The pandemic has reinforced the importance of emotional skills among CIOs, according to Gartner. Determination and sensitivity have become essential in recruitment. IT managers need to demonstrate leadership, transparency and listening skills to overcome crises and support their teams effectively.
The COVID-19 pandemic has accentuated the need for IT managers to possess not only technical skills, but also strong emotional leadership. According to an analysis by Gartner, soft skills have gained in importance in the profile of CIOs, in particular two traits: determination (+34% demand compared to 2019) and sensitivity (+92%).
Gartner reveals that 70% of CIO recruitment processes take these personal qualities into account, making them essential. “Executives are looking for managers who can overcome crises,” stresses Daniel Sanchez-Reina, Research Director at Gartner. Indeed, CIOs need to be able to make crucial decisions, while acting with emotional dexterity to support their teams and demonstrate tact.
Transparency and an authentic way of communicating and collaborating are also particularly valued emotional skills. The most successful CIOs adopt a coaching approach and spend up to 75% of their time listening to their teams, reinforcing cohesion and efficiency within IT departments.
Source : ICTjournal
