After the Industrial Revolution, the relationship between technology and employment continued to be a subject of concern. The belief that machines will replace humans has persisted throughout history. However, as technology has advanced, we have seen an interesting phenomenon: while machines have automated some jobs in the form of computers, quantum computers, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality, they have also created others that were previously impossible. was
The change has spread to a wide range of professions, from doctors and shop assistants to drivers and teachers.This has led to the emergence of highly specialized profiles in technology, which are increasingly in demand With companies from all sectors, the ICT sector has a huge weight in the economy and incredible growth potential.
However, the sector is currently going through a period of change marked by the economic crisis and the impact of artificial intelligence (AI). Tech giants like Microsoft, Meta, and X (formerly Twitter) have recently undergone major personnel restructuring, while their Concerned about shortage of specialists.
And it’s ironic that some of the same workers who contributed to the development of artificial intelligence are now warning of its dangers not only to users, but also to their own jobs.
But what is the truth in all this? Not only will this technology replace the automation of many human tasks, including programming, but humans will not be able to compete with AI’s learning speed. Despite the possibility that some less specialized profiles may disappear with the widespread adoption of these systems, lArtificial intelligence is also a powerful tool for people with intermediate knowledge But not necessarily highly qualified.
Undoubtedly, AI is going to set a clear trend in the labor market from now on. But with her or not, The question is whether there will be enough work for everyone in the future And are current professionals, especially in the technology sector, prepared for the jobs ahead? Today, there is still significant demand in areas such as development, innovation, cybersecurity, and maintaining and updating existing systems. These profiles continue to be highly sought after by companies in all sectors, where it is not always easy to find the talent they need.
To attract and retain these special profiles, it is essential to offer them an interesting job offer Salary is important, but not the only determining factor. Compromise, flexibility and the possibility to work remotely are the features highly valued by these professionals.
Teleworking has been the hallmark of many workers at tech multinationals and small start-ups in the sector for years. That is, it was already established in their daily lives before the pandemic, as they may work a few days a week in their company or client offices, provide remote support, or be digital nomads.
But this trend is beginning to change, and many of these professionals are seeing a return to the office, as in other fields. If 94% of jobs are required by the beginning of 2020, Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, there has been a significant change in work policies Imposed by companies and that number dropped to 37%. In 2022, the demand for working from the office further declined to 28% in November.
However, we have seen a turning point in recent months, which has seen a 12% decrease in the number of positions that allow completely remote work, and 44% of job openings now impose an obligation to work from the office. For example, in Spain, companies such as Glovo, Factorial or Travelperk promote in-person visits.
Organizations cite reasons such as building a team, better training new employees and monitoring performance. But for employees, Telecommunication is a very valuable social good, economic benefits, private health insurance or food vouchers. This is where the problem arises, which will blow up in the faces of companies, because in this competition for talent, those who cannot at least offer a hybrid work approach will see the march of their most valuable professionals.
That is our reflection It doesn’t make much sense for technicians to return to 100% reserve, most of their work can be done remotely. The key to the future is a “remote first” model, where employees have the option to work in the office if they want to, but are not required to.
Technology will continue to play a key role in the transition between physical and virtual as collaboration tools improve and the logistical challenges of remote work decrease, leading to greater flexibility. Perhaps the situation will change in the future. Nothing is final in this changing world. The only thing we can say with certainty today is that the technology yet to come will continue to redefine the labor market.
*** Pedro Torresillas He is the CEO and co-founder of Circular.
