The human race’s need for change is exciting; we’re always trying to do things faster, bigger, better. I see it everywhere, especially in the workplace, where new practices and benchmarks are continually set, adjusted and reset.
I must admit that fascination contributed in no small part to my change of career in 2010 when I established Mills Recruitment, keen to leverage the latest cloud-based technology to create an innovative recruitment model that provided clients with flexible workforce solutions tailored to the rise of remote work.
Now, the words representing change are Artificial Intelligence (AI). And even though AI came onto the scene only a couple of years ago, it has already proved more powerful than many anticipated.
It’s well-known that many of the roles we recruit for today didn’t exist 100 years ago, and others have been made obsolete – think of the milkman, a linotype operator, or even a telephonist. And in another century, we’ll see emerging jobs and industries that we can’t yet imagine. Change is constant, and those who adapt, thrive.
At Mills Recruitment, we work with experienced professionals across accounting, executive search, engineering, local Government, legal, healthcare, manufacturing, and mining. Our people have spent years building their expertise, but as businesses and industries transform, they must stay ahead of trends to ensure their career longevity. The question isn’t whether jobs will change—it’s how you can position yourself for future career opportunities.
The Future of Work: What’s Changing?
A 2025 KPMG survey highlights digital transformation as a top priority for Australian business leaders, backed up by the Productivity Commission reporting that innovation and technology adoption are essential to addressing skill shortages and improving service industries.
The Australian Government and private firms are investing heavily in workforce transformation. Deloitte’s State of the Enterprise report shows that 78% of businesses plan to increase investment in emerging technologies. Harvard Business Review also reports that companies invest billions in innovation, with many appointing leaders to drive these initiatives. You can read about my earlier observations on the transformation occurring in Australia’s Engineering sector here.
How to Future-Proof Your Career
According to a recent report by LinkedIn, the fastest-growing skills in Australia include:
- AI literacy
- Communication
- Strategic thinking
- Proficiency in large language models (LLMs), and
- Adaptability.
Smart workers will take charge of their career development rather than wait for a company directive to be upskilled. Be responsible for your own development to drive your quest for a promotion or pivot in the direction that best suits you.
Future-proofing your career is not just a one-off activity. One of the most effective ways to prove your adaptability to stay relevant is to embrace lifelong learning. Set yourself a goal to achieve a new qualification every year. Continuous education through industry training, professional development programs, certification courses in your field, and AI applications or sustainability initiatives will ensure you stay ahead of industry trends and maintain a competitive edge.
Developing strong soft skills is equally important. While the impact of automation on employment can be seen in the change of the technical aspects of work, human skills like leadership, problem-solving, and communication remain highly valuable. Employers want professionals who can navigate workplace dynamics, manage teams, and engage in critical decision-making.
Cross-disciplinary knowledge is becoming increasingly beneficial. Understanding how different areas of your industry connect can give you an edge when transitioning into new roles or adapting to changes in your field. Professionals who can bridge the gap between technology and traditional roles will find themselves in high demand.
Networking and collaboration will continue to play a crucial role in career longevity. Many opportunities arise through professional relationships, industry events, mentorship programs, or online professional communities. Engaging with thought leaders and discussing industry advancements can provide valuable insights and career prospects.
Job Security: The Future Is Yours
Job security will be guaranteed for those who accept the need to change. For those wondering how many jobs will AI replace by 2030, we might as well ask how long is a piece of string!
Technology is here to enhance human potential, not replace it. Organisations that value their people as their most important asset, prioritise their employees’ wellbeing, and maintain ethical AI use and workplace adaptability, will thrive alongside the employees they nurture.
