Growing Your Career From IT Manager To CIO

Those who have made it to the managerial level in their IT career should be proud of the accomplishment, but for some, this level isn’t enough: They want to become a Chief Information Officer (CIO).

Those looking to make the jump to the executive level need to keep doing a good job on the technical side of their job. They also need to expand their soft skills. Executive leadership is all about communicating, adapting and business savvy.

Consider the following skills you should work on to make that jump from manager to executive.

Communication

Many technology managers know the nuances of various languages and software engineering tools, but only far fewer understand how to effectively describe how technology can help solve problems and seize opportunities.

Good communication abilities are multi-dimensional. They involve writing a compelling email or being able to describe intricate solutions to a new client. Good communication skills also include the ability to talking about your value a job interview or give constructive feedback to an employee.

You can develop these skills by observing good communicators throughout your career. You can also take communication classes. Technical writing classes are particularly useful for managers looking to take the next step.

Adaptability

One defining aspect of the technology industry is continual change. New technologies crop up annually, and IT professionals have to ensure their abilities don’t become out-of-date as old software becomes obsolete.

An effective technology manager adjusts to change readily. Continue updating and evolving your abilities. Enroll in training programs and webinars to learn the most recent rendition of a program or get into a totally new area of IT. Despite which topic you choose to learn about, be sure you recognize how to apply new knowledge to help both your business and your career.

Business know-how

Every business needs an IT department to achieve success in today’s tech-driven economy. Comprehending the goals and operations of your company will allow you to adapt technology to fit the needs of the business and make you essential to your team’s success.

If you’re uncertain how your job or obligations fit into the business, think about asking a colleague or manager. Getting a feeling of the bigger picture will allow you to work more effectively, and it reveals your initiative to learn more about the business.

Smart career decision-making

Some people make the mistake of chasing a bigger paycheck instead of taking another job because it benefits their career. For instance, if you the exact same managerial position with a competing company for a bigger paycheck, future employers might see that as a sign of career stagnation.

A big paycheck, status and recognition will come when you find jobs that challenge you and jobs that have rewarding work. When you work in these kinds of positions, they often don’t even feel like work.

Looking to grow your IT career?

At SMCI, we help ambitious IT professionals advance their career with best-fit job opportunities. Please contact us today to find out how we can grow your career.