A few days ago, my coworker brought her granddaughter into the office for Career Day. She was shadowing her as she moved boxes of clothes throughout the office to be shipped off to potential buyers.
As any middle schooler trapped in an office environment, she looked bored. I’m not sure what her ultimate career interests are, but following in her grandmother’s footsteps is obviously not one.
I stopped and thought about my nephew who is around her age. When I asked him what he wanted to do for a career, he shared his interest in becoming a full-time YouTuber.
I can’t say that I blame the kid. Growing up in a world where toddlers can make millions of dollars from unboxing toys, it’s no wonder how making videos online is a budding career choice.
But what happened to the era of engineers, doctors, and lawyers? Better yet, what will happen to these careers if there is no interest in them?
Who will fill in these gaps in the workplace when the eyes of our youth are focused on Internet fame and riches?
Making money online is absolutely great. It’s how I bring in additional income. But how will society progress without interest in these core careers?
The pressure isn’t any better for adults. We may not have grown up with our peers being internet celebrities; however, there is a huge push for us to ditch corporate for entrepreneurship.
When people are making $30,000 on Etsy part-time, it can make you rethink your career choice. Who doesn’t want a less strenuous job that can replace their income and allow them to work from home?
I can only hope that some young girl or boy is inspired to fill in the gaps for much-needed careers.
Is the workforce in trouble? Let me know your thoughts.
