When I started my business 18 years ago, all I had to know was how to talk to people, use a phone and be able to mail CDs in stamped, self-addressed envelopes to people too far away to meet in person. It was much simpler then and I don’t think I'm alone in having to stay on top of a rapidly changing business landscape. 

Technology keeps changing, industries shift, and new roles emerge rapidly. In this fast-paced world, being a career chameleon - able to switch gears within your chosen field - is crucial.

Of course, we still use phones, but they’re much smarter. CDs have been replaced by videos and other electronic materials which can all be shared electronically. Events can be live or on one of the many video platforms available and almost everything is recorded and available for reuse.

We can communicate with others by email, DMs, texts, voice texts, blogs, and vlogs. Some people even have avatars to engage online with their clients. And let’s not forget the whole world of social media. There are myriad ways to share our goods and services.

More options require learning new things and making smart choices or at least educated guesses. I can “meet” with customers and team members from anywhere at any time— a benefit and a burden.

 “Tried and proven systems” might not be the best systems to meet the needs of the modern marketplace. Being nimble, innovative, open to new ideas, and staying on top of trends, are essential. Those who don’t keep up get left behind.

In today’s economy, financial security comes from constant learning, adapting, and staying current.

How are you keeping up?