Resolution #3: Get Smart and Get a Smartphone

This year begins the era of the smartphone, according to Gartner. But is a smartphone right for you? A smartphone is simply a PDA that's also a phone. You can send and receive text messages and email, as well as access the internet.

PDAs are characterized by the Fundamental Four PDA programs which include calendar, contacts, memos and tasks. Since PDAs and smartphones are handheld computers, there are additional software programs that can be purchased to provide additional functions.

Some PDAs can even connect to your mobile phone wirelessly to access the internet or simply transfer contact information. This might be a great intermediate step to a full fledged smartphone.

Who should get a smartphone? If you currently have a PDA and are comfortable using it, then consider a smartphone. If you've never used a PDA, skip the smartphone and get a standard PDA first. Why? It takes time to learn how to use a PDA effectively. It also takes a different mindset than using a standard mobile phone. That’s why I recommend starting with a PDA first. Learn the basic functions and how to troubleshoot problems. Learn how to synchronize and backup your files. Be prepared to restore your data if you have to get a replacement unit. Believing that a smartphone is just another phone is a mistake. A smartphone can store critical information like a desktop or notebook computer and is far more vulnerable to theft.

Smartphones also tend to be less reliable than a standard mobile phone. When was the last time your mobile phone crashed and you had to reboot it? In addition, some smartphones cost over $500. Also, watch out for the additional costs of accessing data, which can add $30 or more each month.

I strongly recommend the use of smartphones but only if you’re ready for it. The simplest benefit is having one list of contacts instead of two. That means you’ll always have your complete contact list with you. And keeping in touch is at the heart of building successful business relationships. So, get smart and get a smartphone.

NOTE: This is #3 in a series of ten New Year’s Resolutions.

Prior Resolution: Resolution #4: Remember to Recognize Birthdays