How Do We Stay Ahead Of Technological Change?

The world that we once knew is gone, the days of as long as you work hard you’ll get ahead or that 4 year degree will ensure you a great job for the future. Even the rate of on the job training has reduced over the years particularly in Britain and the United States, but why?

We could say one factor is the state of the economy and the financial stability of the markets, but I would say that it’s for two other common reasons. Firstly there’s been a surge of people even the younger generation that has decided to forego formal education or even working for someone else and go straight into business for themselves.

As we all know starting your own company is no easy task it requires skill, determination and a work ethic level that is simply unparalleled to the regular day job. Not to mention it’s risky especially if your putting up your own capital or savings, so I think no matter what the age or idea it’s always great to hear when people strive to go beyond the normal safe conventions of what is expected. You should take a chance on yourself and whether is succeeds or fails, it’s an experience and lesson you’ll never forget.

Now the second reason we’re seeing a shift change is because of technology, there’s no escaping the fact that it has and forever will change the way we conduct business. It’s constantly evolving which can be a great thing but can also have negative implications. For the obvious financial reasons of upgrading systems and keeping it up to date, but especially for business owners who haven’t taken the time to really educate themselves on the ins and out of everything.. How to utilize it, what’s most cost effective, when to update your infrastructure, it can be daunting!

The economist wrote a really great article, which I definitely think is worth a read. Would love to know you thoughts in the scheme of things, is it better to dive right into business and be self taught to stay ahead of the curve or take the time to educate yourself and learn from others first? Anatole

http://www.economist.com/news/leaders/21714341-it-easy-say-people-need-keep-learning-throughout-their-careers-practicalities