Hard Work Smart

Jerzy Rajkow

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TECHNOLOGY
UPDATED WEEKLY

Hard Work Smart

Digital Minimalism. Mindful Productivity. Youtube Growth. www.hardworksmart.com

11 SEPT

Against disrespect in recruiting - job searching has become an exercise in resistance to humiliation

The Recruitment Dilemma We've all been there—sending out countless job applications, only to receive a few impersonal responses. The reality of modern job searching has become a numbers game, one that is far from human-friendly. The recruitment process today often feels like a relentless cycle of applying, interviewing, and receiving feedback that leaves us feeling undervalued and disrespected. It seems like every step of the job search has been designed to make us feel like just another number. From the automated systems that filter our resumes to the anonymous feedback we receive (often from a no-reply email), the process feels anything but personal. The experience is undeniably frustrating and raises the question: why has recruitment become so disrespectful? The Numbers Game Let's talk about the sheer volume of applications required to land an interview. We're often forced to send out hundreds, if not thousands, of applications just to get a handful of responses. The numbers game is disheartening, forcing us to question if anyone is even reading our resumes. More often than not, it feels like we're being filtered by algorithms rather than assessed by actual human beings. Even when we do get called in for an interview, the responses we receive are frequently impersonal. Feedback, if we receive any at all, is often generic and sent from no-reply email addresses. This lack of personal touch makes the entire process even more grueling, leaving us to wonder why there is so much disrespect inherent in how recruitment is handled today. Salary Expectation as a Form of Gatekeeping Another thorny issue in the recruitment process is the salary expectation field. We are often asked to state our salary expectations right from the get-go, a practice that feels more like gambling than professional negotiation. It's like throwing a dart in the dark, hoping it lands within the employer's hidden target range. Wouldn't it be more straightforward if employers disclosed their salary ranges upfront? This would eliminate the guesswork and allow us to focus on showcasing our skills and competence. By making salary ranges transparent, companies could foster a more respectful and equitable recruitment process. Yet, this level of transparency is often avoided, possibly to maintain internal salary structures or to avoid unsettling current employees. The Disrespect of No-Reply Emails The use of no-reply emails is another glaring example of the disrespect embedded in the recruitment process. Receiving a rejection email from a no-reply address feels like a digital middle finger. It's a one-sided conversation where we have no chance to ask questions, seek feedback, or even clarify misunderstandings. Constructive feedback is invaluable. It helps us understand where we went wrong and how we can improve for future opportunities. Yet, more often than not, the feedback we receive is either non-existent or so generic that it offers no real value. This approach not only wastes our time but also leaves us feeling disrespected and undervalued. The Role of Algorithms in Recruitment The advent of algorithm-driven Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) was initially seen as a boon for HR departments overwhelmed by the sheer volume of applications. However, these systems have quickly become a barrier between candidates and potential employers. We are often forced to tailor our resumes to fit the specific keywords used by these systems, reducing our professional experiences to mere buzzwords. While the efficiency of algorithms can't be denied, they lack the human touch that can truly assess a candidate’s potential. A resume that doesn't tick all the algorithmic boxes may still belong to a highly qualified individual. By relying too heavily on these systems, companies may be missing out on great talent and perpetuating a cycle of disrespect. The Reality of Misleading Job Descriptions Have you ever landed a job only to find out that the role is nothing like what was

16 min
9 SEPT

Mandatory use of WhatsApp - do you feel excluded?

In our digital age, the choices we make about technology are not just personal preferences; they're statements about how we want to live our lives. As digital minimalists, we often find ourselves at odds with the prevailing tech culture. The WhatsApp Dilemma In this episode of the podcast, we dive into the complexities of using WhatsApp for parental communication in schools and extracurricular activities. It's a reflection of a broader issue: how technology, designed to connect us, often ends up creating divides. We're not just talking about a messaging app; we're discussing a cultural shift in communication, where the choice of platform can lead to inclusion or exclusion. In our personal experience, we've felt the sting of being left out because we chose not to use WhatsApp. Our decision, rooted in a desire for simplicity and a wariness of data manipulation, meant missing out on vital information about our children's activities. This isn't just about missing a message; it's about being sidelined in a community that's supposed to be inclusive. The Culture of Convenience The convenience of WhatsApp has made it the go-to choice for many parent groups. But this convenience comes at a cost. It's not just about data privacy; it's about how we want to communicate. WhatsApp's format, favoring quick, often superficial interactions, can bury important information under a mountain of emojis and small talk. This isn't effective communication; it's noise. We understand the appeal of WhatsApp's speed and simplicity. But when it becomes the only channel of communication, it excludes those who, for various reasons, choose not to use it. It's a form of digital coercion, where participation in community life is contingent on using a specific app. This isn't just inconvenient; it's fundamentally unfair. Seeking Solutions So, what's the solution? We believe it's about finding a balance that respects everyone's preferences and privacy. Schools and activity groups should not rely solely on a single platform, especially one that raises concerns about data privacy and user manipulation. Instead, we advocate for a more inclusive approach, using universally accessible channels like email or SMS. Get full access to Hard Work Smart at www.hardworksmart.com/subscribe

12 min
5 SEPT

A dumb phone is not enough

In a world increasingly dominated by digital interactions, our story with our daughter and her Punkt MP02 phone offers a microcosm of the larger conversation about communication in the age of smartphones. As parents, we initially thought that providing a basic phone would strike the perfect balance between connectivity and independence. However, we soon discovered that the challenge was far more nuanced, revolving not just around the device itself, but its usage and the digital etiquette it entails. Navigating the Digital Landscape Our daughter's experience with her simple phone quickly revealed a paradox. While we aimed to limit her digital exposure, the flood of text messages from her peers suggested that the type of device was just the first choice to make. The issue was not the technology but the behavior surrounding it. This led us to a crucial realization: it's essential to teach our children the principles of responsible digital communication. As we delved deeper into this issue, we noticed a pattern that extended beyond our family. The constant connectivity afforded by digital devices has blurred the lines between personal time and digital availability. This trend prompted us to reassess our digital habits, realizing that our behavior sets a precedent for our daughter. The Impact of Our Digital Footprint Our journey into the world of digital pragmatism highlighted the significance of our digital footprint, not just as individuals but as a family. We recognized that our daughter's digital interactions were not occurring in a vacuum; they were influenced by the behaviors she observed in us and her peers. This insight led to a broader discussion about the role of parents in shaping digital behaviors and the importance of setting an example. The Ripple Effect of Digital Communication As we grappled with these challenges, we realized that the issue of digital communication extends beyond individual families. It's a societal issue that requires a collective effort to address. The ripple effect of our digital interactions is profound, influencing not just our immediate circle but the broader community. Modeling Responsible Digital Behavior Our experience taught us the importance of modeling responsible digital behavior. As parents, we have a responsibility to demonstrate healthy digital habits, showing our children that there's a time and place for digital communication. This involves not just limiting screen time but also showcasing how to interact digitally in a respectful and mindful manner. The Role of Education in Digital Etiquette The conversation about digital communication shouldn't be limited to the home. It's imperative that schools and educational institutions play a role in teaching digital etiquette. Incorporating lessons on digital boundaries and responsible use of technology into the curriculum can provide children with the tools they need to navigate the digital world effectively. Get full access to Hard Work Smart at www.hardworksmart.com/subscribe

10 min
2 SEPT

AI will make social media even worse

Human interaction with AI did not start with ChatGPT. It started years earlier, on social media: all the timelines (or newsfeeds) on social media nowadays are curated using complex AI and machine-learning algorithms. Today, we know it: social media - an intricate experiment, a playground for AI to manipulate our choices, stir emotions, and shape our perceptions - is not beneficial for humanity. End of story. It's unsettling to realize that this experiment's results have manifested as: * polarized societies, * the erosion of democracy, and * vulnerable teenage minds. The power and danger of AI lie not just in the technology itself, but in how it's wielded. Mindful Engagement While AI's rapid progress may seem insurmountable, the first step towards a better future is awareness. Acknowledging the potential harm to our mental well-being, especially in teenagers, is essential. Our attention is currency, and we must be deliberate in how we spend it online. Skepticism about AI-generated content is wise, but let's not forget the responsibility we bear in engaging thoughtfully. Unmasking the Manipulators The threats AI and social media pose extend far beyond their current forms. With deepfake technology and AI influencers entering the scene, we face an onslaught of disinformation and manipulation. The very fabric of reality becomes questionable. Remember, anyone can distort the truth or impersonate, highlighting the urgency to discern facts from fabrications. Claiming Our Identity The peril of AI chatbots befriending our children goes beyond our comprehension. These digital companions, while seemingly friendly, can subtly erode identities and beliefs. The heart of the issue is the mismatch of intentions. AI is not here to nurture personal growth; its motivations are dictated by algorithms, not empathy. To safeguard our children's future, we must guard them against AI-fueled friendships. The Perils of Passivity Our current predicament isn't solely a result of AI's relentless march; it's rooted in our collective passivity. Social media's toxic elements thrive because we allow them to. It's high time we recognize that our actions matter. By holding platforms accountable and supporting regulatory efforts, we can ensure the virtual spaces we inhabit reflect our values and aspirations. A Glimpse of Accountability As we wrestle with the ethical quagmire, experts like Eric Schmidt and Jonathan Haidt emerge as voices of reason. Their calls for transparency, content labeling, and regulation reflect the urgency of the situation. By making platforms liable for their content and design choices, we instigate a shift towards a safer digital environment. A New Age of Maturity Raising the age of digital adulthood resonates as a potential solution. Just as we limit alcohol consumption to safeguard vulnerable young minds, extending the age of social media access could provide the buffer needed for healthier digital interactions. A fundamental shift in how we view these platforms is essential – from frivolous amusement to serious responsibility. Empowerment through Choice In our quest to master AI-augmented social media, we must remember that despite AI's increasing influence, our choices remain paramount. We can't control the technology's rapid evolution, but we can control how we engage with it. The future isn't predetermined; it's shaped by our collective actions and decisions. Get full access to Hard Work Smart at www.hardworksmart.com/subscribe

24 min
29 AUG

The Best Age to Give a Smartphone to a Kid

Are you wondering when the best time is to give your child a smartphone? You're not alone. Many parents struggle with this decision, and today, we want to discuss an organization called "Wait Until 8th" that has a powerful suggestion for parents: wait until your child is at least 14 years old before giving them a smartphone. Why 14? According to the organization and psychologist Jonathan Haidt, waiting until the end of puberty is crucial for a child's mental health. During puberty, children have a strong need to fit in and are constantly checking in with their peers. Introducing a smartphone during this time can lead to negative effects on their mental health, as they are exposed to powerful algorithms that can provide enraging or harmful content. Even adults can struggle with the impact of smartphones and social media on their mental health. So, if it's difficult for grown-ups, imagine how much harder it is for children going through puberty. This is why some experts, like Haidt, believe that waiting until the end of puberty is essential. However, some people argue that even 14 might be too young. They suggest waiting until a child is 21 or even avoiding smartphones altogether. So, what are the benefits of giving your child a smartphone at 14 or 15? Honestly, it's hard to say. Some may argue that it could help them become an Instagram influencer or provide useful apps for traveling, but these benefits can be achieved through other devices that are not as addictive as smartphones. The idea behind "Wait Until 8th" is not only about delaying smartphone usage but also about creating a community of parents who support each other in this decision. By signing the online pledge and connecting with other parents from your child's school, you can form a supportive network that ensures your child won't be the only one without a smartphone. Recent studies have shown that the earlier a child receives a smartphone, the worse their mental health may be later in life. This means that waiting as long as possible before giving your child a smartphone is indeed a wise decision. As a parent, one of the best gifts you can give your child is good mental health. If their mental health is strong, they will be better equipped to handle conflicts, develop self-esteem, and navigate the ever-changing world. In conclusion, the "Wait Until 8th" organization suggests waiting until your child is at least 14 before giving them a smartphone. However, some believe that waiting even longer or avoiding smartphones altogether is the best approach. Ultimately, the decision is up to you as a parent, but it's essential to consider the potential impact on your child's mental health and well-being. Get full access to Hard Work Smart at www.hardworksmart.com/subscribe

11 min
26 AUG

Let kids play freely

We've noticed a significant shift in the way children are raised and allowed to interact with their environment. Gone are the days when kids could roam the neighborhood freely, exploring and learning from their surroundings without constant supervision. In this article, we will discuss the importance of allowing children to play freely and the consequences of overprotecting them. As parents and caregivers, it's natural to want to keep our children safe. However, in our quest for safety, we may be limiting their opportunities for growth and development. When we were younger, we spent countless hours playing with our friends, with minimal adult supervision. Our parents had a general idea of where we were, but they didn't have the constant access to our whereabouts that today's technology provides. One of the reasons for this shift in parenting is the influence of media. We are bombarded with stories of terrible things happening to children, which fuels our fear and leads us to overprotect our kids. This overprotection may actually be doing more harm than good, as it prevents them from developing essential life skills such as self-confidence, competence, and independence. A key example of this issue is the story of Lenore Skenazy, who wrote the book "Free Range Kids" after letting her eight-year-old son ride the subway alone in New York City. Skenazy argues that we should make more efforts to let our kids be independent, as our minds are conditioned to focus on negative information rather than positive experiences. Get full access to Hard Work Smart at www.hardworksmart.com/subscribe

16 min
22 AUG

How we consume media?

The platform is the message One important aspect of our media consumption is understanding that the platform is the message. Different platforms offer different experiences, and it's crucial to be aware of how these platforms shape the content we consume. For example, Twitter is designed for short, snappy messages, while TikTok focuses on brief videos. By recognizing the nature of each platform, we can better tailor our media consumption to our needs and preferences. Media-mix choice Our family has made a conscious decision to avoid certain forms of media, such as TV, radio, and streaming services. We believe that these platforms are often vehicles for advertisements and news, which can be overwhelming and distracting. Instead, we prefer to make our own decisions about what to buy and what to pay attention to, based on our needs and analysis. The rule of effort We also employ a strategy called the "rule of effort," which involves consuming media that requires a significant amount of effort from its creators. For example, we prefer to listen to audiobooks over podcasts, as the former requires more effort to write and record. Similarly, we choose movies over series, as they generally require more effort to produce and offer a complete story with a beginning, middle, and end. A mindful experience Our media consumption choices extend to the formats we use. For music, we prefer vinyl records and CDs, while for movies, we opt for DVDs. We find that these formats require more effort to enjoy, making the experience more intentional and meaningful. For example, listening to a vinyl record involves taking it out of its sleeve, placing it on the turntable, and carefully positioning the needle, all of which contribute to a more immersive and mindful experience. What media do we consume? When it comes to watching movies, we avoid streaming services and instead choose DVDs. This allows us to have control over our movie selection, without being influenced by algorithms or suggestions. We find that this approach leads to less time spent scrolling through options and more time enjoying the movies we truly want to watch. Shaping the environment Our environment plays a significant role in shaping our media consumption habits. By creating a space that encourages intentional media consumption, we can better focus on the quality of our experiences. For example, we use a projector to watch movies, providing a more immersive and theater-like experience. Friction and coping mechanisms We also avoid using media as a coping mechanism for life's challenges. By creating friction in our media consumption process, such as the ritual of choosing and playing a DVD, we prevent ourselves from mindlessly turning to media for distraction or comfort. A beginning and a clearly defined ending Furthermore, our media consumption habits are designed to respect our time and avoid stealing it away. By choosing media with a clear beginning, middle, and end, we can better manage our time and avoid the trap of binge-watching or endless scrolling. In conclusion, our family's approach to media consumption is centered around intentionality, effort, and control. By making mindful choices about the platforms, formats, and content we consume, we can enhance the quality of our experiences and maintain a healthy relationship with media. We encourage you to consider your own media consumption habits and explore ways to make them more intentional and meaningful. Get full access to Hard Work Smart at www.hardworksmart.com/subscribe

13 min
19 AUG

Digital Minimalist Parenting

The Challenge of Digital Parenting In today's world, parenting has become a digital battlefield. We face the dilemma of whether to raise our children as digital minimalists or risk them becoming technologically backward. The truth is, it's not about being afraid of technology; it's about managing its influence on our kids' lives. We often see parents giving smartphones to their children, not out of necessity, but because it's the default. It's an easy way to keep them occupied while we handle our own tasks. But this unintentional decision can lead to long-term consequences, including technology addiction and social isolation. A Shift in Norms Imagine a future where giving a smartphone to a child is as frowned upon as giving them alcohol. As awareness grows about the negative impacts of unrestricted technology access, we believe there will be a significant shift in societal norms. Just as laws regulate alcohol and tobacco for minors, we foresee similar regulations for smartphone usage among children. Parents will soon realize that the constant flow of notifications and the addictive nature of apps are designed to exploit our attention. This realization will drive a movement towards more mindful and intentional use of technology in parenting. Intentional Technology Use Being a digital minimalist doesn't mean rejecting technology altogether. It means using it intentionally, as a tool to enhance learning and creativity, rather than as a default babysitter. For example, showing children how to use a desktop computer for research or creative projects can be beneficial, unlike giving them a smartphone loaded with addictive apps. We can draw parallels with how technology has evolved in other fields. When Prince recorded his first album, he didn't have the luxury of an iPad with multi-track recording capabilities. He had to navigate through gatekeepers and studios. Today, technology has democratized music production, but it requires intentional use to harness its full potential. The Dangers of Unrestricted Access Smartphones, unlike dedicated tools, come with a plethora of distractions. They are designed to keep users engaged, often at the cost of productivity and mental health. This is why it's crucial to set boundaries and teach children the importance of using technology as a tool, not as a crutch. Gaming, for instance, is often touted as a gateway to tech careers. However, it can also be an entry point to addiction. While it may foster some technical skills, it often limits real-world social interactions and practical knowledge. Encouraging children to balance online activities with offline experiences is key. Building Real-World Skills We must emphasize the importance of real-world interactions and skills. Children learn best through hands-on experiences and face-to-face communication. By limiting screen time and encouraging outdoor play, we help them develop essential life skills that technology alone cannot provide. It's about creating an environment where children can thrive without being tethered to screens. This means providing them with opportunities to explore, create, and interact with the world around them. It also means being role models in our own use of technology. Setting Boundaries As parents, it's our responsibility to set rules and boundaries around technology use. This might mean no screens before school or limiting gaming to certain hours. By establishing these guidelines, we help our children develop a healthy relationship with technology. We also need to be aware of the subtle ways technology can infiltrate our lives. Notifications, for example, are designed to grab our attention and keep us coming back. By turning off unnecessary notifications and being mindful of our own screen time, we can set a positive example for our children. The Role of Single-Use Devices One effective strategy is to use single-use devices. For instance, giving a child a dedicated camera instead of a smartphone can foster creativi

18 min

Digital Minimalism. Mindful Productivity. Youtube Growth. www.hardworksmart.com

Creator

Jerzy Rajkow
Years Active

2020 - 2024
Episodes

27
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© Jerzy Rajkow
Show Website

Hard Work Smart