Will Brexit affect my future job prospects?

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Understanding Brexit and the Implications on Future Job Prospects

In June 2016, the United Kingdom made a monumental decision to leave the European Union, a move popularly known as Brexit. This decision was finalised on January 31, 2020, marking the start of a new era for the UK's economic, social, and political landscapes. If you're in your teenage years, understanding the possible implications of Brexit on your future career prospects is crucial. Brexit essentially means that the UK no longer adheres to the EU's rules and negotiations had to be made on various aspects, including trade, immigration, and employment laws. This has brought both challenges and opportunities depending on which sector you look at. For young individuals contemplating their future careers, this poses a number of questions and considerations.

How Brexit Impacts Various Industries

The impact of Brexit on job opportunities varies by sector. Some industries, like technology and finance, may experience different forms of disruption and opportunity as a result of regulatory changes and market changes. Here's a closer look at a few key sectors:

• Finance: London has traditionally been seen as the financial hub of Europe. With Brexit, some financial services have considered relocating parts of their operations to other EU countries to retain access to the single market. This could potentially mean fewer opportunities in this sector within the UK.
• Technology: The UK tech industry, particularly in areas like FinTech, might face challenges such as reduced access to European markets and talent. However, the government might launch new initiatives to retain its global tech status.
• Manufacturing: Industries reliant on frictionless trade with EU countries could face challenges due to new trade barriers. However, domestic manufacturing might see growth due to new trade agreements with other countries.
• Agriculture: This sector has traditionally depended heavily on EU workers, and changes in immigration laws might create labour shortages. However, there might be increased support and subsidies as the UK reshapes its agricultural policy.

The real impact will greatly depend on the post-Brexit policies adopted by the UK government across these sectors.

What This Means for Your Career

For young individuals making career choices, the evolving economic landscape post-Brexit brings both potential challenges and opportunities. Selecting a career path in a potentially unstable post-Brexit economy might seem daunting, but it's also a chance to adapt to the changes and find niches that could expand in the new economic conditions.

Strategies to Minimise the Impact of Brexit on Your Career

As Brexit reshapes the job market, here are practical strategies to help mitigate its impact on your career prospects:

• Focus on Skill Development: Equip yourself with a broad range of skills, particularly in digital literacy, critical thinking, and communication, which are valued across multiple sectors.
• Consider Emerging Sectors: Look into sectors that may expand post-Brexit, such as digital marketing, cybersecurity, environmental sciences, and healthcare.
• Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with how Brexit is impacting your chosen industry through news sources, professional blogs, and sector-specific publications.
• Expand Your Horizons: Consider gaining work experience through internships or part-time roles, which could prove invaluable in a competitive job market.
• Network: Build connections within your desired industry through online platforms like LinkedIn, and consider joining relevant clubs, societies, or professional bodies.
• Explore Education and Training: Continuous learning and specialised training can enhance your qualifications and make you a more attractive candidate in a post-Brexit world.
• Look Beyond Borders: While Brexit changes the relationship between the UK and EU, it also opens potential new partnerships with other global markets. Understanding global economies can be beneficial.

While the full effects of Brexit are unfolding gradually, being proactive in developing your career strategy can place you in a strong position to navigate through uncertainties and tap into new opportunities.

Conclusion

Brexit represents a significant shift in the UK's political and economic relations with the world. For teenagers today, this change will define much of their professional landscape. By understanding the potential challenges and opportunities, actively developing relevant skills, and staying adaptable to changes, young people can navigate their way towards successful and fulfilling careers in a post-Brexit UK, or indeed outside of it.

How are you feeling?

It is really important that when we need help, we feel able to ask for it. This could be speaking to a parent, a close friend, a teacher or someone else you trust. Sometimes it can be really hard to share our feelings with other people but if we are feeling low or don't know where to turn, sharing with others is really important. Teachers will always take you seriously and listen to your problems in confidence if you approach them for help. Likewise, parents, siblings or friends will help you if you reach out to them.

If you feel like you can't speak to anyone you know, there are people and organisations that can help support you:

• Childline - Call them on 0800 1111 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
• NSPCC - Call them on 0808 800 5000 between 10am and 4pm Monday to Friday or email them on help@NSPCC.org.uk
• The Samaritans – Call them on 116 123 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
• SANE – Call 0300 304 7000 for support (4:30pm - 10:30pm every day)
• Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (9:00am - 6:00pm Monday to Friday)

*Sometimes we will use real life examples in our articles to aid understanding. When we do, names and ages will be changed.