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Glassdoor chief economist sees power shift in 2019; employees make impact

December 18, 2018

Low unemployment, a rise in concern over how technology is shaping the future of work, and a series of movements giving power to the people are among the top trends shaping workplaces worldwide, according to Glassdoor’s annual Job Market Trends Report.

“After nine years of steady growth, 2018 saw one of the strongest job markets in a generation,” said Glassdoor Chief Economist Andrew Chamberlain. “However, the world of work is forever changing. We’re witnessing a power shift as job seekers leverage their market position and employees make an impact with their voice. Plus, as technology matures, it’s changing how we work and the variety of jobs available.”

Chamberlain’s five jobs trends to watch for in 2019 are:

Growing data pools will mean new job search methods: Machine learning is changing the way job seekers discover relevant jobs. No longer will it be about a blast of online jobs but instead a more custom and personalized experience.

Demand for nontech workers will increase: As the tech industry matures, employers will look to hire robust sales and marketing teams to transform technology into revenue. Glassdoor research shows this trend is well underway. In 2018, nearly half of all open jobs at tech employers on Glassdoor, 43%, were for nontechnical roles.

Aging workforce likely to mean talent shortages: The existing challenges of finding top talent today are unlikely to improve soon. For the first time in US history, there will likely be more retirees in America than children under age 18 by 2035, US Census shows.

Job seekers and employers brace for recession: What will a recession mean for employers and hiring, and what are the signs of a coming downturn? The report gives insight on signs to watch, such as activity from the Federal Reserve, treasury bonds and the housing market.

Diversity and inclusion efforts must walk the talk: In the year ahead, Glassdoor Economic Research highlights the need to address systemic corporate cultural problems that make workplaces unappealing to women and underrepresented minority groups in the first place. The report discusses needed investments in workforce diversity programs that have a lasting impact and foster an environment in which employees feel a strong sense of belonging.