5 WEEKS, 5 LESSONS

Lesson 1: Start early, have a plan.

The truth is out: employment is changing. It was never a stagnant process to begin with, but the changes we see now are unprecedented. It isn’t just the job market that’s anew. We’re also seeing a rise in renewed expectations from employees. With AI threatening human output and jobs dwindling by the second, candidates are struggling to present themselves as marketable individuals. Employees previously skilled in a single field are finding themselves replaced easily. Why? — Because of AI. Chat bots can churn out emails, perform calculations and analyses, and produce templates for creative content in a jiffy. 

The race is to prove — How are you special? Why should workplaces hire you?

Unfortunately there’s no simple answer. It all depends on how you market yourself. Although we inhabit an age of digital heights, future employees are perplexed. Theoretically,  everything that employees can possibly need is available on the Internet. From courses to case studies to online certifications to guides on using workplace tools and sources for corporate policies, the Internet has a million answers for everything. 

In reality, this causes confusion. Knowledge without direction is futile. And for current students preparing to enter the workforce, this abundance of information can be overwhelming. Without the right mentorship, students often struggle to present their real selves. But not all hope is lost! The workplace culture in India may be changing, but so can students. The only real question is, how

 In simple words, the answer is: NextGen Pathways. Whether you’re a current employee, an aspiring student or an HR professional, we’ve got tips for everyone to transform themselves and their careers.

Firstly, as a student in university, it’s essential to start making efforts early. Multiple A+’s on transcripts and theoretical projects are great, but they won’t make you stand out to employers. Practical strengths, demonstrated initiative and consistent career-focused endeavours like volunteerships and internships are the real game changers. 

Companies don’t just hire you on the basis of your grades anymore. They value your skills, your personality and mental fortitude. Your experiences in college, whether it’s as simple as running a weekly club or being a part of debate/speech teams, showcase facets of your professional capacity. Recruiters want to see you pursue various avenues linked to your desired career. They want to see you proactive and involved in building skills, regardless of scale. Your A+ grades tell recruiters that you study hard; but real life isn’t about studying. You have to be prepared to tackle challenges flexibly, remain dedicated to your goals, and be a team player.

We know how difficult it can be to gain professional experience while in university, and to make it easier for you to level up, Next Gen Pathways presents – the ‘Campus Ambassador Program.’ 

Campus Ambassadors will have the chance to connect with students and faculty at their university, while carrying out Next Gen Pathways’ specially-organised seminars for career growth, industry knowledge, and skill improvement training. As an ambassador, you will mobilise a force of young Gen-Z willing to skill up in their fields and kickstart their careers. Through persuasive conversations with students, you will not only hone your communication skills, but make a positive impact in the life of your peers by leading them toward personal and professional success. 

This program is intended for any university or college student in India. Whether it’s managing the lists of students enrolled in the program, addressing senior members of the faculty, or handling logistics for a workshop, being a Campus Ambassador will present you with multiple opportunities to practise and refine the competencies needed to be a successful part of the professional workforce. To be an asset to future workplaces, it won’t be enough to have certifications and Excel proficiency only. You’ll need to present a well-rounded image to recruiters, which is exactly what being a Campus Ambassador will entail.

Campus Ambassadors will walk away with a plethora of experiences in leadership, event organisation and media outreach. When curating this program, Next Gen Pathways took special care to accommodate students in various tiers of cities in India. The Campus Ambassador program will look different for each university, based on their needs and requirements. 

We’ve never believed in a one-size-fits-all approach. For us, customised, intentional and futuristic planning is the key to a great career. Together, we can revolutionise and rebuild the face of Indian youth in the workplace. NextGen Pathways has a dream, a strategy, and a plan to put into action. All we need is your enthusiasm. Are you in?