When faced with a technical problem at work, an employee may experience technical embarrassment.
Generation Z workers are comfortable with new technology, but sometimes struggle with old computers and machines at work. This is a common problem that needs attention. Although Gen Z has grown up with advanced technology, it’s important to understand that not all technology is the same. Tasks such as using an old printer or fax machine, which were common in the past, can be confusing for them. This lack of knowledge can make them feel like they are not good enough. The workplace must help bridge this generational gap in technology so that everyone feels supported and included.
The guard reported that the technology company HP coined the term “tech shame” to define how overwhelmed young people felt when using standard office tools. According to the survey, one in five young office workers said they “felt judged for having technical problems,” making them less likely to ask for help.
And in another study, staffing firm LaSalle Agency found that nearly half of the class of 2022 felt “underprepared” when it came to the technical skills relevant to entering the job market.
What is technical shame?
Tech shaming is when people make others feel ashamed or inadequate because they don’t know how to use technology properly. This can happen at home, work or school and can come in different forms. Tech shaming can be detrimental to one’s self-esteem, especially in a world where being tech-savvy is considered essential for success. It can also make people feel isolated and left out.
Tech shame can impact people of all ages, but it can be especially challenging for Gen Z workers. They often face additional pressure because their colleagues assume that their upbringing allows them to navigate technology effortlessly. However, this isn’t always true, as older technology can still pose problems for younger workers.
According to The guardGen Z workers are generally well equipped to edit photos and videos all from their phones or use website builders like Squarespace and Wix. They grew up using apps to get their work done and are used to the convenience of Apple operating systems. Their formative tech years were spent using software that is easy to use. But desktop computers are definitely less intuitive. Things like files, folders, scanning, printing and using external hardware are hallmarks of office life.
I was told that Gen Z should be tech savvy… After way too many phone calls I finally had to spell it out for them.
byu/mowikn inSysadminhumor
Are they familiar with the process of turning on a bulky computer screen, since many of them just close their personal laptops when they’re done? According to an IT professional on Reddit, the answer is often no. This IT worker has even gone so far as to place a sign above the power button on office computers.
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