Low unemployment, a rise in concern over how technology is shaping the future of work, and a series of movements giving power to the people are among the top trends shaping workplaces everywhere. Glassdoor's annual Job Market Trends Report dives into the job market impacts that defined 2018 -- from the proliferation of AI to hiring campaigns that shaped local economies -- and workplace trends expected to hit in 2019 and beyond. The report was developed by Glassdoor, a recruiting company well known for delivering workplace transparency throughout the world, and its leading Economic Research team.

"After nine years of steady growth, 2018 saw one of the strongest job markets in a generation. However, the world of work is forever changing. We're witnessing a power shift as job seekers leverage their market position and employees make an impact with their voice. Plus, as technology matures, it's changing how we work and the variety of jobs available," said Glassdoor Chief Economist Dr. Andrew Chamberlain. "Our annual Job Market Trends report looks into the highs and lows of 2018, and studies what is likely to disrupt the workforce in the year ahead."

Five Job Market Trends for 2019

Growing data pools will mean new job search methods: Machine learning is changing the way job seekers discover relevant jobs. No longer will it be about a blast of online jobs but instead a more custom and personalized experience. The Glassdoor trends report evaluates the risks and upsides this new method will entail.

Demand for non-tech workers will increase: As the tech industry matures, employers will look to hire robust sales and marketing teams to transform technology into revenue. Glassdoor research shows this trend is well underway. In 2018, nearly half (43 percent) of all open jobs at tech employers on Glassdoor were for non-technical roles. The new report sheds light on what non-tech jobs are most sought after, what's causing the rise in non-tech jobs, and what companies in non-tech industries must do to compete.

Aging workforce likely to mean talent shortages: The existing challenges of finding top talent today are unlikely to improve soon. For the first time in U.S. history, there will likely be more retirees in America than children under age 18 by 2035, U.S. Census shows. Glassdoor Economic Research digs into how an aging workforce will impact companies' future productivity and hiring needs.

Job seekers and employers brace for recession: What will a recession mean for employers and hiring, and what are the signs of a coming downturn? The report gives insight on signs to watch, such as activity from the Federal Reserve, treasury bonds and the housing market.

Diversity and inclusion efforts must walk the talk: In the year ahead, Glassdoor Economic Research highlights the need to address systemic corporate cultural problems that make workplaces unappealing to women and underrepresented minority groups in the first place. The report discusses needed investments in workforce diversity programs that have a lasting impact and foster an environment in which employees feel a strong sense of belonging.

Five Job Market Trends of 2018

Artificial Intelligence is a friend, not foe: There is a growing research consensus that AI is helping people do their jobs better. More roles today involve teaming up with automation -- handing over routine tasks to AI tools while workers focus on the more "human," and potentially more valuable, aspects of their jobs. The Glassdoor Job Market Trends report sheds light on how AI is commonly being used in workplaces today, what companies are investing in AI and the potential looming shortage in workers who specialize in AI-related areas.

More women taking leadership positions: More women are taking the reins in positions of executive power -- whether in politics, the boardroom or the C-Suite. However, as countless research reports show, there's more room to grow. The Glassdoor Job Market Trends report provides perspective on key moves by women in 2018 and the current state of women in the workplace overall.

Data privacy concerns on the rise: While consumers have long had concerns over data privacy, employees may be the next concerned group as employers collect more detailed data than ever. The Glassdoor Economic Research team sheds light on the types of data employers are collecting, how they're looking to utilize the data, as well as the risks and benefits surrounding this type of data collection.

Gig economy smaller than once expected: Approximately 1 percent of total employment in the U.S. is due to the gig economy, which is known for short-term contracts and freelance work arrangements. The Glassdoor Job Market Trends report evaluates why the gig economy fell short of expectations and what type of work comprises the gig economy today.

Amazon proves talent local matters: As Amazon looked to expand its operations in 2018 by announcing a second headquarter (or two), it all came down to its ability to hire and hire quickly. In a study on the location of the U.S. labor force, Glassdoor found that more than 70 percent of job applications are for jobs in the same metro area as an applicant's residence. Both recent business news and the Glassdoor Job Market Trends report demonstrate how important both the local talent pool and surrounding amenities are in building a healthy business.