Encourage creative thinking
At the start of 2024, my manager asked me, “If you had all the resources you needed, where would you take monday insights?” That question sparked a wave of bold ideas and excitement, helping me see both the opportunities and challenges ahead. This process taught me to think outside the box, prioritize efforts, and identify the resources I’d need to overcome potential roadblocks. So, if you want to encourage your team to think big, try posing similar "what if" scenarios to unlock creativity, uncover hidden opportunities, and clarify priorities.
Provide resources and support
Early on this year, my manager pushed for me to secure a critical budget and connected me with teammates who have played a key role in moving initiatives forward. Knowing I had support from multiple angles was a huge motivator and game-changer. The takeaway here? While it’s important to push a sense of ownership on your team, as a leader, you need to make sure you’re not leaving your team members to take everything on themselves. Provide them with the tools, expertise, resources, and guidance they need to be set up for success.
Foster accountability
Throughout the year, sharing regular updates on project statuses, challenges, and next steps helped maintain stakeholder investment and accountability while ensuring I had the support I needed to navigate any challenges or delays. So, in 2025, be sure to encourage your team members to keep relevant team members updated on where things stand – to strengthen their project management skills and keep everyone aligned. This practice also ensures you, as the manager, have the context and updates you need to give your team members meaningful and timely recognition.
Promote broader visibility
This year, I’ve had exciting opportunities to present to teammates and senior stakeholders on monday insights plans and progress, which has been really meaningful – not only in feeling appreciated but also in creating opportunities for crucial collaborations. So, if you’re leading a team, do your best to give your direct reports the chance to share their initiatives and successes with others. This removes silos, fosters inspiration, and creates space for strategic cross-team partnerships.
On a personal note: At times, it’s hard to actually fathom how many of you continue to read these newsletters week after week and engage with the content we share. Readers like you are what makes it all matter, so thank you, and cheers to an incredible 2025!
Thoughts on this newsletter? Share your input for 2025!
