In this blog, we share insights from Season 2, Episode 2, Building the ultimate toolkit: Branching out as a resource managerwith guest Ryann Edwards, Senior Director of Service Operations at Aquiva Labs. This episode explores the essential tools resource management professionals need to excel, branch out, and expand their impact.
Here are Christine and Ryann's top takeaways:
1. Build credibility through data and presence
The conversation quickly turned to the importance of leveraging data to build credibility and grow presence as a resource manager. By sharing data-driven recommendations to optimize workforce planning, resource managers can gain influence and deliver actionable insights that drive strategic decisions.
Christine and Ryann highlight that knowing your data and showing up to share it is key to making an impact. Technology and data play a critical role in this, empowering resource managers to deliver and demonstrate the value proposition of their role. Embracing this mindset allows resource managers to move beyond simply scheduling resources to becoming trusted, strategic contributors.
"I used to provide reports that others would analyze and bring to meetings—often lacking the full context or complete answers. So, I thought, why not just join the meeting myself and share my analysis directly? Being in the room means you hear the full problem statement, and you're positioned to make valuable, actionable recommendations."
2. Branch out strategically to increase impact
Another key point highlighted is that resource managers have numerous opportunities to expand their influence—not just by stepping into new roles but by branching out within their current organization. As a key operational cog, resource managers cannot work in isolation; their role naturally connects to multiple areas of the business. To excel, particularly in leadership roles, resource managers must develop the ability to strategically branch out and collaborate across functions. This skill enables them to uncover and tackle business challenges that might otherwise go unnoticed, amplifying their value within the organization.
"I realized there were entire functions within the organization where I could make a meaningful impact. I identified optimization areas that directly influenced the bottom line, such as billable utilization and resource visibility. For instance, I’ve found that resource management, sales, and revenue operations naturally go hand in hand."
3. Strengthen expertise with training and a growth mindset
Christine and Ryann also emphasize that formal certification, training, and a growth-oriented mindset are vital additions to a resource manager’s toolkit. They stress the importance of investing in technical skill development through certifications and best practices to handle complex resource management. Resource managers should stay open to continuous learning and energized by new opportunities to grow. Training, along with the network it provides, helps resource managers learn from other industries while staying connected to evolving standards and trends.
"Formal resource management training and certification through the Resource Management Institute’s (RMI) Resource Management Certified Professional (RMCP) program was a game changer for me. The best practices and principles I learned have stayed with me, helping to build processes and confidence to create something truly strategic.
I still apply that training in my role today, and it remains invaluable to my professional growth. The best practices we implemented not only worked but continue to deliver value over time."
As Christine and Ryann share in this episode, building the ultimate resource management toolkit goes beyond tools—it’s about mindset, strategy, and growth. By leveraging data, establishing a strategic presence, and committing to continuous learning, resource managers can equip themselves with the ultimate skillset to step up and branch out.
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On this episode
Christine Robinson
Christine is a resource management expert, bestselling author, and award-winning speaker, as well as an advocate for women and underserved families. A first-generation Latina college graduate, she has led national teams, launched international ventures, and founded Resource Management In The Wild to empower organizations.
Ryann Edwards
Ryann, Senior Director of Service Operations at Aquiva Labs, has over 12 years in resource management and professional services. She leads service delivery, optimizing processes, enhancing experiences, and driving workforce planning with data. Ryann is certified in project and resource management.
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