In the previous blog we looked into the changes in the world of work which are currently taking place and will be quickly developing in the future. However, many seem not to be well prepared for this change.
In a survey conducted by Deloitte in 2018, when company leaders were asked how prepared their organisations are for the future of work, more than half reported that they are not well prepared or not prepared at all. 42% that they have started limited preparation, while 9% said they haven’t done anything at all.
So what can be done to prepare for such changes?
- Lifelong learning
In order to meet the challenges of the future of work, 43% of company leaders who participated in the Deloitte survey asserted that they would upskill or reskill their employees (Deloitte, 2018). In fact, adult learning will ensure that all individuals navigate in this ever-changing labour market. However, in order to be effective, training needs to be of good quality and in line with the needs of the labour market (OECD, 2019).
- Adapting to the Digital World
In the Deloitte (2018) survey, 36% of respondents asserted that adapting to a new mind-set in the digital world is one of the top challenges an organisation will encounter. Indeed, we are rapidly moving towards a workplace where people interact with technology as part of their everyday job tasks
(Frank, 2018).
- Protect Job Quality
Around 40% of non-standard workers are less likely to be unionised or receive some form of income support when out of work. Therefore, many individuals find themselves in this grey area. What we have to strive for is to protect job quality as unfortunately real wages have stagnated and job stability has been declining (OECD, 2019).
The above are only a few of the changes necessary to prepare for the future of work. We are really living in interesting times and the key is to manage this transition into the new and different industries and opportunities.
References:
Deloitte. (2018). Predicting the Future of Work: Preparing for an Uncertain Tomorrow. MIT Technology Review.
Frank, A. (2018). How Artificial Intelligence Will Impact the Future of Work. CMS Wire.
Ann Julene Hili is a Career Guidance Practitioner with Willingness. She specializes in working with teens and young adults who are in their educational and career transitions. She can be contacted on annjulene@willingness.com.mtor call us on 79291817.