What do you do if your IT Strategy career is hindered by skill gaps?

Identify the Strengths and Weaknesses: Take a deep dive into the current IT Strategy skillset. Analyze the comfort level with various IT Strategy areas like: Cloud Strategy: Cloud migration, cost optimization, cloud security. Enterprise Architecture: IT Governance & Risk Management: ITSM (IT Service Management): Emerging Technologies: Identify the Knowledge Gaps: Identify areas of knowledge within these domains where you feel less confident. Are there specific technologies within cloud security you'd like to master? If you have a mentor in the field, discuss the career goals and aspirations. Ask them to identify any skill gaps they see that might hinder your progress.

What I've found helpful is to look at trends first and identify which is most aligned to your personal future direction. Consider those that are directly related to the company you're working for and plan to learn about them.

Identify your skill gaps in IT strategy and create a targeted learning plan with courses and certifications. Seek mentorship from experienced IT strategists and actively network for insights. Apply new skills in practical projects within your current role or through volunteering. Continuously evaluate and adjust your learning plan to stay aligned with industry advancements. Demonstrate your commitment to growth by showcasing your new skills and learning journey to your employer, emphasizing your evolving value to the organization. "Business Value" is the key for sustenance and success.

To address skill gaps in IT Strategy career, prioritize deliberate learning. There's no shortcut; consistent practice is crucial. Set clear goals, create a structured plan, and adhere to it rigorously. Regular learning will become ingrained in your routine. For example, my 90-day challenge in Industry 4.0 (see here #RijaRKT) demonstrates my commitment to improvement.

Come up with 30/60/90 days Learning Plan: Prioritize Skills: Focus on the most critical skill gaps that are hindering the career advancement. Learning Options: Explore various learning options to fill the gaps: Online Courses: Numerous online platforms offer IT Strategy courses and certifications. (e.g., Coursera, Udemy, edX) Books and Articles: Stay updated on the latest trends and best practices by reading relevant books and industry publications. Conferences and Workshops: Attend industry conferences, workshops, or webinars to gain insights and network with professionals. Bootcamps: Consider intensive bootcamps for focused skill development in specific areas like cloud security or IT governance. Participate in the hackathons.

Look for mentors with strong experience and expertise in the specific IT Strategy area you're aiming to develop. Consider your preferred mentorship style. Do you thrive with a direct and challenging mentor or one who provides more guidance and support? Choose someone who has the time and willingness to invest in mentoring you. Consider both internal mentors within your organization and external mentors in the wider IT Strategy community. Or leverage the existing professional network to identify potential mentors. Or attend industry events and conferences to connect with professionals you admire. Set clear expectations with the mentor at the outset. Discuss the goals, learning style, and desired frequency of communication

Lead by Example and Foster a Growth Mindset As responsible leaders, it's essential to lead by example. Encourage a growth mindset in your team by valuing continuous learning and supporting their development initiatives. By nurturing a culture of curiosity and learning, you create an environment fostering innovation, adaptability, and individual growth.I believe that embracing continuous learning and cultivating a growth mindset makes us catalysts for positive change within our teams and organizations, setting an example for the next generation of leaders. Along the way, remember to celebrate your progress; it'll keep you motivated and encouraged on your learning journey.

First and foremost is to bridge the gap! Identify what areas upskilling required and focus on them. Mentors in those areas will be of great help to guide, review and help. Some more that could help to get there: 1.. Network with other IT professionals, attend industry events, and build relationships that can open new doors and career opportunities. 2. Engage in online communities like IT strategy forums and groups to share knowledge, ask questions, and stay connected with the industry. 3. Go beyond technical knowledge and understand how IT strategy aligns with broader business goals. Read industry publications, participate in business strategy discussions, and find ways to translate technology concepts into business language.