To understand the changing job market, we need to know why it changes. There are four main drivers for change: economics, technology, demographics such as age, culture or gender, and consumer behaviour. Changes in one or more of these areas can greatly affect the job market; so when planning for the future, it’s always better to look at labour market trends rather than today’s hot jobs.

With the economy being in a constant state of flux, businesses are forced to become more competitive and seek new ways to understand consumer and market trends. Data analysts, market researchers, skilled sales people will be hot opportunities for those with the right skills.

Many jobs are being replaced with technology, but with this comes new job opportunities. This is why we’re seeing a decline in clerical and repetitive jobs such as retail cashiers and data entry clerks but a rise in technology-related jobs such as engineers, application developers and designers. With new technologies also come emerging careers, such as computer security specialist, global positioning systems technician and electronic commerce specialist.

The skilled trades present excellent opportunities and there will always be a need for electricians, welders, carpenters, construction workers, and other trades people. Today, we’re facing a shortage in skilled workers which means numerous opportunities and higher salaries.

The population is getting older, especially in developed countries like the US, Canada and Japan. With this comes an increased demand for health related professions such as doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and personal care-givers.

Business is business and people will always have to make sound financial decisions. If you’re savvy with finances and have good people skills, a career in financial services may be for you.

Some careers will experience fluctuations in supply and demand, but there will always be a need. Examples are teachers, doctors, dentists, lawyers, accountants, food and beverage servers, and law enforcement professionals.

In this ever-changing job market, you may be wondering how you can keep up. Here are five suggestions:

Learn what is happening in the world and how it’s changing. Listen to the news, research on the internet and talk to people. Then, you can plan how to prepare yourself for the workplace.

Find mentors or examples. If someone is doing the job you dream of, ask them to mentor you and help you get there. You’d be surprised at how much people love helping others.

Be willing to be a novice. Look for opportunities to learn something new. Never be afraid to say “I don’t know.” To keep up with this fast paced job market, you have to stay on a learning curve.

Change your mindset. Don’t get trapped into thinking “my approach always worked – if it’s not broke, don’t fix it!” This type of mentality will keep you in a rut, and you’ll be left behind.

The job market is changing quickly, but it doesn’t have to be scary. There’s a place for all of us in this world; so use this time to explore new, exciting opportunities!

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Giselle Mazurat is a resume writer living in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She also writes technical and business content for government and private companies.

References:

5 Ways To Keep Up In Today’s Job Market http://www.forbes.com/sites/erikaandersen/2013/09/16/5-ways-to-keep-up-in-todays-job-market/

Career trends: The essential skills you’ll need for the jobs of the next five years http://www.workopolis.com/content/advice/article/career-trending-where-the-jobs-will-be-through-2020-and-beyond/

What new occupations and industries are emerging? http://www.tcu.gov.on.ca/eng/labourmarket/ojf/upComingJobs.html

Why do Jobs Change Over Time? http://www.tcu.gov.on.ca/eng/labourmarket/ojf/changeOverTime.html