Understanding the intricacies of technology and staying up-to-date with the latest tech trends isn’t a job for the faint of heart. It’s hard work and takes a lot of time. But unfortunately, for many business owners, executives, and upper-level managers, knowing how to speak ‘tech’ is a requirement for any successful business—no matter what industry you belong to.
Technology impacts your employees, customer service levels, and professional reputation. How you use it, what you do with it, and how much you decide to innovate it can shape your overall business to determine how exclusive your company is, how superior your products are, and how productive your staff can truly be.
If you’re willing to put in the work and the time that it requires to remain informed about technology and subsequently integrate this knowledge into your daily operations, your business will be far better off as a result. Here are a few useful sources you can turn to if you’re looking to speak tech, and fast.
Online Media
One of the simplest ways to stay informed about technology is to read about it, and to simplify this even further, you can use an app like Feedly or Flipboard. These sites combine multiple publications into one easy-to-read format.
It’s important to round out your content and to get as much bang for your buck as possible. In other words, don’t pull six sites dedicated to gadgets and one dedicated to online security. You’ll find yourself reading a lot of the same things and missing out on important information. Here are a few good suggestions to have a well-balanced feed:
Infosecurity: Relevant security concerns and tips.
Lifehacker: Apps and valuable how-tos.
TechCrunch: Gadgets, software, and reviews.
OnlineTechTips: Tips and tricks for Windows, Mac, Google, and software.
NetworkWorld: Big data, cloud computing, and new technology
Podcasts
Podcasts are great because hearing someone’s voice is always going to be different than reading someone’s thoughts, and usually, the hosts are completely dedicated to and inspired by the topic at hand, which means you are more likely to be inspired by it too.
Find a podcast or two that you enjoy, and consider asking your fellow executives or staff members to listen to it with you. The more ears you have listening, the more of an opportunity there is for something great to come of it. Here are a few podcasts that speak a little bit of business and a little bit of tech.
Analog(ue): Understand how new technologies change lives.
Clockwise: Hear current technology issues and how they affect you.
Back to Work: Learn about productive business technologies and workflows.
Mac Power Users: Discover more about the Apple technology you use every day.
Using these simple strategies will ensure you’re on top of the latest and greatest when it comes to the ever-changing world of technology. No longer will you be in the breakroom wondering what WannaCry means and hoping it’s nothing bad because you’re smiling and nodding.
