Key Takeaways:
- Future Uncertainty: Over half of UK workers under 50 are unsure about their future job roles due to rapid technological advancements.
- Deskless Workers’ Dilemma: A significant portion of deskless workers feel left behind in the tech-driven hybrid work environment.
- Optimistic Outlook: A substantial number of workers are excited about the potential of emerging technologies to improve work-life balance and job productivity.
Introduction: A New Era of Work
In today’s fast-evolving world, the concept of work is undergoing a radical transformation. The Virgin Media O2 Business Future of Work study has unearthed some critical insights into how British workers perceive their professional future amidst a whirlwind of technological change.
The Current State: Mixed Feelings Amidst Technological Advancements
The study, conducted among 2,000 UK workers, reveals a landscape of mixed emotions. While 52% of workers under 50 are uncertain about their job roles in the next two decades, there is a palpable sense of excitement and optimism about the possibilities that emerging technologies bring.
The Deskless Workers: Caught in the Crossfire
A noteworthy aspect of the study is the spotlight on deskless workers – a group often overlooked in discussions about technological progress. These workers, including teachers, nurses, and engineers, express a sense of being left out. Over 27% feel they can’t keep pace with technological advancements, and this sentiment is even more pronounced among specific sectors like transport and storage.
Technological Optimism: A Glimmer of Hope
Despite the uncertainties, many workers view technology as a beacon of hope. Around 36% are enthusiastic about the new opportunities technology might offer. This optimism is not just confined to productivity gains; a significant 33% believe that emerging technologies could lead to a better work-life balance.
The Futurist’s Perspective: A Vision of 2040
Tracey Follows, a renowned futurist, provides a compelling vision of the future. She anticipates a dramatic shift in traditional job roles and payment models, predicting that by 2040, salaries as we know them might be obsolete. She also foresees a future where deskless workers will don intelligent uniforms, and a new safety sector will emerge, driven by the need for human-machine interaction safety.
The Role of Telecom Operators in the Future of Work
The study underscores the critical role that telecom operators will play in this transition. As businesses embrace new innovations, it’s crucial to have the right infrastructure to support both desk-based and deskless workers. From remote fields to industrial sites, connectivity is key to harnessing IoT safety devices, AI software, and other necessary technologies.
Conclusion: Embracing Change with Optimism
The research from Virgin Media O2 Business highlights the dual sentiments of apprehension and optimism among workers regarding their future roles. Emerging technologies, while presenting challenges, also offer exciting new avenues for enhancing workplace safety, wellbeing, and more personalized compensation structures.
Methodology
The study was based on independent research by 3Gem Research & Insights, surveying 2,000 UK workers across various sectors, job levels, and types of employment. The aim was to capture a representative sample of the UK workforce.
About Tracey Follows
Tracey Follows is a distinguished figure in the field of futurism. Recognized as one of the top 50 female futurists globally, she is celebrated for her insightful predictions and innovative thinking in technology and identity.
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