Now is an ideal time to develop your leadership skills. From contact centers to unified communications to the cloud, IT is increasingly important to business success, and input from technology professionals is essential when making strategic decisions.
Fortunately, IAUG is a great resource for Avaya professionals seeking to move ahead in their careers. For instance, you could become a volunteer leader in your local chapter, boosting your organizational skills. You could also deliver a presentation, such as a case study of your organization, at your chapter or at Avaya ENGAGE. Joining an IAUG technical forum can give you more insights into the Avaya ecosystem and build your professional network. And don’t forget about IAUG’s skill-building webinars, blogs and podcasts.
IAUG’s Women in Technology (WIT) initiative is another great source for understanding both the opportunities and the challenges associated with leadership in your organization. You might be able to find a mentor who can encourage you to take that next step forward. As Zina Hassel, CEO, ZLH Enterprises, said at a recent WIT session. “In my career, I have learned that nothing happens by itself. You have to empower yourself and be recognized for your performance.”
Look at your goals and current skills
Thinking about your personal goals is an excellent way to get started. Perhaps you are happiest in your current role as an important member of the IT team. But if you would like to move into a management or leadership position, you should take a few minutes to conduct an informal self-assessment. For instance:
• How would you describe your personal leadership style?
• Are you comfortable assigning tasks to others?
• Are you able to motivate others at home or at work?
• How do you like participating on a team?
• Do you shy away from expressing your opinion?
• How are your verbal, written, and listening skills?
• Can you deliver an effective presentation?
• Do you understand your organization’s business strategies and tactics?
• What is your desired work/life balance at this stage of your career?
Answering these types of questions can help you determine what you need to do this year. By the way, family and friends can also provide valuable feedback on your career trajectory.
Make your plan
After conducting your assessment, you should prepare an action plan for 2024. Write down your desired outcome and what you need to do to make that happen. Here are some steps to consider in building your leadership skills:
• Join a multidisciplinary team in your organization. Get to know the business unit representatives, along with any financial, legal, marketing or HR members. Try to understand their perspectives on technology, and build your network beyond the IT world.
• Take on a “stretch” assignment. Be willing to go beyond your comfort zone and take responsibility for a challenging project or assignment.
• Become a translator. Senior leaders focus on what technology can do for the organization, such as boosting revenue, increasing membership, cutting costs or enhancing customer satisfaction. So, you need to be able to translate “IT-ese” into business terms.
• Go back to school. Earning a new degree or certificate might be an important credential for advancing your career. You might also benefit from reading books or articles on leadership – a popular self-help topic for many decades!
Finally, maintain a positive attitude, regardless of the curve balls that come your way. Learn from the challenges and stay focused on your goal. Good luck!
