Rooting In Conviction

Happy Thursday!  No content theme for April – just hitting you with the most important focus areas based on what I’m seeing in the tech market.  Here’s what you need to know in under 2 minutes…

What tech leaders should be thinking about this week: How conviction can play a massive role in driving culture and organizational effectiveness.  Too often, tech leaders only think about (and communicate) the “what” – what(change) is happening, what (revenue) goals to go after, what (process)efficiencies need to improve.  Unfortunately, this doesn’t go far enough. Instead, who incorporate the “what” and the “why”(combined with a data-driven sense of conviction) can create lasting inspiration and performance. Conviction is what a leader believes, and it builds credibility, trust, and influence. It’s needed now more than ever!

Why this is important:  To drive impact, tech leaders need to have an authentic point-of-view. Organizations will follow leaders who are authentic, thoughtful, and supportive in how they are delivering that point-of-view. Also rooting that messaging with conviction will help the leader on topics that might encounter some friction – organizational change, big revenue goals, negative customer feedback, etc. Having conviction also sends a message to everyone across the team – you value data, you value clarity, you value critical thinking.

Simple “Go-Do’s” for tech leaders/performers:  Many tech leaders think “conviction” is synonymous with “confidence.” It’s not. There’s a huge difference between the two, and it’s important leaders spend time thinking about what makes conviction so critical to culture and organizational effectiveness.  Write down these bullets on a Post-It note and place it next to your computer:

·     Confidence is a belief in one’s own ability, regardless of external proof. Conviction is a deep belief in an idea, principle or outcome based on experience, values, or data.

·     Confidence can be situational.  Conviction tends to endure (because it’s grounded in purpose or truth).

·     Confidence is more about how you show-up.  Conviction is about what you stand for as a leader.

Value Add – Additional ways to show-up as a leader:  If you’re about to head-out, on, or coming-back from Spring Break, think about how you want to answer the question, “So how was your break?" This is a perfect opportunity to show your team how much you value your family, balance, and having fun. Think about a couple stories that go beyond,“Great!”  Talk about why you picked a certain location, how shaking-up your routine impacted your experience, and where you’re thinking of heading to next year. A unique answer will set you apart and showcase the value of time away from the office!

New/improved dedicated newsletter page!  Know someone who’s looking for quick/easy ways to show-up better as a tech leader/performer? Forward them this mail or have them sign-up directly on the new/improved newsletter page on theEngaged Pursuit website.

Here’s to your Engaged Pursuit!

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