My kids love playing outside and hanging with their friends but electronics draw them in like insects to a bright light. Even if we limit their usage and access, technology is very much a part of their lives now and will continue to be every day moving forward.
Unlike kids today, we adults were not born into a hyper-connected technological world. Instead, we have observed a major evolution of technology during our lifetime.
I straddle two generations so I had the good fortune of learning to type on a typewriter and used wall-mounted, rotary-dial phones but also used computers through my later school years starting with the revolutionary “Oregon Trail” and “Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?” in elementary school. I grew up as many major technologies developed. I do have moments where I feel it outpaces me, especially as I see young children pick up a device and operate it without any instruction.
Technology is only going to become a bigger part of our lives as we move forward. So, if your career is important to your quality of life, then you will enjoy these five ways technology is great for your career, right now:
- Online applications - As widely known, almost every major company uses online application-tracking software systems to collect applications and sift through candidates. So, if you want a job, you need to apply online.
- Online networking - If you want to improve your chances of getting face time with a potential employer, then networking is critical and social media platforms like LinkedIn allow you to identify, connect, and build relationships with professionals around the world.
- Online social platforms - Establishing a professional presence online is a great way to communicate your differentiators and credibility. The best part is that it is publicly available so anyone interested in validating you can rest assured you are telling them the same thing you are telling the rest of the world.
- Remote employment - Technological advances also have enabled us to work remotely for many jobs. This flexibility allows for many military spouses to maintain employment despite military moves.
- Tech based jobs - According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, career opportunities in the computers and information technology (IT) occupations are projected to grow 12 percent from 2014-24, faster than the average for all occupations. The pay isn’t bad either; in 2015, the median annual wage for IT positions was $81,430.
Technology isn’t going away. Open your mind to the possibilities and integrate it into your life and career, but don't forget to get outside and stay connected to nature and the living, breathing people right in front of you.
If you are interested in a career in IT or any occupation in the fields of science, engineering, technology or math, then check out the Society of Military Spouses in STEM .