CEOs are monitoring the future workforce as COVID-19 pushes more people towards digital platforms, leading to the rise of new professions generating real income, with "gaming and esports" becoming a hot career choice for the younger generation. Meanwhile, the captivating world of YouTube continues to inspire Thai YouTubers to create million-view stories.

It is undeniable that the opportunities for accessing jobs in the present and future are becoming increasingly open for those with specialized skills. Numerous new professions have emerged from the growth of industries operating in the digital realm, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has forced people to engage with the digital world more than ever before.

Ms. Maneerat Anulomsombat, CEO of C (Thailand), stated that access to jobs in the current and future landscape is broadening for those with skills that align with the new era, particularly due to the rapid expansion of the digital industry. For instance, the online gaming industry generated $152.1 billion globally in 2019, a 9.6% increase from 2018, and is projected to grow to $196 billion by 2022.

In Southeast Asia, the gaming market is valued at approximately 140 billion baht, growing 22% since 2018. In Thailand, the gaming industry was valued at 22 billion baht in 2019, reflecting a 13% growth from 2018, with popular platforms including mobile games, PCs, and consoles.

"We can see that the growth of this industry in Thailand and globally is rapid and continuous, leading to economic development. Consequently, the labor market for gaming and esports is becoming increasingly open."

 

  • Esports Creating New Careers - Connecting with Other Industries 

The rising popularity of esports has helped to expand and connect the gaming industry with other sectors, making esports a rapidly growing business in the digital age.

 

It is estimated that by 2022, the number of viewers for esports worldwide will increase to nearly 590 million, prompting various businesses to target advertising towards the esports sector, particularly products aimed at the younger demographic and those looking to build a customer base for the future.

Ms. Maneerat further explained that the revenue generated in the esports sector comes from various channels, including sponsorships, broadcasting rights, advertising fees, game licensing, ticket sales, and merchandise.

Moreover, new alternative careers are emerging that generate significant income, such as esports commentators (Shoutcasters), game developers, programmers and coders, and streamers.

Streamers broadcast live online gaming in real-time through various platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, or Twitch. Game animators create three-dimensional works that can move using design programs and various techniques, along with many other professions.

"The growing trend of esports has led universities, both public and private, to develop and offer educational programs to create a workforce aligned with the gaming industry and meet the demands of employers. The continuous growth of the gaming and esports industries indicates that the labor market in this sector will be open to new alternative careers for those interested in learning and honing skills applicable to this field."

 

  • YouTubers Creating Engaging Content - High Income Potential

According to sources in the Thai digital industry, the online video platform "YouTube" remains one of Google's main platforms and is a significant source of income for the younger generation today. Data from YouTube Thailand shows that over 500 hours of video content are uploaded every minute. Many individuals use this platform to generate income, becoming YouTubers, which has become a dream profession for many young people, allowing them to earn money doing what they love, working independently without age restrictions.

According to Stock Digest, there are 208 YouTube channels in Thailand with over 1.5 million subscribers, such as Kaykai Salaider, a beloved young girl with over 11 million subscribers, where each video garners at least 1 million views. Successful YouTubers can earn as much as running their own businesses.

Sources explain that YouTuber income is derived from the number of views x the number of ads displayed in the video x CPM (cost per thousand impressions). YouTubers typically retain about 30-50% of the advertising revenue, with the remainder going to the channel owner. Additionally, YouTubers earn income from product reviews or serving as brand ambassadors for various brands.

 

Calculating YouTuber income shows that views are crucial, as they serve as a stepping stone to becoming an influencer, which is a significant income channel for YouTubers. The amount earned depends on the number of subscribers, the popularity of the YouTuber, and the likes, shares, and comments on their videos, with earnings ranging from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands per video.

 

  • Manpower Identifies Popular Careers in the Disrupted Business Era 

Previously, Manpower Group, as a leading global labor market consultant and innovator, ranked occupations based on survey results, with freelance professions topping the list at 12.76%. This includes full-time workers seeking side jobs to supplement their income during the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the past four months, many organizations have adapted to work-from-home models, allowing for the allocation of time for freelance work that utilizes skills and knowledge to create opportunities and income simultaneously.

The second group consists of logistics, supply chain, and delivery professions, accounting for 10.32%, which have seen significant growth, especially in supporting online shopping or e-commerce, a result of lockdowns that restricted access to stores and shopping malls in many areas to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The third group includes jobs requiring foreign languages, accounting for 10.29%, particularly in languages such as English, Chinese, and Japanese. The fourth group comprises online trading or e-commerce professions, while the fifth group relates to lifestyle services for people staying at home, especially home service jobs (Service at home), such as home repairs, haircuts, fitness-related businesses, pet services, and various conveniences.

 

SOURCE : www.bangkokbiznews.com