What are the most important steps to take when transitioning into an IT outsourcing leadership role?

1 Assess your strengths and gaps

The first step is to assess your own strengths and gaps as an IT outsourcing leader. You need to identify what you are good at, what you need to improve, and what you need to learn. For example, you might be confident in your technical expertise, but you might need to work on your communication, negotiation, or project management skills. You can use self-assessment tools, feedback from peers and mentors, or online courses to help you evaluate and develop your competencies.

2 Understand your stakeholders and expectations

The second step is to understand who your stakeholders are and what they expect from you as an IT outsourcing leader. You need to know who you are working with, what their goals and challenges are, and how you can align your vision and strategy with theirs. For example, you might need to communicate with your clients, your vendors, your team members, and your senior management. You need to establish trust, rapport, and clarity with each of them, and manage their expectations and deliverables effectively.

3 Define your scope and objectives

The third step is to define your scope and objectives as an IT outsourcing leader. You need to know what you are responsible for, what you are accountable for, and what you are aiming for. For example, you might need to define the scope of your projects, the budget and timeline of your contracts, the quality and performance standards of your services, and the metrics and indicators of your success. You need to set SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound) goals and communicate them clearly to your stakeholders.

4 Build your network and team

The fourth step is to build your network and team as an IT outsourcing leader. You need to leverage your existing contacts and connections, and expand your network to include new and diverse perspectives and expertise. For example, you might need to network with other IT outsourcing leaders, industry experts, potential clients, or strategic partners. You also need to build a strong and cohesive team that can deliver high-quality results and collaborate well with each other and with other parties.

5 Develop your processes and systems

The fifth step is to develop your processes and systems as an IT outsourcing leader. You need to establish and follow best practices and standards that can ensure the efficiency, effectiveness, and quality of your work. For example, you might need to develop and document your workflows, procedures, policies, tools, and templates. You also need to implement and monitor your systems for project management, risk management, quality assurance, security, compliance, and reporting.

6 Learn and adapt continuously

The sixth and final step is to learn and adapt continuously as an IT outsourcing leader. You need to keep yourself updated on the latest trends, technologies, and innovations in your field. You also need to seek feedback, evaluate your performance, and identify areas for improvement and growth. For example, you might need to attend webinars, read blogs, join forums, or take courses on IT outsourcing. You also need to conduct surveys, reviews, audits, or lessons learned sessions on your projects and contracts.