Small and medium UK businesses must address tech shame among employees if they are to thrive and succeed in the modern market, experts have warned.
Experts from TelephoneSystems.Cloud have put together tips to help employees and business leaders overcome embarrassment when it comes to technology in the workplace.
Tech shame refers to embarrassment or inadequacy when faced with technical issues because of gaps in skills and knowledge.
The phenomenon has become more common in the workplace since the pandemic accelerated technological growth, leaving many workers unable to cope with new systems and tools.
Tech shame is a real issue affecting businesses, and consequences include decreased productivity and engagement among employees, missed opportunities, and a negative reputation amongst clients and stakeholders.
On a personal level, it can cause severe confidence issues in workers, isolation, and stunt career progression.
Some steps that can be taken to alleviate tech shame in the workplace include attending classes and training to boost confidence and morale and learning the meaning behind intimidating tech terms.
Juliet Moran, from TelephoneSystems.Cloud said: “It is usual for workers to feel embarrassed about not understanding technology, especially if working in a tech-savvy environment.
“It is vital that employers create a safe environment so employees feel comfortable enough to ask for help and training if needed.
“Falling behind on technological developments is not only bad for the company, but also for personal employee growth.
“Struggling to get to grips with tech in the workplace can be challenging for both employee and employer, so anyone who believes it is causing an issue should follow the necessary steps to overcome it.
“Attending technology classes and keeping up to date with industry trends are just some ways professionals can combat tech shame at work.”
Experts at TelephoneSystems.Cloud have revealed their top tips to alleviate and overcome tech shame:
1. Take a class/offer training
Basic technology classes are the perfect way to tackle a fear of tech, and they can be done in person or virtually online. From a local college to Microsoft courses, depending on proficiency, many options exist. Online classes and self-help videos on YouTube tend to be self-paced, so there is no pressure. Popular software programmes also often offer learning modules to support development. If employers feel a lot of tech shame in their office, they should provide training modules and days to their employees.
2. Don’t blame age
Some workers may need more confidence around computers and technology, especially when younger colleagues showcase their technology-related capabilities. Although this can be intimidating, blaming age for technological shortcomings is not the way forward. Age says nothing about ability; professional goals can be reached with a willingness to learn.
3. Stay Current
Staying in touch with new trends is essential, so research specific industry and technology blogs and subscribe to relevant newsletters. This will provide a general sense of what applications others in the industry use. Being up to date with new tech advancements will give professionals the confidence to apply them to their work.
4. Learn the Lingo
Technology can often seem a lot more intimidating than it is because of the unfamiliar language. Once workers get their heads around it, things will get easier. Do some online research and look at resources to break down technological definitions and build them into workplace vocabulary.
5. Practice makes perfect
Don’t be afraid to play around with tech and systems to explore what it does and how it works. It’s a good idea to start by trying out smaller, more manageable tasks to work up to more complex ones steadily. Accomplishing smaller steps will give confidence and gradually limit tech intimidation.
6. Create an open culture
Business leaders must create an open work culture to promote employees’ transparency and openness. This is so people feel comfortable enough to come forwards with any tech concerns and can be offered the appropriate advice and training. There should be an open dialogue between employee and employee to encourage honest and open feedback and communication so the company can evolve and thrive in today’s digital world.