I’ve worked in telecommunications at two points in my life. First at Ohio Bell. Then many years later at Lucent Technologies & OFS Fitel. But my career path and focus has been Information Technology. So, I know about computers and software. However, I was always was a bit unsure about all the details of the telecommunications stuff.
The telecommunications industry is huge in the metro Atlanta area, though not as big as a few years back. So, moving around in Atlanta, I encounter a lot of telecom and ex-telecom folks. They tend to be ones that embrace a lot of the newer technology. Back in 2006, Forbes magazine confirmed that Atlanta was the most “wired” city in the US. Blackberry addiction is alive and well in metropolitan Atlanta area.
But blackberry, iphone and other gadget fever is a nationwide phenomenon. I attended the Atlanta ACG’s 2008 Capital Connection, which attracted corporate, private equity, professional services and financial industry representative from around the country. At the breaks, the lobby was filled with people using cell phones, blackberries and the like. Some even had them out during the various sessions. I sat next to one guy in a breakout session who was reading email. And, as I suspected, it was not all business related.
At another business conference, it was suggested that all business owners needed a blackberry – so they don’t miss any business. The speaker had and used two of them. Many take her advice to heart. I’ve attended workshops that I paid a good bit of money for. While I’m busy trying to get my money’s worth by paying attention, other attendees are busily using their blackberries. There was a young couple, who looked to be college age, who spent 80% of the workshop, doing whatever they do on blackberries: email, text messaging, etc. I accept that this is the mindset and the culture of the young. What surprised me was a lady sitting next to me. She appeared to be older than I am and thus over 50. She was entranced by her blackberry also.
Some feel they are multi-tasking. In reality, they are choosing to play with their gadgets instead of participating in the alternate activity. From my perspective this alleged multi-tasking is creating a bunch of space cadets. People who are present at events, but don’t know what was said or done. So, while they may be quite intelligent and capable, the net result is that their comprehension and effectiveness is greatly diminished.
I wish my two companies: Noble & Associates Consulting, Inc and Noble Finances were so successful that I needed to constantly be in touch with my customers and prospects. But, I’m not envious. My goal is for my businesses to make lots of money without me having to be constantly involved.
In meetings and events, speakers are trying to communicate with their audience. They deserve respect. Don’t you think it’s rude to purposely not pay attention?
Sandra Noble
NOBLE FINANCES
NOBLE & ASSOCIATES CONSULTING, INC
