The Future of Jobs 2025 report from the World Economic Forum provides a compelling look at how the global job market is set to evolve between now and 2030. It explores the major trends shaping our workforce, highlights the industries experiencing job growth and decline, and identifies the skills that will be in highest demand.
What’s Driving Change in the Job Market?
Several key forces are reshaping the world of work, influencing employment trends and workforce demands:
• Technological Advancements – AI, automation, and digital transformation are revolutionizing industries. From chatbots handling customer service to self-driving vehicles, technology is altering both the nature and availability of jobs.
• Economic Factors – Inflation, slow economic growth, rising living costs, and global geopolitical shifts all impact hiring trends, job security, and workforce stability.
• Demographic Shifts – Many high-income countries are experiencing aging populations, while lower-income regions have younger, expanding workforces. This demographic divide creates labor shortages in some areas and surpluses in others.
• The Green Transition – Climate change is driving the need for sustainable solutions. Carbon reduction, renewable energy, and eco-friendly innovation are becoming priorities, leading to the emergence of new job opportunities.
Which Jobs Are Growing, and Which Are Declining?
If you’re considering future career paths, the report highlights which professions are on the rise and which are expected to decline:
✅ Growing Jobs: High-demand roles include AI specialists, data analysts, renewable energy engineers, cybersecurity experts, and fintech engineers (software developers specializing in financial technology).
❌ Declining Jobs: Clerical roles such as cashiers, bank tellers, postal workers, and data entry clerks are at risk due to automation and AI advancements, which are increasingly taking over repetitive, manual tasks.
Additionally, as aging populations increase in many countries, demand for workers in aged care and healthcare will rise significantly.
Skills That Will Be in Demand
It’s not just about the jobs—it’s also about the skills required to succeed in the evolving workplace. According to the report, 39% of current skill sets will be disrupted by 2030, and nearly 59% of workers will require upskilling to stay competitive. Employers are prioritizing candidates with expertise in:
• AI and big data
• Analytical thinking
• Cybersecurity
• Creativity and innovation
• Resilience and adaptability
• Strong leadership abilities
The Takeaway: Adaptability is Key
The main takeaway? The workforce is changing rapidly, and companies must invest in reskilling and upskilling their employees to stay ahead. Additionally, organizations should focus on employee wellbeing and initiatives supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) to attract and retain top talent in this competitive job market.
The future of work may look very different from today, but those who stay adaptable, continuously develop new skills, and embrace change will thrive in the years ahead.
Sharon Jefferies | Career & Candidate Coach