The Future of Work

Are you out of work, perhaps working casually or on short term contract? Are you having difficulty finding a permanent position? If that sounds like you, you are not alone. Finding a permanent job now can be extremely frustrating. Although unemployment on an historic level is not particularly high, statistics can be somewhat deceiving. Changes to the way that government agencies register unemployment means that even if you work 1 hour a fortnight then you are considered to be employed.

If that is you, you’re in the under-employed group. You may be working but it is not enough to cover your living expenses or saving for the future. So when you add the number of people that are under-employed to those that are unemployed that changes things quite a bit. So what is causing this change? Is this a temporary change or is it permanent? To answer this question, we need to understand what is happening and why it is happening.

There are 4 key drivers;

Digital Disruption

This is where Technology is changing the way that traditional businesses operate. Now customers can purchase directly from manufacturers cutting out much of the supply chain.

Automation

Automation is also reducing the reliance on people. Robots can work 24/7, don’t need to sleep or eat.

Globalization

The internet has not only changed the way that we communicate but also changed the way that we work. Many jobs have been outsourced to where labour is cheaper. If you were a drafter working for an engineering consultancy, then chances are your job was outsourced to somewhere like India or the Philippines.

Casualization

This is where a job is broken down into tasks. Tasks that have straight forward processes are automated using software or are outsourced. Any jobs that are not core to businesses are simply contracted out. Casualisation of the workforce has been going on for some time. In the US around 40% of workers are either contractors, casual or part time. In Australia that number is lower but is rising quickly. It is estimated that as many as 45 – 50% of the workforce will be non-permanent by the year 2020.

The Future Of Work

Whilst no one can predict the future we can make some assumptions based on the past 300 years or so. Eventually many of the changes that we are seeing will lead to new jobs and new industries and new careers. 95% of the jobs that people will do in 15 years-time have not been invented yet. That may be small consolation if you are out of work for an extended period of time.

What does this mean for you?

If you are out of work or you think that you may soon be out of work then you really need to take some action as many of the changes we are seeing are long term structural changes These are some steps that you can take right now to help your career situation.

Industry Research

One of the first things I recommend is that you learn about the trends in your industry.

Skill Gaps

Identify your skill gap – When you have done your research you may want to add new skills to your repertoire.

Job Search Plan

Finally, I recommend creating a good job search plan that takes into consideration everything you have learnt.

My name is Peter Mazzucato and I am the founder of Leading Resumes. Our goal is to put your career back on track and get you into your next job. If you would like to research suitable industries but don’t have the time or perhaps you’re not sure where to start then give us a call to help get you started. Over the next few videos, I will share some insights into how the job market works now. I am going to show you some of the steps that you can take to dramatically improve your chances of finding a job and provide some of the tools that will get you started.

Our web site has a range of resources that you may find useful. If you would like access to these, please register and download them for free from our website. Also, don’t forget to hit subscribe to our Youtube channel.

Peter Mazzucato

www.leadingresumes.com