Leader Expectations Archives

Tech Exec’s Evolving Tech Priorities

Reflecting on my extensive career as a tech executive, I realize there are steps I could have taken differently to accelerate my ascent to tech exec. Early on, I didn’t prioritize this goal—a valuable lesson learned. With greater awareness, perhaps guided by a mentor, I would have recognized sooner that aiming for a tech executive role was a worthy pursuit, which meant evolving tech priorities.

I loved coding, which was one of the main reasons I chose a career in technology. Letting go of something you love is tough. After reaching the tech executive level, I found it challenging to balance my technical interests with new duties. While staying hands-on with coding seemed feasible, it ultimately slowed my growth as a tech exec.

Flexibility is key, and recognizing what you can and cannot do as you transition into a tech executive role.

Transitioning from a technical role to a tech executive role is one of the toughest transitions. Being technical is beneficial, but you must understand the expectations of the tech exec role and decide what tasks to delegate. Evolving tech priorities means letting go of the technical work and focusing on leading and strategizing at the tech executive level?

Firstly, it’s important to understand that as a tech executive, your primary role is no longer just technical expertise. While technical expertise remains important, your primary role is now to lead and steer the organization’s strategy. This means letting go of some technical work and delegating tasks to others on your team. Letting go of control can be tough, especially if you’re used to being the expert in your field. Yet, it’s vital for your growth and success as a tech executive.

Another key aspect of transitioning to a tech executive role is developing strong communication and collaboration skills. In this position, you will need to work with various teams, departments, and stakeholders, all with different goals and perspectives. Effective communication and collaboration are essential for building trust, fostering innovation, and driving successful projects.

It’s also important to remember that being a tech executive is not just about technical knowledge or skills.

Soft skills such as leadership, emotional intelligence, and adaptability play a significant role in your success. These skills can be developed through training, coaching, and mentorship. Don’t be afraid to seek guidance and support from more experienced executives or invest in professional development opportunities.

As a tech executive, understanding the organization’s goals and your role’s place is key.

Align decisions with company strategy, communicate effectively, and think long-term. Continuous learning and staying updated on industry trends are crucial for staying ahead as a tech exec.

In summary, transitioning to a tech executive role requires a diverse set of skills and qualities. It’s not just about technical knowledge but also about effective communication, collaboration, leadership, strategic thinking, and continuous learning. With dedication and effort, you can successfully make the transition and thrive as a tech executive in today’s fast-paced and ever-changing technology industry. Keep these tips in mind and continue to grow and develop in your role as a tech executive.

Click here to see a post on the expectations of a tech executive – the CIO.

Finding Your Leadership Style as a Tech Exec

I started this blog to help the current and aspiring tech executive develop their careers by sharing insights from my experience in technology leadership. Success heavily depends on your leadership style. The question is, should you stay true to yourself or adapt? And if you need to adapt, how can you stay authentic while adjusting to a new environment and leading your team? Your leadership style as a tech executive can significantly impact your team’s and company’s success. Understanding and defining your leadership style is key to leading and inspiring others effectively.

“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.”
Ralph Waldo Emerson

Authenticity vs Adaptability

One of the key questions many tech execs struggle with is whether they should remain true to their authentic self or adapt to the expectations of their environment. The answer is not a simple one, as both authenticity and adaptability have their own benefits and challenges.

Authenticity

Being authentic means being true to yourself – your values, beliefs, and personality – in all aspects of your life, including your role as a tech executive. This can create a sense of trust and transparency with your team, as they can see and relate to the real you. Authenticity also allows for better decision-making, as you are not trying to conform or please others. However, being completely authentic may not always be the most effective approach. In certain situations, it may lead to conflict or hinder progress if your style clashes with that of your team or company culture.

Adaptability

On the other hand, adaptability allows you to adjust your leadership style according to the needs and expectations of your team and environment. This can help build rapport and foster a positive work culture, as you are able to understand and connect with different individuals on their level. However, constantly adapting may lead to a lack of consistency and direction in your leadership, which can ultimately affect the success of your team and organization.

Striking a Balance

Rather than choosing between authenticity and adaptability, it is important for a tech executive to strike a balance between the two. This means staying true to your core values and beliefs, while also being open to learning and adapting to new situations. By being authentic, you can build trust and foster strong relationships with your team. And by being adaptable, you can effectively respond to changes and challenges in the workplace. As a tech exec, it is important to consistently evaluate your leadership style and make adjustments as needed. This can help you maintain your authenticity while also being flexible enough to meet the needs of your team.

Conclusion

Authenticity and adaptability are both valuable traits for a tech exec to possess. By finding a balance between the two, you can create an environment of trust and growth for yourself and your team. Remember to stay true to your core values while also being open to learning and adapting to new situations. With this approach, you can become a strong and effective tech executive in any situation. As the saying goes, “be yourself, but always your better self.“

Please click here to see a post on being a humble tech executive.

Please click here on emphasizing your talent to offset ageism in Technology.

Should a Tech Executive Emulate Steve Jobs

I was in a debate with another tech exec about whether Steve Jobs was an effective leader in his capacity as a tech executive. Unquestionably, he was the visionary force propelling Apple to monumental success. Yet, the question of whether he was esteemed by his employees lingers. Is emulating Steve Jobs’ leadership style advisable for today’s tech executives?

Steve Jobs indisputably stood as a visionary leader and a pivotal figure in the tech industry.

His innovative visions, bold choices, and unyielding drive for perfection propelled Apple to its status as one of the world’s most valuable companies. Nonetheless, his leadership approach has sparked debate regarding its impact on employees. While some commend him for his inspirational and motivational prowess, leading his team to achieve unparalleled success, others critique his methods as overly harsh and demanding.

One thing is certain though, Steve Jobs had a clear vision and was not afraid to take risks to achieve it. He had the ability to see the potential in products that others couldn’t and pushed his team to think outside the box. This often led to groundbreaking innovations such as the iPhone and iPad. But at the same time, his perfectionist nature and high expectations could create a tense and stressful work environment for employees. He was known to be demanding and would often challenge his team to push beyond their limits, which could lead to burnout.

So, is Steve Jobs leadership style something that should be emulated by tech executives today?

The answer is not so simple. While his unique approach and relentless drive for perfection may have contributed to Apple’s success, it may not be suitable for every company or team. Each leader has their own style, and what works for one may not work for another. It is important for a tech executive to understand their own strengths and weaknesses and adapt their leadership style accordingly. Some may find inspiration in Steve Jobs’ bold and innovative approach, while others may find success through a more collaborative and inclusive style.

Every tech exec must strike a balance, fostering creativity and productivity in the workplace.

While Steve Jobs’ legacy is inspiring, blindly copying his approach without considering your team’s needs is risky. Tech leadership styles should evolve with the industry to promote success and innovation. Rather than copying Jobs, a tech exec should develop their unique leadership style for sustainable success. Jobs’ leadership at Apple was crucial, but tech leaders should nurture their authentic style. By blending inspiration with adaptability, leaders can drive innovation in tech. While learning from Jobs is valuable, tech execs should carve their paths for success.

Admire Steve Jobs for his boldness, creativity, and determination in navigating technology’s changing realm.

Tech leaders, with openness and adaptability, can shape the industry’s future like Jobs. Let’s honor his legacy as motivation in our leadership journeys. The tech world evolves, but the need for innovative leaders is constant. Learning from Jobs let’s innovate and forge unique paths to success. As a tech executive, we can impact the industry and define its future. Let Jobs’ leadership style inspire us through technology’s changing landscape.

Check out this post on more about tech executive leadership style.

The Woke Tech Executive

The term “woke” presents challenges for me. Understanding its full implication took time. Now, it’s often wielded as criticism against individuals and companies attempting to navigate ethical practices, usually by those who find such efforts objectionable. Initially, “woke” signified a consciousness of social and political injustices. However, its meaning has morphed, becoming synonymous with accusations of hypersensitivity or extreme political correctness. Consequently, “woke” has transformed into a polarizing term, frequently used to undermine endeavors that seek to promote positive societal change. As a tech executive, one must not be deterred by those who aim to derail progressive initiatives.

The term “woke” traces its origins back to African American vernacular in the 1960s, signifying an awareness of racial injustices and systemic racism. Initially, it denoted individuals dedicated to pursuing social justice and equality. However, recent years have seen its co-optation by the mainstream, diluting its potent significance.

A critical problem with the contemporary usage of “woke” is its transformation into a blanket term for all forms of activism or advocacy, thereby oversimplifying the nuanced realities of social and political struggles. This reduction not only trivializes the earnest efforts of genuine changemakers but also overlooks the deep-rooted complexities and challenges they confront.

Reflecting on historical awakenings: from freedom struggles in America to rights for black people, women’s suffrage, and even the freedom to choose seats in restaurants. Advocating for the right causes demonstrates a true awakening, showcasing improved word choice, structure, and eloquence.

It’s disheartening when a beer company features an individual on their can who doesn’t align with certain values, sparking controversy. The intention was to use this individual’s influence to expand market reach, but it backfired, causing considerable backlash. In the US, a faction accused the company of embracing “woke” culture, leading to a boycott and underscoring the polarizing nature of marketing. Using “woke” to discredit and incite public dissent against a company is deeply unfair.

In today’s world, it’s a disheartening truth that courage is often required to do what is morally right. The principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion, while challenging for some, are undoubtedly the correct direction for progress. As a tech executive, you might face opposition within your organization. It is your duty to remain steadfast and advocate for the right decisions. It is imperative to implement hiring practices that ensure equal opportunities for all, regardless of their background. Every individual, no matter their differences, merits an equitable chance at success.

Day in the Life of a Tech Executive

Recently, I was asked to describe a typical day in the life of a tech executive at a large company. Drawing from my varied experiences across different roles in tech organizations, I can offer a glimpse into the everyday life of a tech executive. Each day for a tech executive is filled with unique challenges and duties. Though not every day is identical, there exists a set of tasks and activities commonly encountered by most executives in the tech sector. Let’s look deeper into the daily routine of a tech executive in a large corporation.

Morning Routine

For many tech executives, the day begins early, often arriving at the office before most employees to start their tasks. Mornings are usually for catching up on emails, reviewing reports and metrics, and meeting prep. A key responsibility for tech executives is keeping up with industry trends and innovations, which might include reading news articles, research papers, or attending conferences. Staying informed about the latest technological advancements helps them make decisions that benefit their company.

Meetings

Meetings play a crucial role in a tech executive’s day, often involving multiple sessions with different teams and departments. These can range from status updates and project discussions to strategy planning. Beyond internal meetings, executives frequently meet with potential clients, partners, or investors, vital for networking and securing new business opportunities.

Strategic Planning

A key role of tech executives is setting strategic goals and leading the company to success. They must analyze market trends, identify potential obstacles, and devise strategies to overcome them. For effective future planning, tech executives need to work closely with their leadership team and other departments. Open communication and collaboration are essential in forming a unified vision and strategy for the company’s growth.

Team Management

Tech executives oversee their team, setting expectations, offering guidance, and assessing performance. They provide resources for success and nurture a positive work culture by promoting diversity, innovation, and professional growth.

Embracing Change

In the fast-paced world of technology, change is constant. As such, tech executives must be adaptable and willing to embrace change in their strategies and processes. They must also encourage their team members to be open-minded and adaptable as new technologies and market trends emerge.

Risk Management

With any business venture, there is always an element of risk. As a tech executive, it is important to assess and manage these risks in order to protect the company’s resources and investments. This involves conducting thorough risk assessments, implementing mitigation strategies, and having contingency plans in place.

Industry Knowledge

To be successful as a tech executive, one must have a strong understanding of the industry and its trends. This involves staying up to date with the latest technologies, market developments, and competitor activities. It also requires networking and collaborating with other industry professionals to gain insights and knowledge.

Conclusion

A tech executive needs a mix of technical, leadership, and business skills to lead effectively. Developing expertise, adaptability, and industry understanding is vital in the fast-changing tech landscape for lasting success. Remember the importance of continual learning in this dynamic role.

For some fun, click here to see some of the acronym’s a tech exec has to deal with.