Connecting more deeply in the future (or even right now?)

The 2021 Tech Trends Report enables us to consider how our use of technology might skew the world in particular directions, and is an interesting read in light of the COVID-inspired increase in use of technology.

It’s clear that technology can provide positive outcomes is in connecting people, and in fact it’s this facet of technology that’s caused me to become interested in information technology decades ago. But connectedness is more than the ability to share and communicate. Connectedness with other people supports well-being as it gives a sense of being cared for, and belonging.

So how might we live in the future? The 2021 Tech Trends Report by the Future Today Institute is full of interesting suggestions: buying digital designer clothes, interacting with a synthesised person to practice management techniques, and experiencing news rather than watching it. It’s a fascinating read, but what really surprises me is how much of this functionality already exists and is in use.

In terms of connectedness, social media has long been able to provide a sense of community, with many people finding online groups where they feel supported by like-minded souls. Yet COVID-19 lockdowns have heightened feelings of isolation for many, despite exponential growth in use of online tools and social media platforms that enable us to reach others.

So what’s missing? Why does it sometimes seem difficult to connect with others at a deeper level when using technology? The immersive virtual reality meetings we’ll experience through sophisticated avatars in the future seems certain to be better for sharing non-verbal cues like body language, than is possible with current video-conferencing.

But it seems to me that there are also some solutions available here and now, including non-technical ways to increase connection with colleagues or clients in an online environment right now. It’s worthwhile revisiting some of the basics of relationship building - such as being deliberate in creating a culture that facilitates connection, and involving participants in creating a supportive atmosphere. And there are some great ways to use tool to communicate non-verbally, such as intentional use of different coloured backgrounds or emojis to share your underlying mood, reaction to a suggestion, or ability to understand a new idea.

I’m sure the future will create some inspiring new ways to connect, but I’m conscious that there are also some simple tools we can apply to engage better online right now.