14 Innovative Ways To Be Successful As A Tech Executive Today

Post written by

Forbes Technology Council

Successful CIOs, CTOs & executives from Forbes Technology Council offer firsthand insights on tech & business.

Shutterstock

With technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and virtual reality top of mind for tech executives at companies around the world today, the next great technological advancement is very likely only moments away. But, are you ready for it?

While finding success as a technology executive requires being innovative and ready for the next big thing, as well as understanding how new technologies can positively enhance your company and its operations, those are not the only things you have to keep in mind. Leaders not only need to keep track of upcoming trends, they need to be strong communicators and effective leaders of their teams, making sure that the buzz of tech doesn’t pull them away from the moment when they’re speaking to a group.

Below, 14 members of Forbes Technology Council weigh in on the most important thing that technology executives need to be doing differently today to be successful. Here is what they had to say:

1. Watch Technology Trends

Technology is growing on an exponential curve these days. Personally, I think it is no longer enough to stay on top of trends – to be a truly effective leader, executives have a responsibility to stay ahead of the technology, and have a deep understanding of its capabilities, research in the field, and a sense of its future. In addition, good leaders must tie tech to tangible business outcomes. – Usman Shuja, SparkCognition

2. Identify Vaporware

In technology, there is a lot of hype. For practical real solutions, technology executives must be able to separate vapourware from real production software. They need to be laser focused on solutions that deliver value. – Ashish Bansal, Capital One

3. Get Unbiased insight

Unbiased insight from customers, channels and partners, and competitors is key to knowing current and future state for strategic planning purposes for emerging tech categories like AI, IoT or blockchain. Executives need a means of driving quarterly insight on these fast-moving markets, and so must stay current. – Michael Gurau, The Beacon Group

4. Don’t Get Distracted

Technology executives need to motivate their highly skilled teams. Adept technology leaders maintain an intense presence and focus when meeting with their teams. They aren’t distracted by devices or notifications: They give their entire focus to the people. This allows them to get to the heart of the matter while maintaining a personal connection. – Omar Tawakol, Voicera