In the past two years, pretty much every job in the United State has changed in some way. From remote work to frontline workers, we have seen massive changes in the workplace and workforce.

What does this mean going forward? Following, discover 4 key ways Covid has altered workplace trends throughout the United States.

Remote work is here to stay. When companies had to quickly scramble to implement remote work policies, not everyone was sure how it would affect productivity and profitability. Remote work, however, has been a success and something that workers now expect. Interestingly, about 20 percent of professional jobs are now remote—a significant leap from pre-pandemic days, according to The Ladders’ latest work report. Millions of jobs are now at-home for good.
Entrepreneurs are us. Self-employment is more plausible than ever, thanks to a steady uptick in entrepreneurial activity over the past two-plus years. More and more adults are realizing their dreams of starting their own business, running their own company and following through on long-time dreams. Technology makes it easier than ever to launch and run a business, both in person and online.
Contract and freelance opportunities abound. Gig worker? You’ll find opportunities galore, thanks to an ongoing shift to contract, freelance and short-term work assignments that kicked off along with the Covid-19 pandemic. Whether you are picking up extra work to save for the future or prefer the flexibility of gig work, contract work offers the chance to try new fields and industries while continuing to grow your resume. Neither workplace nor employee needs to make the full-time commitment—unless the time is right—because of widespread contract and freelance opportunities. One major caveat: These positions do not come with benefits or retirement income.
Back to the books. If you’ve always wanted to return to school for an additional degree or simply love learning new things, the pandemic sprouted a variety of affordable, part-time and online education options. You can update your skills and knowledge base, learn at your own pace and perhaps find a new passion through the beauty of flexible education.

What other workplace and workforce trends are here to stay in the wake of the pandemic? In addition to job changes, the industry will see more flexible arrangements and new opportunities for workers of all ages.