Tech executives face a formidable challenge: staying informed about technological advancements’ impacts on their businesses while evaluating their alignment with business needs and competitors. This task is complicated by the growing complexity of the landscape. The reality is, no tech executive can know everything.
As a tech executive, it’s impossible to know it all. Technology is evolving faster than ever, and this pace will only continue to accelerate. It’s akin to refueling a plane mid-takeoff. The best strategy is to surround yourself with knowledgeable individuals who are experts in various tech domains such as cloud computing, infrastructure, cybersecurity, application development, and testing. Yet, everything is evolving right before our eyes.
It’s crucial for tech executives to maintain humility.
Many leaders I encounter express confidence, saying, “I’ve been in this industry for years and know my stuff.” While true, understanding new technologies and how to apply them to modern environments is vital and challenging. A senior IT professional can’t know everything, but past experience can certainly be valuable. Nonetheless, you need specialists in various technology fields to collaborate with you and keep you up to date. They can provide insight into new trends, technologies, and potential use cases that may benefit your organization.
One way to stay informed is by attending industry conferences and networking events. These gatherings offer a unique opportunity to connect with other tech executives and learn about the latest advancements in technology. It’s also an excellent opportunity to collaborate with others and exchange ideas on how to leverage technology for business success.
Another important aspect of staying informed is continuously learning and upskilling.
As a tech executive, it’s essential to invest time and resources in developing your knowledge in emerging technologies. This not only helps you make more informed decisions but also sets an example for your team members to continuously learn and grow. You can also encourage your team to attend conferences, workshops, and training sessions to gain new skills and stay updated with industry trends.
In addition to attending events and upskilling, leveraging technology itself can help you stay informed. Technology platforms such as social media, online forums, and podcasts offer a wealth of information on the latest tech developments. Curating a list of reliable sources and regularly checking them can keep you updated without overloading yourself with information.
Ultimately, staying informed as a tech executive is an ongoing process that requires humility, collaboration, continuous learning, and leveraging technology. It’s not about knowing everything but rather having the right knowledge at the right time to make strategic decisions for your business.
Click here to see a post on why it’s important to continually innovate.