The global outbreak of COVID-19 has prompted businesses and workers to adapt to this significant change, leading to new ways of working in what is now referred to as the New Normal.

       Research data from “ManpowerGroup”, a leading global consulting firm and labor market expert, surveyed approximately 1,246 individuals from various professions to identify which careers workers are interested in pursuing amidst the COVID-19 situation. This represents a major challenge for the workforce in what is termed “Business Disruption.” The findings reveal that 9 careers are thriving in the era of Business Disruption:

Freelance Professions 12.76%

       This includes full-time workers seeking additional income through freelance work during the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the past four months, many organizations have shifted to a Work from Home model, allowing individuals to allocate time for freelance opportunities that leverage their skills and knowledge to create additional income. Freelancers may engage in various short-term jobs, either singularly or simultaneously, to generate revenue.

Logistics, Supply Chain, and Delivery Services 10.32%

       This sector has seen significant growth, particularly in supporting online shopping or e-commerce, a consequence of lockdown measures that restricted access to stores and shopping malls in many areas to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Jobs Requiring Foreign Languages 10.29%

This includes positions that utilize second and third languages, such as English, Chinese, and Japanese. This presents an opportunity for professionals to apply their language skills in business communications, allowing them to not only work full-time but also to supplement their income.

Online Sales or E-Commerce 9.61%

This is another profession benefiting from the current situation, with various channels available for purchasing products through social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LINE, as well as various E-Marketplace applications, enabling consumers to shop without visiting physical stores.

Jobs Related to Home Lifestyle 8.82%

       This includes home service jobs that have increased due to more people working from home. There is a growing demand for various home services, such as repairs, haircuts, fitness-related services, pet care, and other conveniences.

Customer Service via Phone 7.35%

       This work format includes both phone and chat support, enabling faster customer service and response times, especially for online retail channels.

Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Jobs 5.88%

       This includes medical professions such as doctors, nurses, physical therapists, and elderly care workers, aligning with the increasing trend of an aging society.

E-Learning Teaching Jobs 5.63%

       This sector is on the rise, in line with the New Normal lifestyle, allowing for convenient skill enhancement through teaching and learning via IT devices and various platforms.

Information Technology Jobs 4.41%

       There is a high demand for specialized skills in this area, including application development, cybersecurity, networking, and IT support roles.

Marketing Jobs (Online and Offline) 4.39%

       This sector requires marketing skills and communication, especially during the pandemic, where effective communication is essential to reach target audiences through various methods.

       The research results reflect the professions that can develop and expand by harnessing potential and enhancing skills effectively. Despite the ongoing economic slowdown since last year and the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on the labor market, it is believed that this crisis will create opportunities for workers to see the direction of adaptation and mindful responses to overcome this crisis.

Source: ManpowerGroup