How To Focus On Reading in the UberInformation Era

As a self-made entrepreneur, I really believe in the power of reading, and wasn't surprised last week when Amazon's Kindle book sales surpassed print books' for the very first time. Additional info is definitely being changed and updated, and today the ways that we retrieve information are following. So, how are more info to choose the right way to get their news, books and journals in today's uber-information age?

The "Newsreading Theory" by William Stephenson Ludenic asserts that folks don't merely shop around delivered via newspapers, but actually adhere to print-editions for another reason: they get a certain joy from securing to a newspaper.

A newspaper is a collection of chosen happenings that informs you of "what's important" for that specific day. In addition, it puts, and keeps, things to ensure that its reader. It is limited to only the most relevant information, so you know by the time you're done reading, your "need-to-know" thirst is quenched, and you also are informed enough to go on with your day.

Digital readers, on the other hand, can only fit so much on their screens. You can't predict where you'll be; links in stories can lead you far and away from your starting point. The coverage of a news item can contain multiple links that, by clicking on them, will delve deeper in to the topic, but away from the house page where other news emerges. In addition, the endless level of sources online gives you a sense that there is an infinite level of information to assemble - it becomes a challenge. It is possible to spend days just gathering information online from various sources.

So why is this important? I want to relate it to the late President Ronald Reagan, of whom it is said throughout his career he was always the very best dressed in the room, regardless of the social forum. They say he would stand out from any crowd by simply appearing as the smartest person there - again, whatever the issue at hand.

In order to stick out one needs to will have that extra little bit of information among his cards. By reading, one can know something more; share an insight others don't possess. Below are a few personal guidelines which have served me well:

1. In the event that you only have so much time: Get the newspaper at your entry way and read it very first thing; know what continues on around you (Essential for me as a PR firm owner). Enrich your engagements and opportunities will observe. Meet with new people, have discussions with colleagues and friends, and take part in business. In a short time, uncertainties can look much different if you have the upper hand on the latest developments both locally and internationally.

2. The arena you play on: Often how mavericks differentiate themselves from the laymen. Your industry is really a global story - that is clearly a fact now regardless of what field you're in. Are you familiar with the trends and transformations in your industry? In what direction may be the service/product/firm predicted to go and where should it aim to reach? This information will be found in trade magazines and analyses reports online. Ensure that you subscribe to several to acquire a wide and progressive perspective.

3. Global trends: Many in the last decade lost their jobs because they were "asleep" when global trends were shouting that jobs of their kind will undoubtedly be exterminated. They didn't listen. By following vital stories, pictures become clear and problems could be avoided. Recently, the Motorola Company sold major assets from its wireless division. This implies thousands of job cuts worldwide. Following news during the last 8 months, one would have seen Motorola gradually getting rid of operations in its wireless branch; it would not need come as a surprise.

4. All of the rest: Yes, this includes this article. The 2 2.0 era and the social media marketing environments have lead to an unprecedented level of sharing. So, don't rule other's advice. Read 5 random sites of your choosing - if they are related to your field or not. Someone else's opinion can contribute to you in lots of ways, be it personally or professionally. Content like tips, motivational notes, how-to lists, and also personal obstacles are valuable. You never know where the next idea will come from.

Communication is all over, and the wise will see enrichment inspiration, and strategy through their reading. Once you've developed a strong reading habit, have a few moments to create, too. Contribute back to the places you've borrowed from, and share.

Make a strong impression in the next engagement. Show that you know.

Ronn Torossian

Ronn Torossian is president and CEO of 5WPR, among the 20 largest independent PR agencies in the U.S. Named one of the top 40"s Under 40"s by PR Week & Advertising Age, Ronn Torossian was a semi-finalist for the Ernst & Young 2010 Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and could be reached online at http://www.5wpr.com.