Career expectations have shifted dramatically in recent times.
Once upon a time, people joined an organization and planned to spend many years there with successive promotions.
These days we need to be much more nimble. It is healthy to prepare for multiple career “pivots” over time. The disruption of Artificial Intelligence in the workplace makes building our career resilience even more important.
As highlighted in a recent Harvard Business Review article, building true career resilience involves proactively preparing for the unexpected and staying grounded through change.
So, how can you cultivate this essential resilience in your career?
- Cultivate a Diverse Network: Your professional connections are a vital safety net. Connect with people across various industries, roles, and levels, both within and outside your current organization. This isn’t just for job hunting; it’s about learning, sharing insights, and building genuine relationships that can offer support and opportunities when you least expect it. Prioritize nurturing these connections, even when your career feels stable.
- Develop a Growth Mindset: Embrace learning as a continuous process. The world is constantly changing, and so should your skills and knowledge. Be open to new challenges, seek out diverse experiences, and view setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than failures. This adaptability is crucial for pivoting effectively when circumstances demand it.
- Prioritize Your Well-being: Resilience isn’t just about professional acumen; it’s deeply tied to your personal well-being. High-achieving professionals often sacrifice self-care in pursuit of success, but neglecting your physical and mental health can hinder your ability to cope with stress and change. Schedule time for activities that recharge you, ensure adequate rest, and seek support when needed.
- Plan for Uncertainty: While you can’t predict the future, you can prepare for various scenarios. This includes building a financial cushion, maintaining an up-to-date résumé and professional brand, and continuously exploring potential pathways for your career. As the HBR article suggests, “Apply before you need to” – exploring options early reduces stress and increases control when making a move.
- Reframe Your Expectations: A shift in plans isn’t a failure; it’s an opportunity for agility. Your next career move might look different than anticipated, but it could lead you further than you imagined. Trust in your ability to navigate uncertainty and avoid burning out by trying to outrun it.
Building career resilience means being strategic and intentional with yourself and others. It’s about trusting your capacity to adapt, grow, and thrive, no matter what challenges come your way.
*Ideas for this blog taken from: Auger-Domínguez, D. “How to Build Career Resilience in Uncertain Times,” Harvard Business Review online, March 25, 2025.
