Strategies, competencies and transitions roles in a digital transformational labour market

Abstract

This paper reviews how work strategies and skills differ in a transformational labour market by describing and discussing findings from a transitional study (2014- ). This initiative arose from a strategy developed by members of the E-skills Observatory of Information-Documentation Sector and teachers from NOVA University on the development of information management and curation competencies in Portugal. The aim of this study is to explore the extent to which librarians consider the actual transformational labour market have already impacted on their professional roles, competencies and individual development. A range of case studies/narratives/stories from professionals provided part of the evidence base for this research. Data was also collected from written documentation at events and focus groups. Thus, we incorporated not only the perspectives of current professional, but also former ones, analyzing early-, mid- and later-career transitions. The findings presented in a model of transitions reflected the importance of training more transferable skills through the life course and strategies of career management (adaptability, positivity, action-taking, networking) that facilitate their transitional process.