5 smart career trends senior professionals must follow to hit the ground running according to Forbes
Are you a senior professional and thriving for long-term success? Here are five career trends that you must follow, according to Forbes.
Are you a professional enrolled in a senior position and thriving to climb up the ladder of success? Two months into 2025, and the job market continues to grow more competitive indicating the need for a strategic approach to career that will help individuals, particularly senior professionals, position themselves in a way that ensures long-term success.
The trick is simple. As per a recent Forbes report, senior professions must know five key trends or tips that will help them hit the ground running. Let's take a look what these 5 points are:
Embracing adaptability
With the advancements in technology and other factors playing a significant role in the pace of change at workplaces, it is essential for senior professionals to demonstrate adaptability which is crucial to stay ahead, the Forbes report states.
As a senior professional, you should be open to new ways of working, technologies, and methodologies. Additionally, you may also upskill yourself in areas like artificial intelligence, digital transformation, or data analytics that would enhance your relevance and expand your leadership potential.
The report further states that adaptability is also about emotional intelligence and the ability to lead through change. Understanding how to manage transitions within your organisation while keeping your team motivated is a highly valued trait, the report added.
A well-written and updated CV
As per Forbes, having an impactful CV tailored to an individual's career goals is essential in a world where recruitment processes becoming more competitive and technology-driven.
The report suggests that the ideal CV of a senior professional should include quantifiable achievements, leadership experience, and the unique value they bring to organisations. It should also highlight expertise, career aspirations, and recent accomplishments.
The CV should align with the roles the individual is pursuing.
Engage in networking and build meaningful connections
Another important career tip as suggested by Forbes is to build meaningful connections through networking. Leveraging an existing network while actively cultivating new connections can open doors to unadvertised roles and strategic partnerships for senior professionals.
Forbes recommends them to attend industry events, join professional associations, and engage on platforms like LinkedIn to remain visible and connected.
Furthermore, taking time to identify influential contacts within the industry is key. Opportunities are bound to open if you have a stronger network.
Continuous learning should be a priority
Senior professional must prioritise continuous learning to stay ahead in the competitive job market. Such learning may consist of targeted upskilling in leadership development, emerging technologies, and more.
Besides, professionals can also opt for formal learning options like executive courses or certifications, to strengthen their credentials, the Forbes report suggests. According to Forbes, following a growth mindset demonstrates an individual's ability to adapt and excel in changing environments.
Work-life balance
Last but not the least, for maximum productivity and continued success, it is essential to cultivate the habit of work-life balance, as per Forbes. The burnout due to overworking often has a negative effect on productivity, decision-making, and overall wellbeing.
Also read: Struggling to find work-life balance? These online courses by Harvard are the answers you need
It is recommended that senior professionals set clear boundaries to protect their personal time and recharge effectively. At the same time, they should incorporate habits that promote physical and mental health. These may include regular exercise or good time spent with friends and family.