Why ‘Job Security’ Is Overrated, According to Ramit Sethi
Written by
Catherine Collins
Edited by
Amber Barkley
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Late 2024 data from the Pew Research Center shows that 69% of workers feel like their jobs are secure. However, personal finance expert Ramit Sethi thinks job security is overrated. In a recent newsletter, Sethi wrote that looking for work based on longevity is a mistake.
Sethi wrote that job security is nothing more than an illusion. He pointed out that we’ve only had smart phones for twenty years, and in another twenty years, there will be jobs and careers that don’t exist today. Technology is changing, and as such, most people’s career landscapes will change.
Because of that, Sethi explained, being adaptable and understanding your skillset is far more important than choosing a career path because you believe it’s a safe one. In his newsletter, he gave his readers several tips for finding a job you love, mastering interviews and being open to new opportunities.
How To Find a Job You Love
Sethi wrote that to land an excellent job, you have to practice the art of crafting a resume and interviewing. He used to practice these skills with his college friends, which helped them all get interviews at prestigious companies. Part of interviewing well, according to Sethi, is knowing your unique skillset.
Sethi also recommended that job seekers network widely. Reach out to your school alumni, mentors and friends of friends who can help you get interviews at your target companies. Whether you meet with them on Zoom calls, reach out over LinkedIn or have in-person coffee meet-ups or lunches, make it a point to expand your network as much as possible when you are job hunting.
Be Adaptable
Sethi wrote that choosing a career based on security is “the tail wagging the dog.” In other words, he believes this is a backwards approach. Instead, the key is to be an adaptable employee. That means it’s crucial to develop new skills and stay current on changing industries.
For example, if you work in digital marketing or social media, take the time to understand new trends and software. If you work in cybersecurity, learn about new AI developments that can help prevent attacks. If you are a software developer, find ways to learn how to develop AI systems and work with new technology, rather than being replaced by it.
Always Have a Backup Plan
Even if you get a great job, Sethi wrote that no one should assume their career is safe. New industries, companies and technologies will emerge in the future that can change the career landscape for everyone.
For that reason, employees should have a backup plan, even if that backup plan involves constantly learning and maintaining in-demand skills. To create a financial safety net, it’s also a good idea to develop multiple income streams or start a small business — which is what Sethi did.
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