21 JULY 2017

written by Mike

21st CENTURY WORK

“Survival of the fittest.” A phrase that originated from Darwinian evolutionary theory.

Is it a strange topic for an entrepreneur?

Perhaps, but let’s dissect the phrase. “Fittest” does not necessarily mean the strongest, the biggest. It rather describes one who is the most adaptable. One who can thrive in any environment.

I think it’s safe to say that the old Darwinian saying fits well into any industry. 21st-century work is all about being adaptable, being able to make changes in people’s lives. It can be podcasting, production, audio work, anything else. The idea is to push for a change, inspire to not only survive but to thrive in our lives.

Let’s take podcasting for example.

It’s not a secret that podcasting is a highly competitive business. Easy to get into, hard to sustain. Especially if you are just starting out. On the other hand, you have people who build massive empires in this environment. Joe Rogan, Ricky Gervais are the obvious ones.

But why them and not others? What makes them different?

“Survival of the fittest” is something that they understood. The need to innovate, to be flexible and open-minded to the markets and ever-changing customer needs. And of course, new technologies which help to facilitate the changes.

Let’s think how design and technology will help you to stand apart, to be the fittest. For starters, look at the latest trends.

Where is people’s attention?

Where do they spend most of their time?

The first answer that comes to mind is smartphones.

Looking at the latest statistics is evident that mobile internet surfing has passed desktops. And the trend is still going upwards. Same goes for podcasts. It’s mobile, convenient method of content consumption. Easy to start for anyone.

It all sounds amazing. In theory.

And that’s the problem that most people face. It’s easy to say things like ‘podcasting is so hot right now, let’s jump in!’ But not everyone is a narrator; not everyone knows how to edit and produce a podcast. It’s so easy to sell an advice such as “release an episode each week and grow your audience.”

But record what? Where do you find the content? What do you say? How do you edit?

That’s why having a clear vision for your podcast, for your business, is so important. To understand what are your strengths, to prioritise the features and strategy. To be clear on the direction you and your business partners want to take, and to look for help.

“Survival of the fittest” in 21st-century work does not mean that you have to do everything yourself. It means that you understand trends towards mobile and you look for someone who can help to adapt your digital identity.

It means that you can convey your message, your products, your services in any place, at any time. That the technology is just a tool, but a tool you cannot ignore.

Yesterday it was a mail order and newspaper ads; today is online and mobile; tomorrow it will be virtual reality.

And it’s ok; you just need to be ready for it.