Gen Z Guide: How to Plan Your Career Growth & Keep Learning for Long-Term Success
The world of work is evolving faster than ever, and as a Gen Z professional, your career path won’t be linear like it was for previous generations. Instead, continuous learning, adaptability, and strategic career planning will define how far and fast you grow.
Our Gen Z Report found that:
59% of Gen Z workers haven’t received any skills training in the past six months.
Only 39% say they have a mentor or coach for career guidance.
34% feel they don’t have enough opportunities to achieve their career goals in their current company.
This means many Gen Z professionals feel stuck, uncertain, or unsupported when it comes to career growth. But you don’t have to wait for your company to invest in you. You can take charge of your own career development and continuous learning.
Here’s how you can proactively plan your career and build skills that future-proof your success.
1. Take Ownership. No One Else Will Do It for You
Many employees expect their company to create a career development plan for them, but the reality is that you need to take charge of your own growth.
How to Take Action:
Assess where you are today—List your current skills, strengths, and areas for improvement.
Identify your career goal—Do you want to be a manager? A specialist? A business owner?
Use AI to research career paths:"What are the typical career paths for a [job role] in [industry]?
Break your goal into small milestones: Plan what skills and experiences you need at each career stage.
Why This Works: When you have clarity on where you want to go, you can proactively seek opportunities instead of waiting for promotions.
2. Keep Learning—Your Degree Is Just the Starting Point
Traditional education isn’t enough anymore—employers now prioritize skills over degrees. That means you need to keep upskilling, reskilling, and learning new things throughout your career.
How to Take Action:
Use LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, or Udemy to take short courses on industry-relevant skills.
Follow thought leaders on LinkedIn and join listen to industry podcasts to stay updated.
Use AI tools to summarize books, research new skills, and stay ahead.
Set a monthly goal. Learn at least one new skill every quarter.
Why This Works: The most successful professionals are always learning. You stay competitive and open yourself to better opportunities.
3. Find a Mentor. Learn from Those Who’ve Been There
One of the biggest challenges Gen Z faces is a lack of mentorship. Only 39% report having a mentor or coach. Without guidance, you risk making slow progress or career mistakes.
How to Take Action:
Identify people you admire. They could be senior colleagues, industry experts, or professionals on LinkedIn.
Ask for advice. Send a simple message like:"Hi [Name], I really admire your career journey in [industry]. I'd love to hear your advice on how to grow in this field. Would you be open to a short virtual chat?"
Join mentorship platforms like ADPList, LinkedIn Mentorship, or company-led programs.
Why This Works: Successful people love helping others—and the right mentor can open doors you didn’t even know existed.
4. Build a Personal Brand. Make Opportunities Come to You
Many hiring managers check LinkedIn before making hiring decisions. Having a strong online presence can attract recruiters, partnerships, and career opportunities without you even applying.
How to Take Action:
Optimize your LinkedIn profile. Consider using AI tools like to improve your headline and bio.
Share insights about your field. Post about projects you’re working on, key industry trends, or lessons learned.
Engage with posts from thought leaders relevant in your sector. This increases visibility among industry players.
Why This Works: The more you showcase your expertise and insights, the more opportunities will come your way naturally.
5. Gain Experience Even Outside of Your Job
Many Gen Z workers say they don’t have enough opportunities to advance. If that’s the case, create your own experience instead of waiting for permission.
How to Take Action:
Look for side projects, freelance gigs, or volunteer opportunities to build skills.
Take contract-based or short-term roles—many companies are shifting to project-based hiring.
Use platforms like Upwork or Fiverrto get real-world experience and build a portfolio.
Why This Works: Real-world experience makes you stand out—and companies value hands-on learning over theoretical knowledge.
6. Stay Adaptable: The Future of Work is Changing Fast
By 2030, the workforce will shift to more project-based work, and companies will need multiskilled professionals. Flexibility and adaptability will be key career strengths.
How to Take Action:
Be open to hybrid roles—many future jobs will require a mix of technical and soft skills.
Learn about AI, automation, and digital transformation—these will shape future career paths.
Use AI to research industry trends. Ask:"What are the most in-demand skills for [industry] in 2025?"
Why This Works: The more flexible and multiskilled you are, the more valuable you become to employers.
Final Thoughts: Take Control of Your Future
Your career growth isn’t just about promotions—it’s about constantly learning, adapting, and making strategic moves.
Looking for an employer who values career development? Let ManpowerGroup connect you with companies that invest in talent and upskilling!
By Mohammad Kashif