The current economic climate is a little unnerving. As inflation starts to bite, employers and employees alike are feeling the pressure to make their purse stretch a little further. A number of firms have fallen into administration and yet the demand for skills in construction, infrastructure, and utilities remains high. Many employees are wondering about job security and what the next steps in their career progression should be.

Whether you chose to make a move now or simply want to set yourself up for success in the future, here are three things you can do to help future proof your career:

  1.       Build genuine relationships

This goes beyond networking and having connections to industry influencers. It is a deliberate effort to get to know work colleagues, suppliers, and clients within the industry, understand what they do and how you can add value to them. Building genuine relationships is about giving first. Be willing to share expertise within a business community and collaborate with various stakeholders. Sharing expertise and collaborating with your network builds your reputation and creates meaningful personal connections with others.   When future work opportunities arise, it increases the chances that someone you have helped in the past will reach out to you..

  1.       Get ahead on technology

Technology is set to have a stronger influence on the way of working. For those more advanced in their careers, this can present a steep learning curve. One way to overcome this is to seek out mentoring relationships with younger professionals that are more familiar with the different technologies. This has mutual benefits in that each shares knowledge that can help the other progress and future proof their career.

  1.       Gain cross sector skills

Specialist skills are good to have, but at a leadership level, broader knowledge is often more important.  Gaining additional non-industry specific knowledge in, for example: finance, sustainability, legal compliance, even marketing or business development broadens the scope of future career opportunities. You won’t be backed into a corner by only being able to apply for one type of role, or be limited to the construction or infrastructure sectors.  

Ultimately, the best thing you can do to future proof your career is to have an outward looking, forward thinking perspective. This involves always looking out for learning opportunities and even possible threats, and being equipped, both mentally and intellectually, to navigate the transitions.