✨ Activity: Career Planning

3. Three Strategies to Maneuver Through Uncertainty

Many professionals seek dependable full-time, permanent roles to feel they are advancing in their career, but in today’s world, that security can be seen differently. Empower yourself by focusing on what you can control: your approach to change, growth and, adaptability. (See the Demonstrating Skills unit for more.)

1. Scenario Thinking

Scenario thinking helps you plan for an uncertain future by imagining different outcomes:

• Realistic scenario – based on current trends
  
• Best-case scenario – everything goes right
  
• Worst-case scenario – key challenges arise

Identify a few possible obstacles in each scenario, then brainstorm contingency steps to create a proactive vision for your career direction. Don't worry about perfection—this is about preparing, not predicting.

Use the Career Planning Worksheet or a journal to map out:

• Your 3 scenarios
• Contingency ideas for each

This approach helps you move toward your vision—which may be your backup plan that keeps you moving in the right direction.

Here's an example of the 3 scenarios

Realistic scenario	Best-case scenario	Worst-case scenario
Graduating in December, stay in current position.	Obtain new position with higher salary and responsibilities.	Laid off from current position.
Contingency ideas	Contingency ideas	Contingency ideas
Meet with current colleagues to learn about their career path. Meet with director to explore career advancement.	Grow network by mentoring, leading committees, or taking on new side projects in current position.	Build community (see the Discovering Connections Unit to explore more)

2. Contract or Gig Work

Short-term opportunities offer flexibility and variety, help build a broad skill set, and diversifies income sources. Freelancing may offer you a short-term bridge between jobs or a long-term path if you value freedom through diverse experiences. It also:

• Builds adaptability
• Expands your network
• Keeps you agile in uncertain times

This employment form aligns with the Chaos Theory of Careers (Bright, 2013) and Happenstance Learning Theory (Krumboltz, 2009)—both of which highlight the value of experimentation and chance in career development.

3. Strategic Volunteerism

Strategic volunteerism is the intentional and planned engagement in volunteer activities to achieve specific goals or outcomes that align with your interests, objectives, and skills attainment. You may also:

• Gain new mentors and professional connections
• Put your academic learning to practice in your field
• Introduce you to new career avenues and industries