Welcome to the first edition of my weekly LinkedIn newsletter, a venture where I integrate lessons from my Executive MBA at Kennesaw State University with my extensive experience in technology leadership. I am Tom Lasswell, currently leading as the Senior Director of Infrastructure and IT Services at Edible Brands, and I’m here to share my journey and insights into the evolving world of technology and leadership.
In this newsletter, we will explore various facets of leadership, particularly focusing on the importance of understanding and adapting to different communication styles within our teams. My approach, heavily influenced by my ‘Influence’ style in the DISC model, emphasizes creating positive interactions and fostering an enthusiastic work environment, which I’ve found crucial for collaborative success.
Let’s delve deeper into the DISC model:
– Dominance (D): These individuals thrive in environments where they can lead decisively and address challenges head-on. They are pivotal in driving a team towards achieving ambitious goals and maintaining a competitive edge.
– Influence (I): My personal style, which revolves around motivating teams, encouraging open communication, and building strong relationships. This style is key to team cohesion, creating a workplace where ideas are shared freely, and innovation is nurtured.
– Steadiness (S):These team members offer unparalleled support and stability. Their consistent approach is essential in ensuring the smooth execution of long-term projects and maintaining a balanced team dynamic.
– Conscientiousness (C): Their attention to detail and systematic approach guarantees accuracy and efficiency, especially vital in the tech industry where precision is paramount.
Beyond DISC, there are other tools to understand communication styles, such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), The Big Five Personality Traits, and assessments of Emotional Intelligence (EQ). These tools provide deeper insights into the behavioral and psychological make-up of individuals, allowing leaders to tailor their strategies for more effective team management.
Each week, I’ll bring you insights, strategies, and discussions on topics ranging from overcoming leadership challenges to enhancing team dynamics, all through the lens of my experiences. From my time at CBS to building managed services programs, and the enriching lessons from my EMBA program, these experiences have shaped my perspective and approach to tech leadership.
In upcoming editions, expect to dive into topics like innovation in leadership, navigating the challenges of rapid technological advancements, and building resilient teams. We’ll also explore case studies, share best practices, and discuss the latest trends in technology leadership.
Join me on this exciting journey as we explore the multifaceted world of technology leadership. Together, we’ll uncover strategies to drive innovation, foster effective communication, and build teams that are not just productive but also inspired and engaged.
Stay tuned for our next issue, where we will explore how to effectively navigate the challenges of tech leadership and the impact of strong communication on achieving team success.
