You're aiming to excel in the IT services industry. What qualities define a successful executive?

2 Technical Expertise

While you don't need to be the lead developer or engineer, a deep understanding of the technical aspects of IT services is essential. This knowledge enables you to make informed decisions, understand the challenges your team faces, and communicate effectively with both technical staff and non-tech stakeholders. It's about striking a balance between hands-on skills and strategic oversight, keeping abreast of emerging technologies that could benefit your organization.

3 Effective Communication

Communication is key in any leadership role, but in IT services, it's vital for bridging the gap between technical teams and business units. You must articulate complex technical concepts in a way that stakeholders can understand and appreciate. Moreover, listening is just as important as speaking; being receptive to feedback and ideas from all levels within your organization fosters a collaborative environment and can lead to innovative solutions.

4 Decisive Management

In the fast-paced IT sector, indecision can be costly. As an executive, you're expected to make tough calls with confidence and clarity. This requires a thorough understanding of your organization's capabilities, resources, and the market in which it operates. Decisive management also means being accountable for the outcomes, learning from mistakes, and continuously improving processes and strategies.

5 Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence (EI) is the ability to understand and manage your own emotions, as well as recognize and influence the emotions of others. In IT services, where projects can be high-pressure and team dynamics are complex, having high EI can make a significant difference. It enhances team morale, aids conflict resolution, and improves negotiation outcomes, all of which are critical for a successful executive.