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Bassyonni

ago 2 hours

In today’s ever-evolving job market, traditional career planning is being reassessed. LinkedIn CEO Ryan Roslansky emphasizes the need to rethink the conventional five-year plan approach, citing significant changes in technology and the labor market.

The Shift from Long-Term to Short-Term Career Goals

Roslansky, who has led LinkedIn since 2020, argues that individuals should focus on short-term objectives rather than rigid long-term plans. His perspective comes from observing how rapidly the career landscape has changed due to various factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic, economic fluctuations, and new technologies.

“In reality, having a five-year plan is a little bit foolish,” Roslansky remarked during a recent podcast episode. He believes that professionals should prioritize immediate skills and experiences over long-term planning. The rise of artificial intelligence has further accelerated these shifts in career dynamics.

Statistics on Changing Skills

Supporting Roslansky’s view, data from the World Economic Forum indicates that by 2030, about 39% of core skills will be transformed or rendered obsolete. This statistic highlights the urgency for workers to be adaptable and proactive in their career development.

Recommendations for Career Planning

Roslansky suggests that professionals think about their goals over the next few months rather than five years. He recommends focusing on:

Skills to learn
Experiences to acquire

This approach, he argues, can lead to more meaningful career progress and opportunities.

Contrasting Views on Career Planning

However, not all career experts agree with Roslansky. Some advocate for structured five-year plans. Talent management executive Mary McNevin points out that careful planning is crucial for achieving career growth milestones. Five-year plans can be adjusted to accommodate changing goals, ensuring that individuals remain aligned with their true aspirations.

Realities of Modern Career Paths

Roslansky further underscores a shift in traditional career trajectories. According to a report from TAFE Gippsland, individuals typically experience between three to seven career changes and an average of 16 job changes throughout their lives. This trend is even more pronounced among Generation Z, who change jobs approximately every 1.1 years, as reported by recruiting firm Randstad.

Randstad describes this phenomenon as “growth-hunting,” a deliberate strategy rather than mere job-hopping. Young professionals are driven by the desire for advancement and a sense of purpose in their roles.

Embracing Short-Term Focus for Long-Term Success

Roslansky concludes that by concentrating on immediate learning and experiences, individuals can better navigate their careers. “The sooner you realize that, you can take your own career into your own hands,” he emphasizes. This approach empowers workers to adapt and thrive in an unpredictable job market.