Uncertainty is tough when it comes to finding meaningful work. This has been an unprecedented time in our history. As a society, we are rethinking where we live and work, what we consume, and the services we use. Unemployment has risen dramatically and many are wondering if they will have a job to go back to when life returns to normal. Discussions flourish about the nature of work; the gig economy, unionization, remote work, the role of government, and innovation and technology. We start to ask ourselves, “How will I cope?” or “What will my career look like when the isolation ends?
Let’s start thinking about trying to process what is going on and how I can rebound. Let’s begin to realize that ultimately, I am responsible for my own change and growth. Career professionals exist to offer support, help look for opportunities, validate emotions, and create both acceptance and connection.
Being Better at Tolerating Uncertainty
The Centre for Clinical Interventions tells us that if one’s attitude is always to be absolutely certain and predictable, then odds are you’ll probably spend a lot of time worrying to support your thoughts around certainty. Worrying gives us the illusion of certainty. You actually trick yourself into believing that in your life there will be no big surprises. This, of course, is impossible. You’ve probably heard the only things that are certain in life are death and taxes? Give some thought to your current need to be certain. Challenge thoughts around why you believe bad things will happen to you in this current job climate:
- Is it possible that good things can just as easily emerge or change for the better?
- What are your peers, colleagues, and friends saying about how they weather the storm?
- Can you learn from them?
Be proactive and start making the decision to let go of unhelpful thoughts. Start to accept that uncertainty is normal. Refocus and if you find it too difficult, find a mentor, colleague, or professional who can help you do so.
Interestingly, The Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada has given much thought to what jobs and services will be in high demand once the current crisis has passed. Job seekers in Canada want to know what sectors of the economy are predicted to thrive and what skills will be needed in this new economy. Here’s a summary of these trends:
Public Service:
During the pandemic, we are reminded of how important jobs like mail carriers, garbage collectors, and front-line workers are to help our communities.
E-Commerce:
these are the folks we hear about who represent organizations like Amazon and Shopify who needed to hire an army of new people based on surging demand. Digital contactless payment systems with less paper money transactions will dominate.
Online Education:
Almost immediately, there has been a need for new online delivery methods. When schools closed, the sector experienced tremendous growth in assisting both students and teachers.
Health Care:
Data, lab services, research, monitoring, tracking, vaccine development, public health, front line solutions and AI need development in our health care sector.
Cybersecurity:
Professionals are needed to be able to understand data control, risk, and traceability. Rogers Communications for example now offers a 20-week intensive certification program exemplifying the sector’s growing attractiveness.
Remote work and digital platforms:
Microsoft Teams, Skype and Zoom are some examples of organizations experiencing a boom in users as are cloud-based and remote services in general.
Drone Technology:
Applications like spraying disinfectants, delivering medical supplies, orders and samples, police surveillance and lifesaving are examples of emerging technologies in this field.
Delivery and Transportation:
Supply chains, logistics managers, sorters, dispatchers, and couriers for our basic needs will continue to be important to keep the economy moving. Are driverless trucks and delivery drones next.
References:
https://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/
https://www.cpacanada.ca/en/news/world/2020-06-03-post-covid-19-future-sectors
