Honing Your Tech Skills

Photo by businessnewsdaily.com

We live in an era of ever-changing technology, especially in business.  Have you ever seen movies and/or television programs that show what was used in businesses at the time of filming?  Gone are the old mimeograph machines, adding machines, and the very heavy typewriters (I still remember my mother using her Smith-Corona from the 70's when she'd be typing one of her stories).  Nowadays we have 4-in-1 printers, smartphones, and all kinds of computers...laptop, desktop, and even the versatile and portable tablet.  At times I often wonder how people were able to work so efficiently before computers became a mainstay in our busy lives.

With the new technology comes the opportunity to brush up and learn new skills.  Instead of typewriters, there are many word processing programs available where it's not necessary to retype an entire report.  Spreadsheet programs, with their numerous functions, are heavily used in many businesses for data analysis and performance tracking.  If a colleague halfway around the world has an urgent need, they can simply use an e-mail program to have their need addressed without delay.  And there is no need for the old-fashioned overhead and slide projectors...a fantastic presentation can be created with a few clicks of the mouse and some keystrokes.

Some businesses utilize the services of a consultant in order to acquire and learn new skills for their business.  However, consultants are known to charge high fees for their services, so it's generally best to use other resources to hone your business skills.  The public library has a wealth of information available...sometimes even for free!  Many community colleges offer excellent classes in word processing, spreadsheet compilation, creating presentations, and using e-mail programs.  Or, if you are good friends with someone who you know has the skills you need to learn, given them a call and see if they are available to give you a hand.

The bottom line is this...don't be afraid of technology.  Learn how to EMBRACE it!