In the fast-paced world of technology, where change is constant and innovation is key, technical expertise alone is no longer enough to succeed at the top levels of leadership. The ability to navigate complex human dynamics, communicate effectively, and inspire a team has become just as crucial. But how do you develop these essential soft skills as a CTO or senior technical leader? That's exactly what I explored in a recent conversation with Laura Peli, a PCC Certified Executive Coach with over a decade of experience in corporate environments.
If you’ve ever wondered how to bridge the gap between technical mastery and leadership excellence, you’re in the right place.
You can watch the video on YouTube or below:
Let’s face it—many of us in the tech world are naturally inclined towards solving problems, building systems, and focusing on the “hard” skills that got us where we are today.
However, as Laura pointed out in our interview, “Being a great leader isn’t just about what you know; it’s about how you connect with and guide others.”
Leadership requires a different set of skills—ones that may not come as naturally to those of us who have spent years honing our technical abilities. But the good news is that these skills can be developed, and the impact on your career and your team can be transformative.
You might be thinking, “I’m already successful; why do I need to focus on soft skills?”
Laura had an insightful response to this common question: “Technical knowledge might get you into the room, but it’s your ability to lead, inspire, and communicate that will keep you there—and help you climb even higher.”
In our conversation, we discussed how CTOs and other senior tech leaders often find themselves in situations where they need to influence stakeholders, manage cross-functional teams, or lead large-scale initiatives. These scenarios demand more than just technical know-how; they require empathy, clear communication, and the ability to adapt your leadership style to different situations.
One of the key takeaways from my conversation with Laura was the importance of communication.
She emphasized that “Being a great communicator doesn’t just mean being articulate; it means being able to adjust your communication style to fit your audience, whether that’s a room full of engineers or a board of directors.”
As a CTO, you’re often the bridge between your technical team and the rest of the organization. Your ability to translate complex technical concepts into language that non-technical stakeholders can understand is critical. But it’s not just about clarity—it’s about building trust and creating alignment across the organization.
Laura suggested a practical approach: “Always lead with your expertise, but don’t forget to show that you understand and respect the perspectives of others.”
Leadership development is not a one-size-fits-all process. During our chat, Laura stressed the importance of creating a personalized roadmap for growth.
“It’s essential to understand what areas you need to work on and to set specific, achievable goals,” she advised.
For example, if you know that you struggle with giving feedback, you might set a goal to practice delivering constructive feedback in every one-on-one meeting for the next month. If public speaking is a challenge, you could commit to presenting at least once per quarter, whether it’s at an internal meeting or an industry conference.
Laura also highlighted the value of feedback—not just giving it, but actively seeking it.
“Feedback is your compass,” she explained. “It helps you understand how others perceive your leadership and where you might need to make adjustments.”
In our discussion, trust emerged as a foundational element of effective leadership.
Laura shared a powerful piece of advice: “Be the leader you would want to follow.”
This means showing up with integrity, being transparent in your communication, and making sure your actions align with your words.
But trust isn’t just about your behavior—it’s also about how you empower your team. Laura emphasized that a high-performing team is one where each member feels valued and supported.
“Make sure your team knows that you’re there for them,” she said. “Regular check-ins, offering opportunities for professional development, and recognizing their achievements all contribute to a positive and productive work environment.”
In today’s globalized world, cultural awareness is more important than ever.
As Laura noted, “Understanding the cultural backgrounds of your team members can significantly enhance your leadership effectiveness.”
This doesn’t just apply to managing international teams; even within a single office, cultural differences can influence communication styles, work habits, and expectations.
Laura shared a story about a client who struggled with cultural misunderstandings within their team.
“It wasn’t about anyone doing anything wrong—it was just that they were coming from different cultural contexts,” she explained. “Once the team became more aware of these differences, they were able to communicate more effectively and work together more harmoniously.”
The tech industry moves at a breakneck pace, and as a leader, you need to stay ahead of the curve—not just in terms of technology, but also in your approach to leadership.
Laura underscored the importance of continuous learning: “The best leaders are those who are always looking for ways to improve, whether that’s through formal education, reading, or simply reflecting on their experiences.”
But it’s not just about learning—it’s about being adaptable.
“Flexibility is key,” Laura said. “The ability to pivot when circumstances change is what separates good leaders from great ones.”
As we wrapped up our conversation, it was clear that Laura’s insights are invaluable for any CTO or senior technical leader looking to elevate their leadership skills. The journey from being a technical expert to a well-rounded leader isn’t always easy, but it can lead to tremendous personal and professional growth.
If you’re ready to take your leadership to the next level, I highly recommend checking out the full interview with Laura Peli. Her wisdom, experience, and practical tips will provide you with the tools you need to succeed in today’s complex and dynamic tech landscape.
You can connect with Laura on her LinkedIn.
And remember, leadership is a journey, not a destination. So, take that first step today—your team, your organization, and your future self will thank you for it.