🇮🇹ap italian review
5.4 Work, the Job Market, and Tourism
Verified for the 2025 AP Italian exam•Last Updated on June 18, 2024
Work and the Job Market 👨🏾🏭👷🏼♀️
The unemployment rate in Italy is extremely high, which has created an unstable job market and a weak economy. After the financial crisis of 2008, many workers were uncared for or laid off. Even today, Italy has one of the largest levels of public debt in Europe.
The majority of the unemployed are young people, which makes the competition for work much more intense. The labor market has evolved, and there are more opportunities for individuals and greater relations between workers and their employers, but the situation is still a major issue of note.
*North - factory work + industry
*South - agriculture + farm work
Italian Work Culture
In Italy, there is an emphasis on the relationship between work and family, so Italians always preserve enough time for personal interests. This mentality has been strained due to the pressures of the job market and is especially felt by young people. But, unlike in the United States, the mentality is that Italians work to live and do NOT live to work
Benefits ✔️ ✔️
- Max 40 hours per week- Mon - Fri, 9 AM - 6 PM
- 4 weeks paid leave, 11 bank holidays
- Public National Health Service- Free health care for all people- Hospital care, emergency care, primary care, pharmaceuticals, diagnostic services, free prescription drugs
- 2 months of paid maternity leave
- Additional benefits may include private health insurance, company car, mobile phone, meal voucher, additional training, etc.
How to Get a Job in Italy
In-Demand 🌶️ 🔥
The most in-demand jobs for locals and foreigners are in the health care system, such as nurses, doctors, and therapists. Other useful professions are in the fields of mathematics, computer science, sales, and marketing. Also, speaking English fluently is key
Important Stats:
- 68% of pop work in the service industry, accounting for 74% of Italy's GDP- 12.8% of pop work in the tourism industry, accounting for 11.8% of Italy's GDP- 51 world heritage sites, ~ 50 mil visitors per year, visitors accounted for ~ 40 billion euros- UniCredit Bank, Assicurazioni Generali insurance, road transport system
- 25.9% of pop work in the manufacturing industry- Small and medium-sized businesses in clusters, "Industrial Triangle" = Milan, Turin, Genoa- Automobiles, iron, steel, textiles, machine tools, chemicals, and food
- 3.7% of pop work in the agriculture industry, totaling 1.6 mil farms- North = dairy, corn, fruits, meat, AND South = fruits, wheat
*Information Gathered from WorldAtlas
Best Places for Job Opportunities
In general, the larger the city*,* the more available the work is. At the same time, the cost of living is usually higher. The cities with the greatest infrastructure and opportunities are Rome, Milan, Bologna, Firenze, Bergamo, Turin, and Naples.
Top Six Cities in Italy for Employment:
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Turin - pop of over 800,000, close proximity to Milan + Geneva, cultural activities, parks, museums, and extensive public transport
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Milan - pop of over 1.3 million, conservative mentality, minimal English spoken, known for industry, fashion, and finance
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Varese - pop of ~ 80,000, 30 miles N of Milan, known for industry and specialized agriculture
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Florence - pop of over 300,000, tourism tourism tourism
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Rome - pop of over 2.5 million, a melting pot of people, it's the Capital!!
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Bologna - pop of over 350,000, home to auto manufacturers, banks, electronics, leather products, and clothing
*Information Gathered from Expat Exchange
Strive for Five Vocab 🔑🔑
- Turno di lavoro - work shift
- Libero professionista - self employed
- Orario fisso - fixed working hours
- A tempo determinato/a tempo indeterminato - temporary job/permanent job
- Il datore di lavoro - employer
- Tempo pieno - full time
- Disoccupato/a - unemployed
- Il stipendio - salary
- Il guadagno- profit
- Lavoro stagionale - seasonal work
- Essere assunto/essere licenziato - to be hired/fired
- Ben/mal retribuito - well/poorly paid
- Con i turni - with shifts
Travel and Tourism ✈️ 🛩️
As of 2018, there were approximately 63 million tourists in Italy per year, making Italy the fifth most visited country in the world. Tourism is one of Italy's fastest-growing and most profitable industries, bringing in an estimated revenue of around $190 billion.
The Italians embrace foreigners, as it boosts their economy and stimulates local businesses. It is also an honor to have so many people appreciate the rich culture, cuisine, history, fashion and art, beautiful beaches and coastlines, and priceless architecture.
Popular Attractions
The Colosseum, Rome
The Pantheon, Rome
La Fontana di Trevi, Rome
Tourism and Covid-19 😢 😥
The entire world is affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, but for Italy, a country dependent on the tourism industry for nearly 13% of its total GDP, this nightmare could cause lasting economic damage. Hotels are closed, restaurants are operating at low capacity, famous monuments are not receiving flocks of tourists, and overall, people are just not visiting Italy.
Italy Without Tourists 🚫 💲
Before Covid-19, six million US travelers visit Italy every year
- 90% of hotels remain closed in Rome, an economic loss of ~ $115 mil per month
- Revenue shortfall predicted to top 3 billion euros
- 20-30,000 people in the hotel/accommodation sector will not be rehired
- Before Covid-19, six million US travelers visited Italy every year
Italian Vacations 🏖️ 🌊
Italians work extremely hard during the year, so the summer is the one time when they can drop everything, take a break, and go on holiday to enjoy themselves. August is the busiest vacation month, and many people take beach vacations, where they can sunbathe, lie in the sand, and relax in the warm water.
To satisfy these wants, these are the "ideal" vacation spots Italians choose: 🏄🏽 ⛱️
- Italy: the Amalfi Coast, Liguria, Calabria, Puglia, Tuscany
- International: the Maldives, Greece, the Caribbean, or Southeast Asia
For a more "artsy," touring trip, Italians choose: 🚶🏾 🗿
- Italy: Rome, Milan, Florence, Siena, Palermo, Venice, Bologna
- International: Spain, Portugal, France, USA
Strive for Five Vocab 🔑🔑
- Il giorno festivo - holiday
- Il periodo di riposo - break/time off
- La vacanza lampo - quick vacation
- L'alta/bassa stagione - high/low season
- La località di villeggiatura - holiday/vacation spot
- Il pacchetto vacanza - vacation package
- Scendere in spiaggia - to head down to the beach
- Andare a sciare - to go skiing
- Trascorrere le ferie a - to spend vacation at
- La meta - destination
- La vacanza balneare - beach vacation
- Organizzarsi in anticipo - to organize oneself/plan ahead
Key Terms to Review (27)
A tempo determinato: A tempo determinato refers to a fixed-term employment contract that specifies a defined duration for the job, often used to fill temporary positions or project-based work. This type of contract is significant in various sectors, including seasonal work and roles that require specific skills for limited periods, which is common in fields such as tourism and hospitality.
Andare a sciare: Andare a sciare means 'to go skiing' in Italian and is a popular winter activity enjoyed in various regions, particularly in the mountains. This term embodies not just the sport itself, but also the experience of traveling to ski resorts, which are often located in picturesque alpine settings. Skiing can be a significant part of the tourism industry, attracting visitors from around the world, which in turn influences the local job market and economy.
Ben retribuito: Ben retribuito refers to a job or position that offers a good salary and compensation package. This term is significant as it not only highlights the financial aspects of employment but also indicates the value placed on skills, experience, and the overall job market conditions. A ben retribuito position can attract talent, improve job satisfaction, and enhance employee retention in various fields, including work environments related to tourism and service industries.
Con i turni: Con i turni refers to a work schedule system where employees are assigned to different shifts, allowing businesses to operate continuously or for extended hours. This approach is commonly used in industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and tourism, where demand may fluctuate and requires a flexible workforce to meet customer needs.
Disoccupato/a: Disoccupato/a refers to an individual who is unemployed, actively seeking work but currently without a job. This term highlights not only the lack of employment but also the broader implications on personal well-being and the economy. Understanding disoccupato/a is crucial as it reflects the state of the job market, influences government policies, and affects various sectors, including tourism, where employment opportunities can fluctuate significantly.
Essere assunto: Essere assunto means 'to be hired' in Italian, referring to the process by which individuals are employed by a company or organization. This term is crucial in understanding employment dynamics, as it encompasses the entire hiring process from job applications to interviews, and ultimately securing a job position. Being 'assunto' not only signifies employment but also impacts various aspects of one's career trajectory and the overall job market.
Essere licenziato: Essere licenziato means 'to be fired' or 'to be laid off' from a job. This term is often associated with the complexities of employment relationships, job security, and the dynamics of the labor market. It connects to various aspects such as employee rights, economic conditions that affect hiring and firing practices, and how these factors impact tourism-related jobs, which can be highly seasonal and affected by fluctuating demand.
Il guadagno: Il guadagno refers to the profit or income generated from work or business activities. It represents the financial reward for labor or investment, and is a crucial concept in understanding employment, economic stability, and the dynamics of the job market. The level of guadagno can greatly influence an individual's quality of life, job satisfaction, and career decisions, as well as impact local economies and tourism industries.
Il giorno festivo: Il giorno festivo refers to a public holiday or festive day recognized by a country or region, where regular work activities are typically paused to celebrate cultural, religious, or national events. These holidays often play an essential role in the job market and tourism sectors, as they can influence employee schedules, economic activity, and travel patterns.
Il periodo di riposo: Il periodo di riposo refers to a designated time off from work, which is crucial for maintaining work-life balance and mental well-being. This concept is closely tied to labor laws that regulate working hours and ensure employees have time to recuperate, leading to increased productivity. In the context of the job market and tourism, understanding this term is essential as it impacts employee satisfaction, retention rates, and the overall quality of service provided in the tourism industry.
Il pacchetto vacanza: Il pacchetto vacanza refers to a holiday package that typically includes various travel services such as transportation, accommodation, meals, and sometimes additional activities or excursions. This concept is closely tied to the tourism industry as it simplifies the travel planning process for consumers and can often lead to cost savings compared to purchasing each service separately.
Il stipendio: Il stipendio refers to the regular payment or salary that an employee receives for their work, typically on a monthly basis. It is a crucial aspect of employment, affecting not only an individual's standard of living but also the overall job market dynamics. Understanding il stipendio helps to evaluate job offers, negotiate salaries, and assess the economic stability of different sectors, especially in fields related to work and tourism.
La bassa stagione: La bassa stagione refers to the low season in tourism when there is a decrease in visitors and travel activity. This period is characterized by fewer tourists, often resulting in lower prices for accommodations and services, and provides a unique opportunity for travelers to experience destinations without the usual crowds. Understanding la bassa stagione is essential for businesses and workers in the tourism sector, as it impacts job availability and market strategies.
La località di villeggiatura: La località di villeggiatura refers to a vacation spot or resort area where people go for leisure and recreation, often during holidays. These places are typically characterized by their natural beauty, recreational facilities, and a wide range of activities for tourists, making them crucial for the tourism industry and local economies.
La meta: La meta refers to the goal or destination one aims to achieve, whether in personal aspirations, professional objectives, or travel plans. This term embodies the idea of purpose and direction, especially in contexts like employment, where individuals strive for career milestones, and tourism, where travelers seek meaningful experiences or specific locations to visit.
La vacanza balneare: La vacanza balneare refers to a beach holiday, a popular form of tourism where people travel to coastal destinations to enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and various recreational activities by the sea. This type of vacation is closely tied to the tourism industry, as it often drives local economies and creates numerous job opportunities in hospitality, transportation, and entertainment sectors. The allure of la vacanza balneare contributes significantly to the overall job market in regions that depend on seasonal visitors seeking leisure and relaxation.
La vacanza lampo: La vacanza lampo refers to a short, spontaneous vacation often taken over a weekend or a few days, allowing individuals to escape their daily routines and enjoy a brief getaway. This type of vacation is characterized by its quick planning and execution, often involving budget-friendly options and close-to-home destinations. It has become increasingly popular as people seek relaxation and leisure without the commitment of lengthy travel.
L'alta stagione: L'alta stagione, or the high season, refers to the peak period in tourism when demand for travel and accommodation is at its highest, typically during holidays and summer months. This time frame significantly influences employment opportunities in the tourism sector, as many businesses hire additional staff to manage the influx of tourists, and wages may rise due to increased demand for workers.
Lavoro stagionale: Lavoro stagionale refers to seasonal work that is temporary and usually tied to specific times of the year, such as summer or winter. This type of employment is prevalent in industries that experience fluctuations in demand based on the seasons, like agriculture, tourism, and hospitality. Understanding lavoro stagionale is crucial for grasping the dynamics of employment patterns and economic activity throughout the year.
Libero professionista: Libero professionista refers to a self-employed professional who offers specialized services to clients without being tied to a single employer. This term is often associated with various fields such as consulting, design, and freelance work, highlighting the flexibility and autonomy that come with self-employment. Many individuals in this category leverage their expertise to navigate the job market, creating opportunities in diverse sectors including tourism.
Mal retribuito: Mal retribuito refers to a situation where workers receive inadequate or unfair compensation for their labor, often failing to meet the cost of living or the value of their work. This term highlights significant issues in the job market, where certain positions may offer low wages, impacting workers' quality of life and overall job satisfaction. It also connects to broader economic trends and discussions about fair wages and labor rights in various sectors, including tourism, where many entry-level jobs may be poorly paid despite requiring significant effort and time from employees.
Orario fisso: Orario fisso refers to a fixed schedule or working hours that are predetermined and typically consistent each week. This concept is often associated with traditional employment settings where employees are expected to work specific hours each day, leading to a structured routine. Orario fisso plays a crucial role in various sectors, as it helps manage workforce availability and ensures stability in operations.
Organizzarsi in anticipo: Organizzarsi in anticipo means to plan and prepare ahead of time, ensuring that all necessary arrangements and resources are in place for future tasks or events. This concept is crucial for effectively managing work responsibilities, navigating the job market, and enhancing experiences in tourism, as it helps individuals to avoid last-minute stress and ensures a smoother execution of plans.
Scendere in spiaggia: Scendere in spiaggia means 'to go down to the beach,' a popular activity for both locals and tourists in coastal areas. This phrase encapsulates the essence of leisure, relaxation, and enjoyment that comes with beach culture, especially during vacations. It signifies not just the act of reaching the shore but also connects to tourism, where beautiful beaches attract visitors from around the world seeking sun, sand, and sea.
Tempo pieno: Tempo pieno refers to a full-time work arrangement, typically involving a standard number of hours per week dedicated to a job. This concept is crucial in understanding employment patterns, job market dynamics, and the impact on work-life balance, especially in sectors like tourism where demand for full-time staff can fluctuate based on seasonality.
Trascorrere le ferie a: Trascorrere le ferie a refers to the act of spending one's vacation or holidays in a specific place, often emphasizing leisure, relaxation, and exploration. This concept is closely tied to how individuals choose destinations based on various factors such as personal interests, economic conditions, and cultural experiences. Understanding this term highlights its significance in travel planning, the economy of tourism, and the opportunities it provides for both visitors and local communities.
Turno di lavoro: Turno di lavoro refers to a work shift, which is a specific period during which an employee is scheduled to work. This concept is important for understanding labor organization in various industries, particularly those that operate around the clock, such as hospitality and healthcare. It plays a crucial role in employee scheduling, labor laws, and the overall efficiency of operations within the job market and tourism sectors.