Can You Really “Future-Proof” Your Career? Yes—And It Starts With This Often-Overlooked Strategy

I’m endlessly fascinated by futurists—professionals who study patterns, analyze data, and make informed predictions about what’s next. It’s like peering into a crystal ball, only backed by research instead of magic. (No surprise that two of my top CliftonStrengths are Futuristic and Strategic!)

So, imagine my excitement when I stumbled across a fantastic article by journalist Stephanie Vozza in Fast Company, titled "How to Future-Proof Your Career by Thinking Like a Futurist". I immediately dove in—and came away both energized and curious about what was missing from the conversation.

AI and Automation Are Fueling Career Anxiety

Vozza points to a recent survey revealing that 60% of Americans worry automation is putting jobs at risk, and 39% believe their own job could be obsolete within five years. (A quick scroll through LinkedIn confirms the unease—workplace anxiety is sky-high.)

She taps into insights from renowned futurist Scott Steinberg, who reminds us that unpredictability is now the norm: “The only thing we can predict is the unpredictable.” His top strategies for navigating a fast-moving future include:

• Regularly upskilling in line with in-demand skills

• Demonstrating your value in tangible ways

• Focusing on the deeply human tasks AI can’t replicate

These are all crucial—but they’re missing one critical piece.

The Most Overlooked Future-Proofing Strategy? Your Network.

Here’s what I would add: In an age of constant change, human connection is your most powerful career advantage.

It’s disheartening to hear job seekers share stories of sending out hundreds of resumes via LinkedIn with little to no response. Spray-and-pray doesn’t work. Instead, your time is far better spent identifying specific companies you admire—and building real relationships with people who work there.

Why? Because:

• You gain insights that job descriptions won’t reveal

• You increase your chances of internal referrals and advocates

• You rise above the resume pile through genuine conversation

The future of work may be automated—but your job search doesn’t have to be.

Why Networking Still Strikes Fear (and How to Move Through It)

Let’s be honest: networking isn’t always fun. It can feel vulnerable, awkward, or even transactional if approached the wrong way. And if you’re also feeling uncertain about your future, the idea of reaching out can feel overwhelming.

That’s where a strengths-based career coach can make a huge difference. Here’s how coaching can support you in future-proofing your career with confidence:

1. Practice Real Conversations

Together, we’ll role-play outreach messages and informational interviews so they feel natural, purposeful, and relationship-driven.

2. Build Emotional Resilience

Using research-backed techniques—like mindfulness and CliftonStrengths insights—we’ll build your ability to stay grounded and motivated in uncertain times.

3. Stay Strategically Informed

We’ll regularly track emerging trends in your field, so you can anticipate shifts, not just react to them.

Ready to Future-Proof Your Career—Your Way?

The world of work is evolving rapidly, but you don’t have to face it alone. Whether you're actively job searching, considering a transition, or simply want to stay ready for what’s ahead, I’m here to help.

Let’s use the most human tools we have—conversation, curiosity, and connection—to build a career that can weather whatever comes next.

Schedule a free consultation today and start building your future on your own terms.