The workforce is constantly
evolving and employees need to keep up with it. Temporary workers are on the
rise, and even preferred by some employees. According to Statistics Canada,
part-time jobs have increased by 2.3 times more than full-time jobs from 2012
to 2014. (see http://www.statcan.gc.ca/tables-tableaux/sum-som/l01/cst01/labor12-eng.htm). Benefit programs and perks offered by employers are
also decreasing.
Following are ways in which the
workforce is changing and tips to help you manage these changes.
Permanent and Full-time Jobs are More Difficult to Secure
Temporary, contract, and
part-time jobs are becoming more popular and these types of positions typically
offer lower wages and less job security. Flex work hours and telecommuting are
also becoming the new trend. Have some flexibility in what you’re looking for
when searching for a new position.
Benefits
Organizations are offering
fewer benefits compared to previous years and programs, including health,
dental, and life insurance have been cut or reduced in many positions.
Additionally, part-time, temporary, and contract jobs typically don’t offer
benefits. You might want to consider getting your own benefit plan (e.g., www.useblue.com).
Decrease in Pensions
Pensions are not being offered
by many employers now: employees are expected to take care of their own
retirement plans. Workers are also not necessarily retiring at 65 – there’s a
tendency to work longer. According to Future Workforce’s “Multiple Generations @ Work” survey, 78% of baby boomers say that
they will be working until they are 70 (see http://futureworkplace.com/wp-content/uploads/MultipleGenAtWork_infographic.pdf).
Job Hopping
In the past many employees
expected to stay in their jobs for their whole career and at the same time employers
frowned upon job hopping. In 2015, changing jobs every few years has become the
new normal and may be beneficial to your career if you have the opportunity to
learn new skills.
Corporate Culture
There are currently five
generations and a variety of cultures in the workplace. Be prepared to work
with a diverse group of people who may be older, younger and/or have a
background, culture and belief system that is different from yours.
Up-to-Date Resume
With reduced job security in
today’s environment, it’s important to keep your resume up-to-date. If a new
job opportunity comes along or you unexpectedly lose your job, you need to be
prepared with an up-to-date resume.
Training and Development
It has become necessary for
workers to constantly update their training. Mentor programs are being used as
a training resource and to help set a mentee’s career in the right direction.
Goal setting is important to
know if you are on the right path to achieving your career goals. Going through
this exercise can provide direction and meaning, ultimately making an employee
more satisfied with their job.
Increase in Technology
The increased use of technology
in the workplace has made it possible to work from both your mobile and from
home. There has also been a greater demand for flexible work hours. An
increased knowledge of technology skills has become a job requirement for many
positions.
Work-Life Balance
There has been an increase in
telecommuting, video conferencing, and overtime in many jobs. Work overload may
cause stress and it’s important to manage your work-life balance for your
health and productivity.
Increase in Social Media
Social media has become
necessary for networking and staying connected. Social network recruiting is on
the rise and is used by employers to discover talent, target passive
applicants, and employer branding. Job seekers use social media for networking
and obtaining referrals.
Conclusion
The workforce is rapidly
changing and it is essential to embrace these changes. Flexible jobs, and jobs
with career development, are becoming more desirable to many employees.
The increase of technology and
social media in the workplace has made them valuable tools for job seekers. Remember
to have an up-to-date resume and be prepared for additional changes that may
come your way.
By: www.TorontoJobs.ca
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