Nearly one million workers have been permanently laid off in the past 12 months, across all industries. Technology and tech-dependent companies appear to have logged the most losses. Now, a survey of 2,000 employed adults, conducted by OnePoll for CSU Global, finds about one in four employed Americans worry that their job is in danger.
Distress about the job market and the perception of being in an unstable or rapidly becoming outdated industries top the list of cited concerns.
About 55% of all respondents feel like they’ve been doing the same job for years, and a similar percentage admitted that their skills feel at least a little outdated. In fact, in addition to the 25% concerned about potential layoffs in the next year, 32% are worried that they’re falling behind or lacking the skills they need to be successful in the future.
Changing With the Times
Feel stuck in a rut at work? You’re not alone. A majority of employed Americans surveyed last graduated from school in the 2000s or earlier. A majority of those surveyed are interested in upskilling at their current job.
As time goes on and skills evolve with technology and the times, it might be time for some employees to brush up on their skills. In fact, 9 in 10 believe it’s important to prioritize learning new skills as a professional to advance your career, and 74% are interested in making themselves more valuable to their employers.
Some believe a certificate of completion from a class would keep them more current and employable. 25% feel they need to get a degree or elevate their education with a second or more advanced degree.
According to respondents, the skills needed to be a successful professional are different than they were five years ago. Compared to other kinds of credentials, a college degree is still the most valuable for someone entering the workforce, followed by a professional license or certificate.
However, soft skills dominate the outlook for promotion. The most valuable skills workers are interested in exploring at this point in their careers are traits of leadership, management, planning, and understanding how to utilize AI.
“In an era of rapid technological advancements and a dynamic job market, expanding your skills and knowledge is paramount for remaining competitive and sought after by both current and prospective employers,” explains Dr. Becky Takeda-Tinker, president of CSU Global. “As workforce and industry needs continue to change, it is important that institutions of education and industry leaders work together to provide the tools and training necessary for individuals to excel in their professions and in the workplace.”
In order to save their jobs, employed Americans take initiatives to grow at work. They strive to take on additional jobs or responsibilities, learn a new skill, or contribute above their job title. Others stick solely with an educational approach, participating in a professional course, using free resources to self-study, or earning a new degree or certification.
Is Upskilling Worth It?
Even if upskilling and going back to school could advance someone’s career, there might be a few roadblocks on the upskilling journey. Forty-one percent of those surveyed would be worried about losing their free time if they began an upskilling journey.
Employed Americans are also concerned about the associated costs and not having enough time in the workday.
To help combat some of these worries, those interested in upskilling would want to do so using time-saving options like studying online or with a hybrid approach. Workers are eager to get started on their learning journey — 82% said that if their job offered them an upskilling opportunity within the next six months, they would be interested in pursuing it.
“Asynchronous online learning provides unparalleled flexibility and affordability for learners who are managing busy personal and professional schedules,” says Dr. Takeda-Tinker. “With high-quality online education, individuals can optimize their career growth while still meeting their family, workplace, and community commitments.
“Not all programs are created equal, however, so it is important to seek a program from an accredited institution with courses taught by credentialed and experienced faculty instructors, that also has fully online academic and career support resources to facilitate learner success.”
Besides growth in leadership and understanding AI, workers want to improve their communication skills, project management skills, technology and cybersecurity trends, and financing and accounting skills.
