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Monthly Archive for: ‘November, 2011’

PLANNING TO RE-ENTER THE JOB MARKET?

According to a recent article in US News and World Report, http://bit.ly/v0IlW6, about 9 percent of all people ages 44 to 70, are already in encore careers, up from 8.4 million in 2008.

The majority of Baby Boomers did not start their professional careers in the digital world.  The way we communicate and acquire information has changed dramatically.  Social networks such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter are now part of our personal and business lives.  Cell phones have made us more mobile and reachable everywhere.  Everyone uses Google to find people, places and things.

A deep Digital Divide exists with regard to the understanding of technology.  On one side is an older generation that built their businesses before the advent of the Internet, Social Media, and New Marketing. On the other side is a younger generation that has grown up with the new technology. Whether you are in the job market or involved in an entrepreneurial venture, your ability to bridge this gap will determine your success in competing against a younger generation that has built networks and customers using the new tools technology offers.

If you or someone you know is looking to re-enter the job market, chances are they will need to brush up on basic computer skills or require help in selecting the right equipment and services to support your needs.

If you or someone you know needs to brush up on basic computer skills, requires help choosing the right computer or any other technology issues, do not hesitate to contact me at 917 921-4518 or by e-mail at jblue@bluetutor.com. Feel free to click here to receive my free white paper on Technology Tips on setting up a home office and becoming a true road warrior.

IN THE MARKET FOR A NEW COMPUTER?

LaptopsIn his weekly WSJ column today, Walter Mossberg offers  his annual Guide for PC Buyers.

The underlying message in his column is that although there are some new innovations to consider, such as the growing importance of ultrabooks and tablets, waiting until 2012 makes the most sense unless you absolutely need to make a purchase.  There will be a new version of the Windows operating system, Windows 8,  as well as some rumored changes at Apple as well.

Selecting the right computer can be a very daunting experience but there are a number of specifications that are important.  Take a look at Mossberg’s Guide and check out his recommendations.

If you have any questions about choosing the right computer or any other technology issues, do not hesitate to contact me at 917 921-4518 or by e-mail at jblue@bluetutor.com. If you are in career transition, feel free to click here to receive my free white paper on Technology Tips on setting up a home office and becoming a true road warrior.

A TRUE PORTABLE EMERGENCY DEVICE FOR EVERYONE

5 Star ResponderSeveral weeks ago, a new product was reviewed in the Wall Street Journal that should be a staple for those of us that have become more mobile, whether it be the frequent business traveler, senior citizen out for a stroll, or anyone, at any age, that spends time out of the home or office.

As quoted in the WSJ, “GreatCall’s 5Star Responder is one of the first truly portable emergency-call devices. It runs on Verizon’s network, giving it coverage anywhere a Verizon phone works. Other emergency-call devices like Medical Alert by LifeStation, work in the home and are geared toward seniors who rarely go out.”

Some of the features of GreatCall’s 5Star Responder include:

Nationwide coverage that provides you with access to live help 24/7, anywhere wireless coverage is available.

Agents who, based on GPS technology,  identify and locate you, assess your situation and then either contact appropriate personnel or dispatch someone for help.

In addition to  dispatching 9-1-1 emergency services, agents can conference in family and friends, and will stay on the line with you until your situation is resolved.

At this time, you can either purchase the unit through their website, where you can review all its features and pricing, or download an app to your iPhone.  The company indicates that an Android app is in the works.

If you don’t have a smartphone where you will be able to download an app, you should consider the stand-alone unit for all family members, parents, children, etc.  The monthly service charge is $15 and $9 for each additional members of your family.

If you have any questions about this or other technology issues, do not hesitate to contact me at 917 921-4518 or by e-mail at jblue@bluetutor.com. If you are in career transition, feel free to click here to receive my free white paper on Technology Tips on setting up a home office and becoming a true road warrior.

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HOW GOOD ARE YOUR TECHNOLOGY SKILLS?

Basic computer skillsLooking to start a new business?  Are you in the job market?

Chances are that if you previously worked for a company and had an assistant, many tasks were delegated and support was just a phone call away.  Whether you are starting a new venture or looking for employment, your success will depend on your basic computer skills and having a technology plan that supports your efforts.

The majority of Baby Boomers did not start their professional careers in the digital world.  The way we communicate and acquire information has changed dramatically.  Social networks such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter are now part of our personal and business lives.  Cell phones have made us more mobile and reachable everywhere.  Everyone uses Google to find people, places and things.

Set some time aside and take an inventory of your basic technology skills.  Are you able to retrieve and save e-mail attachments, search through past e-mails?  Are you able to type and format documents?  Are you able to locate your documents?  Are you able to make educated decisions about your equipment?  Do you know how to use a smartphone?  The list is endless.

Individuals and companies that have not embraced technology will find it very difficult to compete in today’s global and wired world.

If you feel you need to brush up on your basic computer skills or want to understand more about the world of technology, do not hesitate to contact me at 917 921-4518 or by e-mail at jblue@bluetutor.com. If you are in career transition, feel free to click here to receive my free white paper on Technology Tips on setting up a home office and becoming a true road warrior.