As a baby boomer with kids of the Gen-Y era, my virtual presence has officially embarrassed them…I tweet; I have hundreds of followers on LinkedIn; I blog occasionally; and I have a Facebook page that I actually use.  Not to mention, I’m enrolled in an M.Ed. program that is 100% virtual; I use an iPhone; and I have an iPad. 

I continually strive to enhance all types of educational programming and formats to benefit all of you, our members, with the latest developments in health IT.  I continually develop my skills professionally by seeking venues to present the latest advancements of my profession as an association executive.  And all these things are significant because it demonstrates that regardless of your age, you can and must continually seek opportunities to engage with others in many ways and with a variety of technologies. 

But how do I manage to maintain a presence in a virtual environment in so many ways? 

It’s simple.  I make the time.  I embed technology in my daily work routine.  And if I don’t, my skills will languish.  And yours will too.  It’s critical for health IT professionals (and others) to commit to lifelong learning, networking, and engagement…all day, every day.

Regardless if you are emerging in the field with five years or less of experience, or, if you are a seasoned professional with 15 years or more of experience, there’s something to learn every day. 

Just as executive coach Marshall Goldsmith (@coachgoldsmith) tells us that “You Can Teach Employees to Set Life Changing Goals,” do yourself a favor and begin with you in mind.  Won’t you join me in doing so?