Every year experts make predictions about what will happen in the coming year based upon current indicators, surveys and other tools. Well, this year is no different.
To help job seekers get their arms around their job search, here are some of the changes and employment trends they can expect to see in 2011.
The Recession Has Changed the Job Market
Not surprising, an increased number of employees are disengaged at work. However, this same group is less likely to be actively job hunting.
According to the Vault.com article entitled, “6 Ways the Recession Has Changed Hiring Practices,” from 2007 to 2009 the percentage of disengaged workers increased from 10% to 33%. What that likely says is that while more employees dislike their jobs, they are too fearful about the economy to look for a new position.
Another point the article makes is that job hopping early on in someone’s career is considered “normal these days.” So if you are disenchanted with what you are doing and not fully vested in your career yet, it might be a good time to consider making a job or career change.
In the newest National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) current hiring index the job market for new college graduates continues to show improvement. While it was at 87.2 in November 2009, the November 2010 figures show a dramatic increase to 127.7. In addition, the NACE article, “Trends in College Graduate Unemployment,” indicates that the unemployment rate for new college graduates has declined from 8.8% last year to 8.6%.
If you've been thinking of enrolling in some college courses or finally completing your degree, this trend indicates that now might be a good time to get started.
The Importance of Verbal Communication Skills
Soft skills have always been a highly requested, yet frequently overlooked, group of skills. Too often job seekers think that having the right education and work experience -- what we call hard skills -- is all that it takes to land a job.
Well, in the new 2011 Job Outlook Survey from NACE, verbal communication skills topped the list of soft skills that employers seek from new college graduates. Further proof that the article "Job Seekers Need Great Communication Skills to Land a Job" is valid. This skill is followed by strong work ethic, teamwork skills, analytical skills, and initiative.
Even if you’re not a recent college graduate, you’ll still need soft skills to help you land the job. Why not take a page out of the NACE 2011 Job Outlook Survey handbook and focus on honing the same soft skills employers indicate they want from new college graduates. It’s a good place to start.
U.S. News and World Report’s "Best 50 Careers for 2011"
Wondering where the careers are now that the economy is "improving" (or so says U.S. News and World Report)? Well, according to their list of the "Best 50 Careers for 2011," these jobs have high-growth predictions and staying power over the next decade along with a high median salary and high job satisfaction.
Now you may note that some careers on the list have been there for years, like careers in technology and health. Other careers, however, are probably a bit more reflective of the changing times, such as multimedia artist and urban planner. For a quick and easy look at the list, check out the SimplyHired version.
There is also a prediction that positions for vocational occupations -- plumber, medical technician -- where people can attend short-term technical and certification programs and green jobs will continue to grow.
What it all comes down to is that having the right skills and mind set as well as a solid career direction will do wonders in helping job seekers find the best career opportunity in 2011.
Deborah S. Hildebrand - Deborah S. Hildebrand is a freelance writer & HR consultant with 20+ years in human resources & a Bachelor's degree in Business.
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