This article highlights "Workforce 2005", some of the things we have to look forward to in the next four years and some tips to be a survivor in the new millenium.

Task is the boss.

It is the project at hand, not your job title that defines your work. Many experts predict that pay for performance will be the trend, and workers will be assigned to cross-functional teams to satisfy both internal and external customers.

Communication will become even more important as will the ability to use technology to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines. Prepare by enhancing your time management skills and by becoming more comfortable dealing with a lot different people on teams.

Your Technological Skill is ever more important.

Technology is becoming more pervasive and is changing faster and faster. Take a step outside your comfort zone and take advantage of learning opportunities. Be sure to keep with the new technology as much as you can.

Seniors are the number one group of new computer users in the nation, and who are they learning from? Their grandkids!

Old jobs die, new positions emerge

As a result of changing technology and workers' desire for work-life balance, workers will have an average of 8.6 jobs in their lifetimes. The retirement age for most becoming older as more and more of boomers will keep working past retirement age, many out of necessity.

Be sure to keep your eyes open for things you would like to do. Stay politically realistic about the value of your current position to your company. Is it growing? Changing? Do you resist, or are you changing with it? Is it being phased out? Are you prepared with a new skill?

People Skills define your success.

A successful American worker needs good problem-solving skills, diplomacy, strong ethics, open-mindedness, and the ability to persuade others. They need to continue assessing their own skills with regard to communication and constantly improve. The more you learn about people and their differences, cultures, and their unique ways and styles to get what they want, the better off you will be.

Employer-Employee Relationship continues to change.

Previously, careers were controlled by the employer and your supervisor determined a lot of your success. Employees are beginning to take a more selective role in the paths their careers take. The generations born after 1975 are comfortable with this approach, but baby-boomers may find it a bit daunting to negotiate rather than sit back and wait for an opportunity.

Job Titles of the Future:

Life-Balance Consultant
Staffing Strategist
Mentoring Director
Creator of Culture
Director of Wellness
Catering Director
Web Support
Desktop Publisher
Career Coach
Fitness Manager