The start of a new year is more than a date change - it’s a leadership moment. For many, January becomes a frenzy of revisiting goals and planning priorities. But here’s the truth: performance isn’t just about setting targets. It’s about creating the conditions for people to thrive, adapt, and deliver consistently.
Great leaders don’t just manage tasks - they shape environments. They frame the year with clarity, energy, and intention. If you want 2026 to be a year of impact, here’s how to lead from a performance perspective.
Before you dive into ambitious goals, pause and ask: Does everyone know what matters most?
Alignment is the foundation of performance. When objectives clearly connect to organisational priorities, people feel purpose - not just pressure.
Leader move: Use SMART goals to make expectations crystal clear. And don’t just set them - explain the “why” behind each one. When people understand the bigger picture, they bring energy and ownership to their work.
The year ahead will bring challenges. Will your team see them as roadblocks or opportunities?
A growth mindset changes the game. It encourages curiosity, resilience, and learning - even when things get tough.
Leader move: Share stories of learning wins and make development conversations part of your regular rhythm. When people feel safe to learn, performance follows.
Pro tip: Recognise effort and progress, not just outcomes. This reinforces adaptability and innovation.
Forget the annual review as your main performance tool. Coaching is where real growth happens.
Regular, forward-focused conversations help employees unlock potential and stay engaged.
Leader move: Schedule monthly check-ins that ask: What’s working? Where do you need support? These aren’t just meetings - they’re momentum builders.
Why it matters: Coaching builds trust and signals that development is a priority, not an afterthought.
Feedback isn’t a one-off - it’s a culture. When it’s timely and constructive, it keeps performance on track and builds trust.
Leader move: Make feedback two-way. Invite input from your team and model openness. Use resources like The Art of Providing Effective Feedback to sharpen your approach.
Extra tip: Pair feedback with recognition. Positive reinforcement amplifies motivation and engagement.
Before you set ambitious new goals, look back. What worked last year? What stalled? Where are the gaps?
A quick performance audit gives you clarity - and confidence - to focus on what matters most.
Leader move: Use insights to refine your strategy and prioritise high-impact actions. Explore templates and planning tools in the HR Resource Centre’s Optimising and Managing Performance section to make this process easier.
Framing up the new year isn’t about adding more to your plate - it’s about creating clarity and energy for what matters most. Leaders who do this well don’t just hit targets - they build teams that are resilient, motivated, and ready for change.
So, as you plan for the year ahead, ask yourself:
Am I setting goals - or shaping a performance culture that lasts?
Ready to start?
Take one hour this week to review your performance approach and integrate these tips into your leadership plan. For more resources, visit the Optimising and Managing Performance section in the HR Resource Centre.
For assistance with your workplace matters, Members of Australian Industry Group can contact us or call our Workplace Advice Line on 1300 55 66 77 for further information. Australian Industry Group also offer a range of training courses to support employees on their leadership journey.
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Georgina is the Senior HR Content Editor – Publications at the Ai Group. With over 25 years of experience in human resources and leadership, she has demonstrated her expertise across a diverse range of industries, including financial services, tourism, travel, government, agriculture and HR advisory. She is also an accomplished writer and editor, known for creating high-quality, engaging content that educates and informs. Her writing includes a variety of formats, such as blogs, articles, policies, templates and guides.
