There is an old idiom that an ill wind is one that brings no good. This saying got me thinking about the advances in technology and innovation. It is certainly true that automation has replaced many jobs with computers and other machines. The automobile and airplane have put many out of work. There are no longer hitching postings in front of homes. On the other hand, such innovative products and systems have created many, many jobs for us all.
So how should we deal with advancing technologies? Are they ill winds? I do not believe that ignoring technological change is a good answer. Many large companies have tried this approach and are no longer viable. Think about Block Buster Video and perhaps newspapers and magazines publishers. Many jobs no longer exist. Secretarial jobs that type letters from drafts and answer phone calls are part of the past. Customer self-service with limited interactions with organizational representatives are common, e.g. online ordering.
One key to the success of the new technologies is increased productivity. How can an organization maximize its output without increasing costs? Organizations have been able to increase sales and reduce cost by using new techniques and automated systems.
I encourage job seekers to investigate how they can increase their productivity and value to potential employers. They can master computer skills, learn how to operate advanced testing and manufacturing equipment, and/or become proficient in social networking.
As I have written before in this blog, it is most important that all of us workers stay abreast of the rapidly changes work environments. There are many job opportunities today that did not exist a few years ago.
Please share with readers of this
blog or email me at glynjordan@gmail.com how you are dealing with the
environment of the future.
Thanks, Glyn
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