People in rural areas may face the perception of being “unprofessional” when applying agricultural technology in rural settings, as technology is often associated with urban or educated people. However, they can overcome this stereotype by implementing the following strategies: 1. **Training and education**: Attend workshops, conferences, and online courses to learn about new technologies and apply them. This skill is important when it comes to demonstrating expertise and commitment to the industry. 2. **Collaboration and exchange**: Network with other farmers, researchers, and technology experts to share experiences, best practices, and knowledge. This helps build a community of peers and experts who understand the complexities of agricultural technology adoption. 3. **Showcase success stories**: Share personal success stories and examples of new technologies that improve efficiency, yield, or reduce costs. This helps to tangibly demonstrate the value of technology adoption and challenge the “unprofessional” stereotype. 4. **Leverage rural strengths**: Emphasize the role that different perspectives and a deep understanding of the local environment and production systems in rural areas play in the adoption of new technologies. 5. **Make technology serve a purpose**: Use technology as a tool to improve farm management, animal care, or crop production. This helps focus on agricultural expertise and the expertise of farmers as industry professionals. 6. **Incorporate local language and customs**: Use local terminology and cultural references, and avoid technical terms or urban jargon that may be seen as unfamiliar or insensitive. 7. **Emphasize sustainability and environmental stewardship**: Highlight the benefits of new technologies, such as improving resource efficiency, reducing waste, or promoting environmental protection, which can help modify public perceptions of newer adoption in rural areas. 8. **Partner with technology companies and researchers**: Work with organizations that develop and implement new technologies to ensure that the technologies meet rural needs and contexts. 9. **Create online platforms and communities**: Establish social media groups, blogs, or forums where people in rural areas can share experiences, ask questions, and showcase their expertise in agricultural technology. 10. **Foster pride and self-advocacy**: Celebrate the achievements and innovations of rural communities, and confidently share their experiences and knowledge as agricultural professionals. By taking these steps, people in rural areas can demonstrate their expertise and capabilities in agricultural technology, challenge stereotypes, and establish themselves as valuable contributors to the industry.