As we enter the New Year, it comes time to revisit the staffing trends and events that will shape the years to come. What can we expect for the future? Will the market for contingent workers stay strong? As a job seeker, how do you prepare? Here is what the experts are saying:
Unemployment will remain high by historical standards
Although we may have a recovering economy, unemployment rates continue to be on the rise. Staffing experts believe it could take over a decade to bring unemployment rates back to where they were pre-recession. For staffing companies, this is not necessarily bad news. Many employers are having a difficult time finding people who fit the right skillset for particular positions. Here, staffing firms play a vital role in recruiting workers who fit the employer’s needs. Staffing companies’ developed network of workers in a specialized expertise combined with their ability to hone in on specific skills can save an employer time and money recruiting.
Job seekers take away: Don’t get discouraged from high unemployment rates. As we become a knowledge-based economy, positions in information technology are needed now more than ever. Connect with a recruiter. They are able to place you in a position where you will thrive. Don’t forget to join social media networks- it is a great way to show off your skills and get noticed.
Demand for knowledge workers will increase
Today’s economy is on the fast track to being extremely knowledge-based. Such a move has changed the type of work companies need. The experts predict staffing companies will have to adjust their current business models to compensate. It will become common to staff teams who are dispersed, temporary, or remote. Ultimately, clients will be less tied down to local labor.
Job seekers take away: Maintain, nurture, and develop your capabilities and talents. Changes in the labor market are occurring quicker than the public education system and development agencies can assist workers in developing skills needed for the future. Stay on top of your field’s trends and do not allow your existing skills to become obsolete.
Long term employment with one company will continue to decline
The demand for temporary workers will remain strong. Not only have employers increasingly preferred to take on temporary workers, but workers have also shown more interest in looking for less-than-long-term employment arrangements. Due to the recession and improved health trends, many workers will continue to work at a much older age. Additionally, Generation X workers have a more mobile attitude to work and will be open to contract jobs. This trend brings opportunity to staffing companies. Companies will need to fill short-term contracts and specific project roles.
Job seekers take away: Be open to shorter term roles! This could be a great way to explore your field and gain experience with multiple projects.
Generational Melting Pot
As if our workforce wasn’t diverse enough… today’s workplace is made up of four generations. This creates an entirely new dynamic in the corporate atmosphere and has no intent on stopping anytime soon. Many older workers are continuing their careers long past retirement age. The younger generation understands the value of hard work and long hours. Provide them with a job they are genuinely excited about and watch productivity soar. For staffing firms, a generational mix creates challenges to finding the best way to recruit and motivate workers across the age spectrum.
Job seekers take away: Find ways to best communicate with your various co-workers. Overcoming communication challenges is the key to creating successful relationships and greater teamwork. For the younger generation, don’t be afraid to present your fresh minded ideas. Diverse workforces give one the opportunity to tap into a broader set of ideas and experiences. In today’s fast-moving world, companies cannot stick with “the way we have always done things” attitude. Bringing your ideas and skills may be just what a company needs to create new, effective processes.
Source: Staffingtalk