Today, training is not just a necessity, but a strategic imperative. However, the training landscape in the technology industry is fraught with challenges. From responding to rapid technological change to accommodating diverse learning styles, technology leaders grapple with an ever-evolving training environment.
According to Deloitte research, 57% of organizations cite the 'capability gap' as one of their biggest challenges in achieving their strategic goals. This highlights the critical importance of effective training in closing skills gaps and promoting organizational success.
Training programs in the technology industry face several hurdles, from adapting to rapid technological advances to accommodating diverse learning styles. According to Gopi Thangavel, his senior vice president of IT at Reliance Industries Ltd, technology is evolving rapidly and constant updating is essential to keep training programs current. “Furthermore, the return on investment (ROI) of training can be difficult to measure, making it difficult to quantify the impact of training on individual and team performance.”
Ratan Kesh, director and COO of Bandhan Bank, therefore emphasizes the need for IT professionals to have domain knowledge and a customer-centric mindset, further complicating training efforts.
To solve the training challenges in today's technology industry, experienced technology leaders provide valuable insights and tips for young CIOs and technology leaders just starting their journey.
1. Have a clear rationale and a clear vision
When choosing a program or implementing a technical initiative, it's important to have a clear rationale behind your choices. Ashish Pandey, Global CIO, Dabur India, emphasizes the importance of articulating programs in a smart and meaningful way. This clarity not only guides your team, but also instills confidence throughout your organization.
“Be sure to have a clear rationale for whatever program you choose. All leaders must have the ability to do this, and ultimately, to lead, you must have a highly motivated team.” and should be inspired.”
2. Embrace change and foster learning
Tip: Technology is rapidly evolving and staying relevant requires a continuous learning mindset. Gopi Thangavel, his senior vice president of IT at Reliance Industries Ltd, emphasizes the importance of adapting to rapid change, embracing diversity and leading by example. Encourage your team to experiment, pivot as needed, and embrace diverse perspectives.
Technology is always changing. Be willing to learn, experiment, and pivot as needed. Gopi Thangavel, Senior Vice President, IT, Reliance Industries Ltd.
3. Prioritize simplicity and customer centricity
Avinash Raghavendra, CIO of Axis Bank, advocates simplicity and customer centricity. Simplifying complex technical environments enables better problem solving and agility. Additionally, maintaining a strong customer-centric mindset ensures that technical efforts are aligned with business goals and improves the customer experience.
At the heart of my philosophy is the principle of simplicity. An overly complex technological environment can become a maze and impede your ability to solve problems and stay ahead of the curve. Avinash Raghavendra, his CIO at Axis Bank
4. Develop diverse skill sets and adaptability
Suresh S, CIO of Muthoot Group, emphasizes the importance of fundamental knowledge and adaptability. In an ever-evolving field of technology, it is very important to have expertise in one area while being open to learning others. Encourage your team to develop diverse skill sets and continue to adapt to emerging technologies and trends.
You need to be an expert in one area and catch up in others to stay ahead of the competition. His CIO at Muthoot Group, Suresh S.
5. Foster an entrepreneurial spirit
Pankaj Goel, CTO of BharatPe, values nurturing an entrepreneurial spirit within his team. He encourages a culture of critical thinking, problem solving and innovation. Promote action-oriented leadership that embraces calculated risks, views failure as a learning opportunity, and encourages creativity.
Fostering an entrepreneurial spirit within your team is essential to driving innovation and success. Pankaj Goel, CTO, BharatPe
6. Lead with integrity, empathy, and emotional intelligence.
Ratan Kesh, Director and COO of Bandhan Bank, emphasizes the importance of honesty, empathy and emotional intelligence. Lead by example, build authentic connections with your team, and create a positive work environment where individuals feel valued and empowered.
Combining these values with a vibrant, youthful and engaged workplace will make your journey not only productive but also fun. Ratan Kesh, Editor-in-Chief and Chief Operating Officer (COO), Bandhan Bank, said:
By prioritizing clarity, adaptability, simplicity, customer centricity, innovation, and emotional intelligence, young CIOs and technology leaders can confidently navigate this landscape and drive organizational success. . Embracing these principles as you begin your professional journey will not only help you overcome challenges, but also lead your team to greater heights in an ever-evolving technology environment. Published May 11, 2024 10:36 AM IST
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