November 28th 2024.
The job market in 2025 is expected to be shaped by a few key trends, including a growing demand for tech know-how, the increasing importance of "soft skills", and a shortage of potential managers. According to a recent study by recruitment specialist firm Robert Walters, the market may be shifting in favor of job seekers, with a decrease in job applications and a majority of companies looking to hire more people. This trend is likely to continue into the next year, potentially causing a significant change in the labor market.
Robert Walters CEO Shay Peters explained that for the past two years, the job market has been driven by job availability, with a surplus of highly qualified individuals competing for a limited number of positions. However, the recent statistics suggest that this may be starting to shift towards a more candidate-led market, where employers will have to compete more fiercely to attract top talent. This shift is expected to be particularly prominent in industries that are experiencing rapid digital transformations and a high demand for tech professionals.
The study by Robert Walters also identified specific industries that are in need of workers with skills related to AI, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data analytics. These include finance, healthcare, and retail, where technology is playing an increasingly important role. Peters highlighted that the shortage of tech skills is one of Australia's most pressing challenges, with companies struggling to fill crucial roles such as software engineers, cybersecurity specialists, and AI experts. As technology continues to evolve, the demand for these roles is only expected to grow.
In addition to technical skills, "soft skills" are also becoming increasingly important in the workplace. The study found that more than 96% of professionals consider soft skills, such as communication, problem-solving, emotional intelligence, and adaptability, to be just as important as technical skills. According to Peters, as the workplace becomes more automated and technology-driven, employers are placing a higher value on qualities like emotional intelligence and collaboration. While AI may be able to handle certain technical tasks, roles that require stakeholder management, communication, influence, and the ability to complement AI will remain in high demand.
When it comes to what employees want from their employers, flexibility is a top priority. Peters noted that the desire for flexibility has become a significant factor in employee retention, and any reduction in flexibility may cause friction. Employers may face challenges in attracting and retaining top talent if they limit flexible work options. Additionally, the study found that there may be a shortage of candidates for managerial roles in the near future, with only 11% of workers prioritizing career progression. Peters explained that the increasing complexity of management roles, especially in hybrid and remote environments, as well as inter-generational differences, are making it harder to find individuals who want to be managers. In order to fill these critical roles, businesses will need to invest in leadership development.
Overall, the research by Robert Walters suggests that 2025 may be a promising year for job seekers, but their success will depend on their flexibility and willingness to learn new skills. It is essential for individuals to keep up with the ever-changing job market and be open to acquiring new skills. To stay updated with the latest news, weather, sports, and politics, download the 9News app, available on the Apple App Store and Google Play.
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