I’ve been avoiding this topic for more than a year, but I think it’s time to recognize the elephant in the room. The gap between the “haves” and the “have nots” is getting larger, and I don’t see this changing anytime soon. The number of jobs for the middle class is shrinking while the number of jobs in the service sector is growing. I’ll leave it to someone else to offer a political perspective on this topic; I’m more interested in how it affects our efforts to find a decent job and improve our quality of life.

I have empathy for the younger generation, which is trying to maintain the same standard of living that my generation enjoyed. It is demoralizing, but more people are fighting over fewer good jobs. True, the unemployment numbers are shrinking, but the average family income also is shrinking. The number of young adults moving back in with mom and dad continues to grow because they don’t earn enough for a decent apartment and buying a house is out of the question. Is this just a phase we’re going through? Will things get better as the economy improves?

If you listen to the long list of people running for president, they all tell us they can do better, but I’m not buying it. My research suggests that technical advancements will continue to increase automation and the number of jobs for the middle class will not grow any time soon. Careers for those with the right technical skills will prosper, but any significant growth will be in the service sector. That means the circumstances for the “have nots” isn’t going to improve.

I don’t see a simple solution to this complex problem, but I do have a few suggestions to help you survive what will be a challenging job market for the foreseeable future.

If technology isn’t your thing, then seriously look at the trades. We make fun of how hard it is to find a qualified plumber, but maybe there’s a subtle message we’re missing. Mike Rowe, the host of “Dirty Jobs,” is a strong advocate. Search for him on YouTube and listen to his compelling argument that a skilled trade can provide you with above average income and an optimistic future.

My second suggestion is to adopt the philosophy that you are a market of one. Whether you’re 21 or 61, you must constantly ensure you have marketable skills. When my generation graduated from high school, many of my classmates believed school was over the day they graduated! Nothing could be further from the truth. The idea that “I’ve made it” and now you can relax is no longer realistic. Honestly, having to constantly compete can be exhausting, but if you don’t, you will be left behind.

My final suggestion may not help you find a job, but it could make all our lives more pleasant. People in the service sector work hard and they deserve some recognition for a job well done. When I applied for Social Security, I discovered a great group of people who were extremely helpful and I received excellent service with a smile. They helped me evaluate my options and listened to my concerns. I’m pleased to get the opportunity to say thank you for your help and outstanding service.

I had an outpatient medical procedure and the nurses were fantastic. They did their absolute best to help relieve my anxiety. These nurses don’t own the business, nor will they receive a bonus for their efforts. Thank you and I appreciate your commitment to your patients.

Let’s hope I’m wrong and an improving economy will restore the number of jobs that can provide a better standard of living. The current movement to increase the minimum wage helps, but it doesn’t address the long-term challenge of adapting to a changing market place. It’s all about our ability to meet the emerging needs for tomorrow’s jobs.

But in the meantime let’s treat each other with respect and a smile. Whether it’s a salesperson, waitress or the mechanic who fixes your car, hundreds of people give us excellent service every day. I don’t take your help for granted. Your smile and efforts are appreciated. Thank you.

Kaminski is president of Stone Associates Training. He is an HR consultant with 35 years of experience in the employment field, teaching managers the art of hiring great employees. He also is an adjunct instructor at Keuka College. You can contact him with your questions, suggestions and comments at bill@stoneassociatestraining.com.