“Technological progress might allow a 15-hour work week and abundant leisure by 2030”
A famous and insightful vision by US Economist John Maynard Keynes 1930’s
What does this current age of influence mean for the future of work? From internships, all the way up to senior executives, it is a revolution that is promising to alter the business world, as we know it.
Demographics are reshaping. There are now 77 Million Millennials hitting the workforce, making up more than half the workforce. The work environment is becoming more mobile and a freelance or “gig” economy is growing. In the US 1 in 3 workers today are freelancers, a figure expected to grow by 40% by 2020. People are gravitating to a “slashie career” – a few roles in a working week. Not just one job or career for life now. To top it off the older generations are showing signs of working longer, well into their 70’s and even 80’s, as they are healthier and are also seeking portfolio careers. The concept of a universal basic wage has actually commenced in Hawaii where peoples basic living standards are met.
Many roles are being replaced by technology with robotics and AI, and AQ is the new IQ. Employers now seek more intelligence around ability to adapt and thrive in ambiguity. The roles available today will not be the roles of tomorrow. Drones and Technology will replace many roles. Manual labour will still be required but jobs for tomorrow are not even available today.
So, what to do?
Don’t put all your eggs in one basket – think portfolio career – think how you can transfer more of your skills to new roles. For example – if you are a talented Sales leader and negotiator why not do a mediation and arbitration course, as the commercial world is screaming out for smart intermediaries to reduce dependence on the traditional legal route. If you are talented at multi-task management – why not do a project management course?
If you are smart in logistics – why not upskill with knowledge across cross teams to work alongside new decision makers and at the pointy end of negotiations? Hone your core/unique set of skills – keep agile and stay relevant.
Become tech-eloquent. Keep yourself relevant commercially – top 100 apps in technology, latest research on your fields of expertise.
Say yes to new opportunities and maximise your spare time to invest in you and your commercial knowledge.
Network with a sense of reciprocity – meet up with people to share something for them.
Build an “adaptability attitude” understand resilience and managing ambiguity.
What do you want to be remembered for? What is your personal mantra and legacy? Make sure you reflect this in your online presence – LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook and generally write & post articles.
Stay Real yet strive for relevancy with gusto.
Simone Allan Founder Mondo Search for more info: Simone@mondosearch.com.au