The value of a UWA degree

In case you missed it, the world is a little bit upside-down at the moment, and organizations are grappling with a ton of uncertainty. However, that does not mean that you need to be uncertain on how to future proof your career. Here are four things you can start doing today that will have a long-term positive impact on your career. 

Be authentic.

Authenticity is thrown around like a Tim Tam on a late Friday night. Still, the reality is that being authentic is hard. Acting with Authenticity means being vulnerable, fallible, and compassionate. People gravitate to those who are comfortable in their skin. Be comfortable in your skin, flaws, and all. 

Be reliable.

Showing up when others find a reason not to will make you stand out. Often, early in a career, you are taught to think of yourself first. I’ve seen very few individuals late in their careers who are selfish and respected. Still, I have seen hundreds who are selfless that are reliable and respected. Be the latter; you will be happier, and so will others. 

Be curious.

Curiosity may have killed the cat, but it won’t kill your career. Find ways to learn from those around you, those older than you, and those different from you. The power of the question is transformative and will help you navigate your journey. 

Do right, not be right. 

I have, and I am sure you have been in a disagreement where being right gets in the way of doing what is suitable for the greater good. There are those in an organization that will argue, fight, and get mean to be right regardless of the cultural damage it costs. To be a change agent, know when standing your ground means listening to those who differ and when compromising means success for all.

In my short but varied career, I have found that those who desire to be authentic, reliable, curious, and fair always land on their feet. They have cultivated relationships, built trust, and continually learned, creating opportunities that may not have existed otherwise. 

About the contributor

Dr James Kelley, Ph.D. is the CEO and Co-Founder of qChange, and is the international author of The Crucible’s Gift: 5 Lessons from Authentic Leaders who Thrive in Adversity. James has spent the last 15+ years working in consulting, marketing and higher education with a cross-section of leaders and organizations. James is a highly sought after speaker on the topics of leadership and corporate wellbeing, appearing on over 50 of the top podcast on leadership, personal development, and start-ups.

You can connect with James on LinkedIn.