The Job Market

What does ‘job market’ mean?

The job market or labour market means the kinds of jobs that are around and how many of them are available. This will vary over time, according to geographical area, and may differ for each job sector. 

The market changes as:

·     the economy changes - it can mean more jobs if the economy is good, fewer jobs if it’s weak.

·     technology changes - jobs may become automated, people work from home, new jobs develop, on-line services.

·     the population changes - periods of low birth rate will eventually lead to periods when there are fewer people of working age available.

·     the world economy and trading arrangements change - this can result in competition from other countries; but can also be a result of political activities.

·     attitudes and working regulations change - more leisure time for sports activities, shopping, personal services, leading to demand for employees in these areas.

What does this mean for you?

To make sure you have the best chance of working when you need to, it’s good to be aware of the job market and changes that might occur in your working life. 

It means you will need to:

·     be flexible.

·     gain qualifications and be willing to learn throughout your working life (life-long learning).

·     develop skills that you can use in a range of jobs (transferable skills).

·     weigh up the opportunities available and be realistic about employment goals.

·     possibly have more than one job or career during your working life and maybe have more than one job at any one time.

More information

There are separate sections about work trends in each of Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole on this website.

Why not take a look at GO: Work For Real. You can download a copy or use the contact us form and we'll send you a copy in the post.