The Great Reshuffle

UNSW Philosophy Professor Timothy O’Leary says the pandemic has forced us to consider what is essential. For many, it turns out, this includes meaningful work. But ‘meaningful work’ will mean different things to different people, says Prof. O’Leary. For example, it might mean less time spent working and more time spent with your family for a better work-life balance or flexible work arrangements that allow remote work or hybrid work. Or it might mean working for a non-profit organisation that’s leading the fight against climate change.

Alternatively, you may want to change the world for the better, starting with changing your industry. You can build leadership skills that influence employee well-being through company culture and policies; attract and mentor staff who match your values; and redirect company time, money and energy towards initiatives you want to see.

This kind of change is possible in any industry, with leadership upskilling options available at a range of UNSW faculties; you can cover the medical industry and business in general or, if you’re interested in making a meaningful change on a social scale, you could develop your impact in politics or law.

The 2021 LinkedIn Talent Market Drivers identified the most in-demand roles in Australia as teachers, account executives and account managers.

Teachers
An unforgettable teacher will light a fire for knowledge within you and provide the guidance that supports you to become who you are today. If you like the idea of re-skilling to nurture young minds, influence leaders of the future through sharing your passions, and yes, take regular long holidays, explore our postgraduate education qualifications.

Account executives and managers
Businesses employ in-house or agency-based account executives and managers to produce creative solutions to business problems. If you like the idea of developing your ability to understand clients and their markets, analysing problems, and seeing your creative ideas come to fruition, explore our postgraduate advertising and marketing programs.

According to LinkedIn, 85% of the jobs that will exist in 2030 don’t exist now, and 50% of employees will need re-skilling by 2025. 16% of Australian workers say that their growing priority when choosing a company is that it offers employee training. Does your company provide training that is important to you?

While you might be interested in specifically focusing on degrees that can upskill you with advanced technologies in areas such as data, engineering or science, you can prepare for future jobs in any industry. With a focus on critical thinking and creativity, postgraduate degrees at UNSW build upon your existing knowledge and strengthen your ability to find opportunities in disruption and change.

If your goals this year included a career recharge, job switch or career development, then now is the time to consider your study options. Whether you’re looking to accelerate your career growth or change direction altogether with a new job, investing in your education is one of the most effective tools for unlocking new career opportunities.