Narrating futures: enhancing career adaptability in emerging adults through integrated public speaking and career construction workshops

This thesis presents a study exploring a novel approach to career interventions by integrating public speaking techniques with career construction theory in a workshop format. It addresses the formidable challenges faced by emerging adults in navigating career decisions amidst today's dynamic job market. With a mixed-method approach, the research investigates the impact of sharing personal career narratives on participants' perceptions of career adaptability competencies, focusing on self-efficacy and confidence levels. Positive outcomes include perceptions of heightened confidence, empowerment, and the recognition of the importance of group dynamics in fostering personal and professional growth. These findings underscore the potential pivotal role of such interventions in equipping students with the resilience and skills needed to navigate evolving career trajectories. Contextualized within the broader landscape of career counseling strategies, the exploratory study emphasizes the critical importance of career adaptability in today's economic, social, and rapidly changing career landscape. The research addresses pressing issues such as premature career decisions, rapid market transformations, and the need for graduates to possess adaptability skills.