So, how do you channel that New Year energy into sustainable momentum for your team? Here’s a breakdown of practical steps to foster a culture where your people can truly excel and grow in 2025.
Forget generic corporate jargon like “increase productivity” or “boost creativity.” Instead, involve your team in setting realistic, tangible goals that align with their passions and strengths. When employees feel ownership over their objectives, they’re more likely to perform at their best.
Incorporate stretch goals (ambitious but achievable objectives) to push boundaries without overwhelming your team. This approach not only helps employees grow within their current roles but also prepares them for the next steps in their career development.
2024 may have been about hybrid working, but 2025 is all about harmony. Encourage your team to set boundaries, take breaks, and utilise their annual leave. A well-rested employee is a productive one.
If you don't already practice the following, then consider:
Nobody thrives in a stagnant role. Offer your team opportunities to upskill and grow in line with their development plans, whether through workshops, training, conferences, events or online courses. Not only will they appreciate the investment in their future, but your business will also benefit from their expanded skill set.
If you don't already have them in place, ensure you establish personal development plans (PDPs) as part of your performance management system to align individual growth with company goals.
Celebrating wins (big or small) can significantly impact morale. Whether it’s a shoutout in a team meeting, a thoughtful Slack message, or an old-school handwritten note, recognition goes a long way in making people feel valued.
While it’s great to aim for the stars, don’t overlook the importance of smaller milestones. Celebrating incremental progress keeps momentum alive and ensures your team doesn’t feel like they’re endlessly chasing the horizon.
Consider setting up a peer-to-peer recognition program where team members can highlight each other’s achievements.
Gone are the days of annual performance reviews being the sole feedback mechanism. Foster an open-door policy where your team feels comfortable voicing ideas, concerns, and constructive criticism.
Whether your team is in the office/studio, remote, or a mix of both, the right tech tools can make or break collaboration. Invest in platforms like Monday or Asana for project management, Miro for brainstorming, or even virtual coffee breaks to maintain the social glue that holds your team together.
The start of a new year offers the perfect opportunity to reset, refresh, and reinvigorate your team. By focusing on clear goals, wellbeing, development, recognition, and open communication, you’ll not only set your team up for success but also foster a culture where they can thrive, both personally and professionally.
Have you listened to our latest podcast on Workplace Welfare? We speak with Hayley Blundy, Studio Welfare Manager at FutureLab, discussing how FutureLab fosters a thriving studio culture and actionable ways businesses can support their teams in an engaging and mindful way.
Tune in here: Fresh Take Podcast.