Investing in young professionals fosters a greater sense of community and helps build a stronger, more capable workforce.
By Tori Murrant
In our dynamic industry, young and emerging professionals (YEPs) bring a fresh perspective, innovative ideas, and a force for driving the adoption of new technologies. Supporting this new talent is essential for the continued growth of our workforce.
The geospatial industry is set to experience significant growth, as highlighted in the Geospatial Council of Australia’s (GCA) recent report ‘Economic Impact of Geospatial Services in Australia’, so it’s critical that leaders in our industry empower YEPs. By nurturing the development of YEPs, leaders can foster an environment that supports the future of our industry.
Support beyond leadership
While leadership is important for the development of YEPs, it’s important to recognise the value that any experienced professional can offer. Whether or not you identify as a leader, you hold a wealth of knowledge and experience that can benefit YEPs. By sharing your experience, you can contribute to the growth of the next generation.
Helping others grow can be deeply rewarding. When we invest our time into developing YEPs, we do more than just shape their future; we foster a greater sense of community within the industry. This helps build a stronger and more capable workforce, while also bringing a sense of personal fulfillment knowing that we have played a part in guiding the next generation.
Tips for leaders
Engage directly at networking events. Networking events are valuable opportunities for connection, but YEPs sometimes feel intimidated by all the senior people around them at events such as conferences and can be reluctant to speak up. Approach them authentically, ask questions and show genuine interest. Your engagement provides encouragement for YEPs, who may feel nervous in these settings.
Engaging is beneficial for both parties — you can find out how the next generation works and learn some new ideas!
Participate in mentorship programs. Mentorship is important for professional growth. It can be informal or formal, such as the structured mentoring program offered by the GCA, which includes speed networking, meet-ups and webinars. Mentoring offers guidance, supports professional development and helps build the confidence of YEPs.
Be a sponsor. Sponsorship goes beyond mentorship by actively advocating for the mentee in professional settings. Sponsors help identify opportunities and provide platforms for YEPs to showcase their skills and talent. This active support can accelerate the growth of a YEP’s career.
Offer shadowing opportunities. Shadowing senior colleagues is a practical way for YEPs to learn. Whether it’s attending meetings or understanding the scope of why they complete tasks, these experiences are valuable for YEPs. Shadowing facilitates collaboration and learning, and helps strengthen team relationships.
Provide constructive feedback and one-on-one time. Making personal time to share constructive feedback promotes transparency and openness. Regular one-on-one sessions provide YEPs with a platform to share ideas and seek guidance. According to PwC’s 2023 Workforce Survey, 46% seek feedback and 44% provide it. Having a culture of providing healthy feedback improves engagement and development on both sides.
Share your journey. Sharing your professional journeys helps unmask senior leadership by showcasing humble beginnings, as well as the different career paths available, such as the transition from technical roles to managerial roles. Transparency helps inspire and guide YEPs’ career development.
Help them discover their purpose. Beyond passion and fulfillment, understanding the broader scope and impact of work tasks is valuable for having a sense of purpose. Leaders can help support this by highlighting YEPs’ strengths and how they align to the organisation’s values, to instil a broader sense of purpose.
According to PwC’s 2023 Workforce Survey, young and emerging professionals value training, career progression and personal fulfillment. By focusing on these values, leaders can create an environment where YEPs feel supported and motivated and drive our industry forward. As experienced professionals, we should commit to uplifting the next generation to help them develop their skills for our industry’s future.
Tori Murrant is an organising member of the Geospatial Council of Australia’s Young and Emerging Professionals committee, winner of the Locate24 Best YEP Presentation, researcher at UNSW and GIS Lead at Monteath & Powys.
