What do you do if your Change Management career is at risk of becoming obsolete?

To stay relevant, upskill continuously --- focus on emerging tech like AI and how to utilize it in real-world scenarios. Pursue certification in agile (SAFe) and change management (Prosci, etc.). Leverage a professional network: Approx. 30% of job vacancies are filled through connections and they never make it to the Job boards/sites.

I'm wondering why your career is under threat in the first place. But assuming perhaps that it's due to what commentators are calling the fourth industrial revolution, the AI era, then upskilling is by far the best response. Research says we will lose 85M jobs to AI but we will gain 97M from it, leaving a net gain of 12M new jobs. A lot of the work that will be undertaken by the 12M will involve change projects, so best advice is to study programmes which teach AI essentials for non-techies. Then refine that knowledge by listening to podcasts which talk about using AI solutions in change management. (There are 3 million podcasts published around the world so there must be one that fits the bill!)

Engaging in Change Management provides valuable opportunities to enhance expertise in Business Analysis and Project Management. Industry experts recommend diversifying one's portfolio to stay relevant and skilled in the market. Business Analysis empowers individuals in data analysis, system analysis, and solution development, while adopting a Project Management mindset can lead to growth in Product Management or Business Relationship Management roles. By continuously expanding and diversifying one's skill set, the possibilities for professional growth become limitless.

In our ever-changing professional landscape, diversifying ours skills set is crucial to staying relevant. In order to enhance versatility, it is great to consider expanding knowledge in areas such as project management, business analysis, and psychology. By acquiring these skills, we can become a valuable asset in change management, as you can effectively plan and execute projects, analyze business problems, and understand and navigate the human side of change. Embracing these diverse skills sets you apart, making you adaptable and in high demand in any industry.

Becoming proficient in emerging technologies will ensure you stay relevant. While technology is changing all the time, you will be equipped with timeless principles that make you priceless to any organization that wants to adopt new technology.

As a change practitioner you will always make your role redundant, and that's ok. You need to be comfortable that it's actually a sign of efficiency and that you've done what you were hired to do - but also seek comfort in that fact there is always change - it might be at the same or different client and each time you take away a wider skillset to you next venture. Being kind, transparent and ensure that you build a professional network within each role.

If your Change Management career is at risk of becoming obsolete, consider upskilling in emerging methodologies like agile or digital transformation. Stay informed about industry trends, broaden your skill set beyond traditional change management, and network with professionals in adjacent fields to adapt and evolve with the changing landscape.