New World of Work

Sometimes people expect that they will get one job and stay there for their entire work life. Or they expect their employers to take care of them. Be prepared for the new world of work.

The Job Market

1. More jobs call for a degree or training past high school.
2. Everyone needs to keep his or her job search skills sharp.
3. Job seekers compete for jobs with people all over the world. Employers can move to another country. More workers can live away from their work.

Relationship Between Employers and Employees

1. Employees tend to change jobs every few years. Each move offers more skills and opportunities.
2. Layoffs are more common. Workers see employers as customers. Full time employees act as contractors. Part-time positions are more common.
3. Employees take their retirement plans with them when they change jobs. Workers are in charge of their own retirement plans.

Employment Realities

1. Workers have many jobs in many occupations throughout their lifetime.
2. Workers create their own career paths with one or many employers. They have more say in their own pay raises or change in duties.
3. Job duties change more often or match projects. Employers want workers who think for themselves.
4. More jobs are in the service or knowledge industries. Workers need to be creative. They need to provide good customer service. They also need technical skills.
5. Employees might work full time or part time. They might be short-term or contract workers. They may work for more than one company at once.
6. Employees need to work hard and take charge of their own career goals. They get pay and training from many employers.