𝐋𝐃𝐄: CIO Evolution - Life Beyond the Role

Host:
Robert Field https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertmfield/
Guests:
Karen Higgins-Carter https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-higgins-carter/
Dr. Janet Sherlock https://www.linkedin.com/in/janet-sherlock/
Michael Smith https://www.linkedin.com/in/mwshome/

This episode focused on the personal journeys of leaders as they embraced board positions, portfolio careers, and new forms of impact, all while addressing the emotional and practical realities of leaving a C-level executive seat.

[00:00] Intro
[00:33] Tech Day in Pink: Mission, Growth, and Impact
[05:34] Event Details and Community Engagement
[07:23] Panelist Introductions and Career Overviews
[10:10] Life After CIO: Career Transitions and New Ventures
[14:39] Preparing for the Next Professional Chapter
[18:43] Evolving Identity: Branding Beyond the CIO Role
[22:44] Broadening Business Value and Board Readiness
[28:57] From Operations to Portfolio Careers: New Challenges
[35:07] Finding Purpose and Joy in Post-CIO Careers
[40:17] Overcoming Hurdles to Board Positions
[46:39] Planning Your Transition: Advice for Current CIOs
[50:04] Final Reflections: Emotional Aspects of Transition and Staying Connected
[53:30] Connecting with the Panelists & Closing Remarks

Michael Smith shared the inspiring origin and growth of Tech Day of Pink—a global initiative he founded to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research. With participation now over 2 million people and 100 companies globally, the event combines social engagement, education, and philanthropy.

https://www.techdayofpink.org/

🔑 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀
🎯 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗕𝗲𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗧𝗶𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘀: Stepping away from the CIO role requires intentionally redefining your identity and being comfortable letting go of the weight the title carries. Leaders emphasized that adaptability and authenticity are essential as you move into new professional chapters.

🌐 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗰 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸: Cultivating a diverse, robust network is crucial when planning a transition to board or portfolio roles. It was stressed that successful networking should reach beyond other technology executives to include CEOs, leadership peers, and vendor partners.

🧭 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗮 𝗡𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗵 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿: Defining your sources of joy, fulfillment, and purpose is foundational. Having clarity about personal and professional goals guides decision-making and provides direction in career transitions.

⌛ 𝗘𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Moving from operational leadership to portfolio work brings emotional adjustments, including missing daily team interaction and navigating new forms of professional fulfillment. Leaders highlighted the need for purposeful energy management and staying connected to former teams.

💃 𝗙𝘂𝗻 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝘁: 🕺
🚀 Michael Smith, who spent decades as a CIO at companies like Nike and Estée Lauder, now owns a professional football club in Northern Ireland, the Carrick Rangers. Running the club involves everything from fan apparel to education—almost everything except tech!

💡𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲
🎯 Michael Smith emphasized that the hardest part about leaving the CIO role was missing the daily interaction and camaraderie with colleagues, noting the importance of being proactive in maintaining those relationships after transitioning. He also encouraged everyone to remember that while the nature of connections changes, finding fulfillment and impact in new contexts remains essential.

🔗 Karen Higgins-Carter pointed out that a portfolio career involved spending more time alone, likening it to the life transition after college, and advised listeners to find new ways to restore their energy and stay connected. She also recommended deliberately managing time and being selective about commitments to ensure ongoing fulfillment and effectiveness.

🌟 Dr. Janet Sherlock cautioned about the emotional aspects of career transition, acknowledging the sense of loss from leaving daily team dynamics and company affiliation, but highlighted the newfound freedom and agency that came with portfolio work. She suggested that proper planning across mental, emotional, and financial areas could make the transition enjoyable, while reinforcing the importance of readiness for such a major change.

🤝 Robert Field reiterated his appreciation for the guests and the value of their collective wisdom, stressing that professionals contemplating transition should consider the advice shared in the event.

👀 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆!
You will gain actionable strategies for executive career pivots, hear unfiltered stories of navigating identity shifts and board transitions, and learn how to prepare yourself for leadership beyond the CIO.


𝐒𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞:
https://www.youtube.com/@InstituteDigitalTransformation/?sub_confirmation=1

𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐭𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
https://www.institutefordigitaltransformation.org/ ...

𝐋𝐃𝐄: IT + OT Convergence & Shadow AI Risks (S03E06)

[00:00] Intro
[04:34] AI Integration and the Role of Data
[06:30] Ownership: Should IT, OT, or Cross-Functional Teams Lead?
[09:29] Building Inclusion and Trust Between IT and OT
[11:50] Shifting Culture: Aligning Priorities and Security Perspectives
[14:32] Defining Roles and Responsibilities Between IT and OT
[16:30] Is IT/OT Convergence or OT Digital Transformation Driving Change?
[19:36] Addressing Undefined Processes and Definitions
[22:12] Shadow IT: Evolving Analyst Roles and Business Data Ownership
[25:14] Cybersecurity, the CISO, and the Data Explosion
[28:23] Educating Vendors and MSPs on Secure Architectures
[30:13] Third Party Mediation: Value and Drawbacks
[33:43] Balancing Operational Pressure and IT Governance
[38:52] Shaping and Unifying Digital Strategy for Business Outcomes
[42:23] Gaining Organizational Buy-In and Internal Alignment
[47:13] Closing Comments


This episode focused on the challenges and opportunities surrounding IT and OT (Operational Technology) convergence, as well as the emerging risks of shadow AI in modern manufacturing environments. Experts in digital transformation, global IT leadership, and operations came together to discuss practical strategies for bridging the gap between IT and OT, navigating security risks, and ensuring technology truly serves the business.
 
🔑 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀

🔗 𝗜𝗧/𝗢𝗧 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝗾𝘂𝗶𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝗧𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁: Speakers highlighted that integrating IT and OT is more than a technical challenge—it necessitates open communication and deep trust between teams. Successful convergence hinges on shared accountability and establishment of non-negotiables so both sides understand priorities and roles.

📊 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗮 𝗶𝘀 𝗡𝗼𝘄 “𝗞𝗶𝗻𝗴”: With AI and data analytics powering decisions on the factory floor and at the enterprise level, seamless data flow from production environments to business systems is mission-critical. Accurate, accessible data enables visibility, rapid response, and improved product quality.

🛡️ 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗿𝗻𝘀 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘄 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲: As integration between IT and OT systems increases, the risk surface expands. Panelists underscored the need for robust cybersecurity policies, segmented network architectures, and vigilant monitoring, especially as third parties and new devices are introduced.

🤝 𝗖𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲: The true challenge of convergence is organizational. Moving beyond technical silos requires stakeholder involvement, transparency in goals, and a shift in mindset—both IT and OT must be willing to relinquish some control and collaborate on shared outcomes.

🚦 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗱𝗼𝘄 𝗜𝗧 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝗜 𝗦𝗽𝘂𝗿 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻—𝗕𝘂𝘁 𝗥𝗮𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗥𝗶𝘀𝗸: Decentralized analytics and “shadow” solutions empower business units to innovate more quickly, but raise governance and security issues. The panel suggested nurturing shadow IT as a source of business value, while applying clear guardrails and involving IT in oversight.
 
💃 𝗙𝘂𝗻 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝘁: 🕺
🚀 Did you know that in today’s manufacturing world, the critical machines on the production line are now as linked to cloud systems and AI models as they are to nuts and bolts? IT and OT (Operational Technology) are no longer just neighbors—sometimes, they are inseparably “tangled”.
 
💡𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲

🔍 𝗕𝗲𝗻 recommended starting with identifying clear ownership of requirements, expected outcomes, and ROI for every initiative. He stressed building a feedback loop of learning and collaboration to keep both IT and OT aligned and engaged.

🌐 𝗠𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗲𝗹 advised grounding digital strategies in the actual business problems encountered by manufacturing and operations teams. He emphasized transparency in how project outcomes are measured, creating accountability for both successes and failures.

🗂️ 𝗧𝗶𝗺 encouraged building trust by delivering consistently on IT commitments and seeking regular feedback from stakeholders at every level. He advised IT teams to spend time on the shop floor, engaging directly with manufacturing staff to understand their challenges and priorities.

🎤 𝗥𝗼𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘁 pointed to the importance of awareness—reminding IT leaders that the mission is always to support making and selling the product, not just to implement technology for its own sake.
 
👀 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆!
Gain actionable strategies for IT/OT convergence, hear real-world solutions for shadow AI oversight, and see how your organization can foster a culture of partnership across technology and operations. Learn directly from experienced leaders how to build trust, mitigate risk, and make digital transformation drive real business value.

Part of the 𝗗𝗶𝗴𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗕𝗿𝗼𝗮𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸. https://digitaltransform.tv/. https://digitaltransform.tv/

𝐒𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞:
https://www.youtube.com/@InstituteDigitalTransformation/?sub_confirmation=1

𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐭𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
https://www.institutefordigitaltransformation.org/ ...

𝐋𝐃𝐄: How Organization Size Shapes the CIO (S03E05)

Host:
Robert Field https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertmfield/

Guests:
Michael Pompey https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelpompey/
John Regula https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-regula-899555362/
R.C. Woodson https://www.linkedin.com/in/r-c-woodson-59741a60/

This episode brought together experienced IT leaders to discuss how organization size dramatically influences the expectations, leadership style, and decision-making for Chief Information Officers. The conversation explored practical approaches for scaling technology, maintaining operational effectiveness, and adapting strategies for success in public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Attendees discovered the best practices and real-world tactics these leaders employed to drive transformation, build business-IT collaboration, and manage complex change.

[00:00] Intro
[05:02] Defining Leadership: Styles in Diverse Organizational Settings
[09:27] Balancing Operational Triage and Executive Vision
[15:22] Managing Organizational Scale: Operational Awareness and Efficiency
[20:17] Driving Change: Change Management Techniques and the Triple Constraint
[25:32] Adapting Leadership Strategies to Culture, Maturity, and Size
[32:42] Resource Management: Mentorship, Succession Planning, and Vendor Relationships
[40:03] Leadership Advice for Aspiring CIOs
[44:52] Closing Thoughts and Where to Connect


🔑 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀

📏 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗔𝗱𝗮𝗽𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗲: The speakers addressed how leadership must evolve based on the organization’s size, from hands-on involvement in smaller teams to strategic, collaborative roles in larger and decentralized organizations. Each environment requires tailored communication and resource allocation methods.

⚖️ 𝗕𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝘆 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗗𝗮𝘆-𝘁𝗼-𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗢𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: Managing urgent operational needs while steering long-term strategies was a consistent challenge. Leaders emphasized the need for empowering teams to handle “the urgent” independently, ensuring the CIO can stay focused on broader objectives.

🤝 𝗕𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀-𝗜𝗧 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽: Success hinges on CIOs deeply understanding and connecting IT projects to business outcomes. By positioning technology initiatives as business investments, leaders gain stronger buy-in and ensure that efforts are aligned with actual enterprise priorities.

🔄 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝗳𝘂𝗹𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀: No matter the size or budget, CIOs must navigate limited resources and constant change. Creative problem-solving, leveraging internal skills, and ongoing communication with all stakeholders are critical to moving transformation forward.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 𝗠𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝘂𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴: Sustainable leadership means actively cultivating future leaders. The discussion highlighted the importance of sharing knowledge, providing career path clarity, and mentorship to ensure operational resilience and stability during team transitions.

💃 𝗙𝘂𝗻 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝘁: 🕺
During the event, the “𝑺𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝑹𝒖𝒍𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝑻𝒘𝒐” from Star Wars was humorously offered as a model for IT redundancy, encouraging leaders to always make sure at least two people understand every critical system!

💡𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲

𝗠𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗲𝗹 𝗣𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗲𝘆: Embrace the discomfort that comes with leadership growth. Lean into collaboration, recognize you do not need to be the expert at everything, and focus on being the force multiplier that turns ideas into results.

𝗝𝗼𝗵𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝘂𝗹𝗮: Stay humble and seek help when needed. Building a robust peer network and accepting mentorship are strengths, not weaknesses, and are vital for navigating the evolving demands of the CIO role.

𝗥.𝗖. 𝗪𝗼𝗼𝗱𝘀𝗼𝗻: Lead as a servant leader—listen more than you speak and help others achieve their business goals. Provide clear direction, communicate with care, and ensure continuity through mentorship and succession planning.

𝗥𝗼𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗙𝗶𝗲𝗹𝗱: Successful leaders adapt their approach to fit the organization’s scale and culture, encourage open dialogue with business partners, and never lose sight of the enterprise mission.


👀 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆!
Gain practical strategies for IT alignment, succession planning, and adapting your leadership to different organizational sizes and structures. This episode is essential viewing for anyone aiming to elevate their IT leadership effectiveness in the digital era.



𝐒𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞:
https://www.youtube.com/@InstituteDigitalTransformation/?sub_confirmation=1

𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐭𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
https://www.institutefordigitaltransformation.org/ ...

𝐋𝐃𝐄: From AI Hype to Business Impact (S03E04)

This episode focused on the transformative power of AI, pushing beyond the hype to address practical applications in the business world. The discussion highlighted stories and insights from industry leaders about AI implementation, not just as a tech trend but as a driver for real business impact. Joining the conversation were various experts who shed light on cultural readiness, change management, and the strategic integration of AI.

Host:
Robert Field https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertmfield/
Guests:
John Napoli https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-a-napoli/
Mansi Kapadia https://www.linkedin.com/in/mansi-kapadia-5b5465/
Tomas Thire https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomasthire/

[00:00] Intro
[02:45] About John Napoli and Mission Labs AI
[04:45] The Premise of AI Achieving Impact
[05:58] Understanding the AI Factory
[09:01] Digital Transformation and Change Management
[11:57] Generative AI Practical Use Cases
[16:40] AI Implementation at MasterCard
[19:32] Cultural Shifts in AI Adoption
[23:18] The Role of Storytelling in AI Integration
[27:07] AI and Change Management Challenges
[33:35] AI Talent and Culture
[39:52] AI Steady vs. AI Accelerated
[43:16] Future Trends in AI
[50:47] Conclusion and Takeaways

🔑 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀

📊 𝗔𝗜 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝘆 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲: The episode stressed how crucial it is for companies to have a defined AI strategy that aligns with their business outcomes. Rather than diving head-first, organizations should focus on setting clear objectives and tracking value to ensure AI delivers tangible benefits.

🎯 𝗖𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗵𝗶𝗳𝘁: Overcoming fear and embracing AI depends heavily on cultural change. It's about fostering an environment where AI is seen as a tool for empowerment, not just disruption, aiding in human-centric transformation.

⚙️ 𝗔𝗜 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝗱𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻: The session highlighted the necessity of using AI for redesigning processes instead of applying it as a patch for existing inefficiencies. Successful AI integration comes from rethinking workflows in fundamentally innovative ways.

🌐 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗮’𝘀 𝗣𝗶𝘃𝗼𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗼𝗹𝗲: High-quality data was discussed as a cornerstone of AI success. Ensuring data readiness and governance is vital to harness AI's potential effectively and ethically.

👥 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗮𝗰𝗵: Implementing AI is not a siloed venture; it demands cross-functional collaboration. Including diverse teams, from legal to risk management, ensures broad readiness and builds a supportive AI infrastructure.

💃 𝗙𝘂𝗻 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝘁: 🕺
Mansi compares implementing AI in traditional organizations to planning group trips with diverse expectations—an analogy that underscores the complex human factors involved in technological adoption.

💡𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲

📈 𝗧𝗼𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗲: He advised focusing on demonstrating AI's actual effectiveness through early wins to overcome skepticism. He emphasized the importance of taking a long-term view as AI has the potential to dramatically accelerate business processes.

📊 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗶 𝗞𝗮𝗽𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗮: She highlighted the significance of small but meaningful progress, urging leaders to lead with curiosity and celebrate achievable milestones. Her advice centered on the belief that successful AI transformation is less about technology and more about changing human perspectives.

🚀 𝗝𝗼𝗵𝗻 𝗡𝗮𝗽𝗼𝗹𝗶: He stressed the necessity of involving multiple parts of the organization in AI initiatives, recommending collaboration with risk, legal, and compliance teams. John encouraged everyone to begin practical experimentation with AI technologies to learn and adapt effectively.

👀 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆!
Gain insights on how to position AI as a driving force for business, understand change management techniques, and see how innovative leaders integrate AI into practice. This session is invaluable for anyone looking to strategically navigate AI's role in their organization.


𝐒𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞:
https://www.youtube.com/@InstituteDigitalTransformation/?sub_confirmation=1

𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐭𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
https://www.institutefordigitaltransformation.org/ ...

𝐋𝐃𝐄: Customer Experience Capital 101 (S03E02)

This episode's explored how relationships, trust, and technology intersect in achieving exceptional customer experiences. Viewers gained insights into aligning customer demands with strategic objectives and leveraging human connections for sustained growth. They tackled the importance of placing the customer experience at the forefront of business strategy. Here's a glimpse into what they discussed:

[00:00] Intro
[00:32] Guest Introductions and Backgrounds
[04:59] Building Customer-Centric Relationships
[11:47] Measuring Customer Experience Success
[18:17] Aligning KPIs with Customer Experience
[20:44] Scaling Customer Experience with Business Growth
[28:49] Balancing Compliance with Customer Service
[33:04] Aligning Customer Experience with Business Goals
[39:48] The Impact of AI on Customer Experience
[50:10] Closing Remarks

𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁:
Robert Field https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertmfield/

𝗚𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁𝘀:
Ted Carlson https://www.linkedin.com/in/ted-carlson-14977a18/
Nigel Lemmon https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigellemmon/
Michelle Martinez https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellemartinez12/


🔑 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀

🔗 𝗧𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗮𝘀𝗶𝘀: Building trustworthy relationships is foundational to engaging clients and enhancing their experiences. This trust starts with meeting basic expectations and evolves through consistent and reliable service.

🚀 𝗙𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: The panel highlighted the importance of creating frictionless processes, reducing customer effort to achieve a seamless experience that can extend current business relationships.

📈 𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲𝘀: Making experiences memorable leads to customer advocacy, where customers turn into enthusiastic promoters of the brand.

🔎 𝗖𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗮 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀: Integrating and analyzing customer data empowers businesses to translate experience improvements into tangible financial outcomes, bridging the gap to financial KPIs.

🤝 𝗔𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗔𝗰𝗿𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺𝘀: Coordination across multiple functional teams, with customer-centric KPIs, ensures that businesses do not work at cross purposes and can enhance the overall customer experience.

💃 𝗙𝘂𝗻 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝘁: 🕺
Did you know Nigel Lemmon spontaneously decided to give a customer an iPad to ease their workload during travel, showing how small gestures can enhance business relationships?

💡𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲

📞 𝗧𝗲𝗱 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗹𝘀𝗼𝗻: Emphasized the importance of personal connections by picking up the phone and being present for clients, reinforcing the value of showing up and maintaining strong professional relationships. He highlighted the necessity of understanding clients' compliance challenges and staying educated to meet evolving demands.

🤝 𝗡𝗶𝗴𝗲𝗹 𝗟𝗲𝗺𝗺𝗼𝗻: Nigel advocated for a customer-centric approach by combining technology with empathy to enhance customer experiences. He stressed the importance of leveraging AI for personalization while ensuring that human interaction remains accessible when needed.

🔍 𝗠𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘇: Michelle recommended building deep relationships with functional heads through understanding their personal and business goals. She suggested using AI to augment human interactions by surfacing important information, thereby allowing customer service teams to focus on empathy and connection.

👀 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆!
Discover real-world examples and expert advice on leveraging trust, technology, and alignment to build lasting customer relationships. Enhance your customer experience strategies by tuning into this insightful conversation.



𝐒𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞:
https://www.youtube.com/@InstituteDigitalTransformation/?sub_confirmation=1

𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐭𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
https://www.institutefordigitaltransformation.org/ ...

𝗟𝗗𝗘: Building Relationships That Drive Success (S03E01)

This episode focused on building relationships that drive success in the digital era. The discussion delved into how leaders can effectively leverage both traditional and digital tools to cultivate meaningful connections within their organizations. By emphasizing the importance of empathy, active listening, and collaboration, the session provided a comprehensive guide to relationship building in a fast-paced technological landscape where connectivity and trust are paramount.

🔑 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀

👐 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴: Emphasized the importance of starting relationship building early in one's career. Focusing on authentic interactions and understanding the motivations and fears of others fosters long-term professional growth.

💼 𝗗𝗶𝗴𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗼𝗼𝗹𝘀: Highlighted how digital tools like OneNote can aid in managing relationships. By using reminders and organizing interests, professionals can maintain and grow their networks even remotely.

🤝 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗧𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁: Showcased collaboration as essential in building strong relationships. Trust and mutual support between team members lead to enhanced organizational performance.

👂 𝗔𝗰𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴: Discussed the role of active listening in understanding and addressing team members' motivations and concerns. This skill is critical for driving successful partnerships.

📈 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽: Emphasized leadership qualities like empathy, humility, and the ability to lead without authority. Building trust by explaining decisions and encouraging team strengths create empowered working environments.

💃 𝗙𝘂𝗻 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝘁: 🕺
🎥 Paul and Connie’s professional bond was partly built over a shared interest in movies, showcasing how common personal interests can solidify workplace relationships.

💡𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲
𝗔𝗻𝗱𝗿𝗲𝗮 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗺 encouraged proactive networking on LinkedIn, stressing the importance of setting personal goals and taking small steps to build confidence and connections.

𝗡𝗶𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗲𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗲 reinforced the value of starting networking early and being authentic, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability and curiosity to foster growth.

𝗣𝗮𝘂𝗹 𝗡𝗶𝗹𝘀𝗲𝗻 emphasized the need for empathy and humility in leadership, advising managers to build trust by explaining decisions and translating complex issues into relatable terms for stakeholders.

𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗲 𝗠𝘂𝗶-𝗥𝗲𝗶𝗹𝗹𝘆 highlighted the non-transactional nature of networking, advocating for genuine relationship-building through mentorship and the importance of understanding people's motivations and fears through active listening.

𝗥𝗼𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗙𝗶𝗲𝗹𝗱 mentioned that networking should be intrinsic rather than seen as work, and discussed strategies for overcoming difficult situations in relationships, underscoring the importance of trust and responsibility.

👀 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆!
Watch this episode to gain actionable insights on building relationships in a digital age. Learn from top executives about strategies for effective networking, collaboration, and leadership that fosters a connected organizational culture. Don’t miss out on these crucial strategies to enhance your professional journey.

[00:00] Intro
[02:00] Importance of Early Relationship Building
[06:30] Leveraging OneNote for Relationship Management
[11:00] Understanding Motivations Through Active Listening
[15:30] Leadership Through Empathy and Authenticity
[20:00] Building and Sustaining Professional Networks
[25:30] Collaboration and Trust in Team Dynamics
[30:00] Empowering Teams Through Trust and Mentorship
[34:30] Emotional Intelligence in Leadership
[38:00] Networking as a Strategic Career Tool
[42:30] The Role of Vulnerability and Resilience





𝐒𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞:
https://www.youtube.com/@InstituteDigitalTransformation/?sub_confirmation=1

𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐭𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
https://www.institutefordigitaltransformation.org/ ...

𝐋𝐃𝐄: Unwrap New Networking Strategies (S02E11)

This episode dove deep into the evolving networking strategies essential for success in today's digital landscape. Richard Bliss and Lia Bliss shared actionable insights that challenge traditional methods and advocate for more authentic and effective approaches to LinkedIn engagement.

🔑 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀

🔍 𝗡𝗲𝗴𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗔𝗴𝗴𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵: Participants critiqued the widespread practice of using LinkedIn for aggressive sales pitches. They emphasized that such tactics can severely damage personal and company reputations, often alienating potential connections instead of fostering them.

🚫 𝗗𝗲𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗕𝗹𝗼𝗰𝗸: It was advised that users should dismiss unsolicited in-mails to avoid rewarding spammers. Ignoring these unwanted messages prevents spammers from achieving their engagement metrics and, ultimately, reduces the volume of such spam.

🖥️ 𝗩𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗼 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗔𝗻𝗮𝗹𝘆𝘀𝗶𝘀: The efficacy of video content on LinkedIn was debated. While it may capture initial attention, video alone often fails to provide informative value without written content support, and can sometimes project a lack of professionalism.

🤖 𝗔𝗜 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁: Transparency in the use of AI-generated content was called for. There is a growing need for users to disclose AI involvement in their posts to maintain authenticity and trustworthiness.

📈 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁: Authentic engagement and curiosity about others play a pivotal role in effective networking. Being genuinely interested in other people's stories and experiences can significantly enhance one's professional network.

💃 𝗙𝘂𝗻 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝘁: 🕺
Did you know that on LinkedIn, a typical post is shown to only 10% of your connections? In contrast, a comment on a post is displayed to approximately 30% of your network. Lia emphasized the strategic advantage of commenting to greatly enhance visibility and engagement.

💡𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲

𝗥𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗕𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘀 advised maintaining curiosity and engaging meaningfully with others to foster lasting connections. He shared that asking thoughtful questions at networking events can significantly boost one's profile.

𝗟𝗶𝗮 𝗕𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘀 stressed the importance of consistency and authenticity across personal and professional life. She recommended focusing on building genuine connections over mere accumulation of contacts.

👀 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆!
Watch the reply to gain valuable perspectives on refining your LinkedIn strategy, learn about the importance of authenticity in professional interactions, and leverage LinkedIn to build stronger business relationships. Don’t miss these expert tips and real-world examples to enhance your digital networking approach.


𝐒𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞:
https://www.youtube.com/@InstituteDigitalTransformation/?sub_confirmation=1

𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐭𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
https://www.institutefordigitaltransformation.org/ ...

𝐋𝐃𝐄: Women of Cyber (S02E10)

This episode highlighted trailblazing women leaders in the field of cybersecurity. The LinkedIn Live event delved into the importance of diversity, personal journey stories, and key advice for thriving in this dynamic sector. Viewers learned about breaking into cybersecurity, mentorship, and overcoming challenges within a male-dominated industry.

🔑 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀

📊 𝗗𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗲 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿: The panel underscored the importance of having diverse perspectives to tackle complex cybersecurity issues. Emphasizing that varied backgrounds bring innovative solutions, the discussion showcased how diversity directly contributes to problem-solving abilities in this field.

👩‍💼 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽: The speakers shared insight into the unique challenges women face in cybersecurity leadership roles. Their stories of resilience, adaptability, and confidence inspired many, shedding light on overcoming hurdles and establishing authority in their positions.

🛡️ 𝗖𝘆𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆: It was highlighted that cybersecurity is not solely the responsibility of the dedicated cybersecurity team but the entire IT organization. This comprehensive approach ensures everyone stays updated on threats, thereby fortifying the overall security posture.

🧠 𝗠𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗘𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: The panelists discussed the concept of having a 'personal board of advisors' instead of a single mentor. This method provides varied guidance and prevents the rigidity often associated with traditional mentorship models.

📚 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝘂𝗼𝘂𝘀 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴: Continuous education and adaptation were highlighted as crucial in the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape. Networking with industry leaders and staying updated on trends was stressed as a key method to maintain relevance and readiness.

💃 𝗙𝘂𝗻 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝘁: 🕺

🖥️ Did you know Teresa transitioned from the oil and gas industry to healthcare, bringing a fresh perspective to her role in cybersecurity at Texas Children's Hospital? Such industry leaps are rare but incredibly enriching!

💡𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲:

🌟 𝗧𝗲𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗮 𝗧𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 discussed the essential role of mentorship. She emphasized the value of a 'personal board of advisors' and detailed the challenges of cybersecurity training and awareness in the healthcare sector.

🔍 𝗠𝗮𝗴𝗴𝗶𝗲 𝗗𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗼𝗻 highlighted the necessity of vendor governance and addressed the professional shortage within the cybersecurity realm. She also underscored the importance of education and innovative approaches to engage both tech enthusiasts and those less interested in technology.

🚀 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗮 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗼 stressed the significance of confidence and being open about knowledge gaps. She advised newcomers to focus on specific areas within cybersecurity and shared her insights on building robust relationships within an organization to enhance security awareness.

👀 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆!
Watch this episode on the Institute for Digital Transformation's YouTube channel to gain invaluable insights into women's leadership in cybersecurity. Learn about the importance of mentorship, the necessity of continuous learning, and how you can break into and thrive in the cybersecurity field. Don’t miss out on these expert strategies to enhance your cybersecurity journey.


#CybersecurityLeadership #WomenInTech #CyberAwareness #TechCareers #MentorshipMatters #CyberThreats #WorkLifeBalance



𝐒𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞:
https://www.youtube.com/@InstituteDigitalTransformation/?sub_confirmation=1

𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐭𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
https://www.institutefordigitaltransformation.org/ ...