(BPT) - If your boss hands you a new assignment and tells you to take your time, and you think "What's the catch?", congratulations - you are officially part of the 21st century workforce. Today's work environment is go-go-go all the time, and phrases like 'take a break' or 'slow down' seem to have been left behind.
So what do you do if you're stuck in this 21st century work environment with a PC that's slow and uncooperative? It's time to talk to IT about getting a new one.
If you're not sure if you should be having this conversation, see if any of the below apply to you.
1. Your computer is a single-tasker
At home, you have five windows open, you're streaming music and reading an online story all at once. But at work, it's one window at a time and the thought of leaving a document open while you check email makes you shudder. If your backup plan involves your smartphone, then it's time for a new computer. Today's PCs that run on the latest generation of Intel processors offer twice the performance of 4-year-old models, giving you the chance to experience that new-fangled, multi-tasking thing everyone's talking about.
2. Your PC is officially out to lunch
Few things are more frustrating than watching your screen go black right in the middle of a big project or minutes before an urgent deadline, especially when you haven't hit the save button. If your computer is prone to taking a hiatus or two, place it on permanent break time.
3. You can type a Russian novel before the first word appears on the screen
No one's calling on you to turn into a court reporter, but it would be nice if you could read at least some of that email before you're ready to click send. A new PC will work at your speed and you won't have to wait for it to catch up. Can you picture it? Probably not yet.
4. Your PC crashes more often than Evel Knievel
When Evel crashed, you saw fire, explosions and excitement. When your old computer crashes, there's certainly no excitement. Also, your desire to remain employed prevents the fire and explosions.
5. Moving your PC could be the next big Cross Fit-like exercise craze
If you need to brace yourself before you move your PC, it's time for a newer model. Today the average laptop weighs 6 pounds or less, and new PCs are 50 percent thinner than those made a few years ago. So save the heavy lifting for the gym and leave your weight belt at home.
6. People mistake your computer for a vintage toy
That's silly of course. At least vintage toys have value. But, if younger co-workers aren't even sure how to turn your PC on, it's time for an upgrade.
7. The thought of unplugging your PC, even for a moment, terrifies you
Your cubicle shouldn't feel like an emergency room. New PCs offer three times the battery life over older models, so tell IT you want to pull the plug on your old PC permanently.
Today's computers are smaller, lighter, have more memory and boot up in 6 seconds or less. If you're tired of your PC being the punchline of office jokes, tell IT it's time for a new PC. The 21st century awaits you.