Emphasis on empathy.
When organizations are wrestling with change, how much effort are we making to create the right conversations and to drive those for maximum effectiveness?
Practitioners who consult with technology leaders and other partners would do well to prepare for conversations on change thoughtfully and pragmatically. This is especially true for people in architecture roles, where the word “trust is so important when you work as a trusted advisor.
As with all domains of Technology Leadership, Enterprise Architecture needs to move within and also beyond the frameworks and methods to drive business driven technology change.
The way to build trust is to demonstrate a sincere willingness to listen, observe and ask good questions about the objectives being sought or currently not being met. It is essential to move within these conversations beginning with an authentic emphasis on empathy.
It can be very tempting at times to look at how something was planned, designed or implemented and to very quickly point out all of the things that do not set well or fit with personal expertise or industry best practices. Listen. Really listen and ask good questions because in many circumstances, the way something was approached, while looking disastrous may have been done so due to very unique circumstances or unforeseeable blindspots that made certain things necessary.
Use simple language. Big words impress no-one and over using them will only lead to you being tuned out.
Some of my key learnings in this journey include using simpler and more familiar terms over “EA Speak”, avoiding corporate soundbites, developing analogies for complex problems and shaping context through storytelling, and taking a sincere interest in stakeholder concerns and anxieties.
The takeaway? As an Enterprise Architect, always strive to listen, experiment and adapt your style when it comes to brokering better conversations with partners. Be thoughtful, be considerate and be patient. As one person once said to me: “everyone has something to offer”.