Digital Technology Effects on the Employee

Digital technology has evolved greatly in the last few years. Nearly everyone carries a smartphone with them. Tablets, such as an iPad, are a household item. If you don't participate in social media, then you are missing a chunk of the happenings of the world. What does this mean for the workplace? While some effects are negative, there are certainly positives.

1. You can reach people outside of the office. Yes, this is a positive and a negative. With the development of smartphones, email can be accessed from any location. beyond email, employers have access to texting and other forms of media communication which allows them to connect with others outside of the office. "More recently, though, the rise of personal cell phones and social media have allowed us to stay in touch with other individuals regardless of location. This, according to Wellman, is “networked individualism.” We no longer require homes, offices, or cafes to stay in touch with people; we can do it wherever we happen to be" (Masket, 2014). It is easy to fall into the trap of being accessible at all times. It is best to set boundaries around times to answer emails or communicate about work.

2. Smartphones allow for on the go work, you can create documents, blog, create charts and even video. This use of technology has truly allowed for employees to be more efficient with their time.

3. Employers are always connected, this can become exhausting. Are employees stretching themselves too thin? Demands at work, communication solely through digital technology bay be interfering in their face to face skills. Becoming too connected can cause issues with employees social interactions, which often times is important when dealing with personalities in the workplace. If you don't know how to interact with people face to face, this could affect team projects and other facets associated with working as a cohesive unit. "We are, perhaps, too wired — more attuned to events and friends thousands of miles away than to what’s going on right in front of our faces, more likely to share cat videos over smartphones than to play catch in our backyards. Perhaps these technological changes are compelling us to withdraw from the physical world, promoting antisocial behavior and undermining our true relationships" (Masket, 2014).

Everything in moderation. The use of digital technology is beneficial in many instances, but if not careful it can begin to affect face to face interactions. Set boundaries, allow yourself time away from phones or other digital technology, and enjoy the world around you in real time.

References

Masket, S. (June 2, 2014).

Don’t Fear the Network: The Internet Is Changing the Way We Communicate for the Better. Retrieved from https://psmag.com/don-t-fear-the-network-the-internet-is-changing-the-way-we-communicate-for-the-better-32352d7b302#.9f5cjcxit

Video as an Effective Training Tool

Video is one of the most effective ways in which information can be delivered. Visual processing, along with graphics and other media within the video, can only enhance the reception of information. "Oftentimes, showing someone how to do something is better than explaining it in writing. Tutorial videos can be a great way to train employees. This is an interesting article about simulation training. Maybe you need to demonstrate how to properly assemble a new piece of equipment. Show employees how it’s done in a video or video series" (Cox, 2012). Through video presentations, you have the ability to share a message that is clear, consistent, and easily shared through multiple platforms. More companies are moving towards using video as a means of internal communication. A new trend seems to include video game use as a method of training. "Seventy percent of major employers utilize interactive software and games to train employees according to a new study released today by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA). The study data also showed that more than 75 percent of businesses and non-profits already offering video game-based training plan to expand their usage in the next three to five years" (Fahey, 2008). Interactive/entertainment based training has the potential to keep the employee engaged and focused, which allows for better reception of the intended communication. It would benefit businesses to be open minded to this approach to training. As technology evolves, so do the people. Evolve with your future employers, they don't read training manuals any longer. 

References

Cox, L. (July 2, 2012). 8 Benefits of using video to communicate with employees. Retrieved from https://www.iabc.com/8-benefits-of-using-video-to-communicate-with-employees/

Fahey, M. (June 23, 2008). Employers turn to games for training. Retrieved from http://kotaku.com/5018846/employers-turning-to-games-for-training

3 Essential Guidelines for Social Media use in the Office

Access to social media in the workplace is something which is unavoidable. There is a large benefit for businesses to encourage the use of Twitter, Facebook, or other various platforms. The issues arise when the lines between professionalism and personal use are blurred. Here are 3 things to keep in mind when using social media for the workplace.

1. Are you sharing valuable information? When engaging in an active social media post or creating

 your own, be sure that any views expressed are pertinent to your brand. As an employee, you represent the company you work for, exude professionalism. “Try to remain neutral, especially when it comes to political and religious issues. It’s really easy to come off as extreme, close-minded or judgmental when posting highly opinionated content. By all means have opinions! Just share them tactfully” (Reusnik, 2014).

 2. Is your profile appropriate? It is a good idea to perform a sweep of your social media profile for any pictures which may give off a negative view. Perhaps someone tagged you in a photo on Facebook from happy hour last week? There are settings on most social media which can ensure you can review anything someone may tag you in or post on your Facebook wall. “In 2013, 43 percent of employers who used social media to screen potential candidates said they found content that caused them not to hire. Half of these employers pointed the finger at provocative or inappropriate photos or content as the reason for their decision” (Reusnik, 2014).

3. Be careful with your secondary social media activity. What links are you sharing? What content are you ‘liking?’ Every move you make builds your internet personality, assure that any content you are expressing interest in is appropriate, non-controversial, and non-harassing. Be especially mindful of memes (pictures depicting humorous captions). “Staying primarily neutral and keeping your comments, likes and shares appropriate should protect you from having to wonder if what you post might be seen as inappropriate or offensive” (Reusnik, 2014).

Consider using these statistics to determine how to manage social media use at work and perhaps how to make it work for you. 

Keeping these points in mind will assure you utilize social media for personal use yet still remain professional.

References

Reusnik, M. (January 30, 2014). Social Media Do's & Don'ts: 10 Tips for Keeping Your Profiles Professional. Retrieved from http://www.rasmussen.edu/student-life/blogs/main/guide-to-soc-media-dos-and-donts/