Learn the Business

Understanding business process and how your business is using technology currently in place is one important step toward solid communication and 'right-sizing' technology solutions.

But assuming you are already doing that, let's take it one step further - How can you proactively meet your businesses technology needs?

• Read business industry publications (i.e., trade magazines and websites) - Every industry has its own set of trade publications. If you don't know what they are, search online, ask those in the business what they are reading, and/or keep your eyes out for what is showing up on people's to-do stacks and break room tables.
  
  
• Ask those working in the business what they do and take time to learn how that fits into the overall picture.
  
  
• Listen carefully and listen with the intent to absorb what they are saying - not with the intent to respond or show your expertise.

In short - Be curious, ask questions, and re-iterate (or confirm) what you hear/read.