The jobs of tomorrow are a little hard to understand. Workplaces are changing. Industries are changing. Job definitions are shifting like sand. It can make things uncertain if you’re trying to start a career.

So how can you figure out what’s coming, and benefit from all these changes… apart from inventing a time machine? Here are three little tips, and one big one.

1.      Embrace change. It’s here, it’s happening, get used to it.

The future of work is going to be highly fluid in many fields. Unless you’re dying to work as a 19^th century blacksmith in a historic village, chances are that your chosen field will undergo changes over the next few years.

Take advantage of change. Change is opportunity, and if you put in the effort to stay informed and up to date with industry trends, you’ll find yourself in a great position. As industries change, they will always look for people to help facilitate that change. People who understand where the industry is heading and how to get there.

Stay tech savvy, research new trends and look for gaps that may appear as changes move through your industry.

2.      Networking. How important is networking?

Well, if you’re given a choice between oxygen and a good networking opportunity, choose the oxygen. Then, take a deep breath and chase the networking opportunity.

Building a strong network can not only put you ahead of other job applicants, it can put you ahead of all the bots and algorithms in today’s automated application processes that may block your path to a job.

Networking doesn’t mean having to go to every industry or careers event that comes along (although you should attend when you can), but it does mean putting in the effort to connect with people on LinkedIn, Twitter or other industry channels. It means not being afraid to introduce yourself at an event, or comment on a blog.

Speak up. Industry professionals are not monsters. They’re usually interested in knowing who is out there, so feel confident that you can put your hand up and say hi.

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3.      Watch your digital footprint.

Believe it or not, employers will deep dive into your digital past. They may deny it, but that smile during your interview could be inspired by that Top 10 Underwear Dance Moves video you posted back in 2015

Seriously, a little online undie dancing unlikely to get you in trouble at an interview, but inappropriate images, online extremism or contentious views may be seen, and may have an impact. You have a right to be express yourself online, but be aware that you what you say or do may come back to haunt you.

Oh, and the big tip? It’s in the title. In tomorrow’s job market, a uni degree can give you an edge. A uni degree will not only give you the skills you need to compete against other applicants, it can give you the skills to stay ahead of other applicants.

You’ll learn how to future-proof yourself. You’ll gain industry insights and skills that allow you to embrace change and take advantage of it. You’ll undergo industry work placements that give you a better understanding of how that industry works on a day-to-day basis, and great networking opportunities. And our Careers and Employability team support you to prepare for and step up to your career.

A degree can be a must-have for many industries, and universities like Flinders are developing study programs specifically built around the current and future needs of industries. We’re preparing graduates like you for the jobs of tomorrow.