The Double-Edged Sword: How Technology is Helping (and Challenging) Business Owners in Supporting Staff

Technology has transformed how we work, connect and lead. For business owners, especially those managing growing teams, tech offers exciting opportunities to support staff more efficiently and effectively. From remote collaboration tools to AI-powered training, today’s business tech is reshaping the employee experience.

But as with any tool, there are two sides to the story.

Let’s explore how technology is both empowering and challenging business owners in their mission to develop and support great teams.

Technology can help staff be more productive

The Positives: How Technology Empowers Staff Support

Streamlined Communication & Collaboration

Tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, Zoom, and Asana have revolutionised how teams communicate, especially when working remotely or across different locations. Information flows faster, meetings are more accessible, and collaboration can happen in real-time.

Flexible Working & Wellbeing

Technology has made flexible and hybrid work possible. Staff can work from home, adjust hours, and reduce commuting stress: all while staying connected to the team. For many, this has boosted wellbeing, work-life balance, and job satisfaction.

Access to On-Demand Learning

Learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, and custom Learning Management Systems (LMS) allow staff to learn anytime, anywhere. Business owners can offer targeted training on everything from technical skills to personal development, tailored to each team member's needs.

Recognition and Feedback Tools

Technology has made it easier for leaders to track performance, share feedback, and recognise wins, whether it’s through apps like 15Five, Lattice, or even simple digital rewards platforms. Recognition can now be instant and more frequent, which supports motivation and morale.

Technology can also lead to overwhelm & burnout

The Negatives: Where Tech Presents Challenges

Digital Overload and Burnout

With constant pings, updates, and screen time, employees may feel they’re never fully “off the clock.” This digital fatigue can reduce productivity and harm mental health if not managed properly.

Loss of Human Connection

Digital tools can sometimes make interactions feel transactional. Without regular in-person check-ins or meaningful team engagement, staff may feel disconnected or unsupported, even in a tech-enabled workplace.

One-Size-Fits-All Training

While online training platforms offer convenience, they can lack the personalisation and interaction that face-to-face sessions bring. Some staff thrive in live, discussion-based environments and may disengage from generic or overly technical e-learning.

Privacy and Monitoring Concerns

With tools that track productivity or online activity, staff may feel mistrusted or micromanaged. Without clear communication, these systems can damage culture and morale, even if the intent is to support performance.

A mix of in-person and technology enhances your staff's experience

Striking the Right Balance

For business owners, the goal isn’t to embrace every new tech trend, it’s to use technology intentionally. This means:

• Choosing tools that genuinely enhance your team’s experience, not just streamline admin.

  
  

• Offering a mix of digital and human support, like combining online courses with live coaching or check-ins.

  
  

• Creating boundaries around tech use, such as respecting work hours and reducing unnecessary notifications.

  
  

• Listening to your team about what’s working—and what’s not.

Final Thoughts

Technology is a powerful ally in supporting and developing staff, but only when paired with empathy, strategy, and good leadership. Used well, it can help business owners create more inclusive, flexible, and empowering workplaces.

But the real key? Knowing when to switch off the tech and simply ask, “How are you doing?”

So, let me know what you think about using technology in your business and how it impacts your staff.

Hazel, Empowering Your Circle