The workplace has changed drastically over the past few years due to the issues brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Subsequently, the flexibility of the workplace has evolved at a rapid pace. As we adjust to the new normal, people are becoming more selective about their careers and how they can better suit their needs.
As someone who will be entering the world of work within the next 5 years, I believe there is a lot room for development. Below are my top 3 improvements I hope to see by 2030.
Looking at skills and strengths rather than careers set in stone
Strengths and skills.
Instead of focusing on what job you want when you’re older, I believe considering your strengths, skills and values first. I’m currently in year 10 and being asked A LOT about my future career and how higher education can get me there. However, I’m unsure. The constant focus on picking a specific career path or job makes it difficult for people like me who haven’t got any set career plans yet.
My suggestion is to focus on the individuals strengths, skills and values. This can give people a foundation to build on and the opportunity to craft their careers. Rather than focusing on selecting a career first and limiting our options and potential.
2. D&I: Celebrating people’s differences at work
Diversity and Inclusion.
Neurodiversity is in the spotlight now more than ever before. Many people are plucking up the courage to speak out about their struggles. However, what are workplaces doing to support this? With many more people becoming diagnosed with ADHD and autism, it’s time for employers to consider how they can enable everyone to flourish.
My suggestion for this is once again flexibility. Flexibility in the when, where and how we work, like schedules and timing. Accepting everyone to be themselves and not having to mask or alter their behaviour at work to feel secure in their jobs.
3. Making the world of work greener
A greener world of work.
Making the workplace more environmentally friendly is becoming increasingly important as global warming is becoming a significant issue. A recent study uncovered that 73% of Gen Z respondents feel it’s up to businesses to make a better, greener world.
In order to attract and retain Gen Z, it’s essential that businesses consider the environment. I think employees are more likely to feel valued and proud to work for an organisation that is being actively kinder to our planet. They’re also more likely to be engaged, motivated and happy in their jobs.
My suggestion is for companies to be tracking their carbon footprint, recycling and other activities which show the business is actively tackling this issue.
Although there have been great improvements to the world of work over the last few years, we still have a long way to go. I aspire for a brighter, more inclusive and greener environment at work. Enabling people to feel confident and secure entering the world of work.
Darcy Snell is the incredible author of this blog! Just 14 years old, Darcy is completing her work experience with Tailored Thinking and has done a FAB job. Darcy is very creative and enjoys going to the theatre or the cinema. She hopes to study something involved with human behaviour, like criminology or psychology.
