😵 Should we be scared of the future of work?
Uncertainty can be scary, but only when we are unprepared.
Even before the pandemic hits, we’ve been hearing all about the future of work, and how we should be prepared for it. Trends like globalization, millennials changing work demographics, and of course, technology, have shifted the way our workplace operates.
But is the wheel really spinning too fast? Are things changing too quickly, leaving us and our skills behind?
The future of work in the past
Decades ago, workers all over the world were threatened by the invention of automatic technology. Humans were replaced by equipment that was deemed to be more effective. This created fear that all jobs will eventually be overtaken by ‘robots’, leaving humans unemployed. Vox has laid out a framework showing that, contradictory to popular belief, automation actually led to more new jobs in the long run.
Watch the complete explanation of the above diagram here.
Gearing up for the future, now
As seen on the diagram, skills are one of the determinants in landing or keeping jobs amidst a rapid change in the industry. Coming out of the current global health crisis, some skills will separate the good employees from the great. Self-direction, emotional intelligence, digital literacy, and adaptability are some of them.
Read the 6 post-pandemic job skills to have here.
Gartner Data found that 1/3 of the job skills required in 2017 job postings would no longer be relevant in 2021.
To be ahead of the curve, you can upgrade your skills through platforms such as Coursera, Udemy, or Google Code Academy. Or, you can also up your networking game via LinkedIn and even take up projects outside of work to practice adaptability.
This Forbes article breaks down more ways to attain post-pandemic job skills.
AQ, the friend of IQ and EQ to watch out for
If you google what skills you need to conquer the future of work, one skill that will consistently pop up is adaptability. We’ve been familiar with IQ (intelligence quotient), or even its best friend EQ (emotional quotient), but often forget about the underrated AQ—adaptability quotient. Tech investor, Natalie Fratto, explained in her TED Talk the 3 ways we can improve our AQ:
Use ‘what if’ questions to assess an idea. This way, the brain will be stimulated to picture possible options for the future.
Actively unlearn. Continue to challenge what you presume to already know—unlearn and relearn.
Prioritize exploration over exploitation. See exploration as a state of constant seeking, never fall too far in love with your wins, and proactively seek out what might kill you next.
Watch the full 6-minute TED Talk here.
Mekari Job Highlights
Employees are not the only ones who need to level up post-pandemic. Companies, like Mekari, are also taking steps in adjusting to the new world. Check out some of our recent openings:
Product Marketing - Marketing and New Business
Create and execute go-to market strategy to help hundred-thousands of businesses ride the wave of the pandemic and enable them to achieve higher productivity.
More info here.
Technical Program Manager - Engineering
Manage cross-functional programs and establish technologies, tools, and processes to maintain continuous integration and deployment and deliver high-quality products.
More info here.