"You're the best manager I ever had." read the text message I received a little after 11:00 PM while catching up with a former colleague/employee from a prior organization this evening. He casually hit me with the message, catching me off guard a bit.
I tried to spin it back to having hired the right people in the right roles to make myself and the team successful. However, I lost it a little in my reflection.
"Thanks, man. It was the best gig in my career. That's what was the hardest, caring so much about people and a place prior to the transition."
While I'm gainfully employed again, managing a great team with a great organization, it's still difficult at times a year later. While I still don't love the way things shook out, I take solace knowing that I had hired a great team and successor who proved ready to step in and seamlessly continue moving the team forward.
At the end of the day my prior organization isn't paying me to say that the team still makes me proud. The team's actions and their continued communication tell me this and give me the greatest feeling of success despite the situation.
In my efforts to establish credibility within my new team and organization I've undertaken various initiatives. Whether it's confronting tough situations, rectifying long-standing issues, or earning recognition from colleagues, each small victory contributes to my sense of accomplishment in this role. Even the smallest fraction of praise in comparison with this note is viewed as a significant success, affirming my progress and impact within the team.
As I reflect on the message and the journey it inspired, I'm reminded of the profound impact that genuine connections and effective leadership can have on both individuals and teams. While transitions and challenges may test us, it's the resilience and determination to persevere that truly define our success. Moving forward, I carry with me the lessons learned, the bonds forged, and the unwavering belief in the power of teamwork. I continue to embrace the journey ahead, with gratitude for the past and optimism for the future.
Director, Client Delivery - Organizational Change Management
1moWelcome to the team, Thomas!!