
Technology’s consuming me lately. I love the freedom technology gives me – my computer, my cute as a bug netbook, my TiVo with instand Netflix downloads, my smoking fast cable internet connection and VOIP telephone. Ultimately, though, these are only tools that I use to ply my trade (minus the Netflix, of course). They’re not the reason for my being in business, only the facilitators.
And technology certainly doesn’t replace the personal relationships that I’ve built and continue to build. Technology facilitates those, too, and allows me to serve people all over the world, keeping up with folks via email, Facebook and other social media.
One piece of technology I don’t have is a cell phone. I know, a shocking confession in this day and age. I’ve never found the need for one. When I’m in my office, the telephone there works just fine. When I’m out at meetings, lunch or running errands, any messages I receive aren’t going to interrupt those endeavors. I’m not a crisis PR expert, so for me and my clients, there’s no such thing as a “writer emergency.”
Technology has made all of our lives easier. At the end of the day, it’s all about relationships, though. Are you using the technology available to you to connect with your current and potential clients? Building a website, sending a press release, or crafting a newsletter are all ways to let them know you’re there, and ready to help. And I’m ready to help you do it, too.
Great article Kelly. I am happy to say that I too am cell phone free. Also, no microwave.
No microwave! However would I reheat my mac and cheese? 😎
Although I do have a cell phone, I don’t use it the way most people do. For one thing, only a handful of people have the number. Even then, I keep it in silent mode — who wants to be interrupted during a client session, or during lunch with a friend? (There are no organizing emergencies either!) I use it for checking in with my home voice mail, and for a plethora of useful and/or fun smart phone applications. I rarely make calls, but am still grateful to never have to find, or use, another nasty public pay phone ever again!