Three Guiding Principles For Leaders Using Digital Technology

The past year has brought significant changes to the business world, with digital technology playing a starring role — profoundly impacting strategies and operations.

In the past, leadership meant being physically present in an office, but that is no longer the case. With advances in digital technology, leaders can now be anywhere and effectively manage their teams, while customers can reach out anytime. There are advantages and disadvantages to this new way of working. On the one hand, digital technology has made it easier for leaders to connect with their teams and customers: they can now respond to inquiries quickly and easily. Additionally, digital technology has made it possible for businesses to operate continuously.

There are some drawbacks to this new way of working, however. For example, leaders are now easily accessible to their teams and customers all day and night — disrupting work-life balance and effectuating burnout. Additionally, digital technology can create a false sense of connection. While leaders can be physically present in the same room as their team, if they are distracted by their devices, they are not truly present.

The key for company leadership, therefore, is to find a balance between the advantages and disadvantages of digital technology. When used effectively, digital technology can be a powerful tool for leaders. However, when used excessively, it can negatively impact leaders and their teams. Consequently, leaders should consider the following six questions:

1. How often am I using digital technology?
2. Is digital technology helping or hindering my ability to connect with my team?
3. Do I need to be available all the time?
4. What are the consequences of being always accessible?
5. Am I sustainably using digital technology?
6. Answering these questions will help leaders find the right balance for using digital technology.

It is important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all solution — what works for one leader may not work for another. Instead, leaders must experiment and find what works best for them and their teams. There is no magic formula, but three principles can guide leaders using digital technology.

1. Be intentional with your communication

First, leadership must be more intentional about communication. In the past, leaders could rely on face-to-face interactions to build relationships with their teams. However, leaders must be more deliberate about communicating with their teams in a digital world. “They need to find ways to connect with their team members that are not reliant on physical proximity,” said Andrew Shore, CEO of Amino — a health and fitness rewards network — in an email. “This may include scheduled video calls, regular check-ins via chat or email, and even sending hand-written notes.” He added, “this is exactly how we recently established our collaboration with NBA icon Klay Thompson to launch a digital collection that celebrates his victories for the Golden State Warriors.”

2. Create a digital rhythm

Second, leaders should focus on creating systems and processes that help their teams thrive. In the past, leaders could rely on in-person interactions to structure and support their teams. However, in a digital world, leaders must be more intentional about creating systems that help their teams succeed. “This may include setting up regular team meetings via video conferencing, establishing clear communication channels, and creating documentation and templates that team members can use,” said Filipp Veselov, CEO of CLS Global — a software service solution — in an email. He believes leaders must also provide their teams with the “tools and resources they need to be productive, such as project management software, task tracking tools, and file sharing platforms.”

3. Always look out for burnout

Third, leaders need to be aware of the potential for burnout. The always-on nature of digital technology can lead to burnout if leaders are not careful. So leaders must ensure they take breaks and disconnect from work regularly. “They also need to be aware of the signs of burnout in themselves and their team members,” said Cagla Ertugrul, founder and CEO of MONCCO PR - a reputation management specialist. “If someone is showing signs of burnout, it’s important to have a conversation about it and find ways to help them recover.”

Digital technology is here to stay, and leaders need to find ways to use it effectively. By being more intentional about communication, aware of the potential for burnout, and finding ways to create connection, leaders can use digital technology to benefit themselves and their teams. Ultimately, the digital world can be tough to navigate, but with the right company leadership, it can be a great place to do business. Remember, the key is to be flexible and intentional and always keep learning. If you can do that, you’ll be well on your way to success.

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