Jobs were originally classified as blue-collar or white-collar many years ago in reference to the type of work being performed and the people performing it, with blue-collar jobs consisting of positions in fields such as manufacturing, maintenance, construction and other trades.
Some fascinating trends related to blue-collar industries have emerged in recent years, and it is important for small business owners to know about them. Here are some of the trends to watch closely as you work to stay competitive.
1. Millennials Are Moving Toward Blue-Collar Work
Workers from the millennial generation are bringing about many changes in the workforce. For one, millennials are increasingly moving toward blue-collar jobs as a result of many factors, including a desire to avoid the high cost of college and an interest in doing work that involves something other than sitting at a desk all day. Small business owners can make the most of this trend by striving to attract millennial workers. Consider offering apprenticeships and mentorships in which you take eager millennials under your wing, training them to work in your area of expertise.
2. Shortage in Supply of Workers
Despite the aforementioned trend, overall, many people prefer to work in white-collar (or office) jobs rather than blue-collar jobs. And that can contribute to a shortage of workers who are willing and able to work in blue-collar jobs. Also, many blue-collar jobs require specialized expertise, such as positions that involve not just manual labor skills but also computer expertise in a specialized area. Business owners in blue-collar fields may have to hunt longer and harder to find qualified workers and may also have to offer higher pay and more benefits in order to attract their ideal employees.
3. Automation, Automation, Automation
The introduction of automation through computers and robots has impacted many industries and professions. Rather than slowing down this trend is accelerating. Blue-collar jobs are certainly not exempt from this trend. In reality, they are some of the jobs most likely to be affected by automation and artificial intelligence (AI).
Business owners should learn as much as they can about automation and, if needed, any new skills required by automation, such as specialized computer software skills. While it is true that automation displaces workers in many instances, it also creates new jobs that require highly technical skills. Look for the opportunities created by increased automation.
4. Economic Improvements and Changing Times
As the economy has improved in recent months, many businesses have become more confident in how their businesses are doing and are thus ready to hire. As a business owner, you might see that job candidates have more opportunities from which to choose. You will have to put more effort into attracting qualified employees by offering attractive salary and benefits packages that candidates would find difficult to turn down.
5. Flexibility in Various Circumstances
Today’s workers of all generations and life stages — but particularly millennials and those with children or aging parents — seek not just great opportunities to use their skills but also flexibility. Many do not want full-time jobs, preferring contract and freelance work. Many look for flexible schedules so they can have better work-life balance. Whatever the requirements, you may find your company needing to accommodate some of those specific needs and desires in order to keep employees happy and fulfilled.
As a business owner, you want your efforts to produce success. So make sure you know about and adapt to current trends — because flexing with the changing times is key to staying relevant and building a thriving