Ten tips for the CIO who's new on the job

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A new job brings its share of unexpected challenges, and in a tight economy the pressures can be especially high. In just about any role, it is a good idea to ask a lot of questions, listen carefully and prioritize one's tasks. Isaac Sacolick, who recently took on the position of CIO for McGraw-Hill Construction, offers seven additional tips for CIOs new on the job.

While it may be tempting to zero in on pressing technology tasks, Sacolick recommends focusing first on the people and relationships at a new workplace. After that, attention can be focused on processes, and then finally on the technology.

Prioritizing projects will be easier if you first get a good sense of the organization's business cycle and important dates. You will want to know when the sales cycle peaks, when budgets are completed, and when upcoming deployments are expected. 

Sacolick advises that new CIOs be prepared to move quickly. If you can get some early wins under the belt, it will be easier to build relationships.

For more:
- see Isaac Sacolick's blog post at CTOtoDevelopers

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