When you go in to the doctor’s office for your annual checkup, don’t you assume that your physician has done their homework on the most recent developments in medicine? You feel that you can trust their knowledge of new medications that are safer and more effective than old ones; or, if you have to go in for surgery, you are confident that your surgeon is using the most up-to-date techniques to perform the procedure. If you aren’t confident of these things, we’d suggest a new set of doctors!

“Learning and innovation go hand in hand. The arrogance of success is to think that what you did yesterday will be sufficient for tomorrow.” — William Pollard

In any line of work, it is all too easy to become complacent in the old, comfortable way of doing things. We’re all familiar with the old line, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!” But just like professionals in the healthcare field, you have a responsibility to study up on the newest innovations and technologies in your industry. When you do this, you not only ensure that your customers receive cutting-edge expertise (building a reputation that will keep them coming back again and again), but you also have an opportunity to apply those same technologies and innovations to your business processes.

On the flip side, we all know that “newer” does not necessarily equal “better.” Staying on top of all the buzz in your field will allow you to know whether a new development is a breakthrough or if it is just a passing fad, thus saving you and your customers money and time.

Capitalizing on what you’re good at, and keeping your knowledge current is an important part of being a true expert. Attend trade shows and seminars, follow industry blogs and websites, and make sure to have a strong social media presence to help you keep track of what the movers and shakers in your field are saying. Keep learning and keep networking. Before you know it, you will be one of those movers and shakers too!