Today, there are more mobile phones on the planet than there are people. According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), there were over 8.5 billion active mobile phone subscriptions in 2022, while the world’s population was around 7.9 billion people.
Of those mobile phone users, approximately 61% use at least one social media platform, with the average user engaging with 6.7 platforms. With numbers like these, it is no wonder that 77% of businesses use social media as a way to advertise their products—the internet is by far the best way to connect with a huge number of potential clients. The ease of creating, posting, and sharing content also makes it possible for small businesses to widen their reach without breaking the bank.
Are there any tricks to keeping afloat in this sea of information? Serge Robichaud, a Moncton, NB-based financial planner and self-proclaimed health nut, shares how he makes technology work for him rather than against him.
Robichaud reminds us that the the constant presence of technology in society has its many downsides - especially for our mental health. Studies by the University of California have shown a rapid decrease in attention spans, going from an average of 2.5 minutes in 2003, to 75 seconds in 2012, to 47 seconds in 2022. Robichaud believes that “being at your best ensures you can do your best work” - he emphasizes how crucial it is to stay sharp in the business world.
In order to combat these negative effects, Robichaud recommends making sustainable changes and improving habits. Taking things slow is key, he believes, as it maximizes the chances of sticking with positive changes.
“For one, try to put down the phone a bit more often,” says Robichaud. “Then, start following some other steps such as meditating, or taking a walk in nature without checking your phone. Here in Moncton, especially in the summertime, it’s always rewarding to find time to enjoy the natural beauty.” He also encourages the creation of dedicated time away from screens, such as during meals.
Still, social media (and technology in general) is far from being “all bad”. There are the many virtues of its use as a marketing device, as noted above, and the ability to stay on top of new information can be highly useful.
Robichaud stresses that, for the financial planning industry in particular, it’s vital to stay informed about the latest trends and developments in the field. The financial world is “an ever-changing industry” he says, “and one that is inextricably linked with outside forces”. He explains that “you sort of have to keep an eye on everything in this profession”, from changes within the stock market, to technological advancements, to geopolitical developments. The internet provides access to current news with just a few clicks of a button, making it the most important tool in the never-ending quest to stay up to date.
Another fantastic benefit is communication. It has never been easier to stay connected with clients and be attune to their evolving needs and circumstances. During the pandemic, many experienced firsthand the importance of being able to virtually connect with clients and co-workers, with some companies moving to hybrid or fully remote work styles as a result. Robichaud has personally made it a point to always reply to any client messages as soon as he sees them, explaining that “if I have the answer they’re seeking, I’ll tell them. If not, I’ll say that I’m looking into it”. This purposeful use of instant messaging technology allows him to show that he cares about his clients’ inquiries, positively reinforcing their relationships.
In an age where technology is present in nearly every aspect of society, it is important to consider how it can best be used: by remaining conscious of time spent on social media, and taking mindful breaks, potential harm can be mitigated. Digital technology can be utilized to perform market research and boost sales, and effective, instant communication across the globe can create lasting relationships.
Robichaud’s main lesson is to be mindful and intentional in your technology choices, as you would in all aspects of your life and your health. Take plenty of breaks to recharge your mind, and be savvy in your utilization of its many benefits for your profession, whatever it may be.