Review: The Future-Proof Career by Isabel Berwick
Introduction
On a recent trip to Portugal I got hooked on the audiobook of The Future-Proof Career by Isabel Berwick.
Unsurprisingly for a book written by an FT journalist, The Future-Proof Career is brimming with practical advice grounded in research and data.
And unlike most business books on the market, this one was written in a refreshingly British tone of voice and I’m not just saying that because the audiobook was read by Isabel Berwick herself, who as well as being an author also hosts the Working It podcast. In fact I discovered The Future-Proof career on a recent episode of Bruce Daisley’s excellent Eat Sleep Work Repeat podcast about the “manager as therapist” trend.
Practical and relatable
The Future-Proof Career promises advice about the everyday practicalities of work for people who don’t read business books and it doesn’t disappoint. Much of Isabel Berwick’s advice comes from first-hand experience of being an employee herself, backed up by the latest management science. Isabel’s experience is presented with honesty and often vulnerably making the content highly relatable. So much I found myself thinking that I wished I’d had read The Future-Proof Career when I encountered various work situations myself.
Thoughtful and gimmick-free content
All of the advice in The Future-Proof Career is thoughtful and well considered. Unlike many similar reads there are no gimmicks nor abstract models leaving you wondering how they apply in real life. As somebody who reads and listens to a fair number of management and leadership books the suggestions for further reading and listening greatly appealed to me.
Timely insights on post-pandemic working life
One of the strengths of The Future-Proof Career is that Isabel Berwick clearly understands the post-pandemic nature of work, particularly the impact video calling has had on working life today. This makes the book especially timely. Many other books I’ve read since 2020 can feel somewhat out of date for not including this perspective.
Brief yet insightful coverage of AI
AI is mentioned briefly. I found this chapter sensibly short, because of course in 2024 there’s no point in making predictions about how this rapidly evolving technology will transform the world of work.
Convenient crib sheets for easy reference
Each section ends with a crib sheet of takeaways making The Future-Proof Career easy to refer back to when a piece of Isabel Berwick’s advice is on the tip of your tongue. Here are my top five tips from The Future-Proof Career:
Communication is key
As a leader there is no such thing as too much communication. Communicate well and often. Talk directly and in plain language.
Work is transactional
Understand that all workplaces have their dysfunctions. Teams and organisations are not families, despite corporate values statements.
Self-awareness for success
Each of us is difficult to work with at least some of the time so be aware of which of the traits which can make you difficult in some circumstances, and of course don’t forget about the strengths that make you brilliant at your job
Appreciate good bosses
Good bosses are rare. If you’ve got or had a good boss send them a thank you note.
Zoom presentation tips
When presenting on Zoom, look directly at the camera. Imagine you’re reading the news. Your audience will see this as you looking directly at them as you would in a real-life room.
Conclusion
And most importantly “better listening is the secret sauce for future proofing anyone’s career”. But then as a coach and consultant I would agree with that.
The Future-Proof Career by Isabel Berwick is an essential read for anyone looking to navigate the evolving landscape of work with practical, relatable advice. Its timely insights and practical takeaways make it a standout business book so far in 2024.