Year: 2023

Legacy Mainframe Environment

Today, tech execs are concerned about the mainframe computer application code. Many companies have had mainframe computers since the 70s and 80s. Large companies, particularly in insurance and finance, built applications during that time that still run on mainframes now. These applications consist of mostly COBOL code, with millions of lines.

SIDE NOTE: COBOL is the oldest still used programming language, developed in 1959. The only other language even close in age is C, which was developed in the early 70’s.

Today’s mainframe computers have powerful processors and seamlessly run COBOL applications alongside Docker containers. Tech executives face challenges with complex COBOL, PL/1, and Assembler code, as well as managing decades of data in diverse environments like DB2, MySQL, and Oracle. We’ll discuss data in a future post.

Mainframe applications have long been vital for enterprise business processing. They were game-changers, and still handle key workloads effectively. However, the drive to convert or move these applications has been slow. Today, tech execs face fierce competition in aggressive markets. Outdated systems hinder companies from keeping up with innovative rivals. Cloud computing enables competitors to invest in new systems without hardware burdens. Consequently, older companies face disadvantages and must modernize their legacy application environment. The three reasons for this transformation are:

  1. Agility: Companies need IT systems that can be updated for functional processing requirements in a timelier manner. Shorter development cycles are a must for organizations to keep pace.

  2. Cost: The mainframe is the costliest computer available. In many organizations, it’s also difficult and time consuming to maintain. The complexity of the code and data environments makes keeping the systems up and running difficult. Modern cloud technologies offer a significant reduction in cost of ownership.

  3. Risk: Knowledge of legacy environments is fading away as programmers who developed this code many years ago retire. Skills in COBOL, PL/1, CICS, etc. are becoming scarce, making managing the applications and responding to major incidences more challenging.

To remain competitive, organizations must tackle legacy mainframe systems. The transformation should uncover the current state and map out an ideal future state. Develop a value proposition with a total cost of ownership analysis for transitioning to the cloud. When it comes to maintaining the mainframe and harnessing the power of the cloud, it’s worth considering strategies from industry leaders like IBM. Take into account the costs of migration and retooling, but also weigh them against the benefits of ownership. Furthermore, take the time to explore the numerous advantages that cloud computing has to offer.

Click here for a post on deciding whether to move from AS400’s or not.

Coaching is a Key Tech Exec Skill

The accomplished tech executive participates in coaching and mentoring junior colleagues, imparting acquired skills. Establishing a thriving succession cultivates respect and a reputation as a seasoned technology leader. Technology advances rapidly, emphasizing the need for experienced leaders to mentor. Accomplished tech executives must excel in their roles and share expertise with newcomers.

Coaching is an essential aspect of career growth and development.

By mentoring, you shape the industry’s future by sharing your experience and insights. This not only benefits the individual mentee, but also contributes to the overall growth and success of the technology sector.

Besides coaching junior colleagues in your organization, it’s beneficial to share your expertise beyond your company. Engaging in industry events, speaking on panels, and writing articles help spread knowledge to a broader audience.

Increasing visibility for yourself and your company also enables networking with tech professionals and staying updated on the latest field developments. Active participation in the tech community establishes expertise and fuels growth and innovation.

Furthermore, mentorship can also be a mutually beneficial experience. As a mentor, you have the opportunity to learn from your mentees as well. Their fresh perspectives and unique insights can inspire new ideas and approaches, benefiting both career development and professional growth.

Coaching is a key tech exec skill to learn and embrace.

Some execs reach a stage in their career where they consider mentoring beneath them, but it should never be the case. Stay humble and maintain an open-door policy. Avoid intimidating your team; instead, be seen as someone who is eager to mentor and support their growth. Everyone strives for success, and your subordinates will respect you if you invest time in helping them.

Bottom line, really successful technology execs take the time to mentor and provide guidance to their teams. Ensuring your emerging leaders align with your thinking and operations helps build a strong, empowered leadership team. Coaching is a key tech exec skill.

Click here to see a post on why budding tech execs should find a good coach.

Building Presentation and Communication Skills

To excel and attract attention for a technical executive position, what skills can you refine as you advance in your career? Key among them are presentation and communication abilities. Observe that the most accomplished tech executives exude ease when addressing audiences on diverse subjects. They project confidence in conveying their message and remain composed even when faced with presentation hiccups.

Witnessing a tech exec confidently take the stage may seem impressive, yet their ease comes from years of refining their presentation skills through trial and error. It’s not ordinary to feel at ease speaking in front of a crowd; even seasoned speakers find it nerve-wracking. The scrutiny that comes from public speaking is something one never fully adapts to. Nevertheless, with practice, one becomes more adept at conveying messages effectively, regardless of their nature.

As you progress in your career, seize every opportunity to showcase and enhance your abilities. Though it may feel daunting, early on, you have room to make mistakes without severe judgment. Receiving leadership feedback on areas for improvement is invaluable for your growth. The more you engage in presentations and refine your communication skills, the more proficient you will become.

Utilize internal company training programs or consider organizations like Toastmasters, known for enhancing presentation skills.

Additionally, consider refining your presentation style. Mastering the art of crafting a compelling script that effectively conveys a message is a challenging yet valuable skill to acquire. While delivering a PowerPoint presentation competently is beneficial, the ability to pinpoint key messages and captivate your audience is an intricate skill that requires dedication. Those who excel in this skill will achieve significant success.

Here are some more things you can do to refine you presentation and communication skills:

  • Participate in public speaking events, conferences, and workshops to gain experience and exposure

  • Seek mentorship from experienced tech executives and leaders in your industry

  • Practice active listening skills to better understand your audience and tailor your message accordingly

  • Utilize visual aids and storytelling techniques to make your presentations more engaging

  • Stay updated on current trends and developments in the technology industry to enhance the content of your presentations.

By continuously honing your presentation and communication abilities, you will set yourself apart as a tech executive who can effectively communicate complex ideas and engage with diverse audiences. Additionally, these skills will greatly benefit you in other aspects of your career, such as leading teams, negotiating deals, and networking with industry professionals. Remember that refinement is a continuous process, so be open to feedback and always strive to improve. With dedication and practice, you will become a confident and effective communicator in the tech industry.

Click here for a post on developing tech executive leadership skills.

First Interview – what do you wear?

Choosing attire for your initial job interview can be perplexing. Suggestions from peers vary widely: opt for casual attire in the tech field, don a suit and tie for banking roles, embrace a laid-back look for contemporary offices, or opt for formal dress for a conventional approach. It’s no wonder that many job seekers feel unsure about what to wear for their initial job interview.

The truth is, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to what to wear for a job interview. The attire you choose should be based on the company culture, industry, and position you are interviewing for. However, there are some general guidelines that can help steer you in the right direction.

First and foremost, it is important to do your research on the company before your interview.

This will give you an idea of their dress code and company culture. If they have a website or social media presence, take a look at photos of employees to get a sense of how they typically dress. You can also reach out to your network or contact someone within the company to get a better understanding of what to wear expectations.

If the company has a more traditional or corporate culture, it is best to stick with a classic and professional look.

This means opting for a tailored suit or dress in neutral colors such as black, navy, or gray. Avoid wearing anything too flashy or revealing, as it can be seen as inappropriate in this type of environment.

For more casual industries such as tech startups or creative companies, you have more leeway in your attire.

However, it is still important to make a good impression by dressing professionally. A good rule of thumb is to dress one step above what employees typically wear on a daily basis. For example, if employees usually wear jeans and t-shirts, opt for business casual attire like slacks and a button-down shirt.

In addition to the type of attire, it is also important to consider the fit and quality of your clothing. Ill-fitting or cheap clothing can give off a negative impression, so make sure your clothes are well-tailored and made from quality materials.

It’s also crucial to make sure you are comfortable in what you are wearing. If you’re constantly tugging at your outfit or worrying about a low neckline, it can affect your confidence and performance in the workplace. Choose outfits that make you feel confident and professional.

Another tip is to invest in versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits. This not only saves money, but also allows you to have a variety of options without needing a huge wardrobe.

Don’t forget about accessories as well. A simple watch or necklace can add a touch of sophistication to your outfit. Just make sure not to go overboard with jewelry or other accessories, as it may come across as distracting or unprofessional.

Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of good grooming. Make sure your hair is neat and styled, and your nails are clean and trimmed. These small details can make a big difference in how put-together you appear.

In conclusion, dressing professionally for work is crucial for making a good impression and projecting confidence. Remember to keep it simple, tailored, and versatile, with a touch of personal style and proper grooming. With these tips in mind, you can confidently navigate the world of work attire and dress for success.

Click here to see a post about your first job interview and what to expect.

First Interview

You’re about to have your first interview at your dream company, and you’re feeling unsure about how to prepare. All you have is the names of the recruiter and the technology exec who will be interviewing you; not much else. So, how can you make sure you’re ready?

Start by conducting thorough research on the company. Google their name and carefully review any news articles relevant to their activities. If you know the specific organization or department you’re interviewing for, try to gather information about them as well. Apply the same investigative approach to learn about the recruiter and tech executive you’ll be meeting. Utilize LinkedIn to study the tech executive’s profile and background. It’s worth mentioning that almost everyone in the business world today has a LinkedIn presence, and you should too (it’s free!). Remember, knowledge is power!

To ensure success in your interview, carefully examine the job description to fully comprehend the position’s requirements. If a job description is unavailable, reach out to the recruiter via text or email to kindly request a copy. The more you grasp the expectations of the role, the more effectively you can prepare yourself.

Anticipating the interviewing style of the person across the table can be quite challenging since it varies greatly. Some tech executives take a casual approach, treating the interview as a conversation, while others adhere to a more formal structure with a set list of questions. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to remain calm and at ease throughout the process. Present yourself as a professional, demonstrating confidence and competence. Remember, you are conversing with an experienced technology executive, yet their expectations for someone in their first job are not exceedingly high. Hence, by maintaining composure and posing thoughtful inquiries, you have the opportunity to pleasantly surprise them.

Do not let intimidation deter you, for the person before you holds no power over you. The worst outcome is them not granting you the job, but fear not, it is far from a catastrophic event. Remember, throughout your career, there will be numerous other interviews awaiting you.

Generally, interviews tend to be concise, particularly if the interviewer recognizes your limited industry expertise. However, you can prolong the interview by actively engaging and inquiring. This will not only impress the tech executive but also demonstrate your research and genuine interest in the position. Consider asking relevant questions, such as:

  • What was it like when they joined the company; how did they get integrated?

  • Is there a program for new hires, especially those out of college?

  • If you reviewed their LinkedIn profile, ask about their college and how it prepared them for transitioning into their first job. They will be impressed you did the research.

  • What’s the career path look like; what are the next steps after this role?

  • How is the mentoring program for new hires?

There is a lot more you could ask. Be creative and Google all the information on the Internet for ideas. Indeed has a pretty good guide with sample questions and responses.

I’d be glad to help you. Please contact me and I’ll work with you on preparing.

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