Future of Work Series – Seminar Two

Providing key insights on how we can develop the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in an ever changing work environment, the School of Information Technology and Engineering (SITE) held a panel discussion by industry experts who provided unique perspectives from their own experience and expertise on emerging trends with regards to the:

1.  utilization of technology, automation, and virtual reality;
2. rise in machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) and
3.  the importance of developing soft skills and the significance on valuable transferable skills.

Ms Maria Markman, (Chair) ACS Victoria, Remya Ramesh, Head of Experience Design for Seamless, Ms Myriam Petitpierre from KPMG, and one of our own Alumni, Mr Faisal Akhter, CRM Manager at  360 Degree Property Group, provided wisdom leaving the audience with the following as key lessons learnt:

1. Be versatile and adaptive – as the world of work is changing rapidly it is important to understand key industry trends and develop the necessary skills to meet these demands. “T-Shape skills are really important, going deep on a particular focus area but rounding this off with complementary skills.” Remy Ramesh, Head of Experience Design for Seamless.
    
2. The importance of soft skills – whilst technical skills are important, making a connection with somebody through tailored communication is a critical skill to develop in order to find employment opportunities. “I couldn’t speak the language when I first arrived in Melbourne so I focused on developing my communication and soft skills when arriving from India nearly 6-7 years ago.” Remy Ramesh, Head of Experience Design for Seamless.
    
3. Find something that interest you – try different streams to understand what interest you. “Sometimes a great way of finding what you truly want to do is through understanding what you don’t want to do.” Myriam Petitpierre, KPMG.
    
4. Build you professional network – up to 80% of jobs in certain sectors are found through professional networking. Build your LinkedIn profile and attend industry events. “Almost all of my professional jobs have come through building a strong professional network.” Myriam Petitpierre, KPMG.
    
5. Stay up to date with growing trends – it is important you are well researched and understand what industries and sectors have increased demand for employment. “Cars will be automated in 10 years, find an industry that is growing and has great long term opportunities.” Faisal Akhter, MIT Alumni.
    
6. Make genuine connections and add value – it is important to understand the nuisances of finding employment opportunities. “When meeting someone, make a genuine connection and be able to offer something of interest and value to the connection.” Maria Markman, ACS Chair, Victoria.

This event is just one of many initiatives MIT runs to assist students in becoming career ready. Keep up to date with all the news and events by visiting the Career Development Portal on the Student AMS.

Original articel – https://www.mit.edu.au/about-mit/news-and-events/news/future-work-series-%E2%80%93-seminar-two