The nature of work is changing according to the 2017 Job Skills Training and Career Development Survey, and that leaves some worried. University of Houston career development specialist Helen Godfrey said things have changed in the work world.
“Back in the day, it used be a career ladder. And, now, it’s like a career rock climbing wall, where sometimes we have to step back in our career to go forward,” said Godfrey.
While we might have the skills, the survey reports people are worried about their work future if they lack supervisor support. Godfrey said there's a difference with your supervisor being against you, or just being passive. Employees now have to be the ones to look for their own career opportunities.
She said don't think your supervisor is looking out for you, or even knows your real interests.
And, men and women view opportunities differently. Godfrey said women are not as likely to speak up for themselves.
“Men, according to Fortune.com are three times more likely to even ask for a higher salary than women. So, it’s really changing that narrative for women,” said Godfrey. “As the say goes, if you don’t ask, the answer is no.”
Godfrey recommends "Lean-In" by Sheryl Sandberg as well as the Lean-In groups which are available nationwide for women.