Laura Goodrich: Seeing Red Cars: Business leaders who still resist technology, I urge you to dig in!

Confidence and competence in technology is becoming a requirement—not an option

At an event for corporate learning directors, a woman at my table said she is frequently asked by executives for articles or data on specific topics and she is expected to respond quickly with pertinent information.

She was fascinated to hear how I have grown to rely on social tools like Twitter to quickly gather research, trends and options by following respected thought leaders, posing questions, and finding and following people with the expertise and experience I need. I have literally forged connections with thought leaders globally and am engaged in collaborative projects.

Many established (i.e. older) professionals give little credence to the power of social tools—even technology in general. I address this reality in my new book Seeing Red Cars—Driving Yourself, Your Team, and Your Organization to a Positive Future.

If you ask young people why they use technology, most will not say, “I love technology.” Technology is simply the means by which they are able to learn, connect, play, and laugh. They are plugged in and staying current on what’s going on around them—but not so for many of the adults I know.

If you genuinely intend to take control of your own future, I suggest that you stop saying, “Technology and these tools are not for me” and start saying, “I am going to learn.” Become fluid with technology so you can continue to learn, connect, and remain relevant—and, in many cases, remain employed.

The best way to start? Pick a popular social media platform, like Facebook, Twitter or YouTube, and start following people whose thought leadership you respect. It won’t take long for you to gain ideas, information and resources that will benefit you. Once you’re ready, start contributing your own ideas. Eventually, meaningful collaborations will evolve.

Face it: Confidence and competence in technology is becoming much more of a requirement than an option. It’s time to get on the road!

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Who do you know who uses online social networks regularly? Which sites to they use and how do they use them?

Which social networking site do you hear people talk about most? Sign up and start following thought leaders in your industry. What have you learned?

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Seeing Red Cars the book is available from popular retailers through our book website, seeingredcarsbook.com.

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Laura Goodrich

Innovator l Author l Expert Speaker

Radio l TV l Program Host

Internationally Recognized Expert in Workplace Dynamics and Change

Email: laura@onimpactproductions.com

Website: www.onimpactproductions.com

Business: 952-856-6071

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SKYPE: laura.goodrich

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Author: Seeing Red Cars: Driving Yourself, Your Team and Your Organization to a Positive Future is available at Amazon http://amzn.to/aj0IUm or Barnes and Noble http://bit.ly/c5F1j7

Seeing Red Cars — Mindset to Win — Forbes Magazine

http://blogs.forbes.com/mindmakeover/2011/02/03/seeing-red-cars-mindset-to-win/

Program Host and Author: Seeing Red Cars

Film: www.seeingredcars.com

Book: www.seeingredcarsbook.com

FB: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Seeing-Red-Cars-with-Laura-Goodrich/179858525374208?v=wall

App: Seeing Red Cars “I Want Statement” iPhone/ iPad http://bit.ly/afWHOx

Seeing Red Cars Products: http://bit.ly/cB29Tq

Program Host and Author: Shifting Years: Leverage the Power of Generations

Film: www.shiftingyears.com

FB Shifting Years: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Shifting-Years-Leverage-The-Power-of-Generations/129830580411162

Radio Host: FutureWork http://www.blogtalkradio.com/laura-goodrich