Can we just go ahead and make a deal to stop talking endlessly about tech companies? How to get their business. How to market to them. How to get them as tenants. How to do this … How to do that …

We. Are. All. Tech. Companies.

Read that again.

Why do we put this big focus on these extra-special, must-be-a-unicorn tech companies, when we are ALL actually tech companies.

Sure, Silicon Valley is this extraterrestrial location where you can find plenty of startups aimed at changing the world through technology … and that’s great! I love these companies. But, we have to remember that all of our businesses (and even our homes) run on technology.

You know how saying “ATM machine” is actually not exactly correct? (Automated Teller Machine, Machine) … that’s how I feel about this topic. It’s just not correct to forget that all businesses — no matter what field they’re in — are technically a technology company.

Here are a few reasons why:

#1. WE’RE ALL TRYING TO BE INNOVATIVE

You often hear that “technology companies” are on the cusp of innovation. They’re big on research and development — on making a unique path for themselves. Well, help me understand how this isn’t every single company?

#2. WE’RE ALL CATERING TO TECH-FOCUSED CUSTOMERS

We also often hear that “technology companies” are providing some new and exciting technology that is going to change the way we do XYZ. But, aren’t all of our customers tech-focused these days? Don’t all customers expect that your business will have some sort of tech that makes their experience smoother or better? Even my morning coffee involves technology.

#3. WE’RE ALL TRYING TO BE AGILE

It’s not just “technology companies” that are trying to be agile and quickly twist and turn with the market. All of us are trying to find our flow — trying to find what works for our customers, and technology helps us all get there faster.

#4. WE’RE ALL INTERESTED IN THE DATA (OR WE SHOULD BE)

“Technology companies” aren’t the only ones who are using data to make decisions for their companies. We are all interested (or should be) in how we can take data (thanks, technology) and use it to make decisions.

#5. WE’RE ALL CONVINCED THAT COLLABORATION WORKS (RIGHT?)

We all know (or should) that when technology is used to help un-silo our data — allowing all departments in our company to have access to the information they need to be smart and successful — that we win. This isn’t just a “technology company” thing. It’s an all-type-of-business thing.

#6. WE’RE ALL SAVVY TO THE NEED FOR SPEED

Just like every company trying to be agile — we’re all savvy to the need for speed. It’s not just “technology companies” that recognize how important it is to be on the cutting edge and to get there quickly. And, technology helps us all do that.

It’s not just companies … it’s YOU, too!

I think it’s important that we remember that we, as individuals, can also innovate — anytime. It’s no just ALL businesses that are tech companies. WE are all in tech. We all have the ability to innovate. Remember the industrial revolution? It wasn’t just the train that changed everything … everyone made it happen. I guess my point is, don’t wait for some unicorn to show up — whether that’s in your company or in life. Find ways to be innovative!

… So, you tell me. Do you think we’re all “technology companies”? What other reasons would you add to this list? Let’s move this conversation over to my LinkedIn page …