How workers can set themselves up for a successful 2019

WORKERS contemplating a change of direction in the new year should begin their preparations now - and channel their inner Leonardo da Vinci.

Whether they want a pay rise, new job or an entirely new career, now is a good time to upskill, refine the resume or research industry trends.

Anthony Mitchell, founder of strategic leadership firm Bendelta, says workers should take a leaf out of da Vinci’s book.

The painter, inventor, engineer, and scientist spent his days learning how things worked and talking to experts across wide-ranging fields.

“Emulate five key aspects of his approach,” Mitchell says.

“Be continually curious and open to learning; get away from your desk and be driven by what is happening in the world outside your company; be willing to learn from others; embrace diverse fields and find the power in their intersections; and, finally, use a notebook or journal to capture your insights and engage in reflection.”

Skillsoft regional director Rosie Cairnes says workers should prepare for 2019 by asking their employer for training.

“Then see if you can get some on-the-job experience (by putting) your hand up for … a different project that will stretch your capabilities,” she says.

It is important to focus not on the skills that were important in the past, but those that will be needed in the future.

Dr Wesley Payne McClendon, chief strategy and transformation executive at Gooroo, says the skills in demand change a surprising amount each year.

From 2019, he predicts the focus will be on “human-centred skills which cannot be replaced by technology”, such as communication, critical thinking and leadership.

He recommends workers find opportunities within their current role to refine such skills.

Amelia Judson, cosmetic and general dentist at Smile Solutions, says communication is a skill worth having no matter the industry a person works in.

“I have a Bachelor of Dental Science and I also have a Diploma of Communication because my parents instilled in us the importance of the ability to speak well and be comfortable in public speaking,” she says.

“Communication is such a critical skill to have.

“In dentistry, communication is what will help you succeed in helping people get the treatment they need.”

Judson says it is also useful to be comfortable using social media.

She has used this skill both as a DJ during her university years and now as a dentist.

“After my studies, I came up with the idea of demystifying dentistry through my Instagram account @Velvetsmile, where I get a lot of random questions,” she says.

“I was looking at what my point of difference could be … something slightly different to the classmates around me.

“Social media is useful as it adds another string to your bow.”