When we talk about how digital transformation has affected businesses across industries, it’s not just about changes in the physical space and advancements in technical know-how; it’s also about changing the nature of business leaders.
Leaders in the digital era are expected to have impressive interdisciplinary skills, possess an agile mindset, and understand various technologies, business functions, and industries.
They also need to be able to steer teams of full- and part-time employees, advocate a culture of lifelong learning within the organisation, and embrace risk-taking and innovation.
Whether you’re now just starting out in your job or on your way to a leadership position, here are some other characteristics of leaders in the digital era that you should be aware of:
They understand the value of technology
Leaders in the digital era realise the impact of digital technology on their business. Beyond leveraging on new technological knowledge, they can identify technologies that can improve organisational processes, and create value for their customers.
They also constantly evaluate future technological advancements that can benefit or threaten the business.
They encourage experimentation
Leaders in the digital era understand that inventing and innovating require experience, hence their efforts to cultivate a culture of experimentation within the organisation.
They create an environment where people are allowed to make creative decisions and gain new knowledge and skills while learning from their failures.
This is helpful for the evolution of the organisation, especially when its workforce is able to receive and adapt to the dynamic needs resulting from the digital transformation.
They empower people
Today’s leadership provides room for more collaboration, participation and involvement to better respond to external and internal needs.
Thus, leaders in the digital era empower their teams to share ideas and make decisions, particularly those who have direct experiences with issues and concerns at hand.
This builds a sense of ownership and accountability among employees, who can now feel that they have the capability and confidence to contribute to the organisation.
They drive change
Above all, leaders in the digital era strive to enable the organisation (and themselves) to embrace change.
They have the vision for the organisation to realise its fullest potential in the midst of an unpredictable and challenging digital world.
When implementing new technologies in the organisation, for example, they ensure that employees are well equipped with the necessary knowledge and well aware that these changes can meet the organisation’s goals.
Essentially, leaders who adapt and are attuned to the digital transformation by driving change will enable their business to continuously meet changing customer demands, stay relevant in digital economy, and ensure longevity.
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This article first appeared on The Borneo Post, visit this link: http://bit.ly/2lWOJW4
Photo by rawpixel.com from Pexels.
