Editor’s Note: Madeleine is on holiday break this week, so we’re taking the opportunity to revisit the five most-viewed Ask Madeleine columns from the past year.
As readers know, Ask Madeleine offers thoughtful, practical guidance for navigating some of the most challenging moments people face at work. Whether addressing uncertainty, leadership dynamics, or personal career setbacks, Madeleine helps readers reflect, learn, and take meaningful action.
So what resonated most in 2025? Based on reader engagement, five columns rose to the top. Presented here in ascending order are the issues—and insights—that mattered most to readers this year.
Coming in at number five is a deeply unsettling experience: being terminated without a clear explanation after just five months on the job. In this column, Madeleine explores the emotional impact of an unexpected job loss, including the confusion and lack of closure that often follow.
She offers grounded, compassionate guidance to help the reader reflect on what happened, rebuild confidence, and move forward with intention after a sudden career disruption.
#4: Dealing with a Disorganized Boss?
The fourth most-viewed column addresses a common—and frustrating—leadership challenge: reporting to a boss who lacks structure, follow-through, and clarity. It also raises the question of whether this behavior signals a lack of respect for a direct report’s time and contributions.
Rather than assigning blame, Madeleine focuses on what the direct report can control. She shares practical strategies for managing up, creating stability, setting boundaries, and maintaining productivity—even when leadership habits fall short.
#3: Trouble Managing Feelings of Overwhelm?
With burnout and overload continuing to dominate workplace conversations, it’s no surprise this topic landed in the top three. In this column, Madeleine examines the internal experience of overwhelm—the constant pressure, competing priorities, and feeling of never quite catching up.
She speaks directly to leaders who are managing their own stress while also supporting others. Her guidance helps readers recognize early warning signs, reset expectations, and take small, intentional steps to regain focus and control.
#2: Passed Over Repeatedly for a Job?
Coming in second is a column that speaks to the quiet discouragement that builds when career advancement feels stalled. In this case, the issue is about being repeatedly passed over for roles or promotions—despite strong team performance and positive reviews. Also of note is that this pattern occurred in a previous role, raising deeper questions about visibility and self-advocacy.
Madeleine offers a thoughtful exploration of when to persist, when to ask for clarity, and when it may be time to consider a new path.
#1: CEO Is Derailing Your Communication Plan for a Change Initiative?
The most-viewed Ask Madeleine column of 2025 centers on organizational change—and what happens when senior leaders don’t follow through on best practices. This column explores the tension that arises when a carefully designed communication plan is disrupted because a CEO changes their mind about the need to communicate during a change initiative.
For change leaders, HR professionals, and communicators, this challenge is all too familiar. Madeleine’s guidance on influencing up, navigating power dynamics, and staying focused on outcomes underscores why leadership alignment is critical and resonated with readers!
Madeleine will be back next week with another timely workplace challenge.
Have a question Madeleine can help with? Use this link and watch for your response in the weeks ahead. Best wishes for a successful new year as we move into 2026.
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