Elena Méndez Díaz-Villabella
The future workplace will be multi-generational, with four generations working side-by-side. Traditional notions of hierarchy and seniority will become less important. The skills for leading and managing the 4G workforce, and for facilitating collaboration across multiple generations and their values, will be in increasing demand.
The shrinking middle will challenge the workforce. Jobs which have traditionally occupied the middle of the skills hierarchy and earnings range, such as white collar administrative roles and skilled / semi-skilled blue collar roles, are declining at a significant rate due to changes in work organisation driven by technology and globalisation.
Entrepreneurism as a lifestyle. The desire for more flexibility is not confined to business.
Demographic factors, family care responsibilities, and a search for a better work life balance increase individual demands for more flexibility. Individuals pursue “micropreneurial” approaches that offer earnings potential, often alongside more conventional modes of employment.
