The Anatomy of a Hyperconnected Employee
Earlier this week IDC released the results of a survey it conducted on behalf of Nortel Networks Corp. to determine the percentage of the world-wide workforce that can be defined as “hyperconnected,” or as those who rely on multiple devices like cellphones and laptops, as well as applications like e-mail and social networking sites like Facebook. They found that 16% of almost 2,400 working adults in 17 countries are hyperconnected, and over the next five years that percentage is expected to increase to 40%.
So what does a hyperconnected employee look like?
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Extreme connection. Those who own the distinction of “hyperconnected” use a minimum of seven devices for work and personal activities in addition to nine applications.
- Technologically dependent. The hyperconnected depend on their devices and applications- 47% said a network outage at work would have an extreme impact on them.
- Work/life difference? Hyperconnected employees claim they are happy with their work/life balance, even though they use almost all devices and applications for both, and they are willing to use them at work, on vacation, in restaurants, from bed, and even in places of worship!
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On the cutting edge. They are the first to adopt new technologies, such as the Apple iPhone, and the Slingbox video transmitter
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Clear priorities. If they had to leave their house for 24 ours they would take their laptop out before their wallets or even mobile phones.
- Appreciation for connection. The hyperconnected appreciate their companies’ efforts to support their connectivity needs.
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Considerations for employment. The hyperconnected seek a work environment that supports communication and will consider the adoption of newer technology as a condition for employment.
Small businesses should take note…
