After years of a buoyant economy and tight labor market, the business tides might be turning. Fears among economists and business leaders range from global recession to mere stagnation. Nearly one-third of CEOs are projecting a decline in global economic growth—a record-breaking jump in pessimism over last year's mere 5 percent, according to PwC's 22nd Annual Global CEO Survey.
Yet project professionals needn't lose hope. While a downturn may put a damper on hiring, opportunities still exist. Businesses have learned that emerging from the slump stronger than competitors requires projects and project teams that can streamline operations and bolster efficiencies—plus, organizations must continue to invest in innovative initiatives. For instance, 85 percent of CEOs believe that artificial intelligence (AI) will significantly change the way they do business in the next five years, according to PwC's survey. Similarly, executive search consultants ranked “actualizing digital transformation” as the top business issue for organizations across sectors, according to AESC's Executive Talent Outlook 2019.
There's no question that organizations will need project professionals to make these future-facing goals a reality.
Here's what it will take in key sectors to make a career move or get promoted:
TelecomFinancial Services
Energy
Healthcare
IT
Construction