You're Worth More Than You Think.

· Before he died, a father said to his son,

“Here is a watch that your grandfather gave me. It’s almost 200 years old.

Before I give it to you, go to the jewellery store downtown.

Tell them that I want to sell it and see how much they offer you.”

The son went to the jewellery story, came back to his father, and said,

“They offered $150 because it’s too old.”

· The father said, “Go to the pawn shop.”

The son went to the pawn shop, came back to his father, and said,

“The pawn shop offered $10 because it looks too worn out.”

· The father asked his son to go to the museum and show them the watch.

He went to the museum, came back, and said to his father.

“The curator offered $500,000 for this very rare piece to be included in their precious antique collections.”

· The father said,

o “I wanted to let you know that the right place values you in the right way. Don’t find yourself in the wrong place and get angry if you are not valued.

o Those that know your value are those who appreciate you, don’t stay in a place where nobody sees your value.”

Your value doesn’t decrease based on someone’s inability to see your worth.

Wise words.

If you’d like to discuss your value with me, feel free to connect.

C – Suite Executive Search

https://www.cgrahamconsulting.com/

Key Considerations for Hiring a CIO or CTO in EMEA or APAC

In an age where technology is integral to business strategy, the roles of Chief Information Officer (CIO) and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) have become crucial for companies operating in diverse and dynamic regions like Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA), and the Asia-Pacific (APAC). When hiring for these positions, businesses must consider a unique set of criteria to ensure they select a leader who can navigate the specific challenges and opportunities these regions present.

1. Understanding of Regional Specificities

EMEA and APAC Diversity: These regions are characterised by diverse cultures, languages, regulatory environments, and market dynamics. A CIO or CTO must have a deep understanding of these aspects or demonstrate the ability to quickly adapt and understand local nuances.

Cultural Sensitivity: Appreciating and navigating different cultural norms is essential. Leaders who can communicate effectively across diverse teams and understand the cultural nuances can drive better collaboration and innovation.

2. Adaptability to Rapid Changes

Dynamic Markets: Both EMEA and APAC are known for their rapidly evolving markets. A suitable CIO or CTO needs to be highly adaptable, ready to respond to fast-changing technology trends and market demands.

Innovation Mindset: The ability to foresee technological trends and implement innovative solutions is crucial, especially in regions that are often at the forefront of adopting new technologies.

3. Regulatory Compliance and Security

Data Protection and Privacy: With regulations like GDPR in Europe and varying data protection laws in APAC countries, knowledge of local and international compliance requirements is critical.

Cybersecurity Expertise: The leader must prioritize security, understanding the unique cybersecurity threats and challenges in these regions.

4. Technical and Business Acumen

Balancing Technical and Business Goals: The ideal candidate must not only be technically proficient but also possess strong business acumen to align technology initiatives with the company’s strategic objectives.

Local Market Knowledge: Understanding local market conditions, customer behavior, and competition is vital to tailor technology strategies effectively.

5. Experience in Scalability and Growth

Handling Expansion: Particularly in fast-growing markets, the ability to scale technology infrastructure and solutions to support business growth is essential.

Resource Management: Efficiently managing resources across multiple countries and time zones, considering the differences in infrastructure quality and availability in various parts of these regions.

6. Leadership and Communication Skills

Team Leadership: Leading diverse teams and fostering an inclusive work environment is crucial. This requires exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.

Stakeholder Management: The CIO or CTO must effectively communicate with and manage expectations of stakeholders, including local teams, global headquarters, and external partners.

Conclusion:

Hiring a CIO or CTO for regions like EMEA or APAC is not just about finding someone with technical expertise. It requires a leader who possesses a blend of cultural sensitivity, adaptability, regulatory awareness, technical and business acumen, and exceptional leadership skills. Having a global outlook and experience is invaluable to running a diverse and globally aware team.

The right candidate will not only drive technological innovation but also ensure that it aligns seamlessly with the unique dynamics of these diverse and rapidly evolving markets.

Mastering Life's Game: Will You Win or Lose?

I was listening to a podcast recently that I found interesting in concept and spot on in many of the discussion points. During the daily grind it is easy to forget that we are in fact playing a role in a game, in many games actually… The question is, do we realise that we are and how are we playing it?

"Mastering Life's Game: Will You Win or Lose? | Jocko Podcast 369" explores the idea that life can be seen as a game with multiple facets or categories. Success in life involves actively engaging in these different aspects, understanding their rules, and setting goals. Key takeaways include:

1. Life is akin to a multi-dimensional game, and winning requires active participation in various facets.

2. Understanding the unique rules and objectives within each category of life is crucial for success.

3. Identifying goals, strategies, and tactics is necessary for progress in different life areas, such as work and health.

4. Life can be divided into categories or pillars, and success means understanding the objectives and rules in each, setting goals, and building strong relationships.

5. Evaluating the fulfilment in the games you're playing in life, prioritizing health, and trustworthy relationships, and surrounding yourself with supportive individuals are important.

6. Building supportive relationships, treating others with respect, and taking responsibility for your actions are essential for long-term success in life.

7. Taking ownership of your life and maintaining a proactive mindset positively affects mental health.

8. You have control over certain aspects of your life, like physical health, job satisfaction, relationships, and mental health. Prioritizing these areas can lead to success and fulfilment.

9. Detaching from distractions, focusing on long-term goals, caring for your health, and being aware of the games you're playing are important strategies for winning the game of life.

These are great ways of looking at life and work and can enable one to take a different approach to challenges or goals. It allows a certain level of detachment that might weigh you down. It helps to view failures as learning and promotes more of a growth and problem-solving mindset. Much healthier way of looking at your circumstances or dreams.

Do you like the game you are in or do you want to change?

Get in touch with me to discuss potential options @ C​hris@cgrahamconsulting.com

https://www.cgrahamconsulting.com/