Data and AI leaders need to be ready and able to articulate their value at all times. Back in my lifeguarding days, we had a drill where a supervisor would lob a red plastic ball into the water and we had mere seconds to snag it or face the music. Data and AI leaders are playing a similar game in enterprise boardrooms and offices. Senior leaders, board members, consultants, and even peers launch the metaphorical red ball and want to hear a justification for the ongoing investments they make in you, your team, and the data and AI capabilities you build.

Red Plastic Ball in a swimming Pool

 

It’s a reality of the modern workplace: Individuals need to articulate what they do, who they work with, their objectives, and how these contribute to positive business outcomes, along with the values that drive them. The current climate is sending a clear message to data and AI executives everywhere: Now is the time to identify and articulate your story. The ability to convey the value you bring to your organization is not just about securing your position; it’s about defining your professional identity in a rapidly evolving business landscape.

The Framework To Navigate This New Reality As Data And Technology Leaders

In response to this urgent need, Forrester’s research, Roles, Goals, And Values: Impactful Data Leadership Starts Here, offers a lifeline. This comprehensive report delves into the intricacies of roles, goals, and values as foundational elements for outlining a cohesive, innovative, and resilient leadership vision.

Understand Yourself And Your Audience Via Roles, Goals, And Values
Understand yourself and your audience via roles, goals, and values

 

Understanding and articulating your role within an organization goes beyond mere job titles. It’s about pinpointing the skills and task expertise you bring to the table. Goals, on the other hand, serve as your compass, providing direction and purpose. Lastly, values act as anchors, underpinning your beliefs and actions as a leader. Together, these elements form a powerful framework that can guide executives in navigating the complexities of today’s business environment.

Charting Your Course

Forrester’s report, Roles, Goals, And Values: Impactful Data Leadership Starts Here, is more than just a guide; it’s a blueprint for navigating the challenges of modern leadership. By anchoring yourself before activating others, you can develop a clear narrative that not only secures your position but also enhances team communication, collaboration, and strategic alignment.

The time to define and articulate your professional existence is now. The “red ball drill” of the business world waits for no one, and only by understanding and communicating your roles, goals, and values can you hope to navigate the choppy waters of today’s business landscape successfully.

Explore the full report here and embark on your journey of articulation, aligning your professional identity with the evolving demands of the corporate world. Reach out to schedule an inquiry with me by emailing inquiry@forrester.com to learn more.