Phan Bich Tam, country director of MMA Global in Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia, offered practical insights on adaptability for young professionals during episode 4 of the "Sustainable Career Orientation 5.0 - Empowering Tomorrow" Live Talk series. The episode, themed "Choosing a major - choosing a career without borders (part 2)", shifted from earlier discussions on self-understanding and passion to the practical challenge of adapting to diverse work environments while maintaining long-term career direction.

Tam highlighted that an increasingly borderless career landscape presents young people with numerous choices: becoming a freelancer, joining a startup, working at large corporations, or pursuing international careers. This abundance, however, brings significant pressure for career direction. She emphasized that the critical decision is not about choosing between a startup or a corporate role, or freelance work versus a large corporation. Instead, young people must understand their desires, identify their strengths, and determine the most suitable environment for their development. She outlined three key steps: "First, clearly define what you want and who you aspire to be. Second, understand your strengths. Third, give yourself the opportunity to try different environments."

Ms. Phan Bich Tam (left) and 1st runner-up Miss World Vietnam 2025 Le Phuong Khanh Nhu (right) on the program. *Photo: UEH*

Finding what one does best is crucial, whether working freelance or in a corporate setting. This approach simplifies self-discovery, fosters achievements, and builds sustainable competitiveness. Tam stressed that adaptability comes not only from a willingness to change but also from intrinsic capabilities and long-term preparation. She compared different work settings: "In a startup environment, everything happens quickly; sometimes you must handle all tasks. In a multinational environment, systems are in place but demand highly specialized skills. Regardless of the setting, you must have the ability to excel to succeed", she stated. Tam noted that career paths can change often, moving from a startup to corporate, then to freelance, or back to a large enterprise. This is normal in a career spanning decades, yet understanding oneself and one's strengths remains paramount.

From a global competitive perspective, Tam praised young Vietnamese professionals for their intelligence, quick learning, determination, and willingness to face challenges. However, she cautioned that professional competence alone is insufficient for true international integration. Communication skills, especially using English as a working language, are crucial. Tam explained that success in an international environment comes not only from expertise but also from professional communication abilities. She noted that many young Vietnamese possess strong practical skills but sometimes hesitate, lacking confidence to express themselves in multinational settings. This confidence, she argued, must stem from genuine internal strength, encompassing knowledge, skills, critical thinking, and a continuous learning spirit. Beyond professional competence, building a "personal ecosystem" is vital for better adaptation, particularly for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Episode 4 of the Live Talk Sustainable Career Orientation 5.0 - Empowering Tomorrow will continue to air at 8 p.m. on saturday on UEH platforms and the VnExpress fanpage. *Photo: UEH*

Startup success extends beyond capital or finance; it also requires problem-solving and building a supportive network. Tam advises cultivating a personal ecosystem, enabling others to offer expertise, perspectives, or development opportunities. "Not everyone recognizes their own ecosystem", she emphasized.

Episode 4 of the Live Talk "Sustainable Career Orientation 5.0 - Empowering Tomorrow" will continue to air at 8 p.m. on saturday on UEH platforms and the VnExpress fanpage. It aims to provide practical insights, helping high school and university students confidently shape their career future in a constantly changing world.

Dan Minh