The future of work. Looking TOWARDS 2033.

There’s no denying we’re living in a time of rapid change. However, while change can be disruptive, it can often lead to opportunity. So, this is your time to be fearless, to go back to study, get that degree you’ve always wanted and make your passion your career.

What sort of jobs will there be in the future?

Most of the jobs that exist today will still be in demand in 2033, but innovations and technological advances are already opening up new career options in almost every field. Think about the shift we’ve seen from office work to working remotely, or the changes that AI is already ushering in. Even in established fields, new jobs will need new skills, and a uni degree will make sure you’re set for success.

Why should you start a uni degree now?

The next few years are looking great for uni graduates, so now is the right time to start study. The Australian Government is predicting over 1,175,000 new jobs by 2033 that will need tertiary education, either a diploma, an advanced diploma or a bachelor degree. But the good news doesn’t stop there. Whatever your interests, you’ll have a range of career directions to choose from if you have the right qualifications.

What are the most in-demand jobs for the future?

Over the 10 years from May 2023 to May 2033, a range of careers areas are projected to see strong employment growth, including:

• Health Care and Social Assistance, Australia’s largest industry by 533,400 (or 25.2%).
• Professional, Scientific and Technical Services by 233,600 (or 17.9%).
• Education and Training by 156,000 (or 13.4%)

Plus, we’re projected to see strong growth in Information Media and Telecommunications, Arts and Recreation Services, Financial and Insurance Services… well, you get the idea.*

*Jobs and Skills Australia - sourced April 2024

How do you prepare for your future job?

We can’t predict exactly what the jobs of the future will be, but we can help you be graduate ready for them. At Flinders, we work closely with industry to ensure you develop the skills you’ll need to succeed in the future.

But there are a few things that you can do to boost your employability and prepare yourself for the jobs of the future. Here are three little tips and one big one that will help you stay ahead of the rest.

1.     How do you keep up with workplace changes?

The future of work is going to be highly fluid. Technological revolutions such as the growth of AI means that unless you’re dying to work as a 19^th century blacksmith reenactor in a historic village, chances are that your chosen field will undergo changes over the next few years.

Don’t let it stress you. If you stay informed and up to date with industry trends, you’ll find yourself in a great position. As industries change, they will always look for people to help facilitate that change. People who understand where the industry is heading and how to get there. People like you.

Stay tech savvy, research new trends and look for gaps that may appear as changes move through your industry.

2.     Why is networking important?

Building a strong network can not only put you ahead of other job applicants, it can put you ahead of all the bots and algorithms in today’s automated application processes that may block your path to a job.

These days there aren’t as many physical networking events, so LinkedIn and other industry channels are your friends. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to an industry figure, comment on an article or reply to a tweet.  

Sell yourself. Back yourself and don’t be shy. Industry professionals are (mostly) not monsters. At Flinders, we speak directly to employers, and they’re telling us they want you to make contact. So feel confident that you can put your hand up and say hi.

3.     Can social media hurt your career?

Believe it or not, employers will deep dive into your digital past. They may deny it, but that smile they give you during the interview could be inspired by your dance moves in your latest Tik Tok.

Seriously, a bit of bad dancing isn’t going to get you in trouble in an interview, but inappropriate images, online extremism or contentious views will be seen, and may have an impact. You absolutely have a right to express yourself online, but be aware that what you say or do may come back to haunt you.

So what's the big tip?

In tomorrow’s job market, a uni degree will give you an edge. A uni degree will not only give you the skills you need to compete against other applicants, it will give you the skills to stay ahead of other applicants.

You’ll learn how to future-proof yourself. You’ll gain industry insights that will allow you to embrace change and take advantage of it. You’ll undergo work placements that will not only give you a better understanding of how that industry works on a day-to-day basis but will give you great networking opportunities.

Do you need a degree for the jobs of the future?

A degree is pretty much a must-have for many industries, and in tomorrow’s job market, a uni degree will be even more important. Flinders is developing study programs specifically built around the current and future needs of industries. We’re preparing graduates like you for the jobs of tomorrow.

So, be forever fearless. Gain the skills and qualifications you need to move into a career you’re passionate about sooner.