Zoomers, sometimes known as “digital natives,” were born into a world where technology was already intertwined with daily life. Some of them started using mobile devices before they could walk or talk.
Able to edit a video on your phone faster than you can choose the type of coffee you want, their lives seem to revolve around an online presence.
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- Who suffers from technological shame?
- What is technology shame?
- Why tech shaming is no big deal?
- How can the problem be solved?
Who suffers from technological shame?
According to recent research from LaSalle Network, nearly half of all 2022 graduates who entered the workforce that year felt technologically inadequate and incompetent in their new work environment. These people, who seem to easily master technology in their personal lives, suddenly fail to adapt to work-related digital needs.
An HP survey found that 20% of Gen Z workers feel evaluated by their older colleagues whenever they experience a technology problem, compounding the conundrum. This problem has become so widespread that it has its own term: tech shaming. This feeling of inadequacy and shame when faced with technical obstacles has become a major source of anxiety among young workers.
What is technology shame?
Tech shaming has recently become a workplace buzzword, due in large part to this Guardian article and the HP survey mentioned above. The term was invented by the computer company HP to describe the problems that the younger generation has when using basic office products. This, however, does not make it a new phenomenon.
Technology guilt has been around for as long as people have been using technology at work, it comes in numerous forms, and it is not limited to young employees. When faced with technological challenges in a new and difficult environment, people tend to feel inadequate. Probably everyone has encountered this at least once when experimenting with new technologies in an unfamiliar environment.
Why tech shaming is no big deal?
As a manager, your goal should be to foster a supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable asking questions, speaking up, and working collectively to find solutions.
A team can only thrive if ideas flow freely and mutual respect reigns, which is unlikely to happen when some team members are made fun of (no matter how benign the jokes may seem to those making them). The essential point here is that tech shaming is a real problem that requires the attention of corporate management if they hope to harness the full potential of their team and retain their young employees long enough for that magical moment to occur.
This is obvious. But if technological shaming has always existed, why is it so much more difficult for younger people?
How can the problem be solved?
Managers must pay close attention to intergenerational team dynamics, especially when any age group is outnumbered. It’s essential to recognize tech shaming for what it is: a form of bullying, and enough has been said about why we should avoid it. Jokes that seem lighthearted and innocent to one person can undermine another’s confidence and self-esteem, and you don’t want that on your team.
Assessing your company’s digital talent gap can also be a good idea. This could be accomplished through surveys or interviews, and there are numerous methods to use technology in this effort. Constant communication is essential to identify areas where your staff may be struggling or missing information. If you want them to perform at their best, regular check-ins, an open-door policy, and a safe area for employees to ask questions are necessary.
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Source: vtt.edu.vn