Did you know that people of working age are now expected to have six to seven different jobs in their lifetime? This is because of technology. The world is changing quickly and businesses are changing too. It is no longer common to stay in the same job for your whole life.

The world is changing quickly. To stay ahead, employees need to be flexible and open to learning. A 2016 Deloitte study found that employers need people with different skills and knowledge. They also need people who are interested in different areas. This means that employees need to be willing to learn new things and stay up-to-date with the latest trends.

Do you think differently about careers now? Or do you still believe the myths about them?

5 career myths

1. Myth 1: You have only one dream career

   You don’t need to find only one specific job to be happy. You can learn new things and develop new skills every day. Your interests, talents, and needs can change. You could be great at other jobs that you are not exploring. Don’t limit yourself to one.

2. Myth 2: Career choices need to last a lifetime

   Things are always changing. If you have a job, try to make it work. But if it’s not making you happy, or if it won’t work in the long run, don’t stay stuck in it. You do have other choices. (Read: Thinking of a career shift?)

3. Myth 3: You can work only in your field

   When looking for a job, some newcomers only look for those in their field. But it’s important to think about the skills you have, not just the job title. For example, if you are a professor, you can look for jobs that need research and presentation skills. You don’t have to limit yourself to teaching jobs. You can use your skills in other areas too.

4. Myth 4: The only way to move up is to get more degrees

   In Canada, having a Master’s Degree or an MBA is not always necessary for managerial positions. Education is important, but having experience and the right soft skills can be even more important. Soft skills are things like communication, problem-solving, and leadership.

• If you want to get ahead in your career, you should focus on developing these skills. You could take a short course in leadership training. You could also take the lead in projects that will help you develop these skills. Learn more about the right soft skills here.

5. Myth 5: “I’m too old to start a new career”

   This is not true! People now work into their 70s and 80s. You can still learn new skills and stay informed. Many retirees have found a new career that they are more passionate about than their old job. Age is not a problem.

 
Article updated March 28, 2023.
 

Sources: Busting some common career myths, Infobip, Highbrow; What color is your parachute? Dick Bolles, 2017; The future of the workforce. Critical drivers and challenges, Deloitte Report, 2016. Accessed August 22, 2017.