MAPS-Greater Montreal: Strategies to Take Control of Your Career in a Tough Market

On February 25, 2026, the Mentorship, Advisors, Peers, and Sponsorship (MAPS) Committee from WIB-Greater Montreal hosted a candid and empowering conversation on career resilience in today’s shifting and uncertain job market. Thirty-seven participants attended the session, bringing thoughtful questions, openness, and diverse perspectives to the discussion. As layoffs, pivots, and transitions become increasingly common, staying competitive without falling into toxic positivity can feel overwhelming. We were grateful to welcome Shena Mistry, Founder of Own What’s Next, who shared practical strategies for navigating career change with clarity and confidence.

Key Takeaways from the Session:

• Focus on your foundation and choose your direction
  When the market tightens, don’t wait for perfect conditions. Be intentional about your direction and build a strong foundation that supports long-term growth.
• Prepare your mindset and own your story
  Before any interview, be clear on what you owned, what you delivered, and where you were accountable. Focus on both the scope of your role and the measurable impact you created.
• Identify transferable skills and adapt to context
  Recognize your transferable skills and understand the differences between academia and industry, including expectations and work environments, to position yourself effectively.
• Invest in your network
  Networking starts with the people already in your daily life. Reach out, have real conversations, and nurture relationships—opportunities often come through trusted connections.

In addition, Shena shared constructive insights and practical tactics on reframing “overqualification” as value, navigating the evolving impact of AI on the job market, and building inner confidence to show up with clarity and credibility. A heartfelt thank you to Shena for her generosity, expertise, and practical wisdom. And thank you to all the participants for your engagement, thoughtful reflections, and willingness to share your experiences. Your participation made the conversation truly meaningful.

Submitted by Ting Jin