Is Your Job Safe?
In today’s rapidly changing world, job security is becoming a thing of the past. With advancements in technology, changes in organizational structures, and the rise of outsourcing, it is becoming more likely that your job may not exist by the end of the decade.

Reason #1: Technology
Technology is advancing at an unprecedented rate, and it is causing the destruction of many jobs. It is clear that machines are replacing repetitive tasks, as they can increase accuracy and safety in various job areas. However, the question remains: how far will this technological takeover go? Many service industry roles may disappear in the future as human workers are replaced by technology. The cost-effectiveness and increased effectiveness of using machines in these roles make them a more appealing option for businesses. Imagine walking into an unmanned supermarket where machines handle all tasks, from processing transactions to restocking shelves. Even retail stores are increasingly moving towards online operations, with companies like Amazon and Zappos leading the way. Currently, a majority of the first-world population works in the service industry. However, when technology can deliver better service at a lower cost, there will be a surplus of people searching for jobs.

Reason #2: Organizational Structures
As companies require fewer human workers, the need for management decreases. In most companies, the common management wisdom is to have one manager for every 6-7 direct reports. When the number of direct reports decreases, less management is needed. This means that company sizes will significantly decrease as technology replaces more and more of the workforce. Middle management roles may even evolve into jobs that involve overseeing machines. This shift in organizational structures highlights the importance of developing IT skills for the future.

Reason #3: Outsourcing
The roles that will remain in the workforce will be those that require human creativity on a day-to-day basis, such as graphic design, writing, or teaching. However, even in these areas, globalization presents a challenge. There are billions of highly skilled individuals living in areas with significantly lower living costs than in developed countries. Outsourcing is not limited to call centers and factories; it extends to a wide range of professions. With an increasing number of highly educated individuals graduating from universities worldwide, finding talented professionals at a lower cost has become easier than ever. For example, you can find an exceptional graphic designer in India who is willing to work for significantly less money than their US counterparts.

So, what can you do to secure your income in an uncertain job market?

To ensure long-term success, you need to strive to become the best in the world at what you do, at least in the eyes of your target market. The ability to deliver unique value to a large number of people is crucial. It is important to understand that not everything is about price. Companies like Pepsi and Accenture have spent millions of dollars on branding packages because being at the top of your game pays well. If you can be replaced by a machine or someone who is less expensive, it is vital to reassess your skills and make yourself indispensable.

In conclusion, job security is becoming increasingly precarious. Technological advancements, changes in organizational structures, and the rise of outsourcing are reshaping the workforce. To secure your income, you must strive to be the best in your field and continuously deliver value. As technology continues to evolve, those who fail to adapt may find themselves wondering what happened. Choose your group wisely and position yourself for success in the changing job market.