For Youths, sometimes work can feel like one crisis after another — We can help

Have you been feeling like the world is in a constant state of chaos lately? You're not alone. In fact, there's a term for it:  permacrisis . Between COVID-19, geopolitical turmoil, climate change, and the rise of AI like ChatGPT, this sense of unease is especially palpable when it comes to work.

As someone who graduated during the SARS outbreak, I thought I knew what uncertainty looked like. But looking at what young people are facing now, I realise that their situation is far more challenging.

Many have spent a significant portion of their early career working from home, missing out on the opportunity to learn from colleagues and develop essential professional skills like problem-solving, effective communication and managing themselves professionally.

And just as they're starting to find their feet after the pandemic, some have been abruptly laid off, leaving them feeling lost and adrift.

One key skill that young people need to learn right now is  career adaptability . This means being able to adjust to changing work environments, learn new skills, and navigate career transitions with confidence and ease.

 Mentoring is one of the most effective ways to develop career adaptability in youths.  And the benefits for both mentor and mentee are enormous:

• Gaining insight and knowledge: Mentors can share valuable insights and knowledge about their industry, company, or specific role, helping young people to better understand what they need to do to succeed.

• Developing skills: Mentors can offer guidance and support to help young people develop the skills they need to thrive in their careers.

• Expanding their network: Mentors can introduce young people to other professionals in their field, opening up new opportunities and possibilities.

• Boosting confidence: Finally, mentoring can help to boost young people's confidence and self-esteem, providing them with a supportive and encouraging presence as they navigate the ups and downs of their careers.

So, if you're looking for a way to make a real difference in the lives of young people, consider becoming a mentor today. Not only will you be helping them to succeed, but you'll also be developing your own leadership skills and making a meaningful impact on the future of work.