I had the pleasure of interviewing Hans Schumann, a seasoned executive coach with a rich background in law and nearly a decade of experience coaching leaders. Our discussion revolved around how Chief Technology Officers (CTOs) and VPs of Engineering can transition into more impactful roles, build better opportunities, and thrive in their careers. Here are the key insights from our conversation.
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Many CTOs and VPs of Engineering begin their careers as technical experts. They excel in coding, problem-solving, and managing technical projects. However, as they rise through the ranks, they encounter the need for a different skill set. Hans pointed out a common challenge:
"If you're in technology, you often start as a technical expert. You do your coding, and that's what you thrive in. As you rise through the ranks, different skills are required, and you need to let go of some of the coding."
This shift from a hands-on technical role to a leadership position requires embracing new challenges and developing skills in people management, strategic thinking, and emotional intelligence.
Emotional intelligence (EI) is a recurring theme in leadership discussions and for a good reason. Hans emphasized its importance for CTOs, not just in managing teams but also in navigating the complexities of boardroom interactions:
"To be really effective in the boardroom, you need to be able to pick up on emotions and engage with them. That's the emotional intelligence, one of the key skills that is required for modern leaders."
Emotional intelligence involves understanding oneself, managing one's emotions, and recognizing and influencing the emotions of others. It's a critical skill for CTOs who must build relationships with various stakeholders, including chief marketing officers, chief sales officers, and chief HR officers.
Improving emotional intelligence is a journey that involves self-awareness and practice. Hans recommended psychometric testing as a powerful tool to start this journey:
"The most powerful way I have to offer is psychometric testing with a particular test that goes very deep. It's called the Enneagram. It's a growth model that helps us understand not only what our traits are but also why we have those traits."
By understanding their underlying motivations and defense mechanisms, CTOs can better manage their reactions and improve their interactions with others.
Hans introduced the concept of a personal or leadership operating system, which encompasses the psychological patterns that influence how we think, feel, and act. Understanding these patterns can help leaders operate more effectively:
"We all have a kind of psychological map that tells us how we function. There are certain ways in which we think, feel, and act. When people get the report, they understand exactly what drives them and how these patterns can sometimes be self-fulfilling prophecies."
By gaining insight into their own operating systems, CTOs can identify strengths and areas for improvement, allowing them to lead with greater clarity and purpose.
In today’s competitive job market, having a strong personal brand is essential. Hans explained how CTOs can enhance their personal brands to attract better opportunities:
"People don't just want to hire a technical expert. When they hire a CTO, they also look for leadership skills. If you have a LinkedIn profile that talks about your success in these areas, this will make your brand more compelling."
Creating a compelling personal brand involves showcasing not only technical achievements but also leadership qualities and successes in managing teams and stakeholders.
A fulfilling career goes beyond technical expertise and leadership skills. It involves aligning one's job with personal values and passions. Hans shared his definition of fulfillment:
For CTOs, this means seeking roles and organizations that resonate with their core values and offer challenges that inspire and engage them. It’s about finding a job that makes them feel alive and not just a means to earn a living."Filling your life full of those things that are most important to you. Ideally, your job should allow you to pursue those things that are most important."
Hans advised a strategic approach to job searching, especially for those feeling unfulfilled in their current roles:
By understanding what drives their fulfillment and aligning their job search with these priorities, CTOs can find roles that are not only rewarding but also sustainable in the long term."Spend the time exploring what you really want from your career. What is most important to you? What does fulfillment look like? Be active in creating the job experience that you want."
Transitioning from a technical expert to a successful leader involves more than just acquiring new skills. It requires a deep understanding of oneself, a strategic approach to personal branding, and a commitment to aligning one's career with personal values and passions. Hans Schumann’s insights provide a valuable roadmap for CTOs and VPs of Engineering looking to thrive in their careers and build better opportunities.
For those interested in delving deeper into these topics, Hans’s book, "Falling in Love with Your Job," is a great resource. To learn more about his coaching services, visit his website at HansSchumann.com. By embracing these insights, CTOs can navigate their career transitions with confidence and purpose.