The future of the workforce has taken on different meanings over the last few years. Due to the ongoing pandemic, the simple, slow-moving concept of a more flexible workplace has grown tenfold.
Now, the way we work is continuously evolving, from workplace design to technology adoption. So what can we expect moving forward?
Distributed workforces will continue to play a role moving forward, especially among white-collar companies.
Using video conferencing and instant communication tools, working from anywhere has never been easier. In fact, a survey conducted by Enterprise Technology Research (ETR) of 1,200 chief information officers found that the amount of workers permanently working from home will double to 34.4% in 2021 from 16.4% pre-pandemic.
This means that hiring new talent will no longer be limited geographically. Employers can expand their talent search to wherever they want, allowing for a more diverse workforce.
Additionally, automation will become an important component to business operations. However, this will also create more jobs that will be needed to work alongside this technology.
According to the World Economic Forum (WEF), automation will displace 85 million jobs globally, but 97 million new roles will be created by 2025.
However, there will need to be more upskilling opportunities in order to prepare the workforce for these digital advancements.
The WEF found that the top five skills for the workforce in 2025 will include: analytical thinking and innovative, active learning, complex problem solving, critical thinking and analysis, and creativity.
