Amitabh Sharma

Change is the only constant, it is said, and with the world shrinking to a global village the job market is no exception to this metamorphosis. Whether one is starting off or looking for a change, the liberalized economies have thrown open numerous avenues and vocations.

There has also been a shift in the job profiles, it is no longer a taboo if someone wants to be a fashion designer, or is not frowned upon if one wants to take up fine arts as a career path.

The key driver for this change has been Information Technology (IT) and IT Enabled Services (ITES). From technology jobs as programmers to outsourcing of voice and data services from the US and Europe; the demand for professionals in this field is reaching the stratosphere.

It is estimated that the number of jobs in the IT and ITES are going to see a steady increase in the next five years. Jamaica has already started marketing itself as a preferred IT destination, banking on the large base of skilled professionals, a substantial English speaking population and proximity to the US; this is making both the job seekers and HR consultants going gung-ho.

On the horizon:
The job market in the Caribbean is on the upswing, according to the experts and industry sources; they predict that the overall job market is set to grow manifolds in the coming years.
An overview of some of the emerging sectors, which are likely to increase their head-count in the coming years:

Real Estate, Construction: The boom in construction activity has brightened the prospects real estate and construction. In recent years, this profession has got a major boost with the growth of economy and a large amount of construction work being undertaken throughout. It is attracting the best talent in the country.

Retailing and Lifestyle: This sector offers careers to college students and what are known as '$10 dollar a day' jobs. They include counter sales in retail outfits, food delivery, stylists and interior decorators, merchandising, wedding planners etc.

Personal Financial Advisors: The changing face of banking has opened up avenues for associated services, which is fuelling a demand for financial advisors. Persons in this capacity are required to sell everything from mutual funds, insurance policies, loan products, investment products and portfolio management ideas.

Tourism and hospitality: The Caribbean has been a preferred destination for those who want to bathe in pristine waters, laze in the warm tropical sun, and enjoy sandy beaches. The upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup is giving the region to showcase itself as tourist destination. As the host countries gear up to meet the traffic, this sector is likely to throw open demand for professionals in hospitality.

Communications and Public Relations: It is the age of communication; as economies are evolving, there is a need to give the right message to the right audience. Not only corporates - Government departments, education institutions, non-profit organizations are on a look out for quality communicators to sphere head their campaigns.

Entrepreneurship: If your tryst in getting that white collared job is reaching nowhere, it is not the end of the world. You can be your own boss – according to the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor 2005 in Jamaica alone 17% of the adult population were planning or had already established a new business. There is a demand for talent in consulting; maintenance of computer networks, advertising to service and ancillary industries.

Though there are opportunities, but there are some ground rules that incumbents should bear in mind. Firstly, getting a degree is no longer a ticket for getting a job. A job seeker needs to demonstrate knowledge of diverse skill sets, should be well versed with communication skills and have inkling of technology. The corporations are no longer putting their resources to train people for the jobs; they expect to be ‘job ready’ from the word go.

The opportunities exist for those who have the eye to catch them, in the changing time, there is a need to adapt to the needs of the contemporary world, carve a niche and stay ahead.

amitabh.sharma@gleanerjm.com