2/12/2024-On this day, Ray Kurzweil

Ray Kurzweil’s thinking should not paralyze you but instead help guide you to focus your skill development and what you mean in the sales chain.

On this day in 1948, Ray Kurzweil, an American computer scientist and futurist, was born in Queens, NY.

So, why is Ray important to you, human being sales pro?

Ray predicts an intriguing future that will mean more automation in marketplaces like the one you sell in.

The implications of exponential tech innovation are not as fuzzy as you think. One thing is certain: you’ll have to sharpen some skills to fight off the bots.

That’s a good thing, however. What Ray and others predict about the not-too-distant future will motivate you to keep growing.

What superpower do you have that can help you stay ahead of the dynamic changes going on in your sector?

If your answer starts with the most fundamental human powers, like empathy and communication, then you’re sniffing down the right path.

Tech can never touch your ability to make customers feel.

Today, appraise your engagement skills and where they need to be to keep your rightful place in the sales equation. From there, work on a plan that guides your development.

NEVER stop working on your skills!

The selling habits and skills you use today probably won’t work "tomorrow."

But one constant is tech innovation.

Sure, tech advancements are fun, exciting, and rewarding. But, tech can be scary when you think of how much it can replace what you currently do in your job.

When Ray Kurzweil speaks, it makes sense to listen to him so we can prepare and think about how to remain competitive.

Kurzweil’s accomplishments and honors are impressive…to name a few, he received the 1999 National Medal of Technology and Innovation, the United States’ highest honor in technology, from then-President Bill Clinton in a White House ceremony. He was elected a member of the National Academy of Engineering in 2001 for applying technology to improve human-machine communication. In 2002, he was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame, established by the U.S. Patent Office. He has received 21 honorary doctorates and honors from three U.S. presidents.

The list goes on.

You may not have a brain like Ray’s, but you understand people and selling. Honoring Ray’s birthday is not about bowing to technology and letting it paralyze you, but instead acknowledging where you need to focus your skill development and what you mean in the sales chain.

The best thing you can do – today – is to get as many face-to-face meetings with customers as you can. Communication value is pretty good through Zoom, but it’s the best it can be in person. Be a seller who personifies the human spirit: go see your customers. Go look them in the eye.

It’s probably been a while since you’ve had your mind blown, so sit on your hands and spend 8-minutes watching a summary of Ray’s popular theory, "The Singularity."

This clip will help you elevate above superficial thinking, like using tech tools to help your prospecting or pipeline analysis.

What you learn will motivate you to double down on your personal skill development journey.