How do you measure the impact of your IT skills?

1 Define your IT skills

Before you can measure the impact of your IT skills, you need to define what they are and how they align with your role and goals. IT skills are not just technical abilities, but also include soft skills, such as communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and creativity. You can use various frameworks, such as the SFIA (Skills Framework for the Information Age), to identify and categorize your IT skills according to different levels and domains. You can also ask for feedback from your peers, managers, clients, or mentors to get a more objective and comprehensive view of your IT skills.

2 Track your IT skills outcomes

Once you have defined your IT skills, you need to track how they contribute to your work outcomes, such as completing tasks, delivering projects, meeting deadlines, solving issues, improving processes, or adding value. You can use different tools and methods to track your IT skills outcomes, such as SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) goals, KPIs (Key Performance Indicators), OKRs (Objectives and Key Results), or portfolios. You can also document your IT skills outcomes in a resume, a CV, a cover letter, a LinkedIn profile, or a personal website.

3 Compare your IT skills benchmarks

Another way to measure the impact of your IT skills is to compare them with the benchmarks of your industry, your organization, your role, or your peers. You can use various sources and platforms to find out the IT skills benchmarks, such as job descriptions, online courses, certifications, assessments, surveys, or reports. You can also join online communities, forums, or networks to exchange information and insights with other IT professionals. By comparing your IT skills benchmarks, you can identify your strengths, weaknesses, gaps, or opportunities.

4 Showcase your IT skills achievements

To demonstrate the impact of your IT skills, you need to showcase your IT skills achievements to your current or potential employers, clients, or partners. You can use different formats and channels to showcase your IT skills achievements, such as reports, presentations, testimonials, case studies, blogs, podcasts, videos, or webinars. You can also use social media, newsletters, or email campaigns to share your IT skills achievements with a wider audience. By showcasing your IT skills achievements, you can build your reputation, credibility, and influence.

5 Update your IT skills trends

To maintain the impact of your IT skills, you need to update them according to the latest trends and developments in your field. IT skills are constantly evolving and changing due to new technologies, innovations, or challenges. You can use various resources and opportunities to update your IT skills trends, such as online courses, webinars, podcasts, blogs, books, magazines, or events. You can also seek mentorship, coaching, or feedback from experts, colleagues, or clients to update your IT skills trends.

6 Develop your IT skills plan

To enhance the impact of your IT skills, you need to develop a plan to improve and expand them. IT skills are not static, but dynamic and adaptable. You can use various strategies and techniques to develop your IT skills plan, such as self-assessment, goal-setting, action-planning, learning, practicing, reviewing, or reflecting. You can also use the 70-20-10 model, which suggests that 70% of your IT skills development comes from on-the-job experience, 20% from social learning, and 10% from formal education.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?