It might not seem like it, but becoming a is no small feat – it takes hard work, dedication, and having the skills to back you up at all times! But while many things come with the role of CTO, there are also some tips and advice that can help you get on the right track to success. Today, our CTO, Oscar García, shares with us ten pieces of advice so that you know what to aim for and what to do to become the CTO that your company needs!
Advice #1. Pursue additional certifications to help increase your knowledge
Additional certifications can help you improve your knowledge. There are many certifications available. One of the most popular certifications is Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA). The CCNA ensures that you have an in-depth understanding of networking basics, as follows: this also shows you how networks work with routers and switches, VLANs, access control lists, and Ethernet cabling.
Advice #2. Seek challenging tech experiences
Technical expertise is only part of the equation when it comes to becoming a great CTO. Sure, you need to understand and solve complex problems, but you also need to be able to lead and inspire others. And the best way to do that is by seeking out challenging experiences that will push you outside your comfort zone. So don’t be afraid to take on new projects or try new things. The more experiences you have, the better equipped you’ll be to handle whatever comes your way.
Advice #3. Actively participate in tech events
There are few better places to network and learn about the latest trends in your field than conferences. As a CTO, it’s essential to stay up-to-date on the latest technology developments, and conferences are a great way to do that. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to meet other like-minded professionals and potentially find new business partners or investors.
Advice #4. Keep coding!
It’s not about finding the perfect code or the most efficient way of doing things. It’s about understanding how things work and how you can make them work better. The best way to do this is to keep coding and testing your system. Don’t be afraid of new things because that’s how you learn and grow as a technocrat, and remember: everything now is the software the cloud has blessed us.
Advice #5. Don’t be obsessed with technology only
As a CTO, you’re responsible for the company’s technology strategy, and you need to be up-to-date with the latest trends. But that doesn’t mean you should be obsessed with technology only. It’s important to remember that you’re also responsible for the people who work with you, and you need to find the right balance between being technically savvy and being a leader.
Advice #6. Business acumen
As Chief Technical Officer, you are responsible for the company’s technology. You need to be able to work with the business side to ensure that technology is being used in a way that will drive revenue and growth. To succeed in this role, it is essential to keep learning about your business.
Advice #7. Meet clients face-to-face
Make sure you’re getting out there and meeting clients face-to-face. It’s easy to get bogged down in the day-to-day and forget that your company’s success depends on developing relationships with clients. When you meet with clients, you have an opportunity to show them who you are and what your company is all about. You can also get feedback that will help you improve your products or services.
Advice #8. Always be on time
There’s nothing more important for a CTO than being on time, and today technology help us make that happen. If you’re constantly late, it will set a bad precedent for the team and make it seem like you don’t care, but most importantly, it will reflect in your customers’ culture. Discipline is the “secret sauce” to being on time.
Advice #9. Don’t forget about corporate culture
Corporate culture is vital for any company, but it’s essential for a tech company. A good corporate culture will attract and retain the best talent and foster an environment of innovation and creativity. Culture is what we do, do what makes you and your company successful.
Advice #10. Pursue personal interests while you are at work
Relax!. Having hobbies and activities outside of work maintain a healthy work-life balance. When you pursue personal interests while you are at work, it can make you more productive. This is because you can take breaks from work and come back refreshed and ready to tackle new challenges, which helps you build relationships in your industry and can lead to new opportunities.
