Have We Evolved Too Much?

If there is one thing our ever-divided country can agree on, it’s likely the fact that we are constantly connected and often overstimulated. 

Giphy, 2024

Modern devices have caused a non-stop flow of digital information that takes up residency in the lives of all who utilize technology. Communications professionals are arguably even more impacted as they are now equipped with mechanisms for every aspect of their jobs including smartphones, computers, email, social media, video conferencing, and so much more. A recent survey found that the average employee uses 2.5 devices for work without even considering how many individual programs/systems are utilized per gadget. So what does this mean for the evolution of their work then?

For starters, the way modern-day professionals function is truly without rest.  In decades past, when video conferencing and instant messaging were not around, people spoke directly face to face and a system of information exchange took place at a much slower pace. When news needed to be researched, written, and distributed, laptops and computer software couldn’t help in facilitating smoother transactions. Editing, printing, and sharing stories also didn’t happen with the click of a button as they do today. Furthermore, public response was often lacking on channels such as radio and printed newspapers because outlets for reciprocation (like modern social media platforms) simply did not exist.  

The work of modern-day communicators has evolved in an incredibly enormous, powerful, and sometimes daunting way, to say the least. There is, ironically, no “off button” when it comes to digital technologies. With social media platforms in particular, studies have shown that professionals are now positioned to share information with communities, attract new people, network,and increase social impact and visibility. While this can be wonderfully positive, it also bears the concern that perhaps the vast evolution of technology is pushing us closer to the edge of burnout than we even know. Scientists have found that modern technologies can seriously compromise work-life balance and organizational performance when loss of leisure time due to techno-overload is present. It is up to the communicators of today to find some balance before overstimulation wreaks havoc.  

Giphy, 2024