Why CIO's and technology leadership need to play a different game

Let's start with the plus. Most organisations recognise that Digital, Data and Technology can be a game-changer.

I have sat down and talked with many board and senior executives, CEO, CFO's etc, and they get it. I have had phone calls that started just that way with these words. I had an amazing CEO of a well-known brand open up with this.

Then came the punch

'But John, my technology team just don't get it', 'there is a divide between what the business wants and what technology' will do. These are almost the same words.

'So can you help'?

This story requires a whole separate blog, and how it opened my eyes to what IT needs to do be drive transformation. That story will be for another day.

So what hinder's IT teams from realizing their full potential and making substantial contributions?

Before continuing, ask that question to yourself. What stops IT from being the absolute change agent it could be? There are some pretty amazing IT teams out there.

The usual response is to address strategic alignment, resource allocation, organizational culture, and communication. These are all good.

But I think we must also consider the behavioural and emotional dimensions of IT teams. If we recognize and enhance these aspects, organizations can begin to empower their IT teams to become effective partners in driving successful digital transformations.

Use behavioural training and mindset

IT teams often possess excellent technical skills but often lack the necessary behavioural training to effectively collaborate and engage with stakeholders. By building strong interpersonal skills, such as active listening (game changer), empathy, and effective communication, IT teams can become integral and essential to the transformation of teh business and its business model.

By providing behavioural training and fostering a customer-centric mindset, organizations can enable IT teams to become trusted partners and drive successful digital transformations.

Emotional intelligence and relationship building

To be an effective partner requires emotional intelligence within IT teams. EI & EQ involves understanding and managing emotions and developing strong relationships with stakeholders. IT teams need to empathize with the challenges faced by other departments, actively seek feedback, and build trust. By promoting emotional intelligence and emphasizing relationship-building skills, organizations can enhance IT teams' ability to collaborate and contribute meaningfully to digital transformations.

Cultivating a culture of collaboration

Creating a culture that encourages collaboration and teamwork is crucial for IT teams to become effective partners. In many organizations, IT departments operate in isolation, both physically and behaviorally, limiting their ability to understand the broader context of business objectives. By fostering a culture that promotes cross-functional collaboration, organizations can break down silos and encourage IT teams to engage proactively with other departments. This collaborative environment will facilitate a better understanding, improved problem-solving, and increased contributions from IT teams. I saw one of the most amazing turnaround between my IT team and Finance, a few years back. When the IT physically sat side by side with finance at period closing. They were not told to do this. They just did. The result was nothing but transformative in establishing a partnership and better understanding.

Encouraging continuous learning and skill development

IT teams must stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends to be effective partners in digital transformations. Continuous learning and skill development are vital to bridge the gap between technical expertise and business acumen. To have a clear view of the latest trends. If the CEO called tomorrow morning to invite you to the board to explain the business opportunities if we use Generative AI, or should we use Privacy-enhancing technologies (PET's) are you ready? FYI. This is not a technical presentation. How would you do this without using PowerPoint. You may get 15 minutes. If you do well, you will be invited back for an hour. If you do poorly, they will pick up teh phone and ask one McKinsey, Bain, BCG, Accenture etc.

Provide opportunities for IT professionals to attend training programs, conferences, and workshops to enhance their skills and knowledge. Given a choice between the technology of Generative AI or the business opportunities, do the latter first.

Investing in their professional growth, organizations can empower IT teams to contribute as strategic partners.

Providing leadership, support and a psychological safety net.

Organizational leadership plays a critical role in empowering IT teams to become effective partners. Provide guidance, support, and recognition for IT teams' contributions. Set clear expectations and promote a culture of trust and psychological safety. Entertain wild and radical ideas. Make IT a place where teams can feel liberated. You can unleash their full potential and drive successful digital transformations by fostering an environment where IT teams feel valued, supported, and empowered.

In summary, the IT team are amazing. Addressing the behavioural and cultural dimensions makes them heroes.