I was scrolling through the business news headlines this morning, on my mobile, and there were three stories, more or less next to each other, about the business fortunes of two banks and a television company. The two banks were reporting reductions in profits but the television company was reporting an increase. The business of banking has, no doubt, changed a lot over the years, especially with the advent of online banking and, as in many sectors, the resulting job losses and restructuring has hit many businesses very hard. Let’s face it, who wants the inconvenience of having to go to the bank when you can just go to your computer or mobile instead?
The television, in stark contrast, has maintained its convenience. In fact, we haven’t even had to get out of our chairs to change the channel for a long time now. Also, rather than being replaced by the internet, television has used it to its advantage, in some situations, to enable people to use them both at the same time. You can watch your favourite ‘reality programme’ on the tv and make comments and vote for participants using your phone, whether by dialling a special number or by voting online. This has proven to be very popular and the resulting advertising and franchise revenues have increased profits for at least one television company, according to this morning’s headlines, and I suspect for many more too.
Humans are voyeurs, spectators, observers; we like to watch. We also want it easy.
A few want to be famous or become a superstar but for some, taking part is important. Not so much for the adoration of the masses but for the personal satisfaction and advancement which is also beneficial to others. This is where the important work is done. Not for personal fame and fortune but for the betterment of self which is for the benefit of many.
Progress will continue and business sectors will experience highs and lows but on a personal level, we can decide if we want to watch and vote or if we want to take part in making things better for others, whatever that might mean at the time.
The last week of August 2018 is the final opportunity this summer to immerse yourself in a week of personalised Business English Coaching in Palma de Mallorca. There are only 6 places available.
Details: https://www.davies-business-english.com/en/component/jevents/eventdetail/11/45/business-english-week.html?Itemid=1
Reserve your place: