“A degree in hand is what will guarantee you a good job” or “work while they sleep.” You’ve probably heard some of these or other pieces of advice about the job market and the “formula” for success. Well, know that this advice is outdated and can no longer guide your career. With the increasingly rapid advancement of technology, the appreciation of soft skills, and the changing relationship between work and purpose, many of these rules no longer apply. Carolina Valle Schrubbe, founder of QUARE and people development specialist, points out the advice that no longer makes sense and what should be adopted instead.
- Stay at the same company until you retire
Once upon a time, stability was synonymous with success. Today, changing jobs can mean growth, new challenges, and better financial opportunities. “The market values diverse experiences and adaptability. Professionals who constantly reinvent themselves tend to have more dynamic and successful careers,” explains Carolina.
- Diploma guarantees a good job
If an academic background was once a passport to success, today, the importance of practical skills, experience, and soft skills is only growing. “Education remains important; what’s changed is that companies are increasingly focusing on behavioral competencies and problem-solving, not just what’s on a resume,” says the expert.
- You need to have all the answers
The leader of the past was the one who always knew everything. Today, knowing how to ask the right questions and collaborate with diverse teams is much more important. “The current market values those who seek continuous learning and have the humility to listen to different perspectives,” emphasizes Carolina..
- Failure is the opposite of success
“That idea fell flat. Failure is an essential part of the learning and innovation process. Those who are afraid of making mistakes end up missing out on opportunities for growth,” emphasizes Quare’s founder. Many of the greatest innovations emerged from attempts that failed before succeeding.
- Work hard all the time
Effort is important, but productivity doesn’t mean being busy all the time. “The ideal is to work strategically, prioritizing tasks that truly make an impact, not just accumulating overtime,” he says..
- Women must choose between career and family.
This view is outdated. Today, companies that promote flexibility and gender equality attract and retain talent. “Women can and should occupy leadership positions without having to sacrifice their personal lives. Organizations that create inclusive environments are increasingly retaining talent,” emphasizes the expert.
- Age is a limiting factor for success
The modern job market values age diversity and the experience that older professionals bring. “There’s no right age to reinvent yourself. The key is to stay current and open to new opportunities,” concludes Carolina..
But if this advice is no longer valid, what should we do instead?
While some rules no longer make sense in an increasingly technological job market focused on work-life balance, others have gained traction. Quare director Carolina Valle Schrubbe highlights some of them:
- Learn to learn: Knowledge is rapidly renewed. Be willing to constantly acquire new skills.
- Invest in self-knowledge: Understanding your strengths and values helps you make decisions and build a career aligned with your goals.
- Be adaptable: Knowing how to deal with changes and challenges is a competitive advantage.
- Balance your personal and professional life: Burnout isn’t a price to pay for success. Managing time and limits is essential for productivity and creativity.
- Your personal brand matters: The way you position yourself professionally, whether on social media or in the corporate environment, influences your career. Be consistent and strategic.
She emphasizes that being open to change and leaving behind outdated advice is the first step to professional success today. “If I had to highlight a single essential piece of advice for those in the job market seeking professional growth, it would be: embrace uncertainty. The current scenario demands constant adaptation, and those who rigidly cling to what they already know may end up limiting their own growth. Embracing uncertainty is essential,” concludes the expert.
