Ways to Help Older Employees Keep Up With Technological Advances

Featured article by Bernadine Racoma, Content Manager of eTranslation Services

It’s always a challenge for businesses to keep up with technology. Before, it was optional. These days, though, everyone needs to keep up. Failure to do so might have terrible consequences. For instance, if the company didn’t secure the online data, it could lead to a security breach. Using technology also means that the process will be more efficient. While it might seem easy to bring everyone on the same page, it can be challenging if there are older employees. They’re not technologically advanced, and they tend to complain. These are some tips to help bring them up to speed.

Ask for help from younger employees

Younger people tend to know more about the latest in technology. It’s an essential reason why the company should hire them despite the lack of experience in other areas. Another way to make the most of their presence is to allow them to help out older employees. They might also know some tricks or shortcuts in using modern software or devices. They’re also trying to build rapport in the organization, and this strategy brings everyone together.

Give them time to practice and make mistakes

There should be no pressure to use advanced software or tools. If older employees are under pressure, they will be more prone to committing mistakes. Some of them are impatient and could give up if not given ample time. You also have to understand that they’re no longer as sharp as they used to. Listen to them and be more understanding.

Gradually transition towards modern tools

If you decide to use modern software that everyone should use, it must be clear. You have to provide the rationale for such a transition. You also need to provide training manuals. You may even organise a session where everyone gets to learn those tools. If only a few people would transition, you should let them know why. Perhaps, only a few departments need to digitise the documents or improve security.

Create a supportive environment

While it’s frustrating that not everyone can be up to speed with the changes, you can’t show it to your employees. Try to be as supportive as possible. Give every employee a chance to keep up. You can also start with simple changes. For instance, you can purchase a ceiling projector. For every presentation, all employees should use it instead of a traditional board. There will be challenges at first, but everyone will eventually learn how to use it. If there are questions, you have to answer them. If there are suggestions on alternative ways to get things done, you have to be open-minded.

Give these employees a few weeks or months, and they will get the hang of it. Prepare yourself for potential complaints about the effort to modernize. It’s a common problem in every organization. If you believe that using modern tools can help advance the business, you should go for it. Look at it as a long-term project.

Bernadine Racoma is the Content Manager of eTranslation Services. Her long experience in an international development institution and extensive travels have provided her a wealth of knowledge and insights into cultural diversity. She writes to inform, engage, and share the idea of the Internet being a useful platform for communicating, knowledge sharing, educating, and entertaining. You can find Bernadine Racoma at Google Plus, on Facebook and Twitter.