KOMUNIKASI ADAPTIF DALAM MENGHADAPI TANTANGAN EKONOMI BAGI ALUMNI WIRASENA MANDARA DI SMK N BALIMANDARA

Abstract

This study examines the adaptive communication skills of SMK N Balimandara alumni in facing economic challenges and their impact on achieving post-graduation economic independence. Employing a descriptive qualitative approach through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation, this study reveals three main findings: First, from an economic and career perspective, the majority of the 1,076 alumni have entered the workforce or entrepreneurship, yet some still struggle to maintain employment due to economic pressures and mismatched income expectations. Second, the barriers to adaptive communication affecting alumni's economic stability stem from internal factors (low self-confidence and lack of experience) and external factors (differences in work culture and high living cost pressures). Third, adaptive communication serves directly as social capital through the Wirasena Mandara community network to open access to employment opportunities, expand entrepreneurial relations, and enhance alumni economic independence. Therefore, strengthening adaptive communication is crucial in supporting the economic resilience and readiness of vocational school graduates.