Technology

As I've traveled across the country, talking with people from many sectors of society, the common theme is change. How do we equip ourselves and the people we work with to respond to the myriad of changes taking place in our world? The reality of a global economy and the speed of technological innovations can be overwhelming, especially to older generations. The challenges and transistions we all face are greater than ever before in our history.

These changes have created amazing communication tools with the ability to contact hundreds of people with one transmission from your chair. For some, these changes are positive things that make their life easier and more fulfilling. For others, life gets more complicated. From a business standpoint, it is extremely valuable to have instant access to business associates and clients around the world. The ability to set schedules and include others in business meetings and decision-making improves engagement of co-workers and collaborators. There is much to be said for the positive features of technology.

The downside inherent in email, faxes and text messages is that we lose the intimacy of a handshake, and the ability to read non-verbal communication. I'm a fan of technology and what it can do to unite and inspire people; having said that, I still treasure the intimacy of human-to-human contact. I'm talking about a hug, a handshake or a fist-bump with a cantankerous union leader or a reserved plant manager. That makes my day! It exemplifies for me that we all want the same thing - to be acknowledged, respected and involved. My goal in life is to connect the disconnected and improve the planet we all share.

Peace,

Gordon Graham
Change Agent