As the CTO of a group of companies, I’ve faced many challenges in managing multiple teams across different projects. One of our core strategies is to acquire companies with potential at reduced prices, digitize their operations, and turn them into efficient, profitable businesses. While this approach has led to many successes, it often comes with tight deadlines, limited budgets, and high-pressure environments. Motivating teams under these conditions is never easy, especially when financial rewards aren’t an option.
One of our most successful projects was with ICS(Intelligent Card Solutions) to launch our Choice products (Introducing GiftChoice for Ultimate Gift Card Experience – A Product I am Proud to Lead), a company we acquired and transformed. The engineers on my team worked tirelessly to launch the product, often going above and beyond to meet the challenging timeline. However, as the project neared completion, the team was on the verge of burnout, and there was no budget left to reward them for their hard work.
This was especially tough for my remote team in India, who had dedicated countless hours to the project. I knew a simple “thank you” or a gift card wouldn’t be enough to show my appreciation. So, I decided to do something unconventional—and some of my colleagues say, a little crazy.
The Idea: A Weekend Getaway
I took the initiative to sponsor a weekend holiday for the team and their families, paying for it out of my own pocket. Many of my colleagues thought I was mad, but as a leader, I knew how much the team had sacrificed to make the project a success. They deserved more than just words of gratitude—they needed an experience that would help them recharge and feel valued.
I flew to Delhi, where our office was based, and organized a weekend trip to Jaipur, a beautiful and historic city known for its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and rich history. It was just an hour’s flight from Delhi, making it the perfect destination for a short but meaningful getaway.
The Trip: A Time to Reconnect and Recharge
The trip was a huge success. The team and their families enjoyed every moment—exploring Jaipur’s famous landmarks, sharing meals, and simply relaxing together. It wasn’t just a break from work; it was an opportunity for the team to bond, celebrate their achievements, and return to work with a refreshed mindset.
For me, it was incredibly rewarding to see the smiles on their faces and hear their laughter. It reminded me that leadership isn’t just about hitting targets or delivering results—it’s about caring for the people who make those results possible.
Why It Mattered
This trip wasn’t about putting the company in a negative light or suggesting that they didn’t value the team. It was about recognizing that sometimes, as leaders, we need to go the extra mile to show our teams that their hard work and dedication don’t go unnoticed.
In a world where remote work can sometimes feel isolating, gestures like this can make a huge difference. They remind teams that they’re not just cogs in a machine—they’re valued individuals who contribute to something bigger. As leaders, we often focus on metrics, deadlines, and budgets. But at the end of the day, it’s the people who drive success. When budgets are tight and rewards are scarce, it’s up to us to find creative ways to motivate and inspire our teams.
For me, the Jaipur trip was a reminder that leadership is about empathy, connection, and sometimes, taking a leap of faith. It’s about understanding what your team needs and finding ways to support them, even when the resources aren’t there.
Motivating a team isn’t always about money or bonuses. Sometimes, it’s about showing up for them in ways that matter most. The Jaipur trip wasn’t just a thank-you—it was a statement. It said, “I see you, I appreciate you, and I’m willing to go the extra mile for you.”
To all the leaders out there: don’t underestimate the power of small, heartfelt gestures. They can make a world of difference to your team—and to you.
Here’s to leading with heart, even when the budget doesn’t allow for much else.