No, this week blog is not meant or should be viewed as an episode of the 1970’s originated television game show, “Family Feud”. But, the catch phrase made famous by game show host Richard Dawson, who would belt out “and the survey says” rings true in the ear of this week’s blog. As a television trivia side note – Richard Dawson (born Colin Lionel Emm in 1932 London, England) made his original mark in acting as the lovable British Corporal “Peter Newkirk” in the 1960’s series Hogan’s Heros. Bet you did know that – if you under 45 years old!
“And the survey says” theme of this blog is centered on some very interesting published survey results regarding HTM professional’s and their demographics that have surfaced recently in some media journals as well documented in the National Labor Statistics. Now, I will not in this week’s blog be speaking around the theme of compensation – the results published are subjective and have too many variables in there “assumptions” to be referenced as a market standard. Where I will be focused will be on education, work distribution and the most concerning data point – an aging HTM work force!
The education piece is not surprising and directly correlates to the aging work force statistic. Indications are that 2/3 of the existing HTM work force are not pursuing higher education and I will assume this means undergraduate studies up to the bachelor level. In today’s society, any individual under the age of 35 without a bachelor’s degree will be challenged in moving up the career ladder of their profession and is some cases may not even make the applicant pool for consideration! If you are in this age range, be concerned and reevaluate your career ladder desires. It’s never too late but harder as you get older in obtaining that bachelor level degree. Time is not your friend!
Work distribution was another interesting result but again not surprising. I mean, how many colleagues do you hear share their moan “I am over worked – I have too much on my plate”? Is it they are “over worked” or “have too many assignments”? Maybe they really need to assess and prioritize their work plan first? I know, you are perceiving me as being harsh here but my thoughts have always been to figure out how to accomplish the work presented – not complain about!
And lastly, the age thing. Yes, we have a very aged workforce! The HTM industry has long been plagued in not being able to attract “the next generation” – those in their early 20’s. The reason is unfortunately simple, we as an industry have still not educated the high school level (its teachers/counselors, parents and students) or the public as to this great profession. This imbalance is a serious one and is the weakest pillar that if not addressed soon will bring the HTM service profession house down!