SOFTSKILLS - My Career Journey - Dr. Dody Hartanto, S.Pd., M.Pd

Summary

This speech encourages university students, particularly those in their third semester, to start planning their careers early. The speaker highlights the importance of proactive career planning to prepare for future challenges in the job market, where new opportunities will emerge. By citing surveys and offering motivational insights, the speaker stresses that success is not about luck but about strategic planning and personal effort. Students are urged to take the first step towards their goals now, ensuring their future success through careful preparation and determination.

Takeaways

• 😀 Career planning should start early, ideally from the third semester, to ensure a successful future.
• 😀 The job market will evolve over the next 5-10 years, with 1.1 billion new jobs and 2.1 new types of jobs emerging.
• 😀 Relying only on good looks or a good bank balance is not enough for long-term success.
• 😀 The key to success lies in 'good planning' and 'good praying', rather than just external traits or wealth.
• 😀 Successful people like Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg are the exception, not the rule; most successful people follow a more traditional path of education and planning.
• 😀 Many students may feel they’ve chosen the wrong major, but it's never too late to reassess and make the most of your current path.
• 😀 Soft skills programs, like the one in this session, help students strengthen their abilities and clarify their career directions.
• 😀 Starting your career planning now will give you a head start compared to waiting until after graduation.
• 😀 A journey of 1000 miles begins with one small step, and every step taken in the present shapes your future success.
• 😀 It’s important to plan and take action towards your career now rather than procrastinating and waiting for the right moment.
• 😀 The future holds many opportunities, but preparation through proper planning is essential to seize them.

Q & A

Why is it important to start planning a career as early as the third semester?

It is important to start planning early because the job market is rapidly changing, and by waiting until after graduation, students might miss valuable opportunities. Early career planning helps students identify and pursue their goals with focus and direction.

What does the speaker mean by '1000 miles begin with the first step'?

This phrase is a metaphor indicating that a long journey or major career achievements begin with taking the first step. Even if the goal seems distant or difficult, progress starts with one small, purposeful action.

How does the speaker suggest students should avoid the trap of complacency?

The speaker advises students not to rely on superficial traits like looks or wealth to succeed. Instead, they should focus on 'good planning and good praying,' emphasizing the importance of thoughtful career planning and faith in their journey.

What is the significance of the survey from the World Economic Forum mentioned in the script?

The survey highlights that there will be a significant shift in the job market over the next 5 to 10 years, with millions of people needing jobs. However, it also points out that new job types are emerging, underlining the importance of career planning and adaptability.

What is the key takeaway from the statistic about 87% of students in Indonesia choosing the wrong major?

The statistic serves as a reminder that many students may not be on the right career path initially. The speaker encourages students to embrace career planning and exploration early to avoid making decisions that might not align with their long-term goals.

What role do soft skills play in career preparation, according to the speaker?

Soft skills are essential because they help students develop personal attributes and capabilities that support their career development. Through soft skills activities, students will better understand their strengths, passions, and how to align them with their professional goals.

How does the speaker address the concept of 'success without a degree' using examples like Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg?

The speaker acknowledges that some successful individuals, such as Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg, did not finish their degrees. However, they stress that this is an exception, representing only a small fraction of successful people. Most successful careers involve structured planning, education, and experience.

Why is career planning more important than simply focusing on immediate success or wealth?

Career planning is crucial because it provides long-term direction, while focusing only on immediate success or wealth can lead to short-term gains without lasting fulfillment or professional growth. Planning ensures a more stable and purposeful future.

What advice does the speaker offer for students unsure about their major or career direction?

For students unsure about their major or career direction, the speaker advises not to worry. Through soft skills activities, they will have the opportunity to reflect on and explore their interests, helping them align their academic and career paths more effectively.

What is the overall message the speaker wants to convey to students about their future careers?

The overall message is that students should take control of their future by planning their careers early, making intentional steps, and staying adaptable to the changing job market. The journey may be long, but every meaningful career begins with a clear plan and the willingness to take the first step.