Section 2-1 Qualities of Successful Employees 37
include new duties. Job expansion also
creates a need for more education.
People must have the knowledge and
training necessary to operate new
equipment.
There is great demand for people
who excel in the use of today’s
technologies. Competition among
employers for these skills increases
the salary employees can command.
The salary for a position will also
increase as the education and duty
requirements for the position increase.
Instead of being apprehensive
about learning how to use new tools
in their jobs, employees are advised to
expect and welcome change. The latest
innovations in technology soon become
obsolete. Future changes may occur even more rapidly. Technological
progress is occurring at an accelerating rate. Any new technology will
probably lead to other new technologies. Workers must stay fl exible
enough to adopt new procedures and work methods.
As devices are developed to perform tasks more accurately, some
jobs are eliminated. Thus, people can no longer prepare for one career or
know what new technologies will affect their jobs in the future. Lifetime
learning is essential for those who plan to hold wage-earning jobs
during all of their productive years.
Occasionally technological changes bring some negative results.
Physical ailments such as carpal tunnel syndrome increase with the growth
of technology. Repetitive body motions can cause this work hazard over
extended periods. Also, telecommuters who have limited opportunities for
personal interaction sometimes feel isolation and loneliness.
Technology impacts every aspect of the workplace. It promotes
greater speed, effi ciency, and accuracy. However, competence with
technology is just one of fi ve skills that effective workers are expected to
have. Employees with workplace know-how also need competence with
resources, interpersonal skills, information, and systems.
Reading
Review
1. List three qualities needed for job success. State some examples of
each quality.
2. Why is a work ethic important to job success?
3. Using technological devices to work from home is known as _____ .
R R R
1 1 Li t th
2-3
A webcam, microphone,
and Internet connection
allows people to work
together even though
separated by long
distances.