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

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