Episode: 588

Episode Title: The Last One To Be Let Go

In a recession, having the right professional skills can make all the difference in whether or not you’re let go. Here’s why, next on The Perna Syndicate.

Ep 588 show:

You’re now in The Perna Syndicate—thanks for dropping by! As we head into an uncertain economic future, young people are worried about how it will affect their careers. Career scarring, where people join the workforce in a tough economy, can shave a significant amount of money off a person’s lifetime earnings. So how can Gen Z minimize this potential pitfall?

Yesterday we discussed some resilient industries that young people might consider for a career. Beyond a specific industry, however, are the universal, transferable, professional skills that make someone a highly competitive candidate in any market. 

I talk about the value of these skills all the time because employers can no longer take them for granted. It’s not a given that all or most job applicants have a decent work ethic or a basic level of personal integrity. Many people can’t think critically, resolve conflict, lead others effectively, take initiative, or even show up on time. 

In some ways professional skills almost verge on character, the quality of person that you are. And that’s the kind of thing that is much harder to train than the technical skills to perform the work. 

That’s why I urge every young person to make a concerted effort, right now, to level up their professional skills. Become the kind of worker who would be the last one to be let go, because you’re just that proactive and positive and teachable. Take a course on communication. Learn about leadership. Become a problem-solver who sees opportunity in every challenge. 

Then, take all that to work and see how it can impact your career—for good.

Tomorrow: how can young people with no experience create a knock-out resume? Let’s talk about it on the next episode of The Perna Syndicate. See you then!