Who would have ever thought of, that people around the world shall be asked to stop almost everything they do outside and stay at home? Bill Gates probably, with his prediction years ago.
Most of us were affected directly and indirectly. We are again experiencing global economic meltdown since over a decade ago. I see this as might be the start of the end of employment as predicted before.
What’s going to happen? That’s the most asked question these days and no one can really predict but only assume. Who would have thought of the Matrix movie might become a reality. Virtual reality technology I would assume shall grow beyond this pandemic.
I’ve been thankful that Hilsoft team adopted telecommuting mid last year and we were able to fine-tune our work from home policies. We’ve never been this productive.
But like most of you, I have been contemplating these past days on what to do after this lockdown. Shall my business survive? Should I look for another career or industry to work for?
That motivated me to do some research on which businesses or jobs shall continue to grow during this pandemic and beyond.
Health and Wellness
There has been some growth in home exercise programs, fitness equipment, yoga, supplements, hygienic products, and cleaning materials since this started.
If you are passionate about working out or yoga, maybe you can devise your exercise program and share it online to start building your brand.
Build your online network and look for people who distribute fitness equipment, supplements, cleaning materials and start selling online. Target customers who are also active during these days such as home and delivery services for cleaning materials for example.
Food and Groceries
Food enthusiasts should start innovating and tell their stories online to establish a brand. Try making a unique menu and offer them to small businesses who already deliver. Virtual kitchens have been already emerging even before this.
Home Services and Delivery
We’ve seen a spurt of growth in employment by these delivery and home service companies such as My Kuya, Grab, Food Panda, etc. You may start doing this service for your local community at first.
Offer haircut, home cleaning, carpentry, etc. though it’s a bit tricky due to social distancing, but maybe after the quarantine period.
Online Education
This is the perfect time to learn something especially those who are out of jobs. Learn something new. If you are an expert on a certain topic, start your blog or vlog and give free lessons. Monetize it by offering a premium fee on advanced lessons.
Entertainment and Gaming
I believe this industry is one of the prospering ones at this time and they are also hiring. If you wish to look for employment, then this is a good bet as they also offer work from home packages.
Technology
Aside from Zoom and remote tools, I see a great opportunity for cybersecurity services especially now that employees are virtual and sensitive data must be extra secure. Telecommunications companies should also be very active with more demand for digital data and the upcoming 5G. You may also try to look for job openings here.
Small businesses may now be more aware of digital transformation such as launching their websites, eCommerce and online payments. Check payments at this time in the country may now start to decline and adopt fund transfers.
Virtual reality? I am not sure but I think this will eventually be the future.
If you’re a tech person or a programmer, explore learning new technologies, platforms such as the above and either make it your own business or apply to these technology companies.
Digital Marketing
For aspiring artists or writers, this is your opportunity to start your career in digital marketing. Focus on offering your service to the industries above.
As quoted by Ray Dalio, author of Principles: Life and Work “Embrace reality and deal with it.” “Even the richest people feel short of the money they need to do the things they want to do.”
This is a global reboot. For those of us who complain or made mistakes in the past, take this as our 2nd chance. Doing nothing after this, is really on you.