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GuiDe Keeping Up to Speed

the technology ads too. Many vendors invest heavily in ads for the next-generation helpline system, sign up. Or, later 187
that instruct without seeming to. Another option is to take in your career, become a member of the business prac-
a seminar or pay attention to professional events that com- tice technology committee or whatever it is called at your
bine your specialty with technology. For example, when organization.
you go to the bankers’ convention, attend a panel or two on Just working with such groups will add to your knowl-
“Mobile Device Use at Banks.” There are always sessions like edge of technology. Presentations made to such groups, dis-
that, and you might make a contact with similar problems cussions about uses of technology, and ideas about using IT
and concerns in another company. for competitive advantage will all add to your IT knowledge.
Probably the best option, if you have the time for it, You’ll gain important contacts and exposure to leaders in
is to get involved as a user representative on technology your organization as well.
committees in your organization. Or, if your company is It’s up to you. You get to choose how you relate to tech-
doing a review of its BYOD policy, see if you can get on the nology. But be sure you choose; don’t let your head get stuck
review committee. Alternatively, when there’s a need for in the sand without thinking about it.
a representative from your department to discuss needs

DisCussion Questions

1. Do you agree that the change of technology is relentless? tive advantage. If you’re going to join one of the other
What do you think that means to most business profes- two groups, explain why, and describe how you’re going
sionals? To most organizations? to accomplish your goal.
2. Think about the three postures toward technology pre- 4. Given your answer to question 2, assume that you’re
sented here. Which camp will you join? Why? in a job interview and the interviewer asks about your
3. Write a two-paragraph memo to yourself justifying your interest in and knowledge of technology. Write a three-
choice in question 2. If you chose to ignore technology, sentence response to the interviewer’s question.
explain how you will compensate for the loss of competi-