Gen Z is often criticized for their emphasis on vibes, whether it be for investing or choosing a job. However, the millennial CEO of Trivago has built his entire career on this approach. Johannes Thomas, in an interview with Fortune, admits he never had concrete plans in life, emphasizing the importance of following your instincts and stepping out of your comfort zone for a successful future.
Despite the current challenges in the job market, Gen Z’s focus on manifesting success, embracing a sense of optimism, and making job decisions based on vibes may actually be onto something. According to the CEO of Trivago, going with the flow can significantly benefit your career, as it did for him. Thomas advises Gen Z to identify opportunities and pursue their interests with curiosity.
For Thomas, this unconventional approach led to a diverse career path, spanning across various fields such as marketing, product development, technology, and sales before eventually becoming CEO in 2023. He highlights the importance of adaptability and exploring different roles to increase the chances of a successful future.
This mindset may offer hope to Gen Zers navigating a job market where job-hopping is becoming more common as a strategy to secure higher salaries. In a rapidly evolving landscape where artificial intelligence poses challenges to industries, being versatile through career shifts could demonstrate valuable skills. Adaptability is identified as one of the fastest-growing skills for 2025, reinforcing the importance of staying curious and open to new opportunities.
Thomas stresses that maintaining a sense of curiosity is crucial, as it fuels productivity and fulfillment in one’s work. He believes that aligning your efforts with your genuine interests and passions leads to greater effectiveness. Additionally, Thomas encourages Gen Z to develop technological literacy, regardless of their career aspirations, to remain competitive in the digital age.
Ultimately, if you find yourself losing interest in your current role or industry, it may be a sign to explore new opportunities. Thomas advocates for seeking environments that inspire curiosity and learning, suggesting that transitions to such spaces can reignite motivation and drive for success.
