In our latest podcast episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Martin Rusnak, a seasoned Interim and Fractional CTO with over 25 years of experience. Martin shared a wealth of knowledge on thriving in these dynamic roles. Whether you're a CTO, aspiring to be one, or a senior technical leader, this post is for you.
Video Interview
You can watch the video on YouTube or below:
The Power of Personal Investment
One of the first things Martin emphasized was the importance of personal investment in his role.
"It's working quite well," he said, referring to his networking and content creation approach. "But it's also an investment on my side. I invest quite a lot in LinkedIn, every week, I mean at least one post a week. I'm starting also doing more videos, also podcasts and videos for that."
This personal investment isn't just about staying visible. It's about building a brand and establishing trust within the tech community. Martin's commitment to sharing valuable content regularly helps him stay top-of-mind for potential clients and collaborators.
Networking: The Lifeblood of a Fractional CTO
Networking is crucial for anyone in a leadership role, but for a Fractional CTO, it's essential. Martin highlighted this by explaining how most of his opportunities come through word-of-mouth and personal connections.
"I have a good network of recruiters and headhunters. They say, like, they are not getting requests to find fractional CTOs or even other fractional C-levels. It is really, purely a recommendation business and network for that."
Imagine getting a call out of the blue because someone needs a Fractional CTO by Monday. That's the power of having a strong network. Martin’s experience underscores the importance of being well-connected and staying active within professional circles.
Continuous Content Creation
In addition to networking, Martin invests time in content creation. This not only helps in building his brand but also positions him as a thought leader in the tech community.
"I invest quite a lot in LinkedIn, every week, I mean at least one post a week. I'm starting also doing more videos, also podcasts and videos for that."
Creating content isn't just about promoting yourself; it's about providing value to your audience. Martin emphasizes the need to share practical insights and real-world experiences.
"People want to see case studies. They want to see, hey, I have this problem, how maybe, let's say, how I solve it. What didn't work? Also, like, be honest. I mean, there is not, that everything is working, like we all wish."
Building Trust Quickly
One of the most significant challenges for an Interim or Fractional CTO is building trust quickly. Martin spoke about how crucial it is to establish credibility from the get-go.
"You have to gain the trust and relationship with people you will work with for the next months. You have to show that you are here to help and that you do it together as a team."
This involves not only understanding the technical aspects of the role but also excelling in communication, emotional intelligence, and empathy. Martin highlighted that the role of a CTO is often less about technology and more about people management and leadership.
Embracing the Role of a Mentor and Coach
As a Fractional CTO, Martin often finds himself in the role of a mentor and coach. This is particularly true when working with internal CTOs and senior technical leaders within the organization.
"You work very closely, mostly as a coach and mentor. Maybe you are preparing M&A activities, helping with technical due diligence, and bringing specific expertise to the project."
This aspect of the job requires a deep understanding of the business and the ability to guide and support the existing leadership team. It's about adding value and helping the organization achieve its goals.
Staying Ahead of the Curve
In the ever-evolving world of technology, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. Martin shared his approach to continuous learning and professional development.
"Learning is important. It's continuously growing. It's a key for me. I review tech radars, test new tools, read a lot, and interact with other Fractional and Interim CTOs regularly."
By staying updated with the latest trends and technologies, Martin ensures he can provide the best possible advice and support to his clients. This commitment to lifelong learning is something every tech leader should embrace.
Final Thoughts: The Future of Tech Leadership
The role of a CTO is evolving, and the rise of Interim and Fractional CTOs is a testament to this change. These roles offer flexibility and the opportunity to work on diverse projects, but they also come with unique challenges. As Martin's experience shows, success in these roles requires a combination of technical expertise, strong networking skills, and a commitment to continuous learning.
So, if you're considering a career as a Fractional CTO or simply looking to enhance your leadership skills, take a leaf out of Martin's book. Invest in your brand, build a strong network, and never stop learning.
Don't forget to connect with Martin Rusnak on LinkedIn and visit his website at RusnakConsulting.com for more information.
