How to Stay Up-to-Date in the Rapidly Changing IT Field
Vincent Benjamin

One of the biggest norms in the world of technology is change. Often, keeping up with emerging tech and new trends is incredibly challenging. At times, it is hard to figure out which developments may become legitimate disruptors and which may fall by the wayside. Plus, not all of the emerging solutions rise to prominence as quickly as others.  

Finally, the sheer volume of information can be intimidating, particularly if you aren’t sure where to focus or have a ton of time to dedicate to online searches. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t remain on top of critical information; you simply need to know where to focus.  

If you are wondering how you can stay up-to-date in the rapidly changing IT field, here are some options worth considering.  

Bring the News to You  

Most IT professionals don’t have a ton of time to cruise the web for news. Luckily, by using options like custom newsletters, RSS feeds, and Google Alerts, you can bring the important information straight to you, no search required.  

If you have a go-to source for news, sign up for the site’s newsletter. However, go the extra mile after that. Create a folder in your mailbox specifically for newsletters, and route them all to that location. That way, the highlights will be sent straight to your inbox and directly into a single, convenient folder that you can check when you have time available.  

With an RSS feed, you can cultivate a list of potentially interesting articles that populates and updates automatically. Then, when you can spare a minute or two, you can skim the feed and choose pieces that intrigue you.  

With Google Alerts, you can select topics that are relevant to your career. With that, you’ll get a curated list of content regularly, giving you another automated resource at your disposal.  

Follow Thought Leaders  

Following IT thought leaders on social media can be an excellent option for staying on top of emerging trends. Look for experts whose opinions you respect, as well as some who tend to push the envelope when it comes to forward-thinking. It’s also wise to cultivate a diverse group, ensuring as many perspectives as possible are represented.  

If you aren’t sure where to begin, LinkedIn and Facebook can be good starting points. However, don’t overlook Twitter, as it remains a go-to platform for many professionals when sharing information.  

Take Ownership of Your Development  

While many companies provide their employees with access to training, what’s available may be limited. If you want to make sure you can stay up-to-date in your field, taking ownership of your development is a must. If you find a topic that intrigues you, seek out online courses or other resources so that you can hone related skills on your own time. In the end, it’s an effective way to remain current that also empowers you to shape the future of your career.  

Call Our Team Today to Learn More

If you’d like to learn more about how you can stay up-to-date on the latest IT trends and developments, the team at VB can help. Contact us today.  

Sign up for the latest