wearable technology is far from becoming a game-changer that many had predicted. Brendon Thorne / Bloomberg News
wearable technology is far from becoming a game-changer that many had predicted. Brendon Thorne / Bloomberg News
wearable technology is far from becoming a game-changer that many had predicted. Brendon Thorne / Bloomberg News
wearable technology is far from becoming a game-changer that many had predicted. Brendon Thorne / Bloomberg News

Thinking smarter


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Computing devices have moved from our desktop to our lap and now on to our body. From watches that answer calls to devices that monitor our physical activities, technology has never been this personal. The National’s second annual #Startwalking Challenge, beginning next week, will remind participants of the usefulness of some of these gadgets.

Yet, wearable technology is far from becoming a game-changer that many had predicted. This explains why Google Glass, which generated so much excitement in 2014, failed to attract consumers or Nike’s FuelBand vanished off store shelves so quickly. Others are increasingly ending up unused, serving as expensive reminders of how this technology is not yet ready to change the way we live.

For these devices to become thoroughly compelling, they ought to be more than just another connected mobile device. After all, it’s not so much about smart devices, but about smarter services and people.

10 tips for entry-level job seekers
  • Have an up-to-date, professional LinkedIn profile. If you don’t have a LinkedIn account, set one up today. Avoid poor-quality profile pictures with distracting backgrounds. Include a professional summary and begin to grow your network.
  • Keep track of the job trends in your sector through the news. Apply for job alerts at your dream organisations and the types of jobs you want – LinkedIn uses AI to share similar relevant jobs based on your selections.
  • Double check that you’ve highlighted relevant skills on your resume and LinkedIn profile.
  • For most entry-level jobs, your resume will first be filtered by an applicant tracking system for keywords. Look closely at the description of the job you are applying for and mirror the language as much as possible (while being honest and accurate about your skills and experience).
  • Keep your CV professional and in a simple format – make sure you tailor your cover letter and application to the company and role.
  • Go online and look for details on job specifications for your target position. Make a list of skills required and set yourself some learning goals to tick off all the necessary skills one by one.
  • Don’t be afraid to reach outside your immediate friends and family to other acquaintances and let them know you are looking for new opportunities.
  • Make sure you’ve set your LinkedIn profile to signal that you are “open to opportunities”. Also be sure to use LinkedIn to search for people who are still actively hiring by searching for those that have the headline “I’m hiring” or “We’re hiring” in their profile.
  • Prepare for online interviews using mock interview tools. Even before landing interviews, it can be useful to start practising.
  • Be professional and patient. Always be professional with whoever you are interacting with throughout your search process, this will be remembered. You need to be patient, dedicated and not give up on your search. Candidates need to make sure they are following up appropriately for roles they have applied.

Arda Atalay, head of Mena private sector at LinkedIn Talent Solutions, Rudy Bier, managing partner of Kinetic Business Solutions and Ben Kinerman Daltrey, co-founder of KinFitz

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MATCH INFO

Uefa Champions League semi-final, first leg
Bayern Munich v Real Madrid

When: April 25, 10.45pm kick-off (UAE)
Where: Allianz Arena, Munich
Live: BeIN Sports HD
Second leg: May 1, Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid