If the pandemic made you reassess your career, you’re not alone.

By 2024, professionals across industries are rethinking their work-life balance, job satisfaction and future career goals. A recent global survey revealed that 46% of workers have considered changing jobs in the year ahead*. In Australia, 1.1 million people changed jobs in the year ending February 2024**. This shows a strong trend of career changes.

This phenomenon, often referred to as ‘The Great Resignation’ or ‘The Great Reshuffle,’ remains strong in 2024. It reflects a shift in how workers value their time and contributions.

Now, alongside the drive for meaningful work, the rapid rise of AI and automation has amplified these changes. As companies use new technologies, employees want jobs that provide a better work-life balance. They also want roles that help them stay updated with technology and remain important in a changing job market.

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other advanced technologies are reshaping the global workforce at an unprecedented rate. Automation is transforming industries, creating new roles, and rendering some traditional jobs obsolete.As a result, workers are looking for jobs where they can work with new technologies and build skills for the future.

    The World Economic Forum predicts that by 2025, half of all employees will need new skills. This is to keep up with changes from technology.

    Many employees are prioritising companies that provide lifelong learning and development opportunities. They understand that staying relevant in the workforce needs more than just job experience. It also requires mastering new skills.

  • UNSW Philosophy Professor Timothy O’Leary says the pandemic has forced us to consider what is essential. For many, it turns out, this includes meaningful work.

    However, ‘meaningful work’ will will have varying interpretations for different individuals, states Prof. O’Leary. For example, it could mean spending less time at work and more time with family.

    This promotes a healthier work-life balance. It may also allow for flexible work arrangements such as remote work, working from home or in a hybrid way. It could also mean working for a non-profit group that leads the fight against global warming.

    Alternatively, you might aspire to make a positive impact on the world, beginning with transforming your sector. You can build leadership skills that support employee wellness through your company’s culture and rules. Recruit and guide staff who share your values. Use your company’s resources, money, and efforts for projects you want to support.

    This change is possible in any field. You can find leadership upskilling options in all UNSW faculties. You can explore the medical industry or business in general. If you want to make a big social impact, you can increase your influence in politics or law.

  • The 2023 LinkedIn Talent Market Drivers report highlights the most in-demand jobs in Australia. These jobs include healthcare workers, tech experts, and teachers.

    Healthcare Workers
    In a world still dealing with the effects of the pandemic, healthcare professionals remain essential. The demand for doctors, nurses, and mental health specialists is high. If you want to help people and have job security, think about reskilling with one UNSW’s postgraduate healthcare programs.

    Tech Specialists
    The use of AI, machine learning, and data analytics in industries has ceated a rising demand for tech experts. Data scientists, AI engineers, and cyber security experts are some of the most sought-after professionals today. As more businesses adopt AI solutions, tech roles are growing rapidly.

    If you want to switch to a tech-savvy career, UNSW has modern postgraduate programs. You can study data science, artificial intelligence, and cyber security.

    Teachers and Educators
    In times of rapid change, educators remain critical in shaping the next generation. If you enjoy helping young people learn and become future leaders, consider a postgraduate qualification in education from UNSW. These degrees can help you begin a fulfilling career.

  • As industries continue to evolve, so do the roles within them. LinkedIn states that 85% of the jobs that will be available in 2030 are not yet in existence today.

    By 2025, half of the global workforce will need new skills. This is to meet the changing demands of their jobs, largely driven by AI and other emerging technologies.

    UNSW designs its postgraduate programs to prepare you for this future. With a focus on critical thinking and creativity, enhancing your current understanding and bolstering your capacity to identify opportunities amidst disruption and change.

  • If you want to recharge your career or switch to a new field, investing in your education is key. Now is the time to explore your study options. Investing in education helps you find new career growth and stay relevant in the age of AI.

UNSW provides a wide range of postgraduate programs designed to help you break into new fields or make a career change.

You will learn from expert teachers and have flexible study options. This helps you gain advanced skills and practical experience. You will also get the latest knowledge to move into new fields like technology, healthcare, and business.

Watch this video to find out more:

*Microsoft Work Trend Index Annual Report, 2024, found that 46% of professionals say they’re considering quitting in the year ahead.

**The Australian Bureau of Statistics Job Mobility Survey, 2024, found 1.1 million people changed jobs during the year ending February 2024.

^The World Economic Forum, Future of Jobs Report, 2020.

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