In 2020, the pandemic permanently altered how we think about our jobs. Many people discovered the importance of a work-life balance through remote work, or realized they were in the wrong career. Technologies like Zoom became essential to our workday – and we collectively figured out how to use the mute button.
Although 4 out of 5 Canadians are no longer working from home, conditions created by the pandemic will continue to influence workplace trends far into the future. While we brace for shifts in the job market caused by the economy, we can also expect to see new and exciting changes to the way we work in 2023.
Anyone considering a career change – as well as grads entering the job market – should pay attention to the following large-scale trends:
1. We’ll see a rise in innovation and entrepreneurship
If you're drawn to the idea of starting your own business, you’re certainly not alone. Canadian entrepreneurship increased by more than 50% between 2011 and 2021 – and experts say the boom isn’t over. The popularity of entrepreneurship has been partially fuelled by the Great Resignation, which began in 2021 as millions of employees quit their jobs to pursue other work, including starting their own business ventures.
It’s clear why so many people find this path compelling. Entrepreneurship can offer many advantages, like setting your own work schedule or working for a cause you’re passionate about. Additionally, remote work and online commerce have made entrepreneurship more accessible; you no longer need to rent office space to start a business.
This could be the year you move your brilliant business idea forward with a diploma in General Business Management. You’ll learn essential skills like financial planning and project management – plus, college is a great place to network with other self-starters!
2. Employers will introduce more health and wellness practices to the workplace
With Canadians reporting anxiety and depression at the highest levels we’ve seen since the pandemic, 2023 is set to include many advances in workplace wellness.
Research has shown us the negative impacts of poor mental health at work, which can cause reduced concentration, less communication with colleagues, and difficulty with physical tasks. But workplace wellness is a two-way street; we’re also realizing how much our jobs affect our mental health. For example, it’s difficult to keep stress levels down in a high-pressure environment, with long working hours and few opportunities to socialize.
Wellness programs benefit both employees and employers by increasing everyone’s wellbeing and productivity. In addition to offering mental health supports to staff, employers will continue finding ways to create a positive work environment this year.
Here are some wellness initiatives you could potentially benefit from:
- Workplace wellness apps
- Wellness days (days off work)
- Ergonomic office setups
- Fitness classes
- Personalized wellness offerings
- Flexible work hours
- Mental health counselling
- Quiet spaces to reduce stress
- Screen breaks and digital detoxes
- Mental health assessment tools
Workplace wellness in 2023 is likely to address both mental and physical health more than ever, acknowledging how mind, body, and environment collectively contribute to wellbeing. And employers aren’t the only organizations adopting wellness initiatives; some schools (including Sundance College) have launched mental wellness programs to students as well.
As an employee or student, it will be important to keep up with the mental wellness supports your organization offers – and use them as needed!
3. Digital literacy in the workplace will become increasingly essential
Remember when work moved online in 2020, and many industries adopted virtual communication tools for the first time? Since then, our reliance on technology has only grown, even though the majority of jobs have moved back to an in-person setting. Today, most workplaces are using digital platforms to streamline everything from project management to customer service. That’s why digital literacy skills have become so important; having this skillset will enable you to use technology with confidence and adapt as necessary.
Whether you’re a health unit coordinator, a digital marketer, or a legal assistant, you’ll be expected to navigate digital systems competently – and easily integrate new technologies into your workflow. Of course, you’ll still need basic digital skillsets as well, like understanding how to use Microsoft Word or Excel.
By the way, an increasingly digital workplace is good news if you’re interested in pursuing a career in tech! As the demands of workplace technologies grow more complex, roles like network systems administrators are essential for creating and maintaining computer systems.
4. Even more employers will see the value in upskilling employees
Upskilling extends the opportunity for learning and development through work. An employer might upskill you to prepare you for a new role or to address skill gaps. With employee retention top-of-mind for employers and career development a clear priority for workers, it’s not surprising that more employers are expected to invest in upskilling in 2023.
Did you know that Canadian job grants can offset tuition costs for employers who invest in upskilling? For example, the Canada Alberta Job Grant covers two-thirds of course costs for current employees, up to $10,000. While requirements will vary depending on your province, these grants could make it easier for you to seek training through post-secondary institutions like Sundance College.
If you’re interested in learning new skills, this could be the year to talk with your employer about upskilling. Tip: Prepare for this conversation by reviewing provincial grant guidelines and selecting a relevant training program. Arrive ready to talk about which new skillset you’re hoping to acquire and how this learning opportunity would improve your work performance.
5. Finding meaningful work will be a top priority
We want our jobs to have purpose – after all, we spend about a third of our lives at work. Now, more than ever before, workers are seeking careers that reflect their goals and values. For some, this could mean pursuing a role that makes a positive difference in the world, like an addictions and community health professional. Others may be very selective about their employer, only working for organizations whose values they share.
No matter how you define ‘meaningful work,’ a diploma education can lend you more control over your future. With access to career-planning resources, you’ll be able to make career decisions that reflect your values. And after graduation, you’ll be qualified to work in a field you care about!
Ring in the New Year with an exciting new career
Whether you’re changing career paths or refining your skillset, Sundance College will prepare you for the future of work. Taught by industry professionals, our career-ready diplomas combine classroom instruction with hands-on learning.
Click here to learn more about our programs and to speak with an advisor.
From all of us at Sundance College, Happy New Year!
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