Don’t Let Technophobia Derail Your Career

How do you feel about how technology has changed the world of work? Many people feel overwhelmed by fast-paced technological changes and fearful that they will fall behind or become obsolete in their job or industry. Keeping up with advances in technology is critical for your career and thriving in this quickly changing job market. To be competent in your current professional and competitive for future positions of interest you must be willing to embrace new technology. Now, more than ever, it is important to see yourself as a lifelong learner!

Here are six ways you can use technology to boost your career:

1.  Your resume is Google, not just a piece of paper.  Your online branding is how you will be known by potential employers and/or clients. Professional social media tools with which to stay current include LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube.  If this seems overwhelming, focus on LinkedIn (also referred to as Resume 2.0) as this is a tool that will benefit you in online branding, networking, and growing in your career.

2.  Research the specific software and technology that is most important in your career field.  One way to do this is by using a new feature on The Occupational Information Network (O*NET) called "Hot Technologies".  Use the "Occupation Quick Search" to find your occupation and then scroll down to "Tools & Technology" where you will find a list of the technology used in your occupation.  The "Hot Technology" will be identified as "a technology requirement frequently included in employer job postings.

3.  Set goals for mastering a new technology.  A goal needs to be specific, measurable and time specific.  For example, you might decide to learn Adobe Photoshop by completing an online course within the next month.  

4.  Related to setting goals, commit to dedicating a specific amount of time each week to develop a new technology skill.  This could be as simple as improving your LinkedIn profile or practicing using some new software one hour a week.

5. Find a technology mentor. For example, you may have a friend or coworker who is proficient at Twitter and would be open to providing you some hands-on training.  If you are a "baby boomer" this may be a great way to become engaged with a "millennial" at work.  

6.  Embrace change.  The new norm of our time is change.  Being knowledgeable about technology in your career field can have a large impact on your growth.  You may actually find that you enjoy learning new technology and will become an advocate who encourages others to do the same!

Not sure what technology to focus on because you are not sure about what your career direction should be?  We can help!  Learn more about our affordable career testing and counseling services and then schedule a career services consultation.

© Article copyright by Kevin and Kay Marie Brennfleck, National Certified Career Counselors, ChristianCareerCenter.com, ChurchJobsOnline.com and ChristianJobFair.com.  All rights reserved. The above information is intended for personal use only. No commercial use of this information is authorized without written permission.