Technophobe manager mistook cloud collaboration for computer hacking

My older supervisor freaked out when I used Google Docs for work. He thought I was hacking his PC when he saw the document changing in real time. I tried to explain how it works but he didn’t get it.

Now he prints everything out and scans it back in. It’s like we’re going backwards in time with our workflow. I’m so frustrated dealing with this.

Has anyone else had to deal with tech-challenged bosses? How did you handle it without losing your mind? I could really use some advice on bridging this generational tech gap at work.

lol ive been there! my boss was like that too. so i started showing him cool stuff like how we can edit together n save time. took forever but he finally got it. just be patient n keep tryin to show him the good stuff bout tech. maybe find sumthin he likes n connect it to work stuff? gl man!

Oh man, I feel your pain! I had a similar situation with my previous manager who was incredibly tech-averse. It was maddening at first, but I found a way to make it work.

What helped was setting up a quick ‘Tech Tuesday’ session each week. I’d spend 15 minutes showing him one new tool or feature. Started simple with stuff like file sharing, then worked up to real-time collaboration.

The key was patience and relating it to things he understood. For cloud docs, I compared it to a shared bulletin board where multiple people could post notes simultaneously.

It took time, but he slowly came around. Now he’s not exactly a tech wizard, but at least he’s not printing and rescanning everything! Hang in there and try to make it a positive learning experience for both of you. Good luck!

I’ve encountered similar challenges with tech-resistant leadership. In my experience, a gradual, step-by-step approach works best. Start by demonstrating the tangible benefits of cloud collaboration, such as improved efficiency and reduced paper waste. Perhaps arrange a brief demo with IT support present to address security concerns. Emphasize how these tools are industry standard and can give your company a competitive edge. If possible, find an ally in upper management who understands the importance of digital transformation. Remember, change takes time, especially for those set in their ways. Patience and persistence are key. Meanwhile, document the inefficiencies caused by outdated practices to build a case for modernization.