Evolution of the labor market and competency requirements in industry 4.0 versus the Covid-19 pandemic

Abstract

Purpose: In the run-up to the disruptions to the economic closure due to the dangers of a global pandemic, the labor market situation developed to the benefit of jobseekers. Thus, 2019 was assessed as the employee market. However, changes in the labor market take place in real time and, as it turns out, meeting them is not only difficult due to the reaction time, but above all due to their intensity. The aim of the article is to present changes in the labor market caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus pandemic in relation to the evolution of individual sectors towards economy 4.0. Design/Methodology/Approach: To achieve the main goal of the article, theoretical literature review was chosen, in particular argumentative review, which could introduce problems, but certainly constitute the introduction to in-depth research, also empirical. Findings: The article consists of 3 parts. In the first of them, the theoretical definition of the category of competences was made - which is an introduction to considerations of a utilitarian nature. The second part defines what types of competences accompanied the classical labor market. The third part focuses on identifying possible directions of employee competency development, including defining the range of necessary competences resulting from a) the need to adapt to market changes as a result of the pandemic, and b) the evolution of individual sectors towards the 4.0 economy. Practical Implications: They focus on highlighting significant changes that have already begun in the labor market, and the consequences of which will be long-term. These changes relate to the competency requirements of employees of various industries, and thus the phasing out of those sectors of activity that will no longer be crucial for civilization in the future. The forecasts contained in the study are speculative, but nevertheless result from the observation of historical and contemporary changes, in terms of organizations and world economies. Originality/value: In the article we propose an original set of competencies, which are crucial for the emerging new professions that respond to Industry 4.0 and which have been catalyzed by the global SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.