A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 28h October 2024

Episode 35: Performance Management as a Strategic Tool

Guest: Lucinda Carney, Founder of Actus Software and Host of HR Uprising Podcast

In this episode of HR Voices, Mary Asante  is joined by Lucinda Carney, a trusted partner of HR Independents and a renowned expert in performance management. Lucinda shares her wealth of experience, discussing how businesses can use performance management as a strategic tool to enhance both individual and business-wide success.

In this episode we cover:

• Demystifying Performance Management: Lucinda breaks down the buzzwords and discusses how performance management is often misunderstood, explaining why it's much more than an annual appraisal.
• Performance Management as a Continuous Process: Learn how ongoing conversations, clear goal-setting, and regular feedback form the backbone of an effective performance management system.
• Aligning Performance with Strategic Goals: Discover how performance management can ensure everyone is working towards the same business objectives and how it helps smaller businesses, in particular, to grow and mature.
• The Manager’s Role in Performance Management: Lucinda emphasizes the importance of equipping managers with the skills to support their teams, particularly in difficult conversations around underperformance.
• Overcoming Challenges: The episode also addresses common objections from leaders and managers, including the time investment required for regular performance check-ins, and how to overcome these barriers by embedding performance management into the company culture.

Key Takeaways:

• Performance management should be a year-round, cyclical process rather than a one-time event focused solely on appraisals or bonuses.
• Effective performance management helps align individual goals with the overall strategic direction of the business, particularly for SMEs.
• Regular people-focused conversations can drive engagement, productivity, and ultimately, business success.
• Training managers in effective communication, coaching, and handling difficult conversations is key to making performance management work.

Top Tips from Lucinda Carney:

1. Make Performance Management a Strategic Tool: Align the process with the business's strategic goals and ensure managers are clear on expectations.
2. Equip Managers with Skills and Confidence: Give managers the training and tools they need to carry out effective performance management.
3. Engage Employees in the Process: Encourage employees to take ownership of their own development and performance by fostering open, two-way conversations.

Thanks for listening to HR Voices!

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review.

HR Voices Contact: hrvoices@hrindependent.co.uk

www.hrindependents.co.uk

HR Voices Podcast

Hosted by Charlotte Allfrey and Mary Asante

DATE: 14/10/2024

 

Episode 34: A Roundup of HR Insights and Key Learnings from Episodes 29-33

 

In this special roundup episode of HR Voices, hosts Charlotte Allfrey and Mary Asante reflect on their conversations with various industry experts from episodes 29 to 33. They discuss key takeaways, actionable tips, and the valuable insights gained over the past few episodes.

 

In this episode we cover:

- Episode 29: Employee Benefits with Dave Sykes

- Key Takeaways: Dave Sykes from Big More Benefits discussed how a well-communicated employee benefits package can enhance employee retention and satisfaction. He introduced the Four Ps Framework: Provision, Protection, Preventative Measures, and Perks, emphasising the importance of tailoring benefits for small businesses without necessarily incurring significant costs.

- Notable Insights: The critical role of communication in ensuring employees understand and value their benefits package, and how offering benefits can enhance an employer’s brand.

 

- Episode 30: Conflict Resolution with Tony Monday (In Memoriam)

- Key Takeaways: Tony Monday, the “Maverick Mediator,” passionately advocated for early intervention in workplace conflicts. Sadly, Tony passed away shortly after recording this episode, and in honoring his legacy, Mary and Charlotte reflect on Tony’s dedication to conflict resolution.

- Notable Insights: Mediation is a powerful tool to resolve workplace disputes. Creating a safe, confidential environment is key to successful mediation, and early intervention can prevent conflicts from escalating into formal grievances.

 

- Episode 31: The Power of Niching with Nick Poninski

- Key Takeaways: Nick Poninski, the “Influential Consultant,” explored the importance of niching for HR consultants. He emphasised that consultants who specialise in a specific area can stand out in the marketplace and establish themselves as experts.

- Notable Insights: Niching makes it easier to market services, become a thought leader, and target specific pain points for clients. However, HR consultants also value flexibility and may hesitate to niche early in their careers.

 

- Episode 32: Recruitment Strategies with Matt Edge-Wilkins

- Key Takeaways: Matt Edge-Wilkins of Talent Seeker shared how recruitment has evolved, stressing the importance of balancing automation with a personal touch to ensure quality hires.

- Notable Insights: The benefits of headhunting and targeting passive candidates for quality talent acquisition, and how a strong employer brand can attract top talent.

 

- Episode 33: Menopause in the Workplace with Sally Sidani-Wilkinson

- Key Takeaways: Sally Sidani-Wilkinson, from Rebalance by Sally, discussed the importance of raising awareness around menopause in the workplace. She emphasised the need for empathetic support, education, and tailored strategies to retain and support employees going through menopause.

- Notable Insights: Menopause affects individuals in diverse ways, and organisations should implement clear policies, normalise discussions, and offer support strategies to foster an inclusive work environment.

 

Key Reflections from the Roundup:

- Employee benefits are more than just a salary add-on—they can make a business more attractive to top talent.

- Early mediation in workplace conflicts helps reduce long-term disruption and foster a positive working environment.

- Niching can help HR consultants stand out, but flexibility in services can be crucial, especially early in a consulting career.

- Recruitment is not just about filling a role but about finding the right cultural and skill fit, emphasising quality over quantity.

- Support for employees going through menopause is not only beneficial for individuals but can help retain experienced talent and foster inclusivity.

 

Thanks for listening to HR Voices!

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review.

For more insights and updates, visit www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

Thank you.

HR Voices

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 10th June 2024

Episode 25: Creating supportive environments for pregnant women and maternity returners. 

Guest: Lisa Thompson of Mountain HR

In this episode of HR Voices, we delve into the challenges faced by pregnant employees and new parents and offer practical advice for creating an inclusive and supportive workplace environment.

In this episode, we cover:

• Understanding the challenges that pregnancy and returning to work can bring. 
• How HR Independents can help businesses support women at work
• HR’s role in looking for unconscious bias and challenging it when it comes up
• How to set maternity returners up for success

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisamountainthompson/ 

www.mountainhr.co.uk  

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

 

Hosted by Mary Asante of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 27th May 2024

 

Episode 24: Demystifying Occupational Health Assessment

Guest: Magnus Kauders of Occupational Health Assessment

 

In this episode of HR Voices, we discuss how occupational health assessments can be useful tools to help HR consultants and employers to manage health challenges that employees may be facing.

We look at some of the common issues and problems that HR professionals and employers may face when you're working with occupational health.

We cover:

• What is occupational health?
• How occupational health can be used as a tool to support employees who may require reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act 2010.
• Identify the appropriate time to ask for occupational health support
• The five or six essential questions to ask an occupational health expert when seeking their support
• How to interpret occupational health reports.

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. www.hrindependents.co.uk

https://occupationalhealthassessment.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/occupational-health-assessment/

 

HR Voices

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 13th May 2024

Episode 23: Employment Law Update

Guest: Claire Taylor-Evans, Employment Law Practitioner and Partner of Boyes Turner

In this episode of HR Voices, we discuss the recent changes in employment law that came into effect in between January and April 2024. We also look at future legislation due to come into effect later on in the year.  

In this episode, we cover:

The recent changes in employment law in the UK including:

• Holiday reform and holiday pay calculations
• Introduction of Carer’s Leave
• Family friendly rights extend the entitlement to be offered suitable alternative roles to pregnant employees and those on maternity, adoption or shared parental leave in a redundancy situation.   
• Paternity leave to be taken as two-non consecutive blocks of one week and at any point during the first year of the birth or the adoption of their child. 
• Flexible working reforms including Day 1 rights and the right to make up two requests per year. 
• Increases to statutory payments 
• Increase in fine from £20,000 to £60,000 for employing illegal workers

We also cover the proposals to bring more legislation into effect later on in the year. These include:

• Duty to prevent sexual harassment, which is expected to come into force in October 2024
• Fire and rehire 
• Predictable hours entitlement for workers on zero-hours contract and other atypical contracts

Employers are urged to update their policies and procedures, train their managers and to keep accurate records.

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

http://www.boyesturner.com 

A podcast for independent HR and people professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: Monday 29th April 2024

Episode 22: Building Resilience into Your Business Recap & Thoughts

In this episode of HR Voices, Mary and Charlotte discuss the key takeaways from their chats with our guests on episodes 17 to 21 and offer their thoughts as experienced HR and People Consultants.

In this episode, we cover:

• The blueprint for building resilience into your business for long-term success. 
• The importance of personal resilience and looking after yourself as a business owner.
• How building resilience into your business right from the onset ensures that your business is sustainable and scalable. 
• The essence of value-based pricing and why it is vital to business resilience. 
• The marketing matrix, choosing the right marketing strategy for you and your business. 
• Niching and Specialising. 
• Mindset - resilience through adapting an entrepreneur mindset to achieve success. 

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryasante/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-allfrey/

 

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 15th April 2024

Episode 21: Developing Resilience in Leaders and Organisations

Guest: Ben Rendle

In this episode of HR Voices, we dive into how business owners and leaders can develop resilience. 

In this episode, we cover:

• The benefit of competing on value.  You have to build the case for your value through your messaging all the way through your engagement with your clients. 
• The importance of money mindset in running a successful business. 
• The switch between an employee mindset to business ownership and entrepreneurial mindset. 
• Different price options and a clear value pathway for pricing. 

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

https://inspireddevelopment.net/

 

https://www.facebook.com/inspireddevelopmentltd

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-lynda-folan-a241061b/

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 15th April 2024

Episode 21: Developing Resilience in Leaders and Organisations

Guest: Ben Rendle

In this episode of HR Voices, we dive into how business owners and leaders can develop resilience. 

In this episode, we cover:

• The benefit of competing on value.  You have to build the case for your value through your messaging all the way through your engagement with your clients. 
• The importance of money mindset in running a successful business. 
• The switch between an employee mindset to business ownership and entrepreneurial mindset. 
• Different price options and a clear value pathway for pricing. 

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

https://inspireddevelopment.net/

 

https://www.facebook.com/inspireddevelopmentltd

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-lynda-folan-a241061b/

 

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 1st April 2024

Episode 20: 

Guest: Anneve Hutchison, co-founder of The Corporate Escape Club

In this episode of HR Voices, we explore how to build resilience into your business through marketing. 

In this episode, we cover:

The importance of developing a marketing plan that works for you and your business. Marketing is a matrix and every activity links together in order to build a thriving business long-term. To build resilience into your business, you’ll need to

• Build a strong and robust pipeline
• Network in the right rooms
• Specialise or niche in your area of expertise
• Be able to consult and advise on deeper issues. 

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

www.thecorporateescapeclub.co.uk 

 

www.linkedin.com/in/anneveh

www.linkedin.com/company/the-corporate-escape-club 

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 18th March 2024

Episode 19: How to structure your business for resilience and efficiency

Guest: Mark Lumley, Freeths LLP.

In this episode of HR Voices, we discuss the importance of creating, protecting and increasing the value of your business by putting the right systems and processes in place. 

In this episode, we cover:

• Copyrights and intellectual property
• Risk management
• Terms and conditions
• Client engagement

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

https://www.freeths.co.uk/people/mark-lumley/ 

 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-lumley-98a2979/ 

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 04/03/2024

Episode 18: Developing Resilience in Leaders and Organisations

Guest: Dr Lynda Folan, Inspired Development

In this episode of HR Voices, we dive into how business owners and leaders can develop resilience. 

In this episode, we cover:

Resilience as a prerequisite for effective leadership. Dwelling on Lynda’s research, we look at three key areas that you need to develop from a resilience perspective. 

• locus of control
• Self concept wellbeing (emotional intelligence)
• Constructive thinking 

Lynda also shares three tips for building or increasing your resilience. 

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

https://inspireddevelopment.net/

 

https://www.facebook.com/inspireddevelopmentltd

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-lynda-folan-a241061b/

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Charlotte Allfrey and Mary Asante of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 19th February 2024

Episode 17: Building Resilience into your business - A Personal Perspective

Guest: Pinky Jangra

In this episode, Pinky Jangra, Resilience and Wellbeing coach discusses her take on resilience and how building resilience into your business can help you cope better with uncertainties and challenges in your business. . 

Pinky’s top three tips for building resilience into your business are:

1. Get really clear on your vision for your business. 
2. Expect and accept that there will be challenges along the way.  
3. Remember resilience is about growth. Taking baby steps each day, and each week will lead to growth each month. 

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, please like and share. We'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

Join the HR Independents Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hrindies/ 

https://pinkyjangra.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/pinkyjangra/

About our Speaker:

 

Pinky provides resilience and wellbeing talks and trainings to organisations. She loves to empower people to effectively handle challenges inside and outside the workplace. She teaches practical tools that people can use daily to get real results.

 

She also coaches people 1:1. As a consciousness coach, She uses advanced visualisation techniques to help people get out of stress and resistance and into resilience and growth so they can create a life that they would truly love.

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Charlotte Allfrey and Mary Asante of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 5th February 2024

Episode 14: Running an Award Winning HR Consultancy Business - Emerging Talent

Guest: Laura Reilly of Taurus HR Solutions

In this episode we showcase the winner of the Emerging Talent Category of the HRi 2023 Awards. This award is for an Independent HR and People Consultant or Practice, building a business of high potential or are innovative in their approach to business and have been in business for less than 3 years. 

Laura Reily of Taurus HR Solutions is the winner of the Emerging Talent category of the HRi 2023 Awards. She discusses her remarkable journey to setting up her Independent HR and People business. Laura talks about her experience in trialling different business models to find out what works best for you. She started Taurus HR by acquiring another business and has now taken on employees to further develop the business. 

Laura shares some great tips for growing a successful HR consultancy business. 

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

Join the HR Independents Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hrindies/ 

www.taurushr.co.uk

www.linkedin.com/in/laura-reilly-hrd

https://www.linkedin.com/company/taurushrsolutions/

https://www.facebook.com/TaurusHRSolutionsUK

 

About our Speaker:

 

Laura is a Fellow of the Institute of Leadership and Management, Chartered member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, and an Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives with a certificate in employment practice.  She also trained in employment tribunal advocacy through Central Law Training, with coaching from an experienced retired employment judge and trainer of solicitors and barristers, and thoroughly enjoys advising and representing clients in employment tribunals in addition to undertaking mediation work.  

 

Laura’s team offer generalist HR advice and support, with the aim of keeping clients out of tribunals wherever possible.  Laura’s mission is to make work interesting and enjoyable, she advocates best practice within her own company and ensures her employees are supported with their professional development as well as enjoying a work/life balance.   Laura noticed a gap in affordable legal services, being able to manage and advise on risk – particularly for smaller businesses. Taurus HR was born and founded from Laura’s legal roots (her dad was a commercial solicitor before sadly passing away) and desire to help businesses access affordable, practical HR and legal advice.

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 30th September 2024

Episode 33: Menopause support in the workplace

Guest: Sally Sidani-Wilkinson, Re-Balance by Sally

In this episode of HR Voices, Mary Asante is joined by special guest Sally Sidani-Wilkinson, a Health Coach and founder of Re-Balance by Sally, to discuss an essential topic of menopause in the workplace. As October marks Menopause Awareness Month, this episode aims to shed light on how organisations can support employees going through menopause, and why creating an inclusive environment is vital for business success.

Key Discussion Points:

• What is Menopause? Sally explains menopause, the often misunderstood period, and its impact on physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
• The Symptoms: With over 40 possible symptoms, ranging from hot flashes and sleep disturbances to mood swings and anxiety, Sally highlights the variety of challenges employees may face during menopause.
• Awareness & Education: Sally stresses the importance of educating the entire workforce—regardless of age or gender—on menopause to foster empathy and support.
• Policies & Guidelines: The need for clear policies that outline menopause-related support for employees, from flexible working arrangements to dedicated menopause champions.
• Support Strategies: Practical steps like creating menopause cafes, implementing menopause champions, and offering health coaching can help organisations retain valuable talent and improve employee well-being.

Key Takeaways:

• Menopause affects individuals in different ways, and understanding this is key to providing personalised support.
• Organisations should prioritise education and policy implementation to help normalise conversations about menopause.
• Supporting employees going through menopause not only improves retention but also enhances productivity and loyalty.
• Menopause is largely covered under three protected characteristics: age, sex and disability, under the Equality Act of 2010, emphasising the need for reasonable adjustments in the workplace.

Top Tips from Sally Sidani-Wilkinson:

1. Start the Conversation: Normalise discussions about menopause at work to create a supportive and understanding culture.
2. Implement Clear Policies: Have guidelines in place so employees know where to turn for help and support.
3. Be Empathetic: Whether you're a manager or colleague, listening and offering empathy can make a huge difference.

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review.

HR Voices Contact: hrvoices@hrindependent.co.uk

www.hrindependents.co.uk

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Charlotte Allfrey and Mary Asante of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 22nd January 2024

Episode 15: Running an Award Winning HR Consultancy Business - Inspirational Indie

Guest: Michelle Hartley of People Sorted

In this episode we showcase the winner of the Inspirational Indie Category of the HRi 2023 Awards. This is a peer-to-peer nominated award, which recognises an Independent HR and People Professional who has inspired or supported others on their indie journey and made a significant difference for them. 

Michelle Hartley of People Sorted is the winner of the Inspirational Indie category of the HRi 2023 Awards. She is also the founder of the HR Geeks Squad. Michelle is a breath of fresh air to the HR Indie Community. The wonderful nominations she received from her peers is a testament to her. She shares with us her journey to becoming an Independent HR Consultant and the importance of collaboration and community when you are running your HR and People business. 

Michelle also shares her top tips which includes having a clear plan, networking and collaborating with others. 

 Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

Join the HR Independents Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hrindies/ 

www.peoplesorted.co.uk

www.linkedin.com/in/michellehartleyfinderofawesome

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-hr-geek-squad 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/find-your-awesome-business-partner 

 

About our Speaker:

 

Michelle regularly speaks about  her lived experience with burnout, mental health, women in the workplace and is a passionate advocate for her 'micro' concepts in both inclusion and self care. 

 

She works with organisations on a wide range of topics including Equity, Diversity, Belonging and Inclusion, Insights Discovery, HR and Team Building.

 

Her business, People Sorted has a mission to SLAY death by PowerPoint and rage against the beige label that HR seems to attract!

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Charlotte Allfrey and Mary Asante of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 8th January 2024

Episode 14: Running an Award Winning HR Consultancy Business - High Growth Indie

Guest: Jo Taylor of Let’s Talk Talent

In this episode we showcase the winner of the High Growth Indie Category of the HRi 2023 Awards. This award recognises an HR Independent Consultant or Practice that has experienced high growth in profit, sales, or employment levels. 

Jo Taylor, the winner of the High Growth Indie category of the HRi 2023 Awards and Managing Director and Founder of Let’s Talk Talent, shares with us her amazing journey. Jo started her HR business in 2015 and now has a team of 10. She talks about the benefits of having a coach in running a successful business and the importance of finding your style as a business owner. 

She shares some valuable top tips for growing a successful HR consultancy business. 

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

Join the HR Independents Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hrindies/ 

https://letstalktalent.co.uk/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jotaylorc4/ 

 

About our Speaker:

 

Jo Taylor has 25+ years experience in HR as Head of Talent at TalkTalk, and Head of Learning at Channel 4, and is now Managing Director of Let's Talk Talent.

 

Let's Talk Talent https://letstalktalent.co.uk/ is a Talent Management Consultancy based in the UK that help our clients strategically unlock the potential of their people.

In this episode of HR Voices, Mary and Charlotte discuss the key takeaways from their chats with our guests over the past 7 episodes and offer their thoughts as experienced HR and People Consultants.

In this episode, we cover:

• The different routes into HR and People Consultancy 
• The importance of adopting an entrepreneurial mindset 
• The essence of working on your business as well as in your business 
• How surrounding yourself with positive people is good for your business
• There is no one size fit all approach to setting up and running your HR and People business
• Tapping into the expertise of other professionals to help you grow your business
• Building your business with your exit strategy in mind
• Skillsets you develop in running your HR and People business are transferable to other businesses

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryasante/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-allfrey/

 

HR Voices

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Charlotte Allfrey and Mary Asante of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 27/11/2023

Episode 12: Running a HR Consultancy Alongside Other Business Ventures

Guest: Anabela Yourell of Stress Free HR 

In this episode we Anabela shares her story of how just under 2 years in to her HR Consultancy journey she had a lightbulb moment which helped her find her niche and within 9 months her client base had grown 300%.

Anabela demonstrates how you can have other passions and business ventures outside of HR and still run a successful Consultancy. Her focus on future retirement plans has led her to retrain in fitness and now she runs 2 ladies only gyms alongside her HR business, with plans for more!

She shares some fantastic top tips for HR Consultants, which we know you’ll find valuable..

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

Join the HR Independents Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hrindies/ 

www.stressfreehr.co.uk

www.fitterbodybootcamp.com

https://www.facebook.com/fbldaventry

https://www.facebook.com/FitterbodyLadiesSouthMK

https://www.linkedin.com/in/anabelayourell/

 

About our Speaker:

 

Anabela Yourell is an entrepreneur who took her 20+ years of HR skills and experience into the fitness industry and now runs and operates 3 businesses, her HR consultancy and two ladies only gyms. 

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Charlotte Allfrey and Mary Asante of HR Independents Ltd.

Monday 13th November

Episode 11: HR Consultancy - The Interim & Contract Model Guest: Amber Massey of Massey Technical Services

In this episode we chat to Amber about how she moved away from in-house HR roles to a successful career working on Interim and Contract projects, with a mix of independent consultancy too!

Amber shares how she has successfully approached companies advertising permanent roles and challenged them to consider offering the roles on a fixed term basis. She talks about the need for a good accountant if you are going to do a mix of invoicing, umbrella companies and being on a payroll.

As with all our guests, Amber shares her top tips on moving into the Interim and Contract market, including how to find roles. A great episode for anyone thinking about exploring Interim and Contract roles.

Thanks for listening to HR Voices!

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. www.hrindependents.co.uk

Join the HR Independents Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hrindies/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-massey-461553149/

 

About our Speaker:

Amber is an experienced Human Resources Professional with a demonstrated history of managing change - TUPE transfers, restructures, redundancies, settlement agreements, flexible working requests - as well as day to day operational HR matters - disciplinaries, grievances, performance and absence management.

She has successfully delivered TUPE projects in the private and public sector and works in contract and interim roles, alongside her HR consultancy business working with small clients.

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Charlotte Allfrey and Mary Asante of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 30th October 2023

Episode 10: Growing Your Business Using the Associate Model

Guest: Claire Watt of Ditton HR

In this episode we chat to Claire about how she has very successfully built her HR consultancy using associates. Claire took on her first associate 5 years ago and now has 18 associates supporting her.

Hear from Claire about how she protects her business with really good consultancy agreements, provides inductions to ensure associates deliver to her standards and ensures they are in control and can say no. She carefully matches associates to projects and spends time mentoring and developing them. 

A great episode for anyone wishing to learn more about an associate model for HR consultants.

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

Join the HR Independents Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hrindies/ 

 

www.dittonhr.co.uk

 

https://www.spreaker.com/show/watt-about-hr

 

linkedin.com/in/⭐️claire-watt⭐️-chartered-fcipd-11b77730

About our Speaker:

 

Ditton HR is a Human Resources, Recruitment and Training Consultancy run by Claire Watt (FCIPD), supporting businesses in London and the surrounding areas since 2012. 

 

Ditton HR helps with all aspects of employing and developing employees to bring out the best in people, resulting in high performing employees who drive businesses forward.​​ We support small businesses who do not have any HR function right up to larger organisations who have an HR team but need additional expertise or support. We pride ourselves on our relationships with clients where we very often become the trusted adviser to the CEO/HR Director. 

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Charlotte Allfrey and Mary Asante of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 16/10/2023

Episode 9: A L&D Consultant’s Journey

Guest: Katy Walton of Make Real Progress

In this episode we chat to Katy about how she moved away from in house learning and development roles to starting her own business.

In this episode, Katy shares:

• How she gave herself permission to experiment for the first 12 months of going out on her own, to truly understand what she enjoyed 
• The steep learning curve of starting your own business
• How making connections on and offline and building those relationships has been the biggest angle factor that has helped her
• The importance of making time to allow yourself to think
• To expect feast or famine in the first year and tips for managing your finances
• Not to rush to create your website until you are sure what you want to offer
• How she uses AI as a time saving tool

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

Website: https://makerealprogress.co.uk/

 

The Progress Place: https://www.facebook.com/groups/theprogressplace

 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katy-walton-make-real-progress/

About our Speaker:

With 27 years coaching, leadership and talent development experience, Katy is a specialist in her field. She founded development and coaching business Make Real Progress in 2020. 

Her passion for high-quality development inspired her to develop other Coaches, Human Resources and L&D Professionals in the specialism. Following 2 years organising and hosting local development events for the Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development, she founded The Progress Place in 2020, with over 2300 global members. A community to develop yourself to develop others.

In response to requests for additional L&D support, she now runs an innovative programme to enable people to design and run training workshops, whilst also sharing best L&D practises. “Build it Quickly” is open for bookings from Sept 2023.

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 2nd October 2023

Episode 8: HR Consultancy - A Social Media Journey

Guest: Katie Elliott of HR Katie

In this episode Katie shares the inspiring story of how she successfully launched her Consultancy on Instagram.

In this episode, we also cover:

• Why Katie chose Instagram over other social platforms
• The importance of seeing your socials as a shop window
• The need for patience when developing your business on social media
• Niching your business
• The importance of dedicating time to focus on your content
• Plans Katie has for transforming her business further

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

About our Speaker:

With 10+ years working in HR for a variety of different companies, after the trials and tribulations of the pandemic, I realised that I was looking for new motivation and inspiration.

And so, I decided to take the leap into the world of HR consulting, and HR Katie was born!

I am passionate about working with small brands and helping them get the most out of their employees. Based in Hertfordshire, I am available to help your small business with HR in St. Albans, Harpenden, Redbourn, or further into Central London.

 

Connect with Katie...

www.instagram.com/Hr.Katie

https://www.hrkatie.co.uk/

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 17th September 2023

Episode 7: A Journey into HR Consultancy

Guest: Kate Van Der Sluis of Humber HR People

In this episode Kate shares with us her consultancy journey and how she ensures she plays to her strengths of business development and commerciality.

Kate has opted to expand her business by employing people, as using Associates did not suit her, find out more by tuning in.

In this episode, we also cover:

• Knowing your skillset - what you enjoy doing and what suits you but being realistic about what SME’s need
• Having a clear vision for your business and the courage, guts and faith to keep going
• How to make the move from in house to consultancy
• The need for mental agility to switch from client to client and different projects
• How once you are a consultant you are actually a business advisor and need to change your language and approach
• The importance of financial targets to bring you focus
• Finding your niche and target audience
• The importance of not skimping on marketing spend
• The realisation that your sales pipeline will never be ‘done’ it needs to constantly be worked on
• Funding your consultancy

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/humberhrpeople/

 

www.humberhrpeople.co.uk 

About our guest:

After 20 years in the UK recruitment sector and interviewing thousands of employees, I know why good employees leave. I have used that insight, my HR knowledge, and my passion for helping people to create an HR consultancy that stimulates growth and motivates leaders and employees to be the best they can be. Humber HR People is now 5 years old, and we have 6 permanent team members with plans to expand further in 2024. We offer:-

A choice of flexible contracts - PAYG, Monthly, or One-off Projects Over 50 years combined experience. Bespoke software to streamline HR administration and save time. Clients benefit from monthly workshops, training breakfasts, and networking lunches.

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

4th September 2023

Episode 6: A Consultant’s Journey

Guest: Charlie Goodman of Employee Benefits Collective

Episode 6 is the start of our next miniseries where we will be chatting to independent Consultants about their consultancy journey, the decisions they made along the way and lessons they have learnt. 

Charlie has opted for a Partnership approach to his consultant journey, we chat to him about how he got to that point and how it works.

In this episode, we also cover:

• How and why Charlie made the move into consultancy
• The concerns he had when considering going solo
• The value of networking with communities of people who had already made the move into consultancy
• The importance of knowing the limits of your expertise and when to engage other experts to support you (finance, marketing, business coaches, virtual assistants)
• Pricing and being wary of how much you are giving away for free

Charlie refers to our HR Independent online community, which has 1600 members, we’d love to have you join us, just search for HR Independents on Facebook to find out more.

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/employee-benefits-collective-llp/

 

www.ebc-llp.com

 

https://www.instagram.com/charliegoodmoney

 

About our guest:

Charlie is a Pensions and Financial Wellbeing Partner at the Employee Benefits Collective LLP, a Director of the Institute for Financial Wellbeing leading their workplace wellbeing group, Secretary of the CIPD Central London branch, and a mentor for the NextGen Pensions initiative. He qualified as a financial adviser, is an International Employee Benefits and Reward Specialist, and Certified Money Coach.

HR Voices

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 16th September 2024

Episode 32: The Evolution of Recruitment

Guest: Matt Edge-Wilkins, Talent Seeker

In this episode of HR Voices, we explore the evolving landscape of recruitment with Matt Edge-Wilkins, founder of Talent Seeker. Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey discuss with Matt how recruitment has changed over the years, the impact of technology, and the importance of personalised recruitment services in today’s market.

In this episode, we cover:

• Matt’s Journey: From HR generalist to recruitment specialist, Matt shares his 20-year experience in the recruitment industry and how his unique approach sets him apart.
• The Changing Recruitment Landscape: How technology has transformed recruitment, from the rise of job boards to the increasing use of AI and automation.
• The Importance of Personalized Recruitment: Matt emphasises the value of a personalised, in-house quality recruitment service that focuses on quality over quantity.
• Headhunting and Passive Candidates: Understanding the concept of headhunting and why many successful placements are made with candidates who aren’t actively job hunting.
• Balancing Technology and Human Interaction: The benefits and drawbacks of automated recruitment processes and how small businesses can leverage personal touch to stand out in the competitive job market.

Key Takeaways

• Recruitment has evolved significantly, with technology playing a major role in how candidates and employers connect.
• Despite the rise of automation, personalised recruitment services that provide a tailored, human approach can give businesses a competitive edge.
• Headhunting remains a crucial strategy for finding top talent, particularly among passive candidates who aren’t actively seeking new roles.
• Small businesses can compete with larger organisations by offering a superior candidate experience, even if they can’t match salaries and benefits.

Top Tips from Matt Edge-Wilkins:

1. Focus on Quality Over Quantity - Prioritise targeted searches and personalised engagement over high-volume candidate applications.
2. Understand Your Candidate Market - Know where your ideal candidates are and how to reach them, especially those who aren’t actively looking.
3. Sell Your Business - Don’t just evaluate candidates—the recruitment process is an opportunity for you to also sell your company as a great place to work.

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

HR Voices

A podcast for independent HR and people professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 21/08/2023

Episode 5: Flexible Working Recap & Thoughts

In this episode of HR Voices, Mary and Charlotte discuss the key takeaways from their chats with our guests over the past 4 episodes and offer their thoughts as experienced HR and People Consultants.

In this episode, we cover:

• What the key challenges of flexible working are
• Key benefits of flexible working to employers and employees
• How business leaders may need to change their mindset on measuring performance
• How culture play a key part in flexible working
• There is no one size fit all approach to flexible working
• Flexible working may not be right for every job role 
• Flexible working may not be right for every organisation
• How HR and People Consultants can support successful implementation of flexible working

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryasante/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-allfrey/

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

07/08/2023

Episode 4: The Legal Side of Flexible Working

Guest: Kevin Poulter, Partner, Freeths LLP

In this extended episode of HR Voices, we chat to Kevin from the Employment Team at Freeths LLP about the legal side of flexible working.

In this episode, we cover:

• What flexible working is from a legal perspective
• The need for consideration on a case by case basis
• How you should deal with flexible working requests
• Protected characteristics and flexible working  
• The upcoming changes to flexible working legislation
• Different types of flexible working
• Discrimination
• How employers can handle the need for more hybrid working/presence in the workplace from a legal perspective

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

https://www.freeths.co.uk/people/kevin-poulter/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinpoulter/

HR Voices

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

24th July 2023

Episode 3: Exploring Flexible Working Initiatives

Guest: Steve Herbert, Wellbeing & Benefits Director, Partners&

In this episode of HR Voices, Steve joins us to explore different flexible working initiatives, including the recent news about Amazon launching term time and pick and mix style contracts for their employees.

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

linkedin.com/in/steve-herbert-seminars

https://www.partnersand.com/

About Our Guest

Steve Herbert is an award-winning commentator on Human Resources (HR), Employee Benefits, Financial Wellbeing, and Pension issues.  In June 2022 he joined national intermediary Partners& in the role of Wellbeing & Benefits Director.  

Steve is a regular and sought-after speaker at events, with a unique and engaging delivery style that aims to demystify and explain complex issues to his audience.  This same approach is reflected in both his written work and regular commentary for many HR and industry-facing publications.

He is occasionally accused of making Employee Benefits interesting.

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

Monday 10th July 2023

Episode 2: 4 Day Working Week - Case Study

Guest: Chris Scott, Founder & Learning Lead at Acceler8 Global

In this episode of HR Voices, we chat to Chris about how he has shifted his organisation from fully office based pre pandemic to a 4 day working week for 100% pay.

In this episode, we cover:

• The honest truth about the challenges and the fears that can come up when considering the move to a 4 day working week, particularly for a client facing business 
• How to measure if it is successful
• Top 5 tips for implementing flexible working in your organisation

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

Connect with Chris and Acceler8 Global here:

www.acceler8.global

https://www.linkedin.com/company/acceler8global

About Chris: 

Chris Scott, 49, co-founded Acceler8 in 2015, taking a leap of faith that the market needed a vibrant, playful consultancy that focused on people engagement.

His journey to that point had been in customer facing roles, later moving into learning and development, and working with some of the top hospitality businesses in the world.

His career grew into the learning arena and that journey progressed to achieving Head of Learning & Development at Heathrow Express before exploring the agency world.

All those experiences sparked a thought in his mind that everything could be done so much better, with a focus on happy colleagues inspired to do their very best work – and in a way that leaves the planet in better condition than we found it.

He’s passionate about how people learn new things and how behaviours can change to become more helpful. He describes facilitation as his happy space, saying “When I’m working with people, challenging them, and accepting a challenge from them, I’m performing at my best. Seeing first had the rewards of my work will always be what gets me out of bed in the morning.”

Now at Acceler8, Chris has led the business for nearly 8 years and, together with the team, has grown the portfolio of clients to the level where he can confidently claim that in some way, shape or form, Acceler8’s work impacts everyone in the UK – and further afield.

From household names and worldwide brands to the smaller businesses that Acceler8 love to support, he’s proud to inspire workplaces around the world where everyone can #BeHappyBeHuman.

Welcome to this episode of HR Voices... A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

27th June 2023

Episode 1: Flexible Working & Its Impact

Guest: Emma Cleary, Founder and Director of Flexibility Matters

In this episode of HR Voices, we chat to Emma about all things Flexible Working. Emma has been in the flexible working space for 9 years and shares the difference she has seen since the pandemic as well as her learnings. 

In this episode, we cover:

• What flexible working means
• How it’s important that flexible work has to work for everybody
• How flexibility is linked to organisational culture
• Management style & productivity
• The importance of bringing people together, even if remote
• Flexibility and the war for talent
• The Importance of communication, including listening

For more information about the Employment Relations (Flexible Working) Bill 2022-23: https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cbp-9648/

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

A little bit about Emma... 

Emma is committed to flexible working and has managed her recruitment business – Flexibility Matters - in exactly this fashion. Before working in recruitment, she was a full-time mum for 10 years and prior to that held business development, marketing, and sales roles for Dow Jones, The Wall Street Journal, and Hobsons Publishing part of the DMGT group.

 

Flexibility Matters actively champions a healthy blend of work and life achieved through recruiting into positions that understand the benefits of flexible, remote, and WFH. This flexibility means that Emma can pursue her career in a hugely challenging & rewarding role filled with purpose and meaning, whilst allowing her to be around for her family and pursue other interests.

You can find out more about Emma and connect with her on the following social media platforms:

Website: https://www.flexibilitymatters.co.uk/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-cleary-flexibilitymatters/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/emmacleary2?lang=en-gb

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flexmatters/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flexibilitymatters/

Welcome to the HR Voices Podcast, a podcast designed to bring the UK HR community and businesses together. The podcast will be informative, with lots of helpful tips and ideas to help you run your business. 

Being an HR Independent Consultant can be quite lonely. This is why HR Independents (HRi), the UK body for Independent HR and People professionals has created a home and community for HR Indies. 

The HR Voices podcast will be discussing hot topics relating to HR and business.  This will support HR Independent and People Professionals and the businesses they support. We will be bringing you practical tips, expert views and your views. 

Join Mary Asante, the Chief Executive of HRi, and Charlotte Allfrey, Operations Director of HRi and their expert guests for engaging discussions. 

We would love to hear from you and for you to get more involved. If you have topics you would like us to discuss, contact us via hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk

Learn more about HR Independents – HRi at: https://hrindependents.co.uk/about-us/ or connect with us on LinkedIn: hr independents linkedin page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hr-independents/

Hosts:  www.linkedin.com/in/maryasante and https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-allfrey

Success Together.

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 2nd September 2024

Episode 31: To Niche or Not to Niche

Guest: Nick Poninski, The Influential Consultant

In this episode of HR Voices, we dive into the ever-relevant topic of niching in the HR consulting world. Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey are joined by Nick Poninski, the Influential Consultant, to discuss the pros and cons of niching, particularly in the HR consulting space.

In this episode we cover:

• Understanding Niching: What it means to niche and why it might be beneficial for your HR consulting business.
• Nick’s Journey: From HR professional to marketing consultant, and how niching played a pivotal role in his career transition.
• Steps to Identify Your Niche: Practical advice on how to choose the right niche by considering your interests, past experiences, and market demands.
• The Fear Factor: Addressing common fears about niching down and how specialisation can actually lead to more business opportunities.
• The Marketing Advantage: How having a niche can make your marketing efforts more effective and less stressful.

Key Takeaways

• Niching can significantly enhance your marketing effectiveness by allowing you to focus on a specific audience with tailored messages.
• It’s important to choose a niche that aligns with your interests and experience, ensuring sustained motivation and job satisfaction.
• Thoroughly understanding your target audience's needs and pain points is essential for successful niching.
• While niching might feel restrictive, it often opens up more opportunities by positioning you as an expert in a particular field.
• Consider market trends and the financial viability of your chosen niche to ensure long-term success.

Top Tips from Nick Poninski:

1. Do What You Enjoy - Focus on areas that you are passionate about.
2. Know Your Audience - Understand the needs and challenges of the group you want to serve.
3. Evaluate the Market - Make sure your niche is in a viable, growing industry that can afford your services.

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

Before we begin, we'd like to take a moment to honour Tony Munday, who sadly passed away on 24th August.  We hope this episode serves as a lasting tribute to his insights and legacy

 

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 19th August 2024

Episode 30: Why Mediation is the best form of Conflict Resolution

Guest: Anthony Munday, The Maverick Mediator

In this episode of HR Voices, we engage in a compelling discussion and explore why mediation is an effective form of conflict resolution in the workplace, the importance of early intervention, and the emotional aspects involved in resolving long-standing conflicts.

In this episode, we cover:

• What is Mediation? Understanding workplace mediation and its benefits.
• Early Intervention - The importance of addressing conflicts early to prevent escalation.
• Mediation Process - Steps involved, including individual meetings and creating ground rules.
• Confidentiality in Mediation - Ensuring a safe and private space for participants.
• The Role of Emotions - Handling intense emotions during mediation sessions.
• Internal vs. External Mediation - The advantages of using external mediators for impartiality.
• Organisational Learning - How mediation can provide valuable insights to prevent future conflicts.

Key Takeaways

• Mediation is a powerful tool for resolving workplace conflicts by allowing participants to express their perspectives in a safe environment.
• Early conversations can prevent minor issues from becoming entrenched conflicts.
• Confidentiality and impartiality are crucial for successful mediation.
• Mediation not only resolves individual disputes but can also provide valuable feedback to organisations for improving their internal processes.

Top Tips from Anthony Munday:

1. Know Your People - Understand the individuals in your team.
2. Be Authentic - Authenticity fosters trust and openness.
3. Avoid Procrastination - Address issues promptly to prevent escalation.
4. Consistency - Be consistent in your approach to managing people and conflicts.

 

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

 

 

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 5th August 2024

Episode 29: Why all companies should have an Employee Benefits Package

Guest: Dave Sykes from Bigmore Benefits

In this episode of HR Voices, we explore the critical role employee benefits packages play in today’s workplace. We discuss how comprehensive benefits can enhance employee retention, engagement, and overall satisfaction.

In this episode, we cover:

• What Constitutes an Employee Benefits Package - Beyond salary and traditional perks.
• Importance of Communication - How to effectively communicate benefits to employees.
• Customisation of Employee Benefits for SMEs - Tailoring benefits packages to suit company size and employee demographics.
• The Four P's Framework for designing and implementing Employee Benefits:
• Provision -  Long-term financial security for employees.
• Protection - Safeguarding employees' health and well-being.
• Preventative Measures - Promoting a healthy workplace.
• Perks -  Enhancing the work environment.
• How SMEs can start their benefit journey: Steps and considerations for businesses.

Key Takeaways

• Employee benefits are more than just salary and basic perks; they are integral to employee satisfaction and retention.
• Effective communication is essential for employees to understand and value their benefits.
• Customising benefits to match the workforce's needs can set a company apart from its competitors.
• The Four P's framework provides a comprehensive approach to designing benefits packages.

 

Bigmore Benefits Communication Guide can be accessed here: https://www.bigmoreassociates.com/free-guide-to-communicating-an-employee-benefits-package/

 

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

A podcast for independent HR and people professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 22nd July 2024

Episode 28: HR Voices Recap: Key Insights and Takeaways from Episodes 23-27

In this episode of HR Voices, Mary and Charlotte provide a comprehensive roundup of the key takeaways and valuable insights from their recent mini-series. This series has been rich with diverse topics and expert guests, providing critical updates and practical advice for HR professionals and business owners alike.

In this episode, we cover:

• Employment Law Update: Insights from Claire Evans-Taylor of Boyce Turner on recent changes and upcoming legislation. Key topics include family-friendly policies, the right to request flexible working from day one, and the implications of a new government on employment laws.
• Demystifying Occupational Health Assessments: Magnus Kauders from Occupational Health Assessment shares practical tips on leveraging occupational health to improve workplace performance and employee relations. Key questions to ask your occupational health assessor and the importance of transparency in the process.
• Supporting Pregnant Women and Parental Returners: Lisa Thompson from Mountain HR discusses creating a supportive environment for pregnant women and returning parents in the workplace. The discussion highlights legal protections, cultural shifts, and the ongoing challenges faced by working parents.
• HR Meets Creativity: Elma O'Reilly from Parallel London explores how HR can support creative entrepreneurs and businesses. The focus is on balancing compliance with fostering innovation and understanding the unique needs of creative professionals.
• Personal and Professional Growth: Paula Melbourne of the Maple Leaf Coach delves into the importance of self-driven growth and the 70-20-10 model for development. Emphasis is placed on stepping out of comfort zones and taking control of one's own learning and career progression.

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

Contact us: If you'd like to be a guest on our podcast, please reach out to hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk.

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryasante/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-allfrey/

 

HR Voices

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 8th July 2024

Episode 27: Personal and Professional Growth

Guest: Paula Melbourne

In this episode of HR Voices, we discuss the importance of personal and professional growth and the benefits of aligning your personal and professional growth. 

In this episode, we cover:

• Personal Growth - identifying personal goals and values, and becoming self-aware. 
• Professional Growth - the 70-20-10 learning approach which encourages individuals to take ownership of their development. 
• Practical Steps for Growth which include self-assessment and seeking feedback, and taking ownership of your growth journey. 
• The need to embrace opportunities for learning and development

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

HR Voices

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 24th June 2024

Episode 26: HR Meets Creativity: Bridging Innovation with People Solutions

Guest: Elma O’Reilly of Parallel London 

In this episode of HR Voices, we discuss how effectively integrating HR practices into creative environments can be an enabler for innovation and business success. We discuss practical ways to bridge the gap between creativity and people solutions.

In this episode, we cover:

• Understanding creative drivers and how HR and people professionals can tap into them to create effective people solutions. 
• Misconceptions about HR being policy-driven and slowing creatives down, and discussed how HR taking a solution oriented approach can add value to creative businesses. 
• The importance of building trusting relationships with creative leaders. 
• The benefits of HR professionals understanding the businesses they support. This is fundamental to aligning HR strategies with business strategies and a key driver of success.  

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! 

If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you could leave us a review. 

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

https://www.tiktok.com/@parallellondon?_t=8lT1jL8h1O5&_r=1

https://www.instagram.com/parallelldn/

 

www.parallel-london.co.uk 

HR Voices Podcast

Episode 47: How can HR consultants facilitate difficult conversations? Why being savvy and demonstrating STREETCREDS is a gamechanger.

Hosted by: Mary Asante | HR Independents Ltd

Episode Overview:

In this engaging episode, host Mary Asante is joined by Sarah Harvey, founder of Savvy Conversations, leadership coach, trainer, facilitator, workplace mediator, and author. Sarah discusses practical insights on how HR consultants and business leaders can facilitate difficult workplace conversations effectively. She introduces her unique "STREET CREDS" framework and highlights the importance of psychological safety, emotional intelligence, and credibility when managing sensitive discussions.

What to Expect in This Episode:

🔹 The STREET CREDS Framework:

• Understanding the dual components—'STREET' (conditions necessary for good conversations) and 'CREDS' (the practical steps to hold effective discussions).

• Practical advice on being candid, respectful, engaging, directional, and sensitive.

🔹 Psychological Safety and Trust:

• Techniques for creating an environment where difficult conversations can happen safely.

• The role of credibility and trust in ensuring messages are received effectively.

🔹 Emotional Intelligence & Timing:

• Strategies for identifying the right conversation, delivered in the right way, at the right time.

• How emotional intelligence can influence outcomes positively.

🔹 Balancing Results and Relationships:

• Tips for managing the "Savvy Seesaw"—balancing candidness and sensitivity to maintain relationships while achieving desired outcomes.

Key Takeaways: 

✅ Right conversation, right way, right time – Aligning these three elements is critical to effective dialogue. 

✅ STREET CREDS – A practical framework for structuring conversations and managing difficult discussions. 

✅ Psychological safety matters – Creating a safe space helps people engage authentically.

 ✅ Balance candidness and sensitivity – Honesty is effective only when paired with empathy and respect. 

✅ Continual learning – Mastering the art of conversation requires ongoing self-awareness and adaptability.

Looking Ahead: HR Voices continues to spotlight impactful conversations and essential HR topics. To suggest topics or become a guest, please contact us at HRVoices@hrindependents.co.uk.

📌 Subscribe, share, and review to help spread the word!

🎙️ Listen Now: [Insert podcast link]

 

 

🎙️ HR Voices Podcast Episode 46: Conversations That Matter – From Legislation to Lived Experience in Today’s Workplaces

Hosted by: Charlotte Allfrey & Mary Asante | HR Independents Ltd

📅 Release Date: 31st March 2025

🔍 Episode Overview:

In this reflective roundup episode, Charlotte and Mary revisit key highlights from Episodes 39 to 45 of the HR Voices podcast. They cover everything from game-changing employment law to difficult yet vital conversations around retirement, neurodiversity, and domestic abuse. Whether you’re an HR consultant, small business leader, or simply passionate about people at work — this episode is a goldmine of insight, inspiration and action.

🎧 What You’ll Learn: ⚖️ 1. Employment Law Updates with Amanda Trewhella (Ep. 39)

• • Major changes coming in 2025: Day-one unfair dismissal rights, new flexible working rules, and third-party harassment responsibilities.

• What businesses must do now to prepare.

📊 2. Strategic Planning with Colin Hall (Ep. 40)

• Why every business—large or small—needs a plan (even if it changes!).
• How tools like SWOT and PESTLE can help you adapt to change.

💙 3. Blue Monday & Mental Health in the Workplace (Ep. 41)

• Unpacking the reality behind Blue Monday and January burnout.
• Mental health tips and why psychological safety is more than a buzzword.

🤖 4. HR Trends for 2025 (Ep. 42)

• How AI, wellbeing, and DEI are shaping the future of HR.
• Why upskilling, reskilling, and employee listening matter now more than ever.

👵 5. Retirement Conversations with Anne Cannings (Ep. 43)

• Why it’s time to normalise conversations about retirement.
• Planning financially, emotionally, and professionally—for both employees and independent consultants.

🧠 6. Neurodiversity in the Workplace with Zoe Carroll (Ep. 44)

• How to move beyond compliance and build truly inclusive, neurodiversity-friendly environments.
• Why equity > equality, and practical tips to get started.

🏠 7. Supporting Employees Facing Domestic Abuse with Emma Bray (Ep. 45)

• The signs HR and line managers should look out for.
• Why having the right policy and referral network could save someone’s life.

💡 Key Takeaways:

✅ Keep conversations human — laws and tech matter, but people are the heartbeat of HR. ✅ Proactive beats reactive — plan now for legal changes, cost-of-living impacts, and employee wellbeing. ✅ DEI is ongoing — not just an initiative but an everyday culture shift. ✅ Empower line managers — give them the tools and confidence to support their teams. ✅ Support is strategy — mental health, retirement, and domestic abuse all affect performance and retention.

🔗 Related Episodes to Catch Up On:

🎧 [Ep. 39 – Employment Law Roundup 2024 with Amanda Trewhella] 🎧 [Ep. 40 – Strategic Business Planning for 2025 with Colin Hall] 🎧 [Ep. 41 – Blue Monday and Mental Health in the Workplace] 🎧 [Ep. 42 – HR Trends for 2025] 🎧 [Ep. 43 – Retirement Planning with Anne Cannings] 🎧 [Ep. 44 – Making Workplaces More Neurodiversity Friendly with Zoe Carroll] 🎧 [Ep. 45 – Supporting Employees Facing Domestic Abuse with Emma Bray]

📬 Get Involved:

Got a story to tell or a challenge to share? We’d love to feature you or your idea on a future episode! 📩 Email: HRVoices@hrindependents.co.uk

🌟 Support the Podcast:

✅ Subscribe ✅ Share this episode with your HR and business network ✅ Leave us a quick ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review

🎙️ Listen Now: [Insert Podcast Link]

🔗 More insights: www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

 

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 25th November 2024

Episode 37: Active Bystandership and Peer intervention

Guest: Graham Goulden, Cultivating Minds, UK

In Episode 37 of HR Voices, Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey welcome Graham Goulden, an international violence prevention and leadership trainer from Cultivating Minds, UK. The discussion dives deep into the concept of active bystandership, workplace harassment, and creating a culture of accountability and intervention. With his extensive background in policing and his current work with organisations globally, Graham provides invaluable insights on how we can cultivate safer, healthier, and more supportive workplace environments.

In This Episode:

• Understanding Active Bystandership

  • The science behind bystanders: Why individuals see harm but often don’t act.

  • Distinguishing between passive and active bystanders and their respective impacts on workplace culture.

  • How peer intervention reduces harm and fosters a proactive environment.

• The Importance of Early Action in the Workplace

  • Strategies for addressing workplace bullying, harassment, and poor well-being before issues escalate to HR.

  • The role of line managers and leadership in empowering staff to act confidently and empathetically.

• The Power of Culture in Driving Change

  • How healthy workplace relationships and proactive conversations create safer environments.

  • Encouraging small, consistent acts of kindness and connection as therapeutic tools for mitigating stress.

• The Role of Training in Empowering Action

  • The value of immersive, in-person training programs to foster trust and camaraderie among staff.

    Key Takeaways:

1. Neutrality Doesn’t Exist: Being passive equates to enabling harm. Employees must understand that action, in any capacity, signals disapproval of harmful behaviours and support for victims.

2. Invest in People, Not Policies Alone: Real cultural change happens when organisations commit to quality, interactive training that prioritises relationships and psychological safety.

3. Encourage Empathy and Support: Whether addressing poor behaviour, mistakes, or mental well-being, small actions—like checking in with colleagues—go a long way in creating resilient workplaces.

4. Train for Courage: Give employees the tools to act early, even in ambiguous situations, by using simple frameworks like the PACE model (Probe, Alert, Challenge, Emergency).

Actionable Tips from Graham Goulden:

• Promote Active Bystandership: Create a culture where staff feel supported to speak up and act early.

• Align Training with Values: Embed intervention training into your organisation's core mission and values to gain authentic buy-in.

• Build Trust in Teams: Encourage open communication and affirm trust among colleagues to foster a sense of collective responsibility.

Thanks for Listening!

We hope you enjoyed this episode of HR Voices. Thanks for listening! 

We’d love to hear from you. Contact us via hrvoices@hrindependent.co.uk

www.hrindependents.co.uk

Be sure to leave us a review and tune in next time for more discussions on workplace culture and leadership.

 

HR Voices

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 11th November 2024

Episode 36: The Importance of Wills and Probate for Business Owners and Consultants

Guest: Scott Walker, Scott Walker (and Consultant at Richard Nelson Solicitors)

In this episode of HR Voices, host Mary Asante is joined by Scott Walker, a Wills and Probate expert who explains the often daunting topic of wills in a way that makes it less mysterious and easier to understand. Scott and Mary discuss why every business owner, consultant, or self-employed individual should have a will in place to protect their assets and loved ones.

In this episode we cover:

• What is a Will? Scott breaks down the basic concept of a will and why it's vital for ensuring your assets—property, money, business, and personal possessions—are passed on to the people you care about.
• Why Everyone Needs a Will: Learn why having a will is not just about death but also about planning for the future and securing the financial future of your loved ones or your business.
• What Happens if You Don’t Have a Will: Scott explains the legal implications of not having a will in place, including how the intestacy rules decide what happens to your assets, especially in the absence of a spouse, children, or a valid will.
• The Importance of Wills for Business Owners and Consultants: Whether you're a sole trader, part of a partnership, or own shares in a limited company, having a will ensures your business can continue running smoothly or that your assets are passed on according to your wishes.
• Power of Attorney and Business Protection: Scott also touches on the importance of having a lasting power of attorney in place, particularly for business owners, to ensure the continuity of business operations should you become incapacitated.

Key Takeaways:

• A will is essential for ensuring your assets, including your business, are passed on to the people you choose, rather than being left to the intestacy rules.
• Planning for your future, even before death, is important, especially for business owners who need to ensure the smooth transition of their business assets.
• A lasting power of attorney is just as crucial as a will, as it ensures your business or personal affairs can continue to be managed if you are unable to do so due to illness.

Top Tips from Scott Walker:

1. Know Your ‘Why’: Understand the reason you’re creating a will and take time to plan what assets you have and who you want them to go to.
2. Start Conversations About Death and Illness: Talking openly about death can help you plan better and live well by securing the future for yourself and your loved ones.
3. Consider a Lasting Power of Attorney: This allows someone you trust to manage your business or personal affairs in case you become ill or incapacitated, ensuring continuity.

Thanks for listening to HR Voices! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review.

HR Voices Contact: hrvoices@hrindependent.co.uk

www.hrindependents.co.uk

 

HR Voices Podcast Episode 45: Supporting Employees Facing Domestic Abuse with Emma Bray (nee Armstrong) Hosted by:

Charlotte Allfrey & Mary Asante | HR Independents Ltd

Episode Overview:

In this powerful and thought-provoking episode, hosts Charlotte Allfrey and Mary Asante speak with Emma Bray (nee Armstrong), CEO of I Choose Freedom, an independent charity providing refuge and support for survivors of domestic abuse. Emma shares her expertise on how HR professionals and business leaders can recognize signs of domestic abuse, support affected employees, and foster a workplace culture that encourages openness and safety.

What to Expect in This Episode: 🔹 Understanding Domestic Abuse

• What domestic abuse truly entails beyond physical violence, including coercive control, financial abuse, and emotional manipulation.
• The misconceptions surrounding domestic abuse and why many survivors struggle to identify their situation.

🔹 Recognizing the Signs in the Workplace

• How changes in productivity, absenteeism, or social withdrawal may indicate an employee is in distress.
• The subtle and overt signs that HR professionals and line managers should look out for.
• Creating a supportive and non-judgmental space for employees to seek help.

🔹 Employer Responsibilities & Supportive Workplace Practices

• How businesses can create a culture of awareness and safety for employees facing domestic abuse.
• The importance of domestic abuse policies, signposting to specialist services, and offering flexibility for affected employees.
• Training and professional development opportunities to equip HR professionals with the skills to handle disclosures sensitively.

🔹 Emma’s Work & Advocacy

• How I Choose Freedom provides life-saving refuge and holistic support for survivors.
• Emma’s journey from survivor to CEO and her recent recognition at Buckingham Palace.
• How employers can partner with charities and get involved in fundraising efforts.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Believe survivors – Creating a non-judgmental space can make all the difference. ✅ Educate and train HR teams – Awareness and knowledge empower action. ✅ Policy matters – Having a domestic abuse policy can save lives. ✅ Signpost, don’t fix – Employers aren’t expected to be experts but should know where to direct employees for help. ✅ Small actions can have a huge impact – Whether it’s adjusting work schedules, offering safe spaces, or simply listening.

Get Involved & Learn More:

• Visit I Choose Freedom to learn about their work and how you can support.
• Watch the ITV documentary Her Majesty Behind Closed Doors to gain deeper insight into the realities of domestic abuse.
• If you or someone you know needs support, contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline at 0808 2000 247 (available 24/7).

Looking Ahead:

As always, HR Voices aims to bring real conversations that matter. If you’d like to be a guest or have a topic suggestion, get in touch at HRVoices@hrindependents.co.uk.

📌 Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave us a review!

🎙️ Listen Now: [Insert podcast link]

 

 

HR Voices

A podcast for independent HR and people professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 3rd March 2025

Episode 44: Making workplaces more neurodiversity friendly

Guest: Zoe Carrol, Optimise Potential 

In this thought-provoking episode, Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey are joined by Zoe Carroll from Optimise Potential Limited to explore the importance of making workplaces more neurodiversity-friendly.

Zoe shares her extensive experience in performance psychology, neurodiversity, and inclusion, shaped by her time in air traffic control with the RAF, her work in education, and her personal journey raising a neurodivergent child.

Together, they unpack how businesses can create environments that allow neurodivergent employees to thrive and why embracing neurodiversity is not just about compliance but about unlocking potential, innovation, and engagement in the workplace.

What to Expect in This Episode:

• What is Neurodiversity? Understanding the concept, the spectrum of conditions it includes, and its impact on individuals in the workplace.
• Breaking Down the Stigma: Why neurodivergence is not a trend, but an essential consideration for organisations.
• The Masking Dilemma: How many neurodivergent individuals hide their true selves in the workplace and what businesses can do to create a safer, more inclusive environment.
• Workplace Challenges & Solutions: Addressing hiring biases, workplace accommodations, flexible working, and the importance of equity over equality.
• Practical Steps for HR Professionals & Leaders: Small, meaningful changes that can make a significant difference.

Key Takeaways:

• Neurodivergence is more common than you think: 1 in 5 people are neurodivergent, yet many go undiagnosed or feel unsafe revealing their condition at work.
• Workplaces are often designed for neurotypical individuals: Many neurodivergent employees struggle in traditional office settings, recruitment processes, and rigid workplace structures.
• A small adjustment can make a big difference: Simple changes in communication styles, meeting formats, interview processes, and flexible working arrangements can help neurodivergent employees perform at their best.
• Equity over equality: Treating everyone the same does not create fairness – providing the right individual support does.
• Carers also need consideration: Many employees have neurodivergent children, partners, or relatives, and businesses must recognise the additional challenges they may face.

Top Tips from Zoe Carroll:

1. Ask, don’t assume – Have open conversations with employees about their needs rather than making assumptions based on stereotypes.
2. Flexible working matters – Recognise that productivity times differ, and offer flexibility where possible to optimise employee performance.
3. Adjust recruitment processes – Consider alternative interview methods, allowing candidates to showcase their skills in a way that suits them.
4. Encourage open communication – Establish safe spaces where neurodivergent employees feel comfortable discussing challenges and requesting reasonable adjustments.
5. Think beyond labels – People are more than their diagnoses; focus on strengths rather than limitations.

Looking Ahead:

Mary, Charlotte, and Zoe emphasise that creating neurodiversity-friendly workplaces is not just about compliance—it’s about maximising talent, fostering innovation, and building truly inclusive cultures.

By educating leaders, adapting policies, and embracing diversity of thought, businesses can unlock the full potential of their teams while supporting employees in ways that genuinely matter.

Thank you for listening to HR Voices!

If you enjoyed this episode, we’d love it if you could leave us a review.

Want to be a guest on HR Voices or have a topic you’d like us to cover?

Get in touch at HRVoices@hrindependents.co.uk.

For more HR insights, visit www.hrindependents.co.uk.

 

HR Voices

A podcast for independent HR and people professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 17th February 2025

Episode 43: Retirement Planning for HR

Guest: Anne Cannings, Retirement Pathways

In this insightful episode, Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey are joined by Anne Cannings from Retirement Pathways to explore the complexities of retirement conversations in the workplace. Together, they unpack the challenges and opportunities of discussing retirement in a supportive and structured way.

What to Expect in This Episode:

• Breaking the Taboo: Understanding why retirement discussions have become sensitive topics for both employers and employees and how to normalise these conversations.

• Practical Steps for HR Professionals: Strategies for organisations to provide support and create a culture where these discussions are safe and beneficial.

• The Retirement Journey: Exploring the three key aspects of retirement planning – psychological transition, financial planning, and leaving the workplace well.

• Independent Consultants and Retirement: Tailored advice for self-employed professionals on planning for the future.

Key Takeaways:

• Normalise the Conversation: Create an environment where discussing retirement is as common as talking about career development.

• Support Through Training and Resources: Equip managers with the skills to have these conversations and provide employees with access to retirement planning resources.

• Start Planning Early: Encourage retirement preparation from mid-career onwards to ensure a smoother transition.

• Don’t Neglect the Non-Financial Aspects: Psychological and emotional readiness is just as important as financial planning.

Top Tips from Anne Cannings:

1. Start the conversation early – it’s never too soon to plan for retirement.

2. Provide safe spaces and workshops for employees to discuss their retirement vision without stigma.

3. Make resources easily accessible, including coaching, webinars, and financial advice.

4. Encourage succession planning as part of ongoing professional development to avoid last-minute disruptions.

5. Consider legal aspects such as wills and lasting powers of attorney as part of holistic retirement preparation.

Looking Ahead:

Mary, Charlotte, and Anne emphasise the importance of making retirement planning a collaborative, empowering process that benefits both the individual and the organisation. With thoughtful planning and open communication, everyone can look forward to a positive transition into this significant stage of life.

 

 

Thank you for listening to HR Voices!

If you enjoyed this episode, we’d love it if you could leave us a review.

Want to be a guest on HR Voices or have a topic you’d like us to cover?

Get in touch at HRVoices@hrindependents.co.uk.

For more HR insights, visit www.hrindependents.co.uk.

 

HR Voices

A podcast for independent HR and people professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 3rd February 2025

Episode 42: HR Trends for 2025

In this episode, Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey explore the key trends shaping the future of HR in 2025. From artificial intelligence to employee wellbeing, they discuss how these developments will influence HR practices and workplace dynamics.

What to Expect in This Episode: Artificial Intelligence in HR

• How AI can streamline HR processes such as recruitment, performance management, and employee engagement.

• The importance of ethical implementation to avoid bias and ensure fairness.

• Exploring AI's potential to complement, not replace, the "human" in human resources.

Employee Wellbeing

• A holistic approach to employee wellbeing, including physical, mental, emotional, and financial health.

• The role of tailored employee benefits in creating a happy, productive workforce.

• Tips for supporting mental health and financial wellbeing in the workplace.

Upskilling and Reskilling

• Addressing skills shortages by investing in training and development for existing employees.

• Preparing workforces for AI integration and new ways of working.

• The importance of personal development plans (PDPs) in retaining and engaging talent.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

• Maintaining DEI strategies in the era of AI and ensuring compliance with the Equality Act.

• Understanding the shift from equality to equity to support diverse needs in the workplace.

• Why embracing diversity leads to greater profitability and innovation.

Legislative Changes

• Preparing for the April 2025 updates, including increases in the national minimum wage and statutory pay rates.

• Understanding the impact of the employer National Insurance contribution rise.

• Introduction of neonatal leave and pay, and its significance for family-friendly policies.

Key Takeaways:

• AI is Here to Stay: When integrated responsibly, AI can enhance HR processes and improve decision-making.

• Employee wellbeing is Essential: A happy workforce is a productive workforce; tailor benefits to meet employee needs.

• Upskilling Pays Off: Investing in your current workforce can save costs and build loyalty.

• DEI Drives Success: Equity over equality is the key to fostering inclusivity and innovation.

• Stay Ahead of Legislation: Understanding the financial and operational impact of upcoming changes is crucial.

Top Tips from Mary and Charlotte:

1. Regularly review and adapt HR processes to align with emerging trends and technology.

2. Engage employees in discussions about wellbeing to ensure benefits are impactful and valued.

3. Take proactive steps to reskill and upskill staff, preparing them for future challenges and opportunities.

Looking Ahead: HR in 2025 is all about adaptability, innovation, and keeping people at the heart of every decision. Mary and Charlotte encourage listeners to embrace change, prioritise wellbeing, and invest in their workforce.

Thank you for tuning in to HR Voices! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review.

Want to be a guest on HR Voices? Or have a topic you’d like us to cover? Reach out to us at HRVoices@hrindependents.co.uk.

For more HR insights, visit www.hrindependents.co.uk.

HR Voices

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 20th January 2025

Episode 41: Blue Monday

In this episode, Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey delve into the widely discussed phenomenon of Blue Monday — the so-called "saddest day of the year." Together, they explore its origins, how it has evolved into a cultural concept, and its impact on individuals and workplaces.

What to Expect in This Episode:

• The Myth of Blue Monday: Learn about its creation, its disputed scientific grounding, and its role as a marketing stunt.

• The January Blues: Mary and Charlotte reflect on why January can be a challenging month for many, from post-holiday fatigue to financial pressures and New Year resolutions.

• Mental Health Awareness in the Workplace: The duo highlights how HR professionals, managers, and colleagues can recognize and support team members struggling during this period.

• Practical Coping Mechanisms: Strategies for self-care, including guided meditation, building routines, and connecting with others, whether virtually or in-person.

Key Takeaways:

1. January Can Be Tough, and That’s Okay: Understanding societal expectations around productivity, health, and financial resolutions can help manage self-imposed pressures.

2. HR’s Role in Supporting Employees: From promoting employee assistance programs to fostering a supportive culture, HR professionals can lead efforts to prioritise mental well-being.

3. Self-Care Strategies: The importance of breaks, outdoor activities, and building a support network to maintain balance and positivity.

Top Tips from Mary and Charlotte:

• Check in with team members regularly to offer support and create an open culture where it’s okay to not be okay.

• Leverage workplace resources like employee assistance programs and mental health first aiders.

• Prioritise your own self-care as an HR professional to be at your best for your clients and colleagues.

Looking Ahead: As January continues, Mary and Charlotte encourage everyone to focus on small, achievable goals and to find joy in the little things, making the transition into the year a bit smoother.

Thank you for listening to HR Voices! If you enjoyed this episode, we’d love it if you could leave us a review. Want to be a guest on HR Voices? Or have a topic you’d like us to cover? Reach out to us at HRVoices@hrindependents.co.uk.

For more HR insights, visit www.hrindependents.co.uk.

 

 

HR Voices

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 6th January 2024

Episode 40: Strategic Business Planning for 2025

Guest: Colin Hall, Biz Plans UK

Podcast Summary: In Episode 40 of HR Voices, hosts Charlotte Allfrey and Mary Asante are joined by Colin Hall, business planning expert and founder of Biz Plans UK. Together, they explore the importance of strategic planning for businesses as we approach 2025. Colin shares practical tips and actionable advice on how to create business plans that align with your goals, adapt to changing environments, and drive sustainable success. This episode is packed with insights for business owners, HR consultants, and anyone looking to plan effectively for the future.

In This Episode:

1. Why Business Planning is Crucial:

• The dangers of "failing to plan" and how an iterative planning process leads to better outcomes.

• Why the value of business planning lies in the process, not just the document.

Key Business Planning Strategies:

• Outside-In vs. Inside-Out approaches to business planning: Understanding your environment before building your strategy.

• Using tools like PESTLE and SWOT analyses to identify external influences, risks, and opportunities.

• The role of flexibility in adapting plans to changing circumstances.

Top Tips for Creating a Business Plan:

• Answer three essential questions: Why are you doing this? What do you enjoy? What’s your risk tolerance?

• Avoid common pitfalls like over-reliance on templates and ignoring market trends.

• Focus on your value proposition and segment your market to stand out in a crowded space.

Practical Advice for 2025 Planning:

• Begin with awareness: Understand your market, customers, competitors, and external landscape.

• Incorporate realistic milestones and go/no-go decision points to assess your progress.

• Don’t aim for perfection — Start small, test, and learn as you go.

• Business planning is about making better decisions—it’s a process, not just a document

•  

Key Tools and Resources:

• PESTLE Analysis: Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, and Environmental factors.

• SWOT Analysis: Identifying strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.

• Practical examples of market segmentation and value-led propositions.

Top Tips:

• Start with Awareness: Take the time to thoroughly understand your internal operations and the external environment. This includes analysing market trends, customer needs, competitor actions, and economic factors. Awareness is the foundation for building a strong and adaptable business plan.

• Avoid Common Pitfalls: Steer clear of over-engineering your products or services and neglecting market trends. Focus on creating solutions that align with customer needs and stay flexible enough to adapt to a changing environment.

• Build Confidence in Your Strategy: Overcome doubts by aligning your plans with your strengths, goals, and purpose. Seek external feedback, embrace an iterative approach, and focus on making progress rather than aiming for perfection. A confident and grounded strategy is key to long-term success.

Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Are you ready to start your business plan for 2025? Share your feedback or get in touch with us at hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk.

Thank You for Listening! Don’t forget to subscribe to HR Voices for more expert discussions, tips, and strategies to help you thrive in the HR and business world. See you next time!

 

 

HR Voices

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 23rd December 2024 

Episode 39: Employment Law Roundup 2024

Guest: Amanda Trewhella, Freeths LLP

Podcast Summary: In this episode of HR Voices, hosts Charlotte Allfrey and Mary Asante are joined by Amanda Trewhella, Director and Employment Solicitor at Freeths LLP. Together, they unpack the key employment law changes of 2024, explore the implications for businesses, and provide insights into what’s on the horizon for 2025 and beyond. From the Employment Rights Bill to new legislative measures like flexible working and unfair dismissal changes, this episode provides valuable takeaways to help HR professionals and businesses prepare for the evolving workplace landscape.

In This Episode:

1. Reflections on 2024:

• A busy year in employment law, with major updates stemming from both legislative changes and the Employment Rights Bill.
• Key updates include carers’ leave, flexible working changes, extended protections for maternity returners, and updates to paternity leave.

Exploring the Employment Rights Bill:

• The biggest headlines include the shift to a day one unfair dismissal right and the proposed statutory probationary period of 6–9 months.
• Further changes to flexible working requiring employers to justify decisions, not just cite reasons.
• Upcoming challenges with zero-hour contracts, including a requirement to offer guaranteed hours based on reference periods.

Key Takeaways on 2024's Legislation Changes:

• Carer’s leave: Introduction of one week of unpaid leave for those with caring responsibilities.
• Flexible working: Now a day one right, with shorter decision periods for employers.
• Paternity leave: Can now be taken in two separate blocks of one week each.
• Maternity protections: Expanded protections during pregnancy and six months after return from family leave.

The Big Issues for Employers:

• The administrative and financial burden of implementing new measures such as the zero-hours contract changes.
• Fire and rehire practices becoming more restricted, requiring financial justification and making it a last resort option.
• Changes in managing probationary periods and ensuring compliance under the new unfair dismissal rules.

Looking Ahead to 2025 and Beyond:

• National Minimum Wage increases (April 2025).
• Enhanced consultation requirements for contract changes and shift patterns.
• Liability for third-party sexual harassment cases.

• Many measures are still under consultation, with a timeline extending into 2026.

Best Practices for HR Professionals:

• Train managers to handle flexible working requests, performance issues, and sexual harassment reporting effectively.
• Conduct risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities in harassment prevention and third-party interactions.
• Prepare policies and contracts in anticipation of upcoming legislation.
• Foster an inclusive and flexible workplace culture to improve staff retention and attract top talent.

Key Quotes:

• “It’s not just about having a harassment policy or training staff; how you react when something happens will set the tone for your workplace culture.” – Amanda Trewhella
• “These legislative updates, while challenging, are an opportunity to create better workplaces and improve retention and culture across the board.” – Charlotte Allfrey
• “Unfair dismissal becoming a day one right will require a mindset shift for HR professionals and managers alike.” – Mary Asante

Actionable Insights:

• Get Ahead of Legislation: Start reviewing contracts and policies now to include flexibility and compliance with upcoming changes.
• Focus on Training: Equip managers and HR teams with the skills to navigate challenging conversations and evolving compliance needs.
• Assess Vulnerabilities: Conduct risk assessments for areas like harassment prevention and flexible working to mitigate future risks.
• Engage in Consultations: Participate in government consultations to have your say on proposed legislation.

 

Thanks for Listening! We hope this episode has provided clarity and actionable insights into navigating the busy landscape of employment law.

To learn more or to share your expertise as a guest, contact us at hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk. Stay tuned for more episodes that keep you informed and prepared for the evolving world of HR!

 

 

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 9th December 2024

Episode 38: Celebrating Excellence: HR Indies Awards 2024

Guest: Ruth George of Ruth George HR Consulting (Winner of HRi 2024 Inspirational Indie Award), Susi O'Brien of O’Brien HR (Winner of HRi 2024 Emerging Talent Award) and Claire Watt of Ditton HR (Winner of HRi 2024 High Growth Indie Award).

Podcast Summary: In Episode 38 of HR Voices, hosts Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey celebrate the winners of the HR Indies Awards 2024, which recognise outstanding achievements in the HR consultancy space. This special episode highlights the winners, their inspiring journeys, and their significant contributions to the HR community. The conversation reflects the passion, innovation, and dedication that HR consultants bring to the small business ecosystem across the UK.

In This Episode:

1. Celebrating the HR Indies Awards 2024:

• Overview of the three award categories: Emerging Talent, High Growth Indie, and Inspirational Indie.
• The role of the awards in spotlighting the incredible work of HR consultants supporting SMEs across the UK.
• Special thanks to the sponsors: Occupational Health Assessment, HR Uprising, and Starford Legal and People Consultancy, who made the awards possible.

Meet the Winners:

• Emerging Talent Award: Susie O’Brien of O’Brien HR (Edinburgh)
  • Recognised for her impressive progress as a new HR consultant and her ability to balance employment law technicalities with real-world application.
  • Susie shares her journey from sole trader to a growing consultancy and her aspirations to build a team in the near future.
• High Growth Indie Award: Claire Watt of Ditton HR (Surrey)
  • A testament to strategic growth, Claire evolved her consultancy from a sole proprietorship to a hybrid model with employees and associates.
  • Claire discusses the challenges of stepping back from day-to-day operations, empowering her team, and ensuring client trust through a collaborative approach.
• Inspirational Indie Award: Ruth George of Ruth George HR Consulting (Hertfordshire)
  • Peer-nominated for her exceptional support and inspiration within the HR community.
  • Ruth reflects on her 30-year HR career and her passion for helping SMEs and mentoring HR professionals.

The Impact of Awards:

• Winners share how the recognition has boosted their confidence, validated their work, and enhanced their credibility with clients.
• The role of the awards in fostering a sense of community and inspiring HR professionals at all stages of their journey.

Key Takeaways:

1. Recognition Matters: The HR Indies Awards shine a light on the often unsung heroes of the HR consultancy world, providing validation for their hard work and dedication.
2. A Community of Support: The awards highlight the collaborative and supportive nature of the HR consultant community, demonstrating the value of peer recognition.
3. Growth Comes in Many Forms: From emerging talents finding their footing to high-growth businesses scaling operations, the awards celebrate diverse paths to success in the HR consultancy field.

Actionable Insights from the Winners:

• Susie O’Brien:
  • Focus on building a learning mindset to adapt and refine your business model.
  • Identify your niche and align your services with your strengths and client needs.
• Claire Watt:
  • Be strategic about growth by balancing profitability and scalability through a hybrid model.
  • Transitioning from solo work to team management requires empowering others and building trust.
• Ruth George:
  • Lean on your HR community for collaboration and support; independence doesn’t mean isolation.
  • Always find ways to give back and inspire others, as recognition from peers carries immense value.

Thanks for Listening! We hope you enjoyed this celebratory episode of HR Voices. Congratulations to all the finalists and winners of the HR Indies Awards 2024!

Want to join the celebration next year? Submissions for the 2025 HR Indies Awards open early next year. Mark your calendars for October 10th, 2025, for the flagship conference and awards ceremony.

For more information or to appear as a guest on our podcast, email us at hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk.