Tech community largely optimistic about Donald Trump presidency

A new survey from Burson-Marsteller reveals the general public has a more pessimistic view of technology than those working within the sector. Furthermore, the public is more likely to believe traditional manufacturing and service jobs trump innovation when it comes to economic importance.

Among the survey’s many findings, the general public were more likely than “Technology Elites” to agree that traditional manufacturing and service jobs are more important for the economy than expanding innovation (74% vs. 68%).

Furthermore, the survey found the general public was more likely to look at technology as a job destroyer for the average American (37% vs. 27% for Technology Elites) and that innovation was more likely to affect the average American’s job in a negative way (35% vs. 22%).

Both groups believed the technology industry was important to the American economy, but Tech Elites had a greater assurance – 80% compared to 67% of the general public. Instead the group prioritized healthcare (75%) and energy (73%) over technology.

“This new survey reveals intriguing insights into the beliefs of those closest to the technology industry compared to the general public, and are especially relevant now right before the inauguration and during CES, the most important technology gathering of the year,” said Don Baer, Worldwide Chair and CEO of Burson-Marsteller. “Interestingly, the findings suggest those in the technology industry are very optimistic about the industry’s direction and prospects for the next four years, even though they are less sure of the impact of the incoming Trump administration on it.”

Additional findings from the survey are available at this link.