leadership skills, and building a strong network.

6. Experimentation and courage to take risks
   Don’t be afraid to try new projects and job challenges. Mistakes are part of the learning process – gaining experience is what truly matters.

7. Building resilience
   Failure is not a tragedy. What matters is the ability to get back up and move forward.

This article was published in collaboration with Business and Leadership Coach Dagmar Kéryová. Learn more about how to navigate changes in the 21st-century workplace at:

🌐 www.dagmarkeryova.sk (Slovak version only)

🎧 Listen to the SHIFT HAPPENS podcast (Slovak version only)