The world is in constant transformation and the job market is no exception. As we move towards the "future" (already quite present), new technologies emerge, changes in societal demands and evolutions in business models -transformations that are shaping the current and future landscape of job generation in the country. In light of this scenario, it is essential to reflect on how we can prepare to face the challenges and seize the opportunities brought by the growing possibilities that the digital and social revolution offers us
To get a more concrete idea, across the planet up to a quarter of jobs is expected to transform radically in less than five years, on the scale of millions of workers affected. This is the main conclusion of the latest report on the Future of Work, prepared annually by the World Economic Forum,that took into account the projections and estimates of around 800 surveyed companies (operating in 27 sectors) around the globe
Therefore, technological innovations and the 4th industrial revolution will simultaneously create and eliminate millions of jobs, dictating the course for the emergence of new trends and paving the importance of ongoing and increasingly intensive professional updating
AI drives new jobs
Until 2027, the adoption of technology will be a key factor in the transformation of business. According to the research, big data is at the top of the list of resources that should create jobs, with 65% of respondents expecting growth in related roles. Furthermore, positions of data analysts and data scientists, big data specialists, machine learning and AI, in addition to cybersecurity professionals, they should grow by an average of 30%
Digital commerce will lead to the largest absolute gains in jobs: approximately 2 million new positions are expected, as specialists in e-commerce, digital transformation and online marketing and strategy
On the other hand, according to the report,the main jobs that are expected to disappear are: bank tellers and related employees, Postal workers, boxes and collectors, data entry clerks, administrative and executive secretaries, among others. I don't believe that these positions will completely cease to exist, like the elevator operators who were a mandatory presence in the first half of the 20th century and then became a luxury item – but yes,what are professions that will need to have a very pragmatic reason to endure, different from how these activities are currently carried out
Increase in green jobs, educational and agricultural
Investment in the green transition and in the mitigation of climate change, as well as the growing awareness of consumers regarding sustainability issues, they are also guiding the transformation of the labor market. As countries seek more sources of renewable energy, system engineers and installers in the area will be in high demand.The investment will also drive growth in more generalist roles, as sustainability specialists and environmental protection professionals,that must grow 33% and 34%, respectively, reflecting approximately 1 million jobs
Meanwhile,the greatest absolute gains will come from education and agriculture.The report concludes that job openings in the area are expected to grow by about 10%, resulting in 3 million additional jobs for teachers. Already jobs aimed at professionals in the agricultural sector, especially equipment operators, levelers and spacers, can increase between 15% and 30%, culminating in over 4 million jobs
The profound climate changes that have been surprising us with their scope, intensity and frequency in recent months (I am writing this article in a week in which a large part of Brazil records the worst historical air quality indices, thanks to the wildfires across the country and extreme out-of-season drought) should be a booster for these professions and activities
Professional requalification
In contrast to the emergence of many highlighted opportunities, the companies interviewed in the World Economic Forum survey warn of significant gaps between the current skills of workers and the future needs of businesses. Six out of ten employees will need reskilling before 2027. Some of the main skills sought are the training of employees to use AI and big data,analytical thinking and also skills to develop creative thinking
Therefore, investir em educação contínua para desenvolver essas (e outras) habilidades é crucial para garantir a empregabilidade no presente/futuro. This is,the concept oflifelong learning,what does lifelong learning mean, has never been so high as it is now
Ultimately,the future of the job market will be characterized by rapid and disruptive changes, but also for unprecedented opportunities for those who are willing to adapt and learn constantly. By embracing transformation and cultivating relevant skills for the economy of the future, we can build a more dynamic world, inclusive and sustainable for future generations. AND, possibly, more satisfying in the daily exercise of professional skills
