As technology permeates almost every business area and functions, the board and CEO have high expectations from their IT leaders, including CIO/CTO and senior managers to enhance business value with the effective use of technology. But ever thought what these senior technology managers want from their organization or consider important before they select their employer?
It is not just the fancy tables and the quantifiable perks, as many would think. IT managers are more inclined towards intangible benefits, such as the openness of company leaders, charitable giving initiatives and the company’s brand values, according to a new report released by job site Indeed that exclusively polled tech managers, including CIO/CTO/CISO and other senior tech leaders, on what they value the most at their workplace in terms of culture and ethics.
Almost all CIOs value transparency
When Indeed asked tech leaders their most important to them, or any specific characteristics they value the most in a company, there were a variety of responses, and the most prominent one in their list was transparency from leadership. Nine out of 10 CIO/CTOs consider transparency to be most important, closely followed by what the company is giving back to the community (79%) and how the company shares their values (78%).
Flexible work hours are important
Flexibility is something people often associate with tech. The study found that 83% technology leaders value a flexible workplace. Specifically, techies site variable work hours (59%) was most important, followed by the ability to work from home (25%), and remote-work options (14%).
The study concludes that offering flexibility at work makes it easier for workers to manage different areas of life, such as caring for children and aging parents, as well as taking care of other chore. And since flexibility tends to lead to productivity, it's a win for employers, too.
Top perks and benefits involving self-improvement
When Indeed asked CIOs and other tech managers which benefit they value most at their current company, a common theme that emerged was self-improvement, whether in the form of employee development or tuition reimbursement initiatives (32%) or health and wellness programs (30%). In-office perks, such as free snacks and beverages and other entertainment were surprisingly found to be less important to workers, suggesting their seriousness is more on contributing to their organization.
More flexibility and advancement in a new job
When evaluating a new position, the study found that IT managers consider pay to be most important (this applies to managers of every department). But a number of factors follow. One, they prioritize flexibility in hours and location (92%); the opportunity for career advancement (91%); opportunities for learning and education (91%); and whether the company has a reputation for ethical behavior (90%). Surprisingly, even though ‘pay and benefits’ is the top consideration when choosing a new job, 92% said they would be willing to make less money in exchange for one of the other factors listed.
Diversity is important in every area of business
Diversity is crucial to today's IT leaders as it is to an increasing number of workers in every industry. When Indeed asked about the value of diversity in a variety of settings--in leadership, the company, their department, and on their team, over eight in 10 say each one is "somewhat" or "very important" to them. Organizations should make sure efforts and initiatives are in place to promote diversity and inclusion--both among candidates and existing employees. And be sure to publicize these efforts throughout your recruiting process, on the company website, and through social media.
The study concludes therefore that apart from pay and benefits, CIO/CTO and other IT managers do care for workplace flexibility, career advancement and continuous learning, organization’s ethical and brand reputation and a diverse and inclusive workforce when it comes to selecting their employer. Organizations understanding these parameters will help the tech leader to make a difference in his career as well as in attaining their overall organizational goals.
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