What it Takes: To Navigate the Future of Work

How can you future-proof your career in a world shaped by AI, automation and hybrid work? As the workplace evolves at lightning speed, it is more important than ever to stay adaptable and open to change.

So, how do UCD graduates and professionals stay competitive in this new world? In our recent webinar What it Takes to Navigate the Future of Work, UCD alumnus Nubi Kay, who at the time worked with EMEA startups at Stripe and is also President of African Professional Network Ireland, shared his insights on how you can position yourself for success in this fast-moving landscape.

Understand the changing world of work

The job market is not what it was ten years ago, and it will keep changing. The key is acceptance, to be ready to evolve with the times.

Employers are looking for candidates who can think on their feet and keep learning. Nubi Kay described this as building your “learning muscle”,  unlearning mindsets that no longer serve you and replacing them with new skills as industries grow and shift. It is a mindset that will serve you well in any career.

Curiosity is one of the most underrated career skills. The most successful people are often those who keep exploring new ideas, industries and ways of working.

Focus on transferable skills

While technical skills matter, soft skills will always be in demand. Critical thinking, clear communication and good decision-making are key. You do not need to be a data scientist, but knowing how to use data to inform your decisions will also put you ahead of the curve.

And remember, leadership is not just for managers. Employers value people who can take initiative, help others succeed and contribute to a positive team culture. These transferable skills will help you thrive in any role and any industry.

With AI and automation transforming many industries, it is smart to focus on areas where humans still shine. Creative thinking, empathy, problem solving and leadership are just some of the qualities that will always be valuable.

Looking ahead

Stay open to new experiences. Say yes to opportunities that stretch your abilities. The more you can combine different skills and interests, the more unique and valuable your profile will become.

The future of work is full of opportunities, especially for those who embrace change with a positive mindset. By staying curious, building your learning muscle and focusing on what makes you uniquely valuable, you will be well prepared for whatever comes next.

Resources available

If you are looking to strengthen your skills, there are plenty of resources available. UCD offers flexible learning through MicroCredentials, the Professional Academy, and Lifelong Learning programmes, all great options for anyone who wants to upskill at their own pace.

The above insights were adapted from our webinar What it Takes to Navigate the Future of Work, part of the UCD Alumni What it Takes career series. 

You can watch the full episode with all of (opens in a new window)Nubi Kay’s brilliant insights (opens in a new window)here.