GLOBALIZATION-COMING TO TERMS WITH FOREIGN COMPETITION

As the tentacles of globalization slowly but surely spread to every corner of the globe, economic and political awareness is critical for survival. Born in the 1950s, Robert Trigaux was privy to the earliest global developments. It was then that cars and electronics from southeast Asian countries began to appear on the U.S. market for consumption. Trigaux is now a business columnist for the St. Petersburg Times. He has a degree in economics and has covered business in Florida, Washington, DC, London and New York for the last 30 years. His focus on business trends and his extensive knowledge of current global forces have cultivated a unique and well-informed perspective—one that would benefit college graduates about to enter the work force.

Trigaux advices students to: “First, be very glad you are a college graduate because the alternative is a much more difficult lifestyle of low-wage jobs and struggle. Second, make sure you are very good at what you study and have developed the critical thinking skills that will let you solve many problems. Third, many jobs will grow increasingly competitive as you fight for work not just against other U.S. college students but other young educated people worldwide. Fourth, take a more global perspective in what you plan to do.” He acknowledges the bigger sacrifices that third-world countries are making in order to educate their populations. The United States is heading in the opposite direction, as illustrated by Hawaii's recent educational cuts.

The meat and potatoes of the U.S. educational system has been swept away with budget cuts and leaves slim possibility for job placement in any area other than the service industry. Higher education is not just a commodity but a necessity in obtaining a future. Trigaux's position as a columnist grants him the ability to see the positive and negative effects on all parties involved within the new global economic framework. The loss of jobs in this country ultimately equates a better standard of living for those in poorer countries. When asked if an increase in jobs in the United States is in the foreseeable future, Trigaux believes that: “Near term, things will get worse, just as the Florida unemployment rate just hit 11 percent and may rise to 12 percent. Later, the job market will improve but some types of jobs will be in more demand than others. Not everyone needs to study engineering and math, but everyone should have excellent computer skills and know how to analyze and mine data—even journalists or lawyers or even artists.”

Trigaux's emphasis on adopting a competitive nature is derived from his knowledge and experience in the business realm. As a business columnist, he has first-hand information on the financial undulations caused by this new global economic model. He urges students to “learn to be flexible” and to “stay nimble.” He advocates the importance of adaptation and a powerful work ethic. Further education and experience will attract future employers and is a necessity in staying 'in the game'. He further advises, “Learn how to work well together with others because work will increasingly be accomplished in groups.” Staying on top of current affairs, reading extensively and comprehending the complexity of the new economic system is “the responsibility of any informed, educated person.”

Globalization has changed the rules for everyone. The days of apprenticeships and family-run businesses are numbered. Those entering the job market will have to sharpen their skills and learn to be flexible. Honing one's expertise will be even more necessary in achieving and maintaining success. As media portrayal of globalization merely skims the surface of a most complex issue, turning to those in the field will be more beneficial to the graduates about to enter the job market. Trigaux has been a first-hand witness to the changes that have beset the nation and the world. His research, knowledge and unique position as a business columnist give much weight to his words. As the competition heats up, good advice will be worth more than the dollar.