Reflecting on my journey in leadership, from my early roles at Cisco to my current position as CEO of LEAD Above, I have seen a significant evolution in what it takes to lead effectively in the tech world. Technical expertise alone is no longer enough. Today’s leaders need a broader set of skills that encompass emotional intelligence, adaptability, and a deep understanding of human dynamics.
Moving Beyond Directive Leadership
In the past, leadership in tech often involved giving clear directives and ensuring that teams followed them. This approach worked well in stable markets with a slower pace of change. But as disruption and uncertainty have become the norm, this style of leadership can be limiting.
Modern leadership involves teaching and embodying resilience. Resilience is about recovering from setbacks, adapting to change, and continuing to move forward in the face of adversity. It involves using challenges as opportunities for growth and innovation.
At LEAD Above, we define resilience through six key domains: Vision, Composure, Collaboration, Reasoning, Tenacity, and Health. These areas are crucial in shaping the future of leadership in the tech industry.
Vision: Guiding Purpose and Accountability
Vision serves as the foundation of resilient leadership. It involves having a clear sense of purpose and direction, not just for the leader but for the entire organization. In the ever-changing tech industry, a well-defined vision provides a guiding star that helps teams navigate uncertainty.
Vision is more than just setting goals. It is about holding oneself and the team accountable to the mission, ensuring that every action aligns with the overarching purpose. This also means empowering individuals at all levels to make decisions that support the vision, creating a sense of equity and ownership throughout the organization.
Composure: Maintaining Calm in Chaos
Composure is essential in the fast-paced tech world. It allows leaders to stay calm, think clearly, and make rational decisions, even when the situation is challenging. This quality helps guide teams through turbulent times with a steady hand.
Leaders can teach composure by setting the example. Putting egos aside for the greater good and fostering an environment where open communication is valued are key aspects. By promoting clarity and understanding, leaders can ensure that the team remains focused, even in the most difficult situations.
Collaboration: Building Strong Support Networks
In the tech industry, collaboration is vital. Leaders must build and nurture strong support networks both within the team and externally. Recognizing and challenging high performers, while understanding the unique strengths and needs of each team member, is crucial.
Collaboration extends beyond the immediate team to include partners, customers, and even competitors. Leaders who model active listening, engage with intent, and respect everyone’s time create an environment where innovation and success thrive.
Reasoning: Proactive Problem-Solving
Problem-solving is a core aspect of leadership in the tech industry. Reasoning involves anticipating challenges, clearly defining problems, and developing actionable solutions. When a problem is well-defined, half the battle is already won.
At LEAD Above, clear communication is central to effective problem-solving. We encourage the use of methods like the FBI approach—Feel, Behavior, Impact—to resolve conflicts and ensure that everyone understands the root cause of issues. Leaders who foster a culture of proactive reasoning can navigate their teams through complex challenges with confidence.
Tenacity: The Power of Persistence
Tenacity drives leaders to keep going, even when the road is tough. In the ever-changing landscape of the tech industry, tenacity is a key differentiator between successful leaders and those who struggle. It involves maintaining a realistic sense of optimism and encouraging the same mindset in the team.
Resilient leaders remind their teams that challenges are opportunities in disguise. They reinforce the idea that any problem can be overcome with patience, perseverance, and a positive attitude.
Health: Prioritizing Well-being
Resilient leadership also recognizes the importance of health, both personal and organizational. In the tech industry, where burnout is a real risk, prioritizing the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of the team is essential.
Empathy plays a central role in this. Leaders who genuinely care about the person, not just their output, create a culture of well-being that extends beyond the workplace. By taking care of themselves and their teams, leaders ensure they are equipped to face challenges with energy and enthusiasm.
The Future of Leadership in Tech
As the tech industry continues to evolve, so must our approach to leadership. The leaders of tomorrow will be those who can adapt quickly, inspire resilience in their teams, and navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world with confidence and composure.
At LEAD Above, we are committed to fostering this new generation of leaders. By embracing the principles of resilient leadership, we can ensure that our organizations are not only successful today but also well-prepared for whatever the future may hold.
