What do you do if your late career is at risk of becoming irrelevant in the workforce?
In today's rapidly evolving job market, the fear of your career becoming obsolete can be daunting, especially in the later stages of your professional journey. With technological advancements like Augmented Reality (AR), which overlays digital information onto the physical world, industries are transforming at a breakneck pace. If you find yourself in this situation, it's crucial to take proactive steps to ensure your skills remain relevant and valuable.
Embracing change is the first step towards securing your place in the future workforce. The emergence of AR has revolutionized various sectors, from healthcare to retail. You might feel out of your depth, but it's important to approach these changes with a positive mindset. By staying curious and open to new technologies, you can begin to understand how AR might impact your field and what opportunities it could present for you.
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Eran Boudjnah
Fractional Android Consultant / Lead [Available Now] | Author, Clean Architecture for Android | Kotlin
Switch to construction. People will always need a place to live. You'll never grow hungry. And always remember: retirement is for the weak.
Continuous learning is essential in keeping your skills up-to-date. This doesn't necessarily mean going back to school for another degree; there are many resources available, such as online courses, workshops, and webinars, focused on AR and its applications. Dedicating time to learn about AR can help you apply it to your current role or pivot to a new position where these skills are in demand.
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Akshay Kumar
Digital Technology Developer Specialist @ Accenture Song | AR / VR / MR, Unity, C#, Unreal, C++, Python
To stay relevant, embrace continuous learning by exploring resources like online courses and conferences, join the AR Community and workshops on AR. These platforms offer valuable insights and skill development opportunities without the need for formal education. By acquiring new skills in AR, you can adapt to changing workforce demands and explore exciting career prospects in emerging fields.
Networking is a powerful tool for career longevity. Engage with professionals who are already working with AR, attend industry conferences, or join online forums and groups. These connections can provide insights into how AR is being used and where there's a need for expertise. Moreover, networking might open doors to new job opportunities that you hadn't considered before.
Updating your resume is a practical step in showcasing your newfound AR knowledge and skills. Highlight any AR-related training or projects you've undertaken, even if they were self-directed or part of a hobby. This demonstrates to potential employers that you're proactive about staying relevant and that you possess a modern skill set.
Volunteering or freelancing on AR projects can provide hands-on experience that is highly valued by employers. Look for opportunities in your community or online that allow you to work on AR initiatives. This not only builds your portfolio but also shows your willingness to adapt and learn through practical application.
Mentorship can play a crucial role in navigating the integration of AR into your career. Seek out a mentor who has successfully adapted to using AR in their work. Their guidance can help you avoid common pitfalls and fast-track your learning process. Conversely, offering to mentor others can reinforce your own knowledge and establish you as a forward-thinking leader in your field.
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Jürgen Moors
Your career at risk is not something that happens over night. So keep your eyes open at all times. But if you are late and the AR way is your way of choice, do not forget a switch also needs time. All of the former is very valid, but you need to acquire a certain position and status in the aR field through education, networking, freelance gigs, internships... And that takes time so be patient as well.
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