One of the most common problems an ailing business faces is its communication. This is nothing new in the slightest, but while we know the importance of communication as far as getting an entire organization to work together effectively, when we liaise with specific teams, especially those that are used to being on the front line, such as the IT department, what specific traits benefit leaders in this respect? While we can lead from the front, or act with the best interests on the customer in mind, when we’re in charge of a group of computer experts, what do they want from us?
The Ability To Adapt
Yes, this is nothing new on the surface but the ever-changing landscape of technology means that a leader that is prepared for these necessary changes, rather than making decisions as a reaction to the alterations, shows for sight. It’s a very precarious environment, especially when there’s a person in charge who does not necessarily know much about technology. It happens, and that person is put in charge so they can lead effectively. But what they need to know is that the landscape will change so much, they may not be prepared for it.
Knowing How To Delegate
Again, going back to the idea of the changing landscape, this means that there’s a lot more technology to deal with, and possibly more complex technical jargon. Technical jargon is one of those things that everybody uses to an extent, predominantly to make them appear more of a big shot than they are. In the IT department, technical jargon is par for the course. Knowing how to delegate to people that have the knowledge that you don’t is essential. This is especially true when you are working with managed IT services, or outsourcing aspects to external companies and workers. The best leaders let the team get on with their duties without interfering.
Sensitivity
You wouldn’t necessarily view sensitivity as a key component, but when you give consideration to the clichéd IT department, that is tucked away, and don’t necessarily have much contact with the rest of the company, being sensitive to this lack of communication is essential. Many computer experts feel that they are best left alone, so they can carry on doing things the way they want to do it. When there’s a leader that’s come in, it can shake up the entire team, and it can cause friction. But if you are this leader, and you show sensitivity to the situation, and adapt your communication to suit the team, this will work considerably in your favor, and in theirs.
Leading an IT team is a different beast to the other departments. When you’re a leader that’s used to one type of employee, and you make the change from, so customer service, it’s the equivalent of fitting a square peg into a round hole. Every leader needs to adjust their leadership style, but when dealing with computer experts, especially those that have a highly specialized role, not to mention the pressure to ensure the rest of the company is up and running, you need to alter your styles accordingly.
