Take a look at the past 20 years compared with today as it relates to the differences in education, careers and pay. Then predict those same items over the next 20 years. What does the future hold for you if you continue along your current track? Here are some points to consider:
- Manufacturing was a major driver in most industries 20 years ago, which provided a higher level of income for all levels of employees: From hourly to executive
- Jobs in the hospitality industries have currently taken the place of manufacturing as a major driver of jobs in the United States
- The shift from higher paying manufacturing jobs to low wage service jobs has caused a shift in family income. It may mean dual incomes and needed child care
- Almost 50% of U.S. workers between 18 and 64 are employed in low-wage jobs
- The value of a high school diploma has declined in value, with less manufacturing, craft and vocational programs available
- Approximately 70% of American workers have a high school diploma
- Special training programs have increased, especially in technology and trades
- In 2016, high school graduates earned an average of $33,000 a year, college graduates $61,000, with graduate degreed professionals averaged $78,000 per year
- The cost of college and health care is accelerating faster than the cost of living
- Advanced graduate degrees have increased over the past 20 years, in numbers of graduates, number of different degrees and income potential
- Pay increases have been substantially lower than that of prior years and has not kept up with raising expenses in food, healthcare and education
Other changes?
- 10 years ago, on-line retail was a novelty. Now Black Friday sales were $7.2 billion in retail sales, up 14% over last year. Brick and mortar retail stores are struggling
- 20 years ago, I don’t remember GPS, iPad/Pod, cell phones, robocalls or hackers,
- We now have Flex jobs, electric cars, driverless cars and a concern for personal data
- If we currently have 2% of all cars electric, what will the future bring? What happens to auto mechanics? (80,000 jobs have been lost with the transition to electric cars)
- Currently, those who work-from-home are 5.3% nationally in 2018 and 5.6% in Virginia. Will this trend expand? How will it affect interpersonal communications?
- On-line degrees are increasing, while small colleges are closing
- Whoever thought you’d talk to a computer? Hello Alexa. Hello Siri
- Whoever thought Apple / Google would become a bank or pay with cryptocurrency?
My point is that change is accelerating in multiple areas that affect you directly. Unless you’re aware of your current status and the future implications to your job, you’re behind the career curve.
So, what are the implications for you? Where will you be with all these changes? Are you prepared? Will you be leading or trailing the future? You may need someone to help you figure out what your next steps need to be and how to position yourself for the future.
For a FREE critique of your resume, send it to: wkaufmann44@gmail.com