Name: Godwin

Title: Co-founder

Organisation: CD TECH Innovations Private Limited

I'm Godwin Josh, founder of innovative tech ventures CD TECH and Altrosyn Technologies. My journey began in the late '90s, crafting early websites and developing bespoke software. Diving into the evolving world of technology, I founded multiple technology teams, advancing into video streaming and internet solutions. Livebox, a versatile streaming server, and INSTANET, a revolutionary internet bonding device, stand as testaments to my commitment to innovation. I excel in building and mentoring dynamic teams, driving business growth through strategic marketing and process optimization. My entrepreneurial spirit is marked by a continuous pursuit of technological advancements and business excellence.

Thank you to the 2,000 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 Questions on Leadership!

I hope Godwin's answers will encourage you in your leadership journey. Enjoy!

Cheers,

Jonno White

1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

One of the most challenging aspects as a leader has been maintaining the delicate balance between innovation and practical execution. In the fast-paced tech industry, it's crucial to stay ahead with cutting-edge ideas while ensuring these innovations are realistically implementable and market-aligned. Building a team that not only shares this vision but is also adaptable to the rapidly changing tech landscape is another significant challenge. Ensuring seamless communication and fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptability within the team is essential. These challenges require a strategic approach to leadership, blending visionary thinking with pragmatic management.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

My journey to becoming a leader started in the late 1990s when my fascination with technology led me to create websites and develop software. I recognized the potential of the burgeoning tech industry and decided to channel my passion into something tangible. After completing my Computer Science Engineering and further studies in Australia, I returned to India and founded a development team, creating solutions in various domains, including bulk SMS and video streaming.

This venture into entrepreneurship naturally transitioned me into a leadership role. I faced the challenge of not only innovating but also building and mentoring a team to bring these innovations to life. The launch of products like Livebox, a comprehensive streaming server, and INSTANET, an internet bonding device, marked significant milestones in my leadership journey. With each project, I learned the nuances of team dynamics, market demands, and strategic planning, shaping me into a more effective leader. My path was a blend of technical skill, entrepreneurial spirit, and a relentless pursuit of innovation, all of which steered me into the leadership role I hold today.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

My day typically begins early with a morning routine focused on mental clarity, including meditation and light exercise. This is followed by a review of my schedule and priorities for the day. I then dive into work, starting with the most critical tasks, often related to product development or strategic planning. Mid-mornings are reserved for team meetings and collaborative sessions, where we discuss ongoing projects and brainstorm new ideas.

Afternoons are dedicated to external engagements, such as client meetings, partnership discussions, or networking with industry peers. I also allocate time for personal learning and staying updated with the latest technological trends.

Evenings are spent reviewing the day's progress and planning for the next day. I believe in maintaining a healthy work-life balance, so I ensure to disconnect from work and spend quality time with family or indulge in hobbies. The day ends with a period of reflection, preparing my mind for rest and the challenges of the next day.

4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?

A recent leadership lesson I've been reminded of is the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of unexpected challenges. The fast-evolving tech landscape often presents unforeseen hurdles, and leading a team through these requires a blend of steadfastness and flexibility. It's crucial to maintain a clear vision yet be open to course corrections. This period has reinforced the value of transparent communication and empathetic leadership. It's not just about steering the ship through the storm but also ensuring the crew is heard, supported, and motivated. This approach fosters a resilient team culture, capable of navigating any challenge.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

The book that profoundly impacted my leadership is "Atomic Habits" by James Clear. This book delves into the power of small, consistent changes and how they compound over time to produce significant results. The concept of focusing on systems rather than goals resonated with me deeply.

As a leader in the fast-paced tech industry, I realized the importance of implementing small, incremental improvements within my teams and processes. The book's emphasis on building positive habits and breaking down goals into actionable steps has been transformative. It shifted my focus from seeking large, immediate changes to fostering a culture of continuous, small improvements.

This approach has not only enhanced productivity but also boosted team morale. By encouraging my team members to adopt small, manageable habits that contribute to their personal and professional growth, we've created a more dynamic, innovative, and resilient work environment. It has also helped me personally in managing my time and energy more effectively, ensuring I'm consistently making progress toward both my personal and professional aspirations.

"Atomic Habits" has been a cornerstone in shaping a more sustainable and effective leadership style, emphasizing the power of small changes leading to major transformations.

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

To a young leader, my key advice would be: Cultivate empathy. Leadership extends beyond making decisions and setting directions; it's fundamentally about understanding and connecting with your team. Empathy allows you to perceive their challenges, aspirations, and perspectives. This understanding fosters a supportive and collaborative environment, where each member feels valued and motivated. Remember, a leader's success is intricately linked to their team's well-being and growth. By practicing empathy, you not only enhance team dynamics but also drive innovation and resilience, essential for navigating the complexities of the modern business world.

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?

A defining moment in my leadership journey occurred during a high-stakes project for a political leader, aimed at enabling large-scale, state-wide communication. As the deadline loomed, critical team members became unexpectedly unavailable due to personal emergencies. Faced with this crisis, our resilience was tested. We quickly regrouped, redistributing responsibilities and working tirelessly, often foregoing sleep, to meet our commitment. This experience underscored the importance of teamwork, adaptability, and commitment under pressure. It was a vivid reminder that leadership involves navigating unforeseen challenges while keeping the team focused and motivated. The successful completion of the project, against all odds, was a testament to our collective dedication and strength.