Ran into a projection of occupantions predicted to lose jobs over the next 10 years. Don't have the link. As I recall, data entry types, secretaries, and (personal/executive) assistants were big losers.
My guess is that's continuing a trend as the impact of computing and the internet affects office work. As we develop systems online more of the data entry is outsourced to the user, the customers. Even IRS may be moving in that direction. And the secretary/assistant category likely reflects moving work from "auxiliaries" to their "principals", both a move from formal communications (letters with multiple copies) to informal (email and texts with electronic copies) and the increased capabilities of software. Bottom line: people believe it's faster and more efficient to do their own email than to have an auxiliary do it; easier to arrange their own travel; easier to be available for texts and calls on cellphones with software tools for screening than to rely on human screeners.
There might also be a decline in the value of "servants" (which after all is what secretaries and assistants are) in signalling status. We don't notice it, but I think there may be a decline in the number of chauffeurs, butlers, chefs the rich have these days, at least compared to the very rich. There may be an exception for entertainers, like athletes and movie stars. The premium on the physical, both fitness and appearance, means it's worth paying for personal trainers, hairdressers, etc.
No comments:
Post a Comment