The trend in working with data today is towards using databases as intended, storing data separately from applications, adding structure to unstructured data, making data accessible and utilizing real-time stream processing frameworks. This approach can save time and money by reducing the need for frequent updates and improving efficiency. In contrast, some common mistakes include calling a database representative for scaling support, rather than adding nodes with more flexible databases, and relying on outdated knowledge of past trends instead of staying current with present-day techniques.