If AI can write code and analyse data, what skills will tomorrow's economists need? Gene Tunny revisits his career advice for economics students and graduates, explaining why critical thinking, clear writing and interpersonal skills may matter more than ever. He weighs the benefits of starting in government versus consulting, explains why publishing your own work can open doors, and shares lessons about networking, mentorship and avoiding burnout. An essential discussion for anyone considering a career in economics.
If AI can write code and analyse data, what skills will tomorrow's economists need? Gene Tunny revisits his career advice for economics students and graduates, explaining why critical thinking, clear writing and interpersonal skills may matter more than ever. He weighs the benefits of starting in government versus consulting, explains why publishing your own work can open doors, and shares lessons about networking, mentorship and avoiding burnout. An essential discussion for anyone considering a career in economics.
1. Develop critical thinking and communication skills. Technical competence matters, but the ability to analyse complex problems, write clearly, communicate effectively, and exercise sound judgment distinguishes successful economists.
2. Choose your first job for the training it provides. Institutions such as Treasury, the Reserve Bank and Productivity Commission can offer excellent foundations in economic analysis and policy. Consulting offers opportunities too, but can involve demanding workloads, especially for graduates.
3. Build a body of work, not just a CV. Publishing articles, research, videos or podcasts allows you to demonstrate your capabilities. You don't necessarily need a prestigious internship to show prospective employers what you can do.
4. Be helpful and cultivate professional relationships. Gene's path to Treasury and Nicholas Gruen's early career illustrate how unexpected opportunities can arise from volunteering, helping colleagues and making connections.
5. Adapt to AI while protecting your long-term wellbeing. AI may reduce the need for some specialist coding skills while increasing the value of independent thinking, creativity and communication. Maintaining physical and mental health is equally important for a sustainable career.
00:00 Introduction: Career advice for economists
02:30 How Gene became an economist instead of a lawyer
05:09 The lecturers who changed Gene's career direction
09:00 What employers really want from graduates
10:12 Writing, initiative and professional skills
11:55 Deb Brown on why critical thinking matters
15:30 Why economic analysis matters for government policy
19:27 Public sector versus consulting
23:49 The realities of working in consulting
27:47 The challenges of working in government
30:30 Is Australian Treasury still a good employer?
32:30 Why you should build a body of work
37:52 Seth Godin, Cal Newport and becoming remarkable
41:04 Networks, mentors and unexpected opportunities
46:11 How meeting Ken Henry led Gene to Treasury
50:47 Nicholas Gruen's unusual route into economic policy
56:18 Leonora Risse on mentoring women economists
57:56 How AI changes career advice for economists
1:02:38 Andrew May on performance, recovery and burnout
1:04:25 Why health matters for professional success
1:07:30 Gene's final career advice
Previous episodes
How I became an economist + advice for aspiring economists – EP141:
Truth (or the lack of it) in politics and how to think critically with help from Descartes – EP123:
Private vs public sector jobs, consulting scandals & economics as an ‘imperialist discipline’ w/ UQPPES – EP209:
Seven Habits of Highly Effective Economists:
Australia’s Lost Policy Exceptionalism w/ Nicholas Gruen – EP248:
Women in Economics with Dr Leonora Risse of RMIT, Melbourne – EP124:
The importance of physical & mental health for top CEO performance w/ Andrew May – EP193:
Economics and Public Policy:
https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/economics-and-public-policy/id1480645795?i=1000490595815
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