The Future of Work

The forces that are shaping the future of employment are examined in this new book. The author presents a cohesive argument for a fundamental change in attitudes to work, both from policymakers and employers if we are to create a healthier society capable of meeting the expectations and concerns of a developing economy.

'Richard Donkin's book on the history of work managed to be both groundbreaking and universally admired - it is a neat development that he has now turned his attention to the future of work. No one is better suited to steer managers and workers to a realistic view of the future and he does so with all his usual insight, readability and fair-mindedness.' - Will Hutton, Executive Vice-Chair, The Work Foundation

'Donkin's purpose in writing this book is to "make sense of work." He does so, and does it so masterfully and comprehensively that I can compare it only to the writings of the three giants of the last century: Veblen, Berle and Means, and Daniel Bell, who tackled the same issue. What I have to say about this extraordinary book will sound like a cliche but until someone invents a better phrase than "instant classic," I suppose that will have to do.' - Warren Bennis, University Professor, University of Southern California and author of On Becoming a Leader.

'Few journalists in the world are as insightful or as knowledgeable as Richard Donkin on a question that matters to us all how the world of work is changing for us, and for our children.' - Robert Peston, Business Editor, BBC

'Donkin orchestrates an in-depth look at one of the world's and businesses' next challenging milestones - the intersection of technology, work, culture and human nature. He does an excellent job of balancing his own personal experiences with the philosophy and history of work, and his insight into how we view ourselves, our jobs and our role in world is enlightening, entertaining and futuristic. Donkin brings to the table a deep understanding that today's technologies will help to usher in new, more intelligent management processes to link people and their management teams to success.' - Lars Dalgaard, Founder and CEO of SuccessFactors, 2007 and 2008's Fast Growing Publicly Traded Software Company

'Richard has written one of the best histories of work and now repeats the trick looking forward at the future of work. Separating popular myths and dogma from the truly transforming trends in the workplace, he ably reveals what is, will and should be happening at work in response to key environmental, social and business changes. Essential reading for executives with any responsibility for people in work and for all those of us trying to plot our own way successfully through this shifting employment landscape.' - Duncan Brown, Director, HR Business Development, IES

"Richard Donkin has written a serious book on the subject of work...It is an incredibly important topic, and this is a thoughtful and worth-while contribution.' - Management Today

'Donkin presents a cohesive argument for policy reform...' - Finance& Management Faculty

'Richard Donkin is a humane, thoughtful writer who has spent years considering the changing shape of work.' - Financial Times

RICHARD DONKIN is one of the UK's leading thinkers on employment. For fourteen years he wrote a weekly column on work and employment in the Financial Times that became required reading for human resources professionals and recruiters. Today he works as an author, commentator and presenter on management and employment issues. Alongside regular commitments, that include a monthly column for Human Resources Magazine, he writes on travel, fishing and sailing. Donkin undertakes regular speaking engagements and consultancy work. He is a former adviser to the Future Employment Working Group of the Recruitment and Employment Confederation and an honorary visiting fellow in the faculty of Management at Cass Business School. Donkin is the author of the widely acclaimed book 'Blood Sweat and Tears - The Evolution of Work'.