Being at ease with technology and new forms of communication for men over 50 and counting.
When did you drop off the technology grid?
Once you have retired from the working environment there is a higher chance of being disconnected from new tech changes. It is a challenge to keep informed and up to date with the latest technologies. If you live in a more rural environment, you may also have an accessibility challenge to a good internet connection. Good internet is an essential asset to surfing the web and discovering the latest tech changes. I live in a remote area of Guatemala and I’m amazed by my internet provider and their capacity to adapt and provide a stable connection which allows me to stay connected.
I never had issues keeping up with the changes of the times. It may seem overwhelming but that is the point. You have to choose what will serve you and not pretend to know and use everything, which makes you feel overwhelmed. Define your needs and equip yourself with the tools that will serve you, the digital You.
Define your digital profile
Most of us have been lucky enough to work in an environment that keeps us in the loop of new technologies. Most of us have a base but once you retire, you have to decide what you will need to complement your free time.
Your passion and hobby could be the anchor of your digital profile. Let’s say you enjoy doing photography and people love your work. That could be your motivation to get the proper equipment, develop your signature look, and learn to master and develop your passion. You may even set up a shop through the most appropriate channel to distribute your pictures.
It has never been easier to be passionate about what you do, let the world know about it and be able to monetize it.
I personally love Apple products and I’m attached to my Mac. It makes my life easy, I don’t have to fight viruses, it is intuitive and easy to use.
Your online presence is your new business/presentation card.
The use of business cards are slowly moving towards a digital representation of who we are.
I personally use platforms that suit my hobbies and represent who I am. I do not use all of them. In the end you want to find platforms that will resonate with you and will allow you to build connections.
COVID-19 has brought us closer together virtually, as video conferencing is becoming what the French Cafe terraces of Paris have been for decades, a place to socialize. Be consistent in your profiles and be disciplined in feeding/posting on them.
You can also be present on many platforms in order to stay in touch and follow family and friends. You don’t have to be actively engaged if you feel it is not something you are ready to do.
Once you reach 50 you have a lot of great things to share and communicate. I have used these tools and platforms so that my voice can be heard and to be a part of the change our planet and society need.
So get on and let your digital journey start.