The Forces Shaping the Future of Work

Since the pandemic the nature of work has changed significantly. Parts of the workforce have stuck with remote or hybrid models, and employers have embraced new automation technologies. In addition, the emergence of generative AI has extended the possibilities for automation to a much wider set of occupations.

Tobias Thaning

Community Director


According to a McKinsey Institute Report from July 2023, this development means that workers change jobs at a high pace, and millions of occupational shifts have taken place throughout the last couple of years with even more shifts to come heading towards 2030.
We will see that job growth will be more concentrated in high-skill jobs, while middle- and low-skill jobs will decline.

Typically, we see three categories which will change the composition of labor demand in the long run:

  1. Generative AI & automation

  2. Net zero transition

  3. Technology, e-commerce and remote work

Generative AI

The effect of generative AI on businesses is significant and wide ranging with the potential to transform entire industries. So understanding how to deliver the most value to your industry is key.

Leaders that want to stay relevant need a clear generative AI strategy.

As organizations begin to set gen AI goals, they’re also developing the need for more gen AI–literate workers. As generative and other applied AI tools begin delivering value to early adopters, the gap between supply and demand for skilled workers remains wide. Source: McKinsey Technology Trends Outlook 2023

At the bottom of the page we have listed a number of programs seeking to provide leaders with the understanding of forces reshaping business and society - and with insights and perspectives that enhance the managerial tool box when responding to changes.

Recommended reads

Generative AI and the future of work in America
Which jobs will be in demand? Which ones are shrinking? And which ones could be hardest to fill? Read report

The Fearless Organization
By Amy C. Edmonson
The Fearless Organization: Creating Psychological Safety in the Workplace for Learning, Innovation, and Growth offers practical guidance for teams and organizations who are serious about success in the modern economy. With so much riding on innovation, creativity, and spark, it is essential to attract and retain quality talent - but what good does this talent do if no one is able to speak their mind?
Learn more.

Get the Latest Information

Sign-up, and get the latest news from the CBS Executive Foundation with inspiration for your and your company's next training course