Tech employees are introverts and not good at building relationships. Really??? Here’s a leadership opportunity when we take a closer look.
A common belief is that scientists, engineers, and tech employees are introverts and not so skilled at building relationships. Many (corny) jokes play on this stereotype. It often comes down to the observation that tech folks can be a bit awkward in social settings – and many know of someone in these fields who is a bit nerdy.
Yet, the reality is much more nuanced – and actually, in some respects, totally different.
Many tech folks have extraordinarily strong networks with others in their area of expertise. Being part of a group who represents the leading edge of a technical field brings with it the respect of their peers. Tech folks have a deep understanding of where their peers are in their work and what they are up to. Many forge and grow these relationships at conferences and through publications and other communications – more so than many non-tech employees. Often, the number of people working in the same niche is also pretty small, which means these groups are not only well-connected but also tight.
These networks are important. They help many tech employees be part of a community, make progress in their work, and network for professional opportunities. The last point is particularly important: Since the tech workforce is highly mobile (in some areas, you’re considered outdated when you keep your position for two years), it’s common to frequently change reporting relationships, teams, and employers. It’s also common that people who knew each other from a previous employer work together again for a different employer.
The importance of relationships – which often goes above the importance of a current project or employer – means that many tech employees value them over than the need to engage in difficult conversations. This can lead to a tendency to be nice instead of addressing conflict to resolve tough situations.
Why alienate a colleague who belongs to the same small, elite group of experts that you will work with (or report to) for the rest of your technical career?
Herein lies the opportunity: Leaders who are able to help their staff engage in an open and safe dialogue can add enormously to their teams. Even more, leaders can show their teams that addressing the tough stuff can actually strengthen relationships.
Leaders in all organizations are called upon to step into the role of being a coach to their employees. This is even more true in the tech sector. Your greatest value – and your chance to receive great appreciation for being a leader – comes from your ability to help your employees grow and strengthen the relationships in their network.
Take the next step
As a leader, you are probably already looking for opportunities to coach your employees. This week, be mindful of the roles that others might play for your employees. Consider the network of your employees (not just the issues at hand) and the opportunities for your employees to grow in their own networks.