The Nature of Work

The COVID-19 pandemic is changing the world of work, accelerating trends that have been percolating for years, such as remote work and increased use of automation and artificial intelligence. As offices and workplaces closed due to the pandemic this spring, working from home became the new normal for many white-collar workers. Some employers have said remote work will be a big part of the future for their employees. Others, such as those working at grocery stores, meatpacking plants or Amazon warehouses, are considered essential workers and continue to go into workplaces, often at considerable risk, although many companies have implemented measures aimed at keeping them safe. However, the pandemic has left millions of Americans unemployed, especially those in occupations that do not accommodate remote work or whose companies cut staff or went out of business. After peaking at a modern high of 14.7 percent in April, the unemployment rate has gradually declined. But it is unclear when — or if — all of those who have lost their jobs will find new ones.