Job Trends to Watch in 2022 and Beyond

The job market is constantly changing and evolving, so it's important to stay up-to-date on the latest trends. In 2022, some of the biggest trends will include navigating a tight labor market, adapting to the rise of the gig economy, and changing work requirements due to automation. 

It's important to stay ahead of the curve by learning about how these macroeconomic and technological factors are shaping the future of work. As a result, you can stay in the know to aid your remote career plans. 

Tight Economic Labor Market

The labor market has been tight for the past few years, with more job openings than people looking for work. However, that changed in June, when job openings declined by over 600,000 -- a level below what we saw in September 2021. The majority of the decline was in retail and wholesale trade, as businesses continued to adjust to the effects of the pandemic. Despite the decrease in job openings, the labor market is still tight, with more people looking for work than jobs available. This means that you may face a lot of competition if you're looking for a job.

Advances in Automation Will Change the Way We Work

There is no doubt that automation is changing the world of work. With the advent of new technologies, a growing number of tasks are being carried out by machines and AI rather than humans. According to a McKinsey estimate, productivity could grow by up to 1.4% annually with today's machine learning and automation. This trend will likely continue as businesses seek to increase efficiency and cut costs. While some jobs will be replaced entirely by automation, others will see a shift in the duties required. For example, machine operators will need to be able to monitor and repair their machines, while data entry clerks will need to be able to troubleshoot software issues. Ultimately, the way we work is changing, and we must adapt to remain productive in the years to come.

Soft Skills are Essential

Employers are increasingly looking for employees with strong soft skills in today's job market. With the rise of automation, many tasks that previously required hard skills can now be completed by machines. As a result, employers are placing more emphasis on qualities such as problem-solving, creativity, and communication. These are the kinds of skills that will help you create value in a competitive job market. If you can demonstrate these skills, you will be in a strong position to land the job you want. So don't underestimate the importance of soft skills in today's job market. They could make all the difference between getting hired and being passed over.

Diversity and Inclusion Become a Top Priority for Recruiting

As the business landscape becomes increasingly competitive, companies are looking for any edge that can set them apart. One area that is receiving more attention is diversity and inclusion. Beyond promoting equity across the employee base, a diverse workforce has several advantages, including business growth. Studies have shown that companies with a diverse workforce are 70% more likely to capture a new market. In addition, a diverse workforce brings different perspectives and skillsets to the table, which can lead to more creativity and innovation. As a result, an increasing number of companies are making diversity and inclusion a priority in their recruiting efforts. By doing so, they are improving their chances of success and making the workplace more equitable and inclusive for everyone.

The Gig Economy Continues to Rise

The gig economy's growth is an important trend to watch in 2022 and beyond. More and more people are identifying as freelancers, and this is having a significant impact on the way businesses operate. This type of work is characterized by the prevalence of short-term contracts or freelance work as opposed to steady, full-time employment at one organization. Several factors have contributed to the gig economy's growth, including the rise of technology and platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. As a result, technology has made it easier for businesses to connect with freelancers and for freelancers to find work. The rise of remote work has also increased the number of people willing to work on a contract basis, as they might be interested in gaining independence. The impact gig work will have on the future of work is still to be assessed. 

Increasing Emphasis on Work-Life Balance

Working from home has become the new normal for many employees, but it has also led to a rise in the number of people demanding a better work-life balance. This trend is likely to continue as more and more people become accustomed to the flexibility of working from home. Employers who want to attract and retain the best talent must offer flexible working arrangements that allow employees to maintain a healthy work-life balance. This may include offering flexible hours, telecommuting options, and other benefits enabling employees to manage their time better. By providing these perks and operational improvements, employers can show their employees that they value their work-life balance and are willing to make accommodations to help them maintain it.