Knowledge work as a key to sustainable development

Ural State University of Economics, Yekaterinburg, Russia

Abstract

The article considers the trend for growing number of knowledge workers in the western world and worldwide. Statistics on “white collar” jobs and jobs with “white-collar” tasks prove that in the near future two thirds of all jobs will be associated with the factor “knowledge”. With the respect to the current economic situation in Russia, when new industries should develop and the demand for “blue collars” is significant, it is stated that knowledge work is still required especially for organizing and ruling technological processes in the country. Digitalization led to changes in jobs structures and the necessity of transformations in talent management systems with the focus on attracting and retaining high potential human recourses. Current limitations also challenge the national economy which needs innovators to overcome difficulties and develop sustainably. In this aspect, increasing trend for knowledge work globally correlates with the national demand for talented knowledge workers whose contribution to economic transformation can play a crucial part in further sustainability of national economy.