Based on insights from Eric Sim, a former investment banker turned career coach, navigating today’s competitive job market requires a strategic approach, especially as AI increasingly automates entry-level roles. Sim emphasizes that while technological advancements may reduce junior positions, job seekers shouldn’t be discouraged, as the market has always presented challenges. Drawing from his own experience—including graduating during a financial crisis and initially struggling to secure front-office roles—he developed the „CATS” framework, a four-pillar strategy to enhance employability and resilience. This method focuses on building competencies, appeal, trustworthiness, and social capital, which collectively help individuals stand out and adapt in evolving industries.
First, competencies (the „C” in CATS) involve acquiring skills beyond one’s core responsibilities to gain a competitive edge. Sim shares how he attended sales boot camps, learned photography, and honed public speaking through training colleagues, which not only enriched his expertise but also facilitated career advancements and international transfers. The „A” for appeal highlights the importance of being interesting and multifaceted; for instance, Sim’s engagement in art projects, like creating pieces from luncheon meat cans, sparked conversations and made him more memorable to peers and potential employers. These peripheral activities ensure that one’s value isn’t solely tied to technical skills, which can become outdated.
Trustworthiness (the „T”) is crucial for building reliability and securing opportunities, as employers prioritize candidates they can depend on. Sim advocates for consistency in small actions, such as dressing predictably and arriving early to meetings, to demonstrate integrity. Finally, social capital (the „S”) involves actively nurturing a professional network through generosity and respect, including treating colleagues to coffee and maintaining relationships across all levels. Sim notes that a strong network reduces competition by opening doors to referrals, making job searches more manageable. By integrating these four elements, individuals can not only land jobs more effectively but also navigate layoffs and career transitions with greater confidence and success.
Ez a cikk a Neural News AI (V1) verziójával készült.
Forrás: https://www.businessinsider.com/former-investment-bank-md-4-tips-job-hunt-handling-layoffs-2025-11.