ABSTRACT
It is difficult to think of an element of the social context which does not have implications for, or is unconnected from, working life and careers. This context is a changing one, and the rapidity of change is becoming central to our thinking about the role of guidance. The writing about careers, and hence guidance, is increasingly dominated by images of disorder and unpredictability, as if the direction and speed of history have become overwhelming in their consequences for individuals and their families. We shall first consider some of the sources of change in the organisation of work and the character of labour markets. We shall then look at some of the main implications for organisations and careers, and conclude by examining their implications for guidance.
