The Future of Work: How are you preparing?
Technology has, at a furious pace, transformed and keeps transforming the nature of work. In the last decade, several tasks have been automated or digitized, leading millions to lose their jobs. The pandemic, has all but aggravated these woes while providing a sharp sneak peek into how the nature of work will be in the future. The impact of technology on work, however, has not been all adverse. It has provided, and promises to provide, as many opportunities as it has challenges. It is predicted that while many jobs will become obsolete in the coming years, several others will be created to meet the demands of the 4th industrial revolution. The question then is: how are you preparing?
According to the World Economic Forum’s report on the future of jobs, 85 million jobs are expected to be displaced in the next five years. Forty-three percent of the companies surveyed for the report are set to decrease their workforce due to technology integration, and by 2025, time spent on work by humans and technology will be equal. While this may seem a gloomy forecast, the report also makes some heartening predictions. It predicts that 97 million new roles may be created that are adapted to the new division of labor between humans, machines and algorithms. This prediction is refreshing.
Clearly there are two ways to look at the future of work: with anxiety or with anticipation. Without adequate preparation, you may be anxious about all the jobs that may be displaced, conversely, with the right amount of preparation, you will be anticipating a relevant role in the new workforce. So how are you preparing to remain relevant in the workforce, and how are you positioning yourself to take advantage of all the opportunities that are to come?
Experts have suggested Reskilling and Upskilling as two means to match employees to the new roles and opportunities that are anticipated. It is essential for employees to upskill - get new skills to aid them in their current roles - or to reskill – to develop capacity to take on different or new roles. While Reskilling and Upskilling require a collaborative effort between governments, employers, and employees, it is crucial that employees strive to develop themselves independent of assistance from governments or businesses.
There exist numerous opportunities for upskilling and reskilling for all who would want to secure a place in the 4th industrial revolution. Online learning opportunities abound, that afford users a high degree of control and flexibility over their learning. Some, like Algo Peers, are preparing today’s children for tomorrow’s workplace, and several others are providing people with useful opportunities to remain or become relevant in today’s and tomorrow’s workplace. Without the limitation of traditional classrooms, these online opportunities broaden access to quality education and skill acquisition. It is only advisable that we do not allow these opportunities to pass us by.
In a previous article, we explored relevant skills that are rising in demand in the new workforce. We believe there’s space in the new workforce for everyone. Make as much as you can of the myriad of opportunities that exists for your learning and your advancement. We all have a place in tomorrow’s workplace.
