It’s almost Christmas and while I’m thinking about the gifts I’ve chosen for others (and maybe a few I’m hoping to unwrap myself), my thoughts also turn to what really matters—making a lasting impact.
As an inside salesperson, I used to appreciate the thoughtful holiday gifts from my manager: a bottle of wine, a gift card to a local spot, or even a quirky desk toy. Those gestures were lovely, and I always felt grateful.
But what if we flipped the script this year?
What if, instead of just a one-time token, you gave your sales team the BEST gift they could ever receive?
The gift of becoming the best version of themselves as sales professionals.
Giving your team the tools, guidance, and environment to grow isn’t a one-and-done event—it’s an investment. And yes, it’s much harder than handing out gift cards, but it’s also far more impactful.
Imagine what your team could achieve if, in 2025, they had your full support to become the best salespeople they can be.
1. Create an Environment for Self-Motivation
Motivation is internal, but your leadership sets the stage.
- Recognize and reward effort, not just results.
- Celebrate wins, both big and small, as a team.
- Provide autonomy so reps feel empowered to own their success.
2. Believe in Their Success as Much as Your Own
Your success is tied to theirs—invest in them like it is.
- Let them know you genuinely believe in their potential.
- Be their champion when they’re struggling and their biggest cheerleader when they’re thriving.
3. Inspire Through Your Own Journey
Leadership isn’t just about telling—it’s about showing.
- Share your career aspirations and how you’re working toward them.
- Be transparent about your wins, lessons, and goals.
4. Connect Over Career Aspirations
Take the time to understand where each team member wants to go.
- Take them out individually for coffee or lunch.
- Ask about their goals, both short- and long-term.
- Help them see how their current role ties into their broader aspirations.
5. Co-Create a Development Path
Help them identify where they are now and map a realistic path forward.
- Set clear milestones tied to behaviors, not just outcomes.
- Identify skills to develop and opportunities to practice them.
- Make growth a collaborative journey, not a solo trek.
6. Follow Up, Follow Through
Consistency is everything.
- Schedule regular check-ins to track progress and adjust as needed.
- Encourage, challenge, and celebrate along the way.
- Be there for the highs and the lows—it all matters.
When you give your team the gift of growth, it’s not just for them—it’s for you, your customers, and your entire organization.
And don’t forget: rewarding yourself for the effort is just as important. Personally? I’d go for cookies—how about you?
Here’s to making 2025 the year your team not only hits their goals but grows into the best version of themselves. That’s a gift that lasts far beyond the holiday season.
🎄 Happy Holidays and Cheers to a Successful New Year! 🎄