Experts Weigh In On Current Job Market Trends
November 18, 2020
Given the change of course that has happened in the world, we wanted to provide expert opinions on what aspiring graduates can do to start off their careers in an uncertain economic climate. We wanted to know what skills will be more important, where the economy is doing relatively well, and if there will be any lasting effects on the job market.
Companies are looking for candidates that can handle the new responsibilities of the job market. Recent graduates actually have an advantage because they are comfortable using newer technologies and have been communicating virtually their whole lives. They can take what they've learned and apply it immediately.
We spoke to professors and experts from several universities and companies to get their opinions on where the job market for recent graduates is heading, as well as how young graduates entering the industry can be adequately prepared. Here are their thoughts.
Our Panel of Experts
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What type of skills will young graduates need when they enter the workforce in the coming years?
John T. McGrath Jr.: First and foremost, dependability, listening skills, teamwork, and commitment to completing the job. Technical skills can easily be taught.
Secondly, understanding the value of continuing education-knowing when to sharpen your skills is a skill itself. That's why it is important to take advantage of training programs that feature an ever-evolving curriculum. This is especially true for those looking to enter the construction industry (and more specifically, the floorcovering installation industry), where it is imperative to stay up to date with new advances. Training programs offered by the United Brotherhood of Carpenters (UBC) and INSTALL offer many certifications, allowing you to develop new skills and get the training you need to pursue a new career in floorcovering. What's more, some programs offer the opportunity to become an apprentice. That means you can get paid to become educated through a combination of formal classes and on-the-job learning. And getting started is easy.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for graduates to find work opportunities in this field after they graduate?
John T. McGrath Jr.: The UBC has apprenticeships in every state in the USA and province in Canada. There are a lot of opportunities for work in industrial and healthcare construction and floorcovering installation in these regions.
How do you envision technology impacting this field in the next 5 years?
John T. McGrath Jr.: The majority of technological advances within the construction and flooring industry are focused on employee safety and personal protective equipment. And wearable technology is one of the newest innovations changing the way the floorcovering industry works.
Employees can now be tracked through their smartwatch to make sure vitals are healthy and they aren't over-exerting themselves on the job site. This could help save your life in the event of an emergency. This means that people who are interested in a floorcovering industry career can expect to incorporate technology that improves safety, giving you peace of mind in your day-to-day work.
