Managing technology has changed dramatically throughout the past decade. The fast-paced environment of information technology demands a form of leadership much different than in years past. The role of a technology manager, which was once satisfied with technical mastery, has since evolved into a multi-faceted position. Skills like emotional intelligence have completely redefined successful technology management practices. Having a comprehensive understanding of today’s IT challenges is the first step of many in how to become a technology manager. To truly excel in a variety of technology management jobs, candidates must master a set of core competencies.
Self-Awareness
Knowing personal strengths and weaknesses can offer a more focused approach to creating and navigating an enterprise-wide technology strategy, including a big data strategy. Emotional intelligence is becoming a highly recognized characteristic of successful leaders. Having emotional awareness of yourself and others, while also having the ability to control it cultivates a unified environment. As a technology manager, being self-aware can bring new depths to a team dynamic. Empathy creates a sense of trust and to a manager trust is a valued currency. Employees that are actively engaged in projects and feel a sense of trust are more motivated and perform at a higher level than those who are not.
Continuous Learning
Consistently keeping a finger on the pulse of technology should be second nature to anyone active in the information technology industry, but being successful in management requires an entirely separate skill set. Leading a team while orchestrating several projects simultaneously requires hard work and a lot of time. However, making the time to grow professionally and personally shapes a well-rounded leader.
Making Decisions
In the world of technology and management decision-making, time can be crippling. Many projects require calculating risk, as the matters handled and addressed by the information technology department can impact the entire organization. The distractions are endless. Great technology managers understand the gravity of every decision made and evaluate each one with quality and timeliness. Time management and communication are vital skills to cultivate, either in your current position or by seeking a formal degree in technology management.
Measuring Performance of Projects
Implementing a system to actively measure progress of projects is another sign of successful technology management. It elevates productivity by pinpointing areas that have improved and those that need attention. It also simplifies activity reporting to other departments that require tracking. Another example of where measurements come in handy is supporting an argument. It never hurts to have a back pocket full of data-driven information, especially when negotiating a budget.
Effective Communication
Messages are often lost in technical translation. The technical jargon is a foreign language to the majority of people. Overseeing an infrastructure and all of its intricacies involves constant conversation with several diverse groups. Employee development, vendor negotiations, and strategy presentations rely almost entirely on communication. Having the ability to effectively communicate with all technical levels is necessary for establishing valuable business relationships.
Planning Ahead
When it comes to technology management, a proactive approach is the only approach. Industry experts preach that hope is not a strategy. Prioritizing projects and sticking to timelines is part of what makes technology management jobs difficult. There are many moving parts and all require extensive preparation. One of the most powerful technology management skills is the ability to think beyond infrastructure walls. Taking a step back to fully understand the overall business issues when building any type of technical business strategy, including a big data strategy makes it more than just an IT agenda. It communicates having the highest level of understanding of both business and technology.
If you would like to learn more successful technology management practices, you can request more information about Georgetown University’s online Master’s in Information Technology Management program or contact an admissions representative at (855) 725-7622.
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