Why Executive Alignment Still Eludes IT
Even as IT becomes more integral to business growth, many teams still struggle to earn a seat at the strategic table. Budget asks turn into battles. Security upgrades get deferred. And infrastructure plans often lag behind company objectives. The root of the issue? A lack of executive alignment in IT.
This disconnect isn’t just frustrating—it’s risky. Without trust and visibility, IT can’t plan proactively. And when business needs change fast, playing catch-up becomes the norm.
That’s why leaders like Cal Krome, Head of IT at Calm, make alignment a cornerstone of their approach.
Speak the Language of Outcomes
When IT leaders talk in technical jargon, they often lose the room. But when they connect requests to business impact, everything changes.
Cal puts it simply: “We said we needed this tool, and here’s how it’s delivering.”
By tying spend to speed, security, or customer experience, Cal shows leadership how IT contributes to the company’s broader goals. That approach turns skepticism into support—and helps IT move with less resistance.
Plan for Growth Like You’re Already There
Too often, IT teams get looped in late—after a product launches, a new market opens, or headcount doubles. But strategic IT leaders flip that model.
Cal advocates for getting involved early. When Calm begins planning for scale, IT is already laying the groundwork—ensuring infrastructure, compliance, and tooling can grow with the business.
This kind of foresight prevents fire drills and positions IT as a partner, not a bottleneck.
Show Value Early and Often
Trust isn’t built in a single conversation. It’s earned over time through consistent delivery and clear communication. Cal’s team at Calm keeps leadership informed—not just of what they’re doing, but how it’s driving measurable results.
Whether it’s reducing onboarding time or enabling remote work without added risk, these wins add up.
And when it’s time to request budget or push for change, the trust is already there.
Final Thought: It’s a Two-Way Street
Executive alignment in IT doesn’t happen by accident—it takes intention. IT leaders must proactively connect with business strategy, and execs must invite IT into strategic planning.
When that alignment clicks, IT transforms from a cost center into a competitive advantage.
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Based on a podcast interview with Cal Krome, Head of IT at Calm
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