HR Coffee Time

If you've ever wondered what it really takes to succeed as a Chief People Officer - or whether stepping into the role might be right for you - this episode of HR Coffee Time is here to help.Host Fay Wallis is joined by John Scrooby, Chief People Officer at tech company Masabi. John shares honest and thought-provoking insights about what the role really involves, the challenges it brings, and how to navigate them. From taking ownership beyond your remit, to managing your wellbeing in a high-pressure role, and showing up as a values-driven, emotionally honest leader - this is a must-listen for anyone aiming to grow their HR leadership career.John also reflects on his journey from his tech career to HR, explains what helped him make the transition, and gives advice for anyone looking to lead with impact.Chapters from This Episode[00:00] Introduction[00:54] Why this series of episodes exists[03:25] Meet John Scrooby[03:55] How John got his first CPO role[08:41] What he thought HR was - vs what he discovered[10:39] The difference between being a Head of HR or HR Director and a CPO[14:37] Advice for HR professionals nervous about stepping up[17:20] Why peer support matters[18:10] Vulnerability, leadership and mental health[25:07] How John maintains his mental wellbeing[29:43] Skills and habits that have helped him succeed[32:15] John's advice for anyone who would like to be a CPO one day[36:21] His biggest challenge as a CPO[41:24] How to get invited in as an HR leader[44:51] His top piece of advice for new CPOs[46:38] Courses or qualifications—are they essential?[49:08] ConclusionUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with John Scrooby on LinkedInPeople Before Strategy: A New Role for the CHRO (HBR article)University of Cambridge Judge Business School – CHRO ProgrammeBook Recommendations from the Episode(Book links are Amazon affiliate links, which means Fay will receive a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through them).HR Coffee Time's top book recommendations to thrive in your HR/People careerWork Rules! by Laszlo BockDare to Lead by Brené Brown Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.

Are you aiming for the top HR role - but not sure what being a Chief People Officer (CPO) actually involves, or how to get there?In this special launch episode of the new series of HR Coffee Time, host Fay Wallis is joined by David D'Souza, Director of Profession at the CIPD. Together, they demystify the CPO / CHRO role - exploring what it is, how it differs from other senior-level HR roles (like ‘Head of People' and ‘HR Director'), and why it's becoming more common across UK organisations.David shares insight into:Whether you're already in a senior HR role or are simply curious about what it takes to reach the top, this episode is packed with practical insights and career guidance.Key Chapters[00:00] Introduction to the new series[01:47] Meet David D'Souza, Director of Profession at the CIPD[04:03] What is the Chief People Officer (CPO) role?[05:54] Why CPO roles are becoming more common[07:21] How the role of the CPO is evolving[10:04] Challenges and responsibilities of CPOs[13:13] Work-life balance and C-suite expectations[18:15] Skills for success as a CPO[20:56] Understanding governance[24:00] How to build knowledge and confidence for the role[23:56] CIPD resources and support[33:38] Wrap-up and useful episode linksUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with David D'Souza on LinkedInCIPD MembershipCIPD Experience AssessmentCIPD Learning HubCIPD Local BranchesCIPD Online CommunityCIPD Aspiring HRD ProgrammeCIPD Mentoring Scheme Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn't very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.

This episode is a little different from usual, as I'll be sharing some exciting updates about the future of the podcast. After three and a half years of releasing episodes every week, I'm taking a short sabbatical to prepare for the next stage of HR Coffee Time - and I'd love your input to help shape it!In This Episode, You'll Hear About: [00:00:] Why I'm taking a short break – Why now feels like the right time to pause and refresh. [02:10] The two key challenges I keep seeing in HR careers – How a lack of confidence, clarity, and role models is holding HR professionals back. [04:49] How conversations helped shape my next steps – The advice and insights that led to the idea of evolving the podcast. [09:05] From book idea to podcast interviews – How an unexpected conversation with a fellow career coach changed my thinking. [10:57] Why HR Coffee Time is evolving instead of stopping – A reassuring conversation that helped me realise I don't need to start a whole new podcast. [12:39] Batch recording & smarter time management – How I plan to make the podcast more time-efficient while improving the quality of content. [15:02] I'd love your help! – How you can share your thoughts on the interview questions and suggest great Chief People Officers (CPOs) and Chief HR Officers (CHROs) to be guests on the show.Podcasts Mentioned in This Episode HR Coffee Time episode 123: Avoid Burnout: How to Spot Signs of Stress and Take Action, with Dr Jo Burrell HR Coffee Time episode 32: Diversity & Inclusion at Work – 7 Mistakes to Avoid (& What to Do Instead), with Dr. Jonathan Ashong-Lamptey Nicola Semple's podcast: The Career Confidence Podcast Dr Jonathan Ashong-Lamptey's podcast: The Element of Inclusion Verena Hefti's podcast: Big Careers, Small ChildrenWays to Get Involved Take the HR Coffee Time Next Chapter Survey – Help...

After completing your CIPD qualification, it can be hard to decide what training to invest in next. In this episode of HR Coffee Time, host Fay Wallis shares four valuable and perhaps surprising training options to help you develop skills that will elevate your HR career: mediation, coaching, negotiation, and facilitation.You'll hear extracts from earlier episodes featuring expert guests who explain each skill and its benefits. Fay has personally attended training with all the featured experts, so she can confidently recommend their insights and advice.Whether you're considering what to focus on for your professional development this year or just want to understand how these skills can help you, this episode is packed with ideas and inspiration to guide your next steps.Chapters from This Episode[00:00] Introduction and overview[03:38] Mediation skills with Pete Colby (Episode 99)[08:07] Coaching skills with Charlie Warshawski (Episode 53)[13:59] Negotiation skills with Simon Duncan (Episode 115)[21:23] Facilitation skills with Kirsty Lewis (Episode 110)[26:43] Closing thoughtsUseful LinksLinks & Resources Mentioned in The EpisodeOther Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesBook Recommendations Shared on HR Coffee Time(Book links are Amazon affiliate links, which means Fay will receive a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through them).Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn't very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.Mentioned in this episode:Join 3R Strategy's free Pay & Reward AcademyBecome a member of 3R Strategy's free Pay & Reward Academy, or access their free resources by visiting: https://bit.ly/3racademy.

Do you want to set yourself up for success for the year ahead? In this episode of HR Coffee Time, host Fay Wallis is joined by Dr Ben Levy, creator of the ABCME® framework, to explore the five key factors that can make all the difference when it comes to achieving your goals.Dr Ben shares practical insights into how clarity, belief, motivation, and other essential elements influence success, helping you avoid common goal-setting pitfalls. Together, Fay and Ben discuss strategies for creating a clear vision, building motivation, and staying on track - even when the going gets tough.Whether you're aiming to advance your career, tackle a challenging project, or introduce new initiatives in your organisation, this episode is packed with advice to help you achieve your goals with confidence and clarity.Chapters from This Episode[00:00] Introduction[03:22] What is the ABCME® framework?[07:03] The importance of clarity in goal-setting[09:41] Practical tips for getting more clarity[12:08] How to stay motivated with your goals[20:13] Celebrating successes and why it matters[28:43] Confidence-building tip: What would a role model do?Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Ben on LinkedInBen's website: Make It HappenBen's free quiz to help you achieve your career goalsStickk.com website (mentioned in the episode to make a commitment to a goal)The Essential HR PlannerOther Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 141: Look back to look forward – how to reflect on 2024 to set goals for 2025Episode 39: Lost your direction & motivation at work? This one thing might helpEpisode 89: How to reach your HR career goals by understanding your ‘tendency'Book Recommendations From the Episode(Disclosure: book links are affiliate links which means Fay will earn a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through them)Tiny Habits: Why Starting Small Makes Lasting Change Easy, by BJ FoggThink Big: Take Small Steps and Build the Career You Want, by Dr Grace LordanRate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on...

As the year comes to a close, taking time to reflect on 2024 can be a wonderful way to celebrate your successes and uncover inspiration for your goals in 2025.It's so easy to fall into the trap of focusing on what didn't go to plan or overlooking achievements, thanks to the negativity bias we all experience. Add to that the recency bias—where only the most recent events stick in our minds—and it's no wonder we often lose sight of the bigger picture.In this episode, I'll guide you through 10 powerful reflection questions from The Essential HR Planner to help you push past these biases, recognise all you've accomplished this year, and approach 2025 with confidence and clarity. And to show that I'm right there with you, I'll share my own answers to the questions too.Whether you're using The Essential HR Planner or simply jotting down notes as you listen, this episode of HR Coffee Time is your chance to pause, reflect, and start shaping the year ahead with purpose and positivity.Key Chapters[00:00] Introduction[03:10] Question 1: What did you achieve? - Small wins are just as noteworthy as big ones[09:06] Question 2: What did you do to help others?[11:35] Question 3: What are you proudest of from 2024?[13:02] Question 4: What did you do for your wellbeing during the past year?[15:50] Question 5: What did you learn during 2024?[21:35] Question 6: Which relationships did you develop and build?[23:22] Question 7: What are you grateful for?[24:22] Question 8: What did you find challenging this year?[27:10] Question 9: What insights do you have from reading through your answers to questions 1-8?[29:32] Question 10: How can these insights influence your goals for 2025?[32:51] ConclusionUseful LinksThe Essential HR Planner websiteConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingFay's blog post: Reflecting on 2024 - looking back to look forwardFay's YouTube channelBook Recommendations(Disclosure: book links are affiliate links which means Fay will earn a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through them)Neuroscience for Learning and Development: How to Apply Neuroscience and Psychology for Improved Learning and Training, by Stella CollinsThink Like a Coach: Empower Your Team Through Everyday Conversations, by Jude SclaterChatter: The Voice in Our Head and How to Harness It, by Ethan KrossRate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn't very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at:

Have you ever been asked to design or deliver a workshop and found yourself worrying whether it will be as good as it could be? Whether you're preparing your first training session or looking to enhance your facilitation skills, this episode of HR Coffee Time is packed with ideas and resources to help you create training and workshops that are impactful, engaging, and memorable.In this episode, host Fay Wallis reflects on her experience running the first in-person HR Planning Day and shares five brilliant resources that most inspired her when designing the event. You'll discover practical insights and creative techniques to transform your workshops and training sessions, whether in-person or online.Chapters from This Episode[00:00] Introduction and Overview[03:27] Resource 1: Kirsty Lewis' online masterclass on workshop design[11:45] Resource 2: The Two-Hour Workshop Blueprint book[22:07] Resource 3: The Flipchart Facebook group[23:37] Resource 4: Neuroscience for Learning and Development book[28:01] Resource 5: The Ten-Minute Trainer book[31:28] ConclusionUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingKirsty Lewis' website: School of FacilitationThe Flipchart Facebook groupThe Essential HR Planner (hardback & digital versions available)Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 110: Why facilitation skills can help your HR career & how to develop them, with Kirsty LewisBook Recommendations From the Episode(Disclosure: book links are affiliate links, which means Fay will earn a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through them)The 2-Hour Workshop Blueprint: Design Fast. Deliver Strong. Without Stress, by Leanne HughesNeuroscience for Learning and Development: How to Apply Neuroscience and Psychology for Improved Learning and Training, by Stella CollinsThe Ten-Minute Trainer: 150 Ways to Teach it Quick and Make it Stick, by Sharon L. BowmanRate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn't very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by

As organisations work to create more inclusive workplaces, some aspects of diversity receive more attention than others. Being able to express religious beliefs at work is an area that often remains unexplored despite its significance to many employees. In this episode of HR Coffee Time, host Fay Wallis is joined by Professor Binna Kandola, senior partner and co-founder of Pearn Kandola, to explore why religious expression matters to the people in your workplace and how organisations can better support this.Binna shares insights from his firm's comprehensive research into religion at work, including findings from their largest-ever survey response. He explains the various aspects of religious expression, discusses both challenges and positive developments in workplace inclusion, and offers practical guidance for HR professionals looking to create more inclusive environments.Chapters from This Episode[00:00:00] Introduction and Overview[00:02:02] Meet the Expert: Professor Binna Kandola[00:04:19] Defining Religious Expression at Work[00:10:31] Why Religious Expression Matters[00:18:36] Benefits to Organizations[00:21:01] Key Research Findings[00:26:49] Examples of Good Practice[00:31:23] Book Recommendation[00:33:28] Conclusion and ResourcesUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Binna Kandola on LinkedInBinna's website: Pearn KandolaPearn Kandola's, “Religion at Work Report”Binna's podcast, Making the World Fairer (on Apple Podcasts)Binna's podcast, Making the World Fairer (on Spotify)Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesCreate an Equitable, Diverse & Inclusive Workplace – Podcast Playlist (on the Bright Sky website)Create an Equitable, Diverse & Inclusive Workplace – Podcast Playlist (on Spotify)Book Recommendation From the Episode(Disclosure: book links are affiliate links which means Fay will earn a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through them)‘World Religions: The Great Faiths Explored and Explained' by John BowkerLooking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn't very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach...

When you're in a busy HR or People role, finding time for strategic work can feel incredibly challenging. There are always urgent issues that need your attention and endless tasks on your to-do list. However, strategic work often has the greatest impact - helping you craft an organisation where people are proud to work, can thrive, and are empowered to drive the organisation forward.In this episode of HR Coffee Time, host Fay Wallis shares five practical tips to help you carve out time for strategic work, even when you're incredibly busy. These tips will help you overcome common barriers and create the space needed to focus on work that drives meaningful organisational change.Key Points from This EpisodeIntroduction and welcomeTip 1: Build your confidence about being strategicTip 2: Schedule dedicated time for strategic workTip 3: Make the most of AI to free up timeTip 4: Remember that less is moreTip 5: Communicate your strategic priorities clearly Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingThe Essential HR Planner Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesOperate Strategically or Create a Powerful HR/People Strategy PlaylistEpisode 102: Boosting Your Strategic Knowledge to Step Up in Your HR RoleEpisode 108: How to Create a Simple but Powerful One Page Strategy with Dr. Max MckeownEpisode 134: Creating an HR Strategy - How to Get Started When You're Feeling StuckEpisode 7: What to Do When You Don't Have Enough Hours in the DayEpisode 92: Time Management Tips to Stay on Top of Your Busy DayEpisode 58: How to Feel More Confident Using Data & Analytics in Your HR RoleBook Recommendations from the EpisodeGood Strategy, Bad Strategy: The difference and why it matters, by Richard RumeltThe One Thing, by Gary Keller Looking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn't very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at:

Are there lies you're telling yourself at work that feel like cold, hard facts? Whether it's believing you don't deserve a promotion, thinking you're not qualified enough to apply for a different role, feeling guilty about taking time off because everyone "needs" you, prioritising colleagues above your own wellbeing, striving for unrealistic perfection, or feeling you need to be available 24/7 to be seen as an effective HR professional – these self-imposed beliefs can significantly impact your career progress and wellbeing.In this episode of HR Coffee Time, host Fay Wallis is joined by Emma Djemil to help you identify and challenge these unhelpful beliefs that might be holding you back in your HR career.Chapters from This Episode[00:00] Introduction and Overview[03:30] Meet Emma Djemil[05:46] Common Lies in HR: Availability Equals Value[08:29] Proving Your Worth in HR[12:43] Recognising and Challenging Self-Lies[17:11] Understanding Deep-Rooted Fears[17:46] Challenging the Fear of Unavailability[19:21] Recognising and Addressing Mistruths[21:20] Empowerment Through Self-Questioning[25:25] The Power of Internal Validation[29:26] Book Recommendation and Wrap Up[32:09] Final Thoughts and FarewellUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Emma Djemil on LinkedInEmma's HR ClubEmma's annual event: The HR Big MeetOther Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesHR Coffee Time Podcast Playlist: Build Your ConfidenceBook Recommendation From the Episode‘Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway' – Susan Jeffers‘The Fix: How to Overcome the Invisible Barriers That Are Holding Women Back at Work' – Michelle P. KingAll the book recommendations that have been given on HR Coffee TimeLooking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn't very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk.Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing upto receive the free weekly

Shaping workplace culture is becoming an increasingly important part of HR's role, with many HR functions being renamed as "People and Culture" and culture-related responsibilities appearing in job titles. But how do you actually go about shaping culture, especially when you're already busy with your day-to-day work?In this special episode of HR Coffee Time, host Fay Wallis is joined by two guests: Annabelle Lawson, HR Manager at SPT Lab Tech, and Paula Brockwell, Founder and Chief Culture Shaper at the Employee Experience Project. Together, they explore practical strategies for defining, shaping, and embedding a winning workplace culture.This episode is packed with actionable advice, from how to engage leadership in culture initiatives to how HR professionals can avoid becoming overwhelmed by the process. Whether you're just starting your culture journey or looking to refine your approach, this conversation is here to help.Chapters from This Episode[00:00] Introduction and Overview[01:33] Meet the Guests: Annabelle Lawson and Paula Brockwell[03:59] Annabelle Explains Her Culture Project[08:32] Culture is a Strategic Enabler of Business Growth[09:26] Using the Business Culture Canvas for Culture Conversations[12:46] Embedding New Culture and Measuring Progress[15:20] Timeframes for Seeing Cultural Changes[19:55] Avoiding Overwhelm When Working on Culture Initiatives[23:25] Starting a Culture Journey from Scratch[24:33] The Importance of CEO Engagement in Culture Initiatives[25:03] Book Recommendations[26:06] How to Connect with Annabelle and PaulaUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Annabelle Lawson on LinkedInConnect with Paula Brockwell on LinkedInPaula's website: The Employee Experience ProjectResearch and Resources MentionedDownload Paula's free culture change resourcesAccess Paula's Business Culture CanvasAccess Paula's Culture Catalyst Scorecard Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 114: What workplace culture is, how to measure it, and a surprising way to improve it with Arend BoersemaEpisode 120: Crafting culture: unearthing and shaping the heart of your business with Louise KennedyBook Recommendation From the Episode‘Herd: How to Change Mass Behaviour by Harnessing Our True Nature' byMark Earls ‘Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking' by Susan CainLooking For the...

Menopause is a topic that impacts everyone in the HR and People profession, whether personally or through supporting colleagues. In this episode of HR Coffee Time, host Fay Wallis is joined by Emma Thomas, founder of Managing the Menopause, to discuss the importance of understanding and supporting employees through menopause in the workplace.Emma shares valuable insights on perimenopause and menopause, common symptoms, the business case for supporting employees, legal considerations, and practical strategies for creating a supportive work environment. This episode is packed with data-driven information and actionable advice for HR professionals looking to update policies, improve employee wellbeing, or build a stronger business case for menopause support.Chapters from This Episode[00:00] Introduction and Overview[00:53] Meet Emma Thomas: Menopause Expert[04:15] Defining Perimenopause and Menopause[06:47] Common Symptoms of Perimenopause[09:32] Impact of Menopause Symptoms at Work[11:35] Research and Business Case for Menopause Support[20:11] Practical Support for Menopause in the Workplace[25:03] Book Recommendation: "Revolting Women" by Dr. Lucy Ryan[26:06] How to Connect With Emma ThomasUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Emma Thomas on LinkedInEmma's website: Managing the MenopauseEmma's podcast: Middling AlongResearch and Resources MentionedCIPD 2023 Menopause at Work surveyCIPD: Menopause at work – guide for people managersDeloitte Women at Work 2024 reportBSI guide on menstruation and menopause in the workplaceACAS: Menopause at workCycle of Change: Animation explaining the menopauseOther Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 42: Diversity and Inclusion at Work, Seven Mistakes to Avoid and what to do instead with Dr. Jonathan Ashong-LampteyBook Recommendation From the Episode‘Revolting Women: Why Midlife Women Are Walking Out and What to Do About It' by Dr. Lucy...

If you need to create an HR or People strategy but are feeling completely stuck, this episode of HR Coffee Time is here to help. Host Fay Wallis, a career and leadership coach for HR and People professionals, shares practical advice on how to feel more confident about creating the strategy, where to start and resources to help spark your ideas.Key Points from This Episode[00:00] Episode introduction[00:32] There is a podcast playlist of strategy episodes for you[02:46] You already are strategic (even if you think you aren't)[04:31] Insight from the book, ‘Good Strategy/Bad Strategy'[05:29] The importance of aligning HR strategy with the overarching organisational strategy[07:28] Resources from The Essential HR Planner to help[13:41] Recap and final thoughts Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career Coaching Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesOperate Strategically or Create a Powerful HR/People Strategy PlaylistBook Recommendations from the EpisodeThe Strategy Book: How to think and act strategically to deliver outstanding results, by Max MckeownGood Strategy, Bad Strategy: The difference and why it matters, by Richard RumeltLooking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn't very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.Mentioned in this episode:3R Strategy's Free Resources & Fay's HR Planning DayBecome a member of 3R Strategy's free Pay & Reward Academy, or access their free resources by visiting: bit.ly/3Racademy Learn more about Fay's HR Planning Day and get your ticket here: https://brightskycareercoaching.co.uk/hr-planning-day/

Want to know the secret to delivering presentations that truly captivate your audience? In this episode of HR Coffee Time, we explore how to craft and deliver presentations that resonate deeply and win over both hearts and minds.Host Fay Wallis is joined by Emma Serlin, founder of London Speech Workshop, who shares her unique "Meal Plan" framework for creating impactful presentations. Whether you're aiming to boost your influence, establish credibility, or simply gain more confidence when presenting, this episode is packed with practical insights to elevate your presentation skills.Chapters from This Episode[00:00] Introduction and overview[01:11] Meet the expert: Emma Serlin[04:26] The Meal Plan framework: Protein, Vegetables, and Spice[05:38] Deep dive into the protein component[09:07] Crafting impactful presentations: The importance of three key takeaways[11:31] Exploring the ‘vegetables' component[16:57] Adding ‘spice' to make your presentation memorable[19:46] The Dinner Party Planner[23:50] Book recommendation[25:48] How to contact Emma and London Speech Workshop[27:23] ConclusionUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Emma Serlin on LinkedInEmma's website: London Speech WorkshopLondon Speech Workshop on InstagramLondon Speech Workshop on YouTubeOther Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 36: Four simple but powerful techniques to banish imposter syndrome, with Joanna LottEpisode 73: 5 ways to feel more confident in your next interview, meeting, or presentationEpisode 74: How to get better at presenting and feel more confident about itBook Recommendations From the EpisodeThe Connection Book: 50 Ways to Communicate More Effectively, by Emma SerlinThe Communication Equation: A How to Guide for Outstanding Communication, by Emma SerlinNonviolent Communication: A Language of Life, by Marshall B. RosenbergLooking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn't very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at:

Whether you'd like to learn more about how to use Strategic Workforce Planning in your current role or considering whether specialising in Strategic Workforce Planning could be the perfect career option for you, this episode of HR Coffee Time is here to help.Host Fay Wallis is joined by Jen Allen Jardine, a Strategic Workforce Planning (SWP) expert, who explains what SWP is, why it's important, how it fits into HR, the partnership between SWP and HR, and the misconceptions about it. She also provides valuable advice for anyone looking to specialise in SWP, including practical tips and book recommendations.Chapters from This Episode[00:00] Introduction and overview[02:17] Meet the expert: Jen Allen Jardine[03:09] Defining Strategic Workforce Planning[04:13] Strategic Workforce Planning in large vs small organisations[04:55] The role of HR in Strategic Workforce Planning[11:03] Developing skills for Strategic Workforce Planning[17:18] Misconceptions about Strategic Workforce Planning[23:02] Book recommendations[34:29] How to contact Jen[35:50] ConclusionUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Jen Allen Jardine on LinkedIn Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesHR Coffee Time podcast playlist: Clarify Your Career Goals & Explore HR Career OptionsEpisode 58: How to feel more confident using data & analytics in your HR roleEpisode 119: How using Agile can drive positive change & prove HR's value, with Kate Maddison-Geenwell Book Recommendations From the EpisodeFactfulness: Ten Reasons We're Wrong About The World – And Why Things Are Better Than You Think, by Hans Rosling , Ola Rosling and Anna RoslingFreakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything, by Steven D. Levitt & Stephen J. DubnerRadical Uncertainty: Decision-making for an unknowable future, by John Kay and Mervyn King Looking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website. Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Thinking about booking a coaching session but not sure what to expect? Or maybe you've already arranged some coaching sessions and want to make sure you get the most out of them. This episode of HR Coffee Time is here to help. Host Fay Wallis, a career and leadership coach for HR and People professionals, shares practical advice on how to prepare for your coaching sessions and make them as effective as possible.Key Points From This Episode[00:00] Episode introduction[00:23] The value of coaching[01:38] You're in the driving seat when it comes to coaching[02:21] Examples of common coaching topics[04:29] Questions to help you choose a focus, area or topic for your session[05:51] Coaching is usually about asking questions, rather than giving advice[06:39] Advice is given for practical career topics e.g. CV, LinkedIn and interviews[09:17] Practical tips to get the most out of your session[09:13] Choose a quiet space where you won't be disturbed[10:09] Minimise distractions[10:21] Have some buffer time before the start of your session[10:40] Techniques to help you transition from your previous task into your session[11:32] Buffer time at the end of your session is helpful[12:12] Have a notebook and pen ready for your session[14:06] Let your coach know if you'd like the session recorded[14:26] Have a drink with you in case you get thirsty[14:51] If you'll be discussing an emotional topic, have some tissues to hand[15:09] Be open-minded and provide feedback[16:46] Jot down your reflections in between sessions[17:21] Questions to help you reflect before starting your next session[17:56] Always ask your coach questions if you have any[18:19] Episode conclusionUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingHeadspace's one-minute meditation YouTube video Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 130: Build managers' confidence and skills with ‘The Coaching Two-Step', with Jude SclaterEpisode 53: Why coaching skills can help your career (& how to develop them), with Charlie WarshawskiEpisode 125: Create your perfect professional development plan in 8 simple stepsLooking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts. If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You reach her at:

You may have heard that coaching skills can be incredibly helpful for managers to have in their toolbox, boosting their confidence and effectiveness in their roles. But why are these skills so useful, and how can you help managers start using them? This episode of HR Coffee Time is here to answer those questions.Host Fay Wallis is joined by Jude Sclater, an experienced coach and author of "Think Like a Coach - Empower Your Team Through Everyday Conversations."Jude explains that coaching skills empower teams to think for themselves, foster independence, reduce reliance on the manager, and enhance overall team motivation and development. She shares her innovative Coaching Two Step model, which provides a practical and accessible way for managers to integrate coaching into their everyday interactions.Key Points from This EpisodeThe Coaching Two Step involves two main components: asking "Tell me more?" and summarizing what you've heardThe model is designed to be simple and accessible for managers who may not have extensive coaching trainingJude emphasizes the importance of giving full attention during conversationsThe episode includes a practical demonstration of the Coaching Two Step with Fay as the coachesUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Jude Sclater on LinkedInJude's website: Think With JudeOther Relevant HR Coffee Time Episodes Episode 129: 5 essential techniques to become a great manager, with James RoseEpisode 127: What to do if your boss is a micromanagerEpisode 53: Why coaching skills can help your HR career (and how to develop them), with Charlie WarshawskiBuy The Book Recommendations(Disclosure: the book links are affiliate links which means Fay will earn a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through them)Think Like A Coach: Empower your team through everyday conversations, by Jude SclaterThe Chimp Paradox: The Acclaimed Mind Management Programme to Help You Achieve Success, Confidence and Happiness, by Professor Steve PetersFull list of all book recommendations given on HR Coffee TimeRate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on...

How do you develop the people within your workforce to become great managers? Poor management negatively impacts everyone, often resulting in the HR/People team having to help with performance issues, manage grievances, or recruitment challenges due to high turnover. It can feel hard to know what to do or where to start. So, this episode of HR Coffee Time is here to help. Host Fay Wallis is joined by James Rose, a management skills trainer, speaker and coach, who generously shares his Rose model, which consists of five essential techniques to become a great manager. Key Points from This Episode [00:00] Introduction and overview [02:10] Introducing James Rose [03:41] How James developed his Rose model [07:05] The difference between absent and present managers [06:24] The first layer of the Rose model: regular check-ins [13:48] The second layer of the Rose model: weekly team meetings [20:44] The third layer of the Rose model: monthly catch ups [30:25] The fourth & fifth layers of the Rose model: mid-year or quarterly reviews and end of year reviews [33:29] James's confidence-building tip: encourage team members to keep track of their achievements and development. [36:25] How to contact James and learn more about his work [37:32] Other relevant HR Coffee Time episodes to listen to next Useful Links Connect with Fay on LinkedIn Fay's website: Bright Sky Career Coaching Connect with James Rose on LinkedIn James' website Other Relevant HR Coffee Time Episodes Episode 127: What to do if your boss is a micromanager Episode 117: How to create a performance management process that drives success, with Lucina Carney Episode 119: How using Agile can drive positive change & prove HR's value, with Kate Maddison-Geenwell Looking For the Transcript? You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website. Rate and Review the Podcast If you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn't very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One! Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other...

Dyslexia, often misunderstood and underappreciated, holds a wealth of untapped potential for the workplace. In this episode of HR Coffee Time, we explore how to appreciate and unlock the unique strengths it can bring to our workplaces.Host Fay Wallis is joined by Kirsty Heap, a neurodivergent specialist coach with a rich background in HR, who shares her personal journey with dyslexia and her transition to becoming a passionate advocate for neurodiversity. Kirsty provides valuable insights into the multifaceted nature of dyslexia, its challenges, and most importantly, the remarkable advantages it offers to organizations.Whether you're an HR professional seeking to create a more inclusive workplace, someone questioning if they might be dyslexic, or simply curious about neurodiversity, this episode provides practical strategies and eye-opening perspectives. Discover how understanding and supporting dyslexic colleagues can drive innovation, problem-solving, and creativity in your team, ultimately leading to a more successful organisation.Key Points from This Episode[00:00] Introduction and overview[01:48] Introducing Kirsty Heap[03:47] What is dyslexia? A detailed explanation[04:59] Dyslexia as a ‘magic potion'[06:24] Kirsty shares her journey to diagnosis and early challenges[10:57] Disclosing that she had dyslexia to her colleagues[12:22] The strengths dyslexia brings including creativity, problem-solving and emotional intelligence[18:05] Practical advice for anyone who thinks they might be dyslexic[22:04] Tips for fostering an inclusive work environment for dyslexic individuals[26:54] Kirsty's confidence-building tip: borrow confidence from your future self[28:46] How to contact Kirsty and learn more about her work Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Kirsty Heap on LinkedInKirsty's website: Kirstyheap.com Buy the Book Recommendation(Disclosure: the book links are affiliate links which means that Fay will receive a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through them)The Bigger Picture Book of Amazing Dyslexics and the Jobs They Do, by Kate Power & Kathy Iwanczak Forsyth Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesHR Coffee Time podcast playlist: Create an equitable, diverse & inclusive workplaceEpisode 70: Supporting yourself, or your colleagues at work with Tourette Syndrome, with Devon LovellEpisode 68: Real life insights into understanding and supporting autism in the workplace, with Cybill WatkinsEpisode 59: ADHD – a personal story of the strengths, struggles & strategies that help, with Julie WhiteLooking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of...

Have you ever felt stifled by a micromanager? Whether you're currently dealing with one or want to help someone else navigate their micromanager boss, this episode of HR Coffee Time is packed with practical advice to improve the situation.Key Points from This Episode[00:00] Examples of micromanagement[01:38] Welcome to HR Coffee Time[03:00] Micromanagement defined[03:16] Dealing with micromanagement can feel difficult[04:24] Advice: start from a place of empathy rather than anger[05:00] Seek first to understand, then to be understood[05:14] An example of when Fay micromanaged[05:51] Causes of micromanagement: lack of management training[06:15] Causes of micromanagement: stress[07:17] Causes of micromanagement: lack of trust[07:45] Examples of calling out micromanaging behaviour[09:08] Causes of micromanagement: lack of trust, clarity, or process[09:31] Micromanagement negatively impacts both you and the manager[10:02] Taking a coaching approach by asking questions can be powerful[11:45] Pointing out the behaviour is negatively affecting the manager[12:16] Brené Brown's idea of ‘paint it done' from her book, ‘Dare to Lead'[14:16] Using the 5Ws and 1H questions to help your manager ‘paint it done'[16:12] Examples of using ‘what' questions[17:56] Examples of using ‘where' questions[18:46] Examples of ‘how' questions[18:58] Examples of ‘why' questions[19:13] Examples of ‘who' questions[19:28] Examples of ‘when' questions[20:44] Other relevant HR Coffee Time episodes to listen to Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career Coaching Buy the Book Recommendation(Disclosure: the book links are affiliate links which means that Fay will receive a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through them)Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts, by Brené Brown Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 03: Building relationships with difficult people at workEpisode 35: Helping teams thrive with personal user manualsEpisode 41: 3 tips to build a better relationship with a difficult person at workLooking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn't very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at:

Navigating the workplace as a deaf individual comes with unique challenges that can often go unnoticed. In this episode of HR Coffee Time, we delve into practical strategies to foster an inclusive and empowering environment for deaf colleagues.Host Fay Wallis is joined by Victoria Williams, founder and CEO of terptree, an organisation dedicated to transforming the experiences of deaf employees and customers.Key Points From This Episode[00:00] Introduction and overview[00:59] Introducing Victoria Williams[02:50] The story behind terptree[07:04] The power of 1% changes[07:41] Make sure website content is written in plain English and is well laid out[07:55] Ensure you provide an email address not just a phone number in your website's contact details[10:09] Deafness is a hidden disability[10:36] Hearing loss can be acquired over time[10:51] People don't always realise they are experiencing hearing loss[11:28] Misconceptions about hearing aids[12:27] Deaf employees may miss out on incidental learning[15:31] Practical tips for inclusivity – environment, communication, team integration[16:18] Involving the deaf person in making adjustments[16:53] Larger organisations can engage with internal employee focus groups[17:02] The Access to Work scheme[18:43] Health and safety – ensuring the fire alarm system is effective[19:41] Disability disclose is a moving thing[20:11] The importance of being open and building trust and empathy[20:38] The social side of work is important[21:09] Using an interpreter for British Sign Language users[21:25] Deaf awareness training ‘is a must'[22:35] Attracting Deaf Talent[22:59] The Disability Confident Employer scheme[28:11] How to contact Victoria and learn more about her workUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Victoria on LinkedInVictoria's website: terptreeAccess to Work SchemeDisability Confident employer schemeDeaf UK JobsBuy the Book Recommendation(Disclosure: the book links are affiliate links which means that Fay will receive a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through them)Don't Silence Your Talent: Unleash the value of your deaf employees, by Victoria Williams Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesSpotify playlist: HR Coffee Time – create an equitable, diverse & inclusive workplaceLooking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please

Creating your professional development plan is a great way of ensuring you don't stagnate at work and get bored in your role. It can help you thrive at work and feel fulfilled no matter what stage you're at in your HR/People career.In this episode of HR Coffee Time, host, Fay Wallis talks you through how to create your perfect professional development plan in 8 simple steps.Key Points from This Episode[04:14] Step one: Identify what you're aiming for[11:52] Step two: Record ideas you already have[12:00] Step three: Look Back to Look Forward[16:36] Step four: Capture your values[20:13] Step five: Seek feedback[21:26] Step six: Consider key HR areas of influence[23:35] Step seven: Identify career-enhancing skills[25:23] Step eight: Set your goals Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingThe HR Planner Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 5: How to progress your HR career (using the 3E model)Episode 17: How to set your career goals for 2022Episode 47: Discovering your values to help your HR career, with Zoe HawkinsEpisode 66: Reflecting on 2022 – look back to look forwardEpisode 116: Look back to look forward – how reflecting on 2023 can help you set goals for 2024Looking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn't very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.

Looking to elevate your professional development and would like to ask for your employer's support?Whether it's joining Inspiring HR or embarking on another professional learning journey, this episode of HR Coffee Time is here to help.Guests Kathryn Bryan and Larissa Smith, alumni from previous Inspiring HR cohorts, generously detail their paths to gaining employer support for their professional growth. They also share practical advice to help you confidently secure funding for your own development. Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingLearn more about Inspiring HR Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 97: Inspiring HR – the purpose behind it and what to expect if you joinEpisode 88: How to write a Compelling Business Case & get approval for your idea, with Jo TaylorLooking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn't very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.

Working in the fast-paced, busy world of HR can feel stressful. As a dedicated and hardworking HR professional, you may find yourself prioritising looking after everyone else in the organisation above your own wellbeing. But it's so important you are able to take care of yourself too, so that the stress doesn't reach the point of burnout. In this episode of HR Coffee Time, released during Stress Awareness Month, Dr Jo Burrell joins host, Fay Wallis, to share her advice on spotting signs of stress and how to take action to stop it in its tracks.Key Points From This Episode[00:00] Introduction and Importance of Discussing Stress and Burnout[02:09] Introducing Dr Jo Burrell[07:05] Worrying Results from the HR Mental Wellbeing Survey[08:52] Understanding and Combating Burnout[11:42] Personal Reflections on Stress and Work Habits[22:11] Strategies to Prevent Burnout and Manage Stress[29:21] An Example Case Study[39:07] Book Recommendation Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Jo on LinkedInJo's website: Ultimate ResilienceHSE (Health and Safety Executive) stress resourcesCIPD's wellbeing helpline Buy the Book Recommendation(Disclosure: the book links are affiliate links which means that Fay will receive a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through them)A Work In Progress: Unlocking Wellbeing to Create More Sustainable and Resilient Organisations, by Gethin Nadin Other Relevant HR Coffee Time Episodes & PlaylistsBuild Resilience & Handle Stressful Situations PlaylistLooking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn't very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.

Throughout your HR journey, it's normal for your confidence to sometimes dip or wobble. That's exactly where HR Coffee Time steps in to lend a hand. In this episode, you'll hear insights from five expert guests whose advice spans from broad confidence-boosting tips to specific strategies for navigating those tricky moments in your career. Tune in for a blend of perspectives that will lift your spirits and arm you with practical tools for a more confident path forward in HR.Key Points From This Episode[00:00] Introduction and Thank Yous[03:14] Introduction to Confidence[08:52] Compilation of Confidence Building Tips[09:17] Confidence Tip from Pete Hykin[11:43] Confidence Tip from Antoinette Dale Henderson[13:30] Confidence Tip from Simon Duncan[15:31] Confidence Tip from Roisin Williams[18:42] Confidence Tip from Louise Kennedy[19:41] ConclusionUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Holly Christie on LinkedInHolly's website: This Demanding LifeConnect with Pete Hykin on LinkedInPete's website: PenfoldConnect with Antoinette Dale Henderson on LinkedInAntoinette's website: Antoinette Dale HendersonConnect with Simon Duncan on LinkedInConnect with Roisin Williams on LinkedInRoisin's website: Job Seeker CoachingConnect with Louise Kennedy on LinkedInLouise's website: Occulus HRBuy the Book Recommendation(Disclosure: the book links are affiliate links which means that Fay will receive a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through them)Becoming, by Michelle ObamaOther Relevant HR Coffee Time Episodes & PlaylistsBuild Your Confidence Podcast PlaylistEpisode 105: Brilliant not boring – unlocking financial wellbeing with pensions at work, with Pete HykinEpisode 104: How to improve your gravitas to make an impact throughout your HR career, with Antoinette Dale HendersonEpisode 115: Why negotiation skills can help your HR career & how to develop them, with Simon DuncanEpisode 113: The trustee advantage – enhance your HR leadership and make a difference, with Roisin WilliamsEpisode 120:

Are you struggling with how to get pay right in your organisation, feeling the weight of its complexity and cost? You're not alone. Payroll can be the largest expense for a business, running into millions, and it's a crucial aspect of HR that doesn't come with a handbook. Whether you're facing challenges with pay dissatisfaction among your talent, confronting unsettling pay gaps, or stepping into a new role with an outdated pay structure, there's always room for improvement.In this episode of HR Coffee Time, host Fay Wallis talks with Rameez Kaleem, Founder and CEO of 3R Strategy, to shed light on creating pay practices that truly pay off. He breaks down the building blocks of fair and effective pay practices that can attract, reward, and retain the best talent for your organisation.Key TakeawaysPay transparency is about openness and honesty in pay processes, not about disclosing everyone's salaries (a common misconception). It builds trust and demonstrates fairness in how pay decisions are made.Pay transparency helps in attracting talent; candidates are more likely to apply for a role when the salary is included in the job posting.Well-communicated pay equity is 13 times more important in retaining your employees than higher pay levels.Why you should never ask the question, “What's your current salary?” Or, “What are your pay expectations?” when interviewing.Rameez's Five-Step Pay Transparency Project Plan:Step 1: Establish a reward strategy and pay philosophy.Step 2: Conduct benchmarking with reliable data to understand market rates.Step 3: Develop a career framework for clarity on career progression and pay scales.Step 4: Build pay structures aligned with the career framework.Step 5: Consider pay progression and how employees can progress within the pay range. Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Rameez on LinkedInRameez's website: 3R Strategy Buy the Book Recommendations(Disclosure: the book links are affiliate links which means that Fay will receive a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through them)A Case of the Mondays: Attract and retain the best talent through pay transparency, by Rameez KaleemStart With Why: How great leaders inspire everyone to take action, by Simon SinekQuiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking, by Susan CainAtomic Habits: An Easy and Proven Way to Build Good Habits and Break Bad Ones, by James Clear Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 14: Understanding & fixing your organisation's gender pay gap, with Melissa BlissettEpisode 88: How to...

If you're stuck about defining or shaping culture in your organisation, you're not alone. The concept often appears fuzzy, theoretical, and more suited for addressing in large corporations than smaller teams. But it's a vital component of every thriving workplace. In this episode of HR Coffee Time host, Fay Wallis is joined by Louise Kennedy from Oculus HR, known for her ability to simplify seemingly complex things into clear, actionable steps.Key TakeawaysCulture can feel complex and difficult to define, but it is essential for the success of any organization.Defining culture can happen at different stages of a business's growth.Involving employees in defining culture is crucial for unearthing the ‘now' culture.Values play a significant role in shaping culture.Engaging senior leadership in culture conversations is essential for driving culture change.Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Louise on LinkedInLouise's website: Oculus HR Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 114: What workplace culture is, how to measure it & a surprising way to improve it, with Arend BoersemaEpisode 88: How to write a compelling business case & get approval for your idea, with Jo TaylorLooking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn't very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.

If you've ever wondered how to shift your organisation's perception of HR from being an operational, admin-heavy function, to one that is strategic, innovative and drives positive change; this episode of HR Coffee Time is here to help. Host, Fay Wallis is joined by Kate Maddison-Greenwell from People Efficient and together they take a deep dive into the exciting world of Agile HR.Key TakeawaysAgile is a mindset and set of methodologies focused on adding value to customers, including employees in the case of HR.Agile HR involves breaking down complex projects or problems into iterative chunks and prioritizing people-centric solutions.Visualization tools like Miro can facilitate collaboration and inclusivity in Agile HR.Games like planning poker can help teams estimate time and value more accurately in Agile HR.Sprints, typically two weeks long, are cycles in Agile HR that involve planning, doing, reviewing, and reflecting on progress.To get started with Agile HR, start small with a project or problem, focus on psychological safety, and gain sponsorship from senior leaders.Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Kate on LinkedInKate's website: People Efficient Buy the Book Recommendation(Disclosure: the book link is an affiliate link which means that Fay will receive a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through it)Built for People: Transform Your Employee Experience Using Product Management Principles, Jessica Zwaan Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 114: What workplace culture is, how to measure it & a surprising way to improve it, with Arend BoersemaEpisode 102: Boosting your strategic knowledge to step up in your HR roleEpisode 22: How to handle conflict at work, with Ginny RadmallLooking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn't very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next

Even though you're excited about the course you've signed up to, it's easy to veer off track with it when you're juggling a demanding HR job. So, to help set you up for success & make the learning from the course stick, this episode of HR Coffee Time is here to help. In it, host, Fay Wallis shares 9 tips to unlock training success when you're a busy HR professional. Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingInspiring HR Group Programme Buy the Book Recommendation(Disclosure: the book links are affiliate links which means that Fay will receive a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through them)Neuroscience for Learning and Development, by Stella Collins Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 97: Inspiring HR: the purpose behind it and what to expect if you joinEpisode 110: Why facilitation skills can help your career & how to develop them, with Kirsty LewisEpisode 15: How networking can help your careerEpisode 16: How to become more confident about networkingLooking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn't very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.Mentioned in this episode:Inspiring HR DetailsBuild your confidence, influence, strategic skills and impact at work with Inspiring HR. The programme is back at the end of February 2024 and there are only 10 slots available. Learn more and sign up via this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website. Inspiring HR

How is your performance management strategy impacting employee engagement? Understanding how to use it effectively can lead to better results for employees and therefore the organisation, as well as save money through staff retention. Performance management should be about more than KPIs and day-to-day tasks, it should be seen as an individualised opportunity to support career growth. With continuous conversations, clear goals and regular constructive feedback, performance management can become a far more effective tool.In this episode of HR Coffee Time, host Fay Wallis is joined by Lucinda Carney the CEO and Founder of Actus. A purpose-built performance and talent management software, which makes her the perfect person to share her knowledge on:Performance management's impact on employee engagementBest practices for performance managementThe importance of clear goalsTailoring performance management to individualsHow to drive high performanceWhy you need to do more than annual appraisals Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Lucinda on LinkedInActusListen to Lucinda's Podcast HR UprisingActus on FacebookActus on YouTube Resources Mentioned During the EpisodeThe Gallup Q12 employee engagement surveyThe CIPD research report: Performance management: Could do better?Actus ResourcesResearch review: What works in performance managementWebinar recording: Rethinking appraisals webinar recordingWhite paper: How to design an appraisal processEbook: The complete guide to 360 feedback Buy the Book Recommendations(Disclosure: the book links are affiliate links which means that Fay will receive a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through them)The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, by Stephen R. CoveyHBR's 10 Must Reads on Performance Management, by Harvard Business ReviewHow to be a Change Superhero: The business toolkit to help you to 'do' change better, by Lucinda Carney Other Relevant

Instead of launching yourself into another busy year at work, it is helpful to take a moment to pause and reflect so that you can set your goals. There will be powerful lessons to learn from the year that has just passed and so many positives that you may overlook unless you take the time to stop.In this episode of HR Coffee Time, host Fay Wallis guides you through the ‘Look Back to Look Forward' activity from the 2024 HR Planner. It is 10 questions to help you acknowledge your successes and challenges, and spark ideas for powerful goals to set for 2024. In the spirit of ‘walking the walk as well as talking the talk', she also shares her answers to the questions. Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingFay's blog article: Reflecting on 2023 - looking back to look forwardThe HR PlannerOther Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 99: How mediation skills can help you resolve conflict at work, with Pete ColbyEpisode 110: Why facilitation skills can help your HR career & how to develop them, with Kirsty LewisEpisode 115: Why negotiation skills can help your HR career & how to develop them, with Simon DuncanLooking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn't very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.

Unless you are working for a truly enormous organization where all supplier negotiations are handled by a procurement team, you are going to find yourself having to negotiate at some point. Whether it's with the recruitment agencies you use to fill vacancies, the supplier of your HRIS system, or the company that administers your benefits scheme for you – there are a whole host of occasions when negotiation skills can come in handy, you can add huge value to your organisation from a financial perspective and impress the senior leadership team.The problem is that most HR/People professionals are never taught negotiation skills. So, if negotiation is something you've felt nervous about, or dreaded doing, this episode of HR Coffee Time is here to help. In it, host, Fay Wallis, is joined by negotiation expert Simon Duncan who explains:What negotiation isThe four phases of a successful negotiationPhase one: planningPhase two: launchingPhase three: undertakingPhase four: securingA confidence-boosting tip Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Simon on LinkedInEmail Simon at: duncan.simon@mail.comLooking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn't very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk.Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.

‘Culture' can seem like a vague and woolly concept. You can feel what a culture is like as soon as you start working in an organization but it can be hard to describe it and even harder to know what to do to measure or improve it. But with many HR teams being renamed as ‘People and Culture' and job titles being changed to reflect this, understanding workplace culture and knowing how to shape and improve it are essential skills for People professionals.This episode of HR Coffee Time is here to help. Host Fay Wallis and expert guest Arend Boersema explore:Understanding workplace cultureMeasuring cultureThoughts on pursuing an ‘ideal culture'How personal connection impacts cultureWhere Arend's passion and interest in culture stem fromUsing poetry in organizationsA live reading from Arend's book, “Poetry at the heart of business”Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Arend on LinkedInVisit Arend's websiteAccess Fay's free PDF version of the 2024 HR PlannerBuy the hardback 2024 HR Planner Resources Mentioned During the Episode

Have you set your sights on a senior HR role but feel like you're missing out on strategic experience in your current job? Or perhaps you're not confident enough to operate at board level? Bridging this gap could be more fulfilling than you think. Becoming a trustee for a charity is a smart career move that not only sharpens your strategic skills and gives you board-level exposure, it also offers the rewarding opportunity to do meaningful work by supporting a charity. It's a unique blend of professional growth and contributing to the greater good.In this episode of HR Coffee Time, host Fay Wallis chats with the insightful Roisin Williams from Job Seeker Coaching. With her rich background as an HR professional, career coach, and seasoned trustee, Roisin unpacks the ins and outs of trusteeship. She's here to share:A clear breakdown of what it means to be a trusteeThe real deal on the responsibilities and expectations that come with the titleThe unexpected upsides of stepping into a trustee roleAnswers to those niggling doubts and questions you might haveTips on how to kick-start your journey as a trusteeThis isn't just another podcast episode; it's your invitation to step up, expand your HR horizon, and contribute to a cause that matters. So, why not give it a listen and see where trusteeship could take you? Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Roisin on LinkedInRoisin's websiteAccess Fay's free PDF version of the 2024 HR PlannerBuy the hardback 2024 HR Planner Resources Mentioned During the EpisodeThe Charity Commission for England and WalesGetting on BoardVolunteering Matters (formerly Community Service Volunteers) Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 5: How to progress your HR career (using the 3E model)Looking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn't very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new

Go behind the scenes of HR Coffee Time and learn what to expect if you're a guest on the show, and how to set yourself up for a successful interview. In this episode, Fay explains:The benefits of being a guest on HR Coffee TimeOvercoming nervousness and preparing for the interviewThe interview processTips for a successful interviewTechnical aspects of the interviewTips to reduce filler wordsThe importance of keeping the audience in mindHow to become a guest on HR Coffee Time Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingThe HR PlannerLooking For the Transcript?You can find transcripts for all episodes on the HR Coffee Time section of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn't very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.Mentioned in this episode:Get Your 2024 HR PlannerSet yourself up for the best year of your HR career with the 2024 HR Planner. Order your copy today. 2024 hardback HR Planner

With claims that we're working in a world designed for extroverts, it's important we understand how to make our workplaces more inclusive, so that we can all thrive.In this episode of HR Coffee Time, Fay is joined by Tom Cleary, Founder of Introverts & Co. Tom shares how to thrive at work as an introvert, and busts myths you may have heard before about introversion. He also explains practical strategies to help set yourself, your colleagues and your workplaces up for success. Some of the many things he covers include:Understanding introversion: definition and misconceptionsThe impact of introversion in the workplaceTom's personal journey: from introversion to advocacyWhy introversion is such an important topic for us all to be aware of & learn more aboutCreating inclusive meetings & team building events for introvertsStrengths and challenges of being an introvertStrategies for introverts to thrive in the workplaceThe importance of identifying personal values Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Tom on LinkedInTom's websiteTom's free online community: Introverts and coBuy the Book Recommendations(Disclosure: the book link is an affiliate link which means that Fay will receive a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through it)Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking, by Susan Cain Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 43: The one thing that will boost your resilience throughout your HR career, with Tom ClearyEpisode 47: Discovering your values to help your HR career, with Zoe HawkinsEpisode 75: What psychometrics are, how you can use them & why they're so helpful, with Sue ColtonEpisode 110: Why facilitation skills can help your HR career & how to develop them, with Kirsty LewisHR Coffee Time inclusion playlist (on Spotify)HR Coffee Time inclusion playlist (online)Looking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching...

Facilitation skills can help you thrive in your HR/People career. In this episode of HR Coffee Time, Fay is joined by Kirsty Lewis, Founder of the School of Facilitation (SOF) who generously shares valuable insights, tips, and resources for honing facilitation skills. Listen to this episode to learn:What facilitation isThe difference between facilitation and trainingHow facilitation skills can help your HR careerPractical tips on facilitating or running an online workshop (to make it as effective and engaging as possible)How to develop facilitation skillsRecommendations for further learning & helpful resourcesUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Kirsty on LinkedInKirsty's website: School of FacilitationAccess Fay's free PDF version of the 2024 HR PlannerBuy the hardback 2024 HR PlannerResources Mentioned During the EpisodeLiberating StructuresSessionlab (this is Kirsty's affiliate link)Miro – online collaboration toolMural – online collaboration toolNever Done BeforeL&D ShakersButterThe High Performance Podcast Buy the Book Recommendations(Disclosure: the book links are affiliate links which means that Fay will receive a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through them)The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters, by Priya ParkerNeuroscience for Learning and Development, by Stella CollinsOther Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 94: Summer reads: 3 great books to help your HR careerLooking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee...

Do you have an annual project coming up? A project you only need to do once a year that can feel a bit daunting because it can feel hard to remember everything involved, what you need to do and what order to do it all in? Maybe the end-of-year performance management process is looming, or you're working towards launching the annual employee engagement survey, or you run a graduate recruitment scheme that starts up in January. In a busy HR/People role, the possibilities for projects you might be working on are endless.This episode of HR Coffee Time is here to help you succeed with annual projects and not get overwhelmed. Fay talks through the Simple Process Plan template she uses to help her stay on track with projects that roll around once a year. (Although she does use it for everyday processes too).She explains what it is, how it's laid out, how to use it and the 4 reasons it's so effective. Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingVimeo RecordLoomLooking For the Transcript?You can find transcripts for all episodes on the HR Coffee Time section of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website. Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn't very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.Mentioned in this episode:Get Your 2024 HR PlannerSet yourself up for the best year of your HR career with the 2024 HR Planner. Order your copy today. 2024 hardback HR Planner

Strategy is a topic we've explored before on HR Coffee Time (and we'll look at again in the future) because it's an important aspect of HR leadership. Whether you're a seasoned strategist, or you feel uncomfortable and worried when it comes to strategy, this episode is here to help you build your skills and confidence. Strategy expert and author of the award-winning book, “The Strategy Book: How to think and act strategically to deliver outstanding results”, Dr Max Mckeown shares: What strategy is & what it isn't How you're already a strategist (even if you don't realise it) Why people doubt themselves when it comes to being strategic The three parts of being strategic – timescale, scope, & sequence An example of strategy done badly An example of a good strategy (McDonalds) Strategy is simple but simple is complex Max's strategy tool, Speed Strategy – where are we now, where do we want to go, what do we need to do to get there, how do we need to do it, what do we need to measure along the route, what is pushing us, what might stop us? Useful Links Connect with Fay on LinkedIn Fay's website: Bright Sky Career Coaching Free Speed Strategy template Max's website Connect with Max on LinkedIn Buy the Book Recommendation (Disclosure: the book links are affiliate links which means that Fay will receive a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through them) The Pocket Oracle and Art of Prudence, by Baltasar Gracián The Strategy Book: How to think and act strategically to deliver outstanding results, by Max Mckeown The Innovation Book: How to manage ideas and execution for outstanding results, by Max Mckeown Adaptability: The art of winning in an age of uncertainty, by Max Mckeown Other Relevant HR Coffee Time Episodes Episode 102: Boosting your strategic knowledge to step up in your HR role Episode 98: HR insider insights: how to create a powerful People Strategy for an SME, with Kelly Vincent Episode 93: Creating a more inclusive work culture: how to make an impact, with Toby Mildon Episode 77: How to create an effective DEI strategy, with Metra Rowe Episode 61:

Have you ever felt like a fraud at work and worried you were about to be found out at any moment? Do you ever hold yourself back from asking for what you want for fear of hearing the word, “no”? Do you ever procrastinate because you're worried about getting things ‘perfect' enough? Do you work incredibly hard – perhaps harder than your colleagues and peers because you want to make sure you're achieving good results at work?If you can answer ‘yes' to any of these questions, you are not alone. You may be experiencing imposter syndrome; something that affects many of us at certain points throughout our career.In this episode of HR Coffee Time, guest Aoife O'Brien explains what imposter syndrome is, the impact it has at work and how to tackle it head-on.Listen to the episode to learn:What imposter syndrome is (and what it isn't)Where her interest in imposter syndrome comes fromResults from Aoife's research into imposter syndromeHow imposter syndrome impacts performance (including procrastination and burnout)What Aoife thinks about claims that imposter syndrome doesn't exist or that it's an unhelpful labelPractical strategies to tackle imposter syndrome throughout your organisationTips to help you overcome imposter syndrome for yourself, including ABC (A = acknowledge, B = belief, C = courageous action)How knowing your strengths and asking for feedback can helpUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingAoife's Imposter Syndrome Survey ReportAoife's Happier at Work websiteAoife's Imposter Syndrome websiteGallup Clifton Strengths AssessmentFay's HR Planner Aoife's social media profilesConnect with Aoife on LinkedInFollow Aoife on InstagramFollow Aoife on Twitter / XSubscribe to Aoife's YouTube channel Buy the Book Recommendation(Disclosure: the book links are affiliate links which means that Fay will receive a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through them)High Performance Habits: How Extraordinary People Become That Way, by Brendon Burchard Other HR Coffee Times Mentioned in This EpisodeEpisode 1: How to feel more confident at workEpisode 36:

If you have no idea what to post on LinkedIn, or why you should be posting on there, this episode of HR Coffee Time is here to help. Fay explains why it's so important to be active on LinkedIn to build your professional and employer brands. She then explains 7 types of posts to share on LinkedIn that will help your HR career.Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career Coaching Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 11: Networking – the three most important networks for your career - Bright Sky Career CoachingEpisode 15: How networking can help your career - Bright Sky Career CoachingEpisode 16: How to become more confident about networking - Bright Sky Career CoachingEpisode 17: 3 little-known LinkedIn features which will help you get your next job - Bright Sky Career CoachingEpisode 101: How to build confidence with networking for HR career success, with Yvonne Walsh - Bright Sky Career Coaching Looking For the Transcript?You can find transcripts for all episodes on the HR Coffee Time section of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website. Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.Mentioned in this episode:Get Your 2024 HR PlannerSet yourself up for the best year of your HR career with the 2024 HR Planner. Order your copy today. 2024 hardback HR Planner

Although pensions can feel like a boring or complicated topic (especially if you're not a Reward specialist), HR Coffee Time guest Pete Hykin shows this doesn't have to be the case. In this episode he helps strip away any worries you might have about choosing a pension provider or talking about pensions at work. He also shares some great tips on how to get everyone engaged with their pensions and focused on their financial wellbeing.Listen to the episode to learn:Why it's important to prioritise getting pensions right, even though you have other projects and issues competing for your time and attention.You can draw a direct line from employee productivity to employee wellbeing and financial wellbeing.Aside from their house, their pension is the largest financial asset your employees will have in their lives.Pensions are a major part of financial wellbeing.The importance of educating people about pensions.Help bring the amount of money in peoples' pensions to life.You can use tools like salary sacrifice to put more money in your employees' pockets.Create a culture and environment where people can talk about money and their financial wellbeing.Inclusion and pensions.Tips on choosing a new pension provider – consult with your employees to find out what's important to them.Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingBook a virtual chat with PenfoldBuy the Book Recommendation(Disclosure: the book link is an affiliate link which means that Fay will receive a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through it)Becoming, by Michelle Obama Other HR Coffee Times Mentioned in This EpisodeEpisode 48: How to support your colleagues with bereavement at work, with Michelle SmithLooking For the Transcript?You can find transcripts for all episodes on the HR Coffee Time section of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website. Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk.Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.Mentioned in this episode:Get Your 2024 HR PlannerSet yourself up for the best year of your HR career with the 2024 HR Planner. Order your copy today.

Gravitas can help you make an impact throughout your HR career, but it can feel hard to define, and even harder to work out how to develop it. Antoinette Dale Henderson is on hand to help. Having made it her life's work to decode the elements that contribute to gravitas and teach us how to improve our own personal gravitas, she shares some of her key insights and tips in this episode of HR Coffee Time, including:Antoinette's definition of gravitas, “The ability to command respect, get taken seriously, and get your voice heard. All while retaining your own authentic self.”How gender impacts perception of gravitas.The six components of Antoinette's model, The Gravitas Wheel.Internal components: self-awareness, expertise, authenticityExternal components: presence, connection, projectionSitting in the centre of the wheel: purposeHow to plan using OPRAHS to make sure you have maximum presence in a situation:O: objective – what's your objective?P: people – which people will be there & what's their objective?R: role – what role am I playing?A: attitude – what attitude do I need to have?H: hear – what am I going to hear?S: say – what am I going to say?Increasing or decreasing your presence using body language, voice, eye contact and clothingUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Antoinette on LinkedInFollow Antoinette on InstagramAntoinette's websiteBuy the Book Recommendations(Disclosure: the book links are affiliate links which means that Fay will receive a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through them)Leading With Gravitas: Unlock the six keys to impact and influence, by Antoinette Dale HendersonPower Up: The Smart Woman's Guide to Unleashing Her Potential, by Antoinette Dale HendersonLook Like The Leader You Are: A 7 step strategy for ambitious women, by Lizzie EdwardsCompelling People: The Hidden Qualities That Make Us Influential, by John Neffinger & Matthew Kohut Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 91: How to be more assertive at work – a fresh approach, with Trisha LewisEpisode 73: 5 ways to feel more confident in your next interview, meeting, or presentationLooking For the Transcript?You can find transcripts for all episodes on the HR Coffee Time section of the Bright Sky Career Coaching...

Contracting (taking on a role that isn't a permanent position) can be a great option for your HR career. But how do you know whether it's the right fit for you?This episode of HR Coffee Time is here to help you answer that question. Experienced HR contractor – Eleanor Minshall, shares her insights and explains:How she made the switch from permanent employment to contracting.The benefits of contractingThe downsides of contracting to be aware ofUseful skills to have as a contractorHow to get a contract roleHow to set yourself up for success in a contract role Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career Coaching Buy the Book Recommendations(Disclosure: book links are affiliate links which means that Fay will receive a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through them)‘Will It Make The Boat Go Faster?: Olympic-winning Strategies for Everyday Success' by Harriet Beveridge & Ben Hunt-Davis‘Legacy: 15 Lessons in Leadership' by James Kerr Other HR Coffee Time Episodes MentionedEpisode 04: Finding your next HR job – key tips from an HR Recruiter, with Tansel OmerEpisode 13: How to get a senior-level role, with Craig ElvinEpisode 101: How to build confidence with networking for HR career success, with Yvonne WalshLooking For the Transcript?You can find transcripts for all episodes on the HR Coffee Time section of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website. Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.Mentioned in this episode:Get Your 2024 HR PlannerSet yourself up for the best year of your HR career with the 2024 HR Planner. Order your copy today. 2024 hardback HR Planner

Build your confidence and knowledge about strategy with this episode of HR Coffee Time. Fay talks you through the key takeaways from Richard Rumelt's modern business classic, “Good Strategy, Bad Strategy: The difference and why it matters.”Not only will this help you create more powerful People and HR strategies, but it will also help you understand how to craft and contribute to the overarching strategy for the whole organisation you work in.This episode will be helpful for you, no matter which role you're ultimately aiming for, but it will be especially useful if you'd like to move into a Board-level role (or are already in one).Ideas shared in the episode, include:The kernel of good strategy is made up of:A diagnosis that defines or explains the nature of the challengeA guiding policy for dealing with the challengeA set of coherent actions designed to carry out the guiding policy9 sources of power:LeverageProximate objectivesChain-link systemsUsing designFocusGrowthUsing advantageUsing dynamicsInertia and entropy Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career Coaching Buy the Book Recommendation(Disclosure: the book link is an affiliate link which means that Fay will receive a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through it)Good Strategy, Bad Strategy: The difference and why it matters, by Richard Rumelt Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 26: How to be strategic in your new HR leadership roleEpisode 61: The 4 pillars that will help you be strategic in your HR roleEpisode 77: How to create an effective DEI strategy, with Metra RoweEpisode 98: HR insider insights: how to create a powerful people strategy for an SME, with Kelly VincentLooking For the Transcript?You can find transcripts for all episodes on the HR Coffee Time section of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website. Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by

If you've heard networking can help your HR/People career but are nervous about it, or you're not sure how to do it well, this episode of HR Coffee Time is here to help.Seasoned networker and HR professional Yvonne Walsh shares her personal experiences when it comes to networking. You'll hear the fantastic impact networking has had on Yvonne's career, and she shares invaluable tips to build up your confidence and skills when it comes to networking:How to get started with networking if you're a bit nervous and perhaps not a naturally outgoing personThe benefits of attending eventsOvercoming nerves about networkingThinking rigidly about what networking ‘is' and what it ‘isn't'Knowing how to networkNetworking in a remote environmentSimple but effective tips: talk to people, smile, be interested in what they have to say, exchange contact details, and follow up afterwards.Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Yvonne on LinkedInYvonne's Book Recommendation(Disclosure: the book link is an affiliate link which means that Fay will receive a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through it)‘The Light We Carry: Overcoming In Uncertain Times' by Michelle ObamaOther Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 11: Networking – the three most important networks for your careerEpisode 15: How networking can help your careerEpisode 16: How to become more confident about networkingLooking For the Transcript?You can find transcripts for all episodes from episodes 66 onwards on the HR Coffee Time section of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk.Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One! Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.Mentioned in this episode:Get Your 2024 HR PlannerSet yourself up for the best year of your HR career with the 2024 HR Planner. Order your copy today.

For this special milestone episode of HR Coffee Time, Fay shares three of the lessons she has learnt from creating 100 episodes of the podcast. They're lessons that can apply to everyone, no matter what point they are at in their career and no matter what job they do:You can make time for what matters, even if you think you can't.Aim for progress over perfection.People are wonderful and happy to help.Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingDownload the free pdf version of the HR Planner Other HR Coffee Time Episodes MentionedEpisode 90: How a ‘Personal Board' can help solve your challenges at work Episode 29: Making a success of your promotion to a leadership role, with Jacqui JaggerEpisode 89: How to reach your HR career goals by understanding your tendencyEpisode 92: Time Management tips to stay on top of your busy day, with Louisa van VessemEpisode 67: How to get on top of email overwhelm when you're in a busy HR roleEpisode 45: 6 ways to stop procrastinating & find time for important projects at workEpisode 07: What to do when there aren't enough hours in the dayEpisode 80: How quarterly reviews can help you thrive in your HR careerEpisode 85: 6 questions to prioritise what matters for your HR/People careerEpisode 43: The one thing that will boost your resilience throughout your HR career, with Tom ClearyEpisode 32: How to write work emails that get results, with Kim ArnoldEpisode 37: The ‘first 100 days' plan to succeed in your new HR leadership role, with Niamh O'KeeffeEpisode 11: Networking – the 3 most important networks for your careerEpisode 15: How networking can help your careerEpisode 16:

Conflict is something you'll often be asked to help with in your role as a People professional. So, mediation skills are a useful conflict resolution tool to have in your toolbox, ready to put into action when you need them.In this episode of HR Coffee Time, Pete Colby, Director and lead Mediator at Pragmatism joins host, Fay Wallis, to talk through how mediation skills can help you resolve conflict at work. Some of the many things he covers include:Exactly what mediation is and what mediation skills are.Why grievances don't solve workplace issues, but mediations do.How mediation skills can be used to nip problems in the bud before they escalate.Why mediation skills can have huge benefits for People teams and organizations as a whole.What makes a great mediator.Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Pete Colby on LinkedInPete's website: PragmatismPete's blog post: Would I make a good mediator? Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 22: How to handle conflict at work, with Ginny RadmallEpisode 56: How to do a great job with collective consultations for redundancies, with Pete ColbyEpisode 83: Destructive team dynamics – how to spot them & get things back on track, with Gabriella BraunEpisode 03: Building relationships with difficult people at workLooking For the Transcript?You can find transcripts for all episodes from episodes 66 onwards on the HR Coffee Time section of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk.Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.Mentioned in this episode:Get Your 2024 HR PlannerSet yourself up for the best

If you're wrestling with the challenge of crafting an effective People Strategy, this episode of HR Coffee Time is here to help. Kelly Vincent, Head of People & Culture at a thriving edtech company, shares her insights into building a powerful People Strategy from the ground up.Kelly's key insights, tips and learnings from the experience of creating a powerful People Strategy for an SME include:Get buy-in from the CEO and senior leadership team.Spend time getting to understand the business and the people within it.Align the People Strategy with the business strategy.Review what is already in place.Get all your ideas out of your head and onto paper, so you can focus.Prioritise because you'll have more ideas than you can implement in one year.Identify what the outputs will be from your strategy.Assess how long it will take you to achieve the goals you've set in the People Strategy.Identify whether your plans need to involve other departments and find out if they have time to support you.Your strategy will be shaped by how much time your ideas will take to implement and the resources that you'll need.Keep a record of you ‘spilled over ideas' that didn't make it into this year's strategy, so you can consider them again in the future.Chose KPIs and measures that are suitable for your strategy.Carve out dedicated time to work on your strategy – giving yourself regular time slots, instead of trying to write the whole thing in one day can be helpful.Kelly chose to have 3 pillars in her People Strategy because this aligned with the overall business strategy that also used 3 pillars. Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingKelly's Book Recommendation(Disclosure: the book link is an affiliate link which means that Fay will receive a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through it)‘Take Back Your Power: 10 New Rules for Women at Work', by Deborah Liu Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 58: How to feel more confident using data & analytics in your HR role, with Angela MoyleEpisode 26: How to be strategic in your new HR leadership roleEpisode 61: The 4 pillars that will help you be strategic in your HR roleEpisode 77: How to create an effective DEI strategy, with Metra Rowe Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This...

If you'd like to build your confidence, influence, impact and credibility at work, then the group programme, Inspiring HR, might be just what you're looking for. In this episode of HR Coffee Time, Fay talks through the purpose behind creating Inspiring HR and what to expect if you join.Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career CoachingInspiring HR: further information & sign-up detailsBooks Recommended in This Episode(Disclosure: the book links are affiliate links which means that Fay will receive a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through them)Everything I Know about Life I Learned from PowerPoint, by Russell DaviesThe Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters, by Priya Parker Other HR Coffee Time Episodes Mentioned in This EpisodeEpisode 96: Finding the perfect HR role: is a standalone position right for you?Episode 94: Summer reads: 3 great books to help your HR careerEpisode 76: HR insider tips on how to create an amazing remote working culture, with Claire CathcartEpisode 3: Building relationships with difficult people at workEpisode 75: What psychometrics are, how you can use them & why they're so helpful, with Sue ColtonEpisode 74: How to get better at presenting and feel more confident about it Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk.Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email. How Fay & Bright Sky Career Coaching Can Help YouIf you've been enjoying the podcast & would like some support from Fay or her colleagues at Bright Sky, take a...

Standalone roles are typically found in start-ups and smaller organizations where the People team consists of only one member – you! It's a challenging yet rewarding role. In this episode of HR Coffee Time, guests Nicola Head and Georgina Wright talk through the positives and challenges they've encountered in their experience of standalone HR/People roles, along with valuable advice on how to thrive in such a position.If you're considering a standalone role for the first time this episode aims to demystify the role and help you determine if it might be the perfect fit for you.Some of the many things covered include:The autonomy and freedom a standalone role can bring.The importance of prioritisation.The challenges of the role, including a lack of peers to sense check or run ideas past.How to set yourself up for success by building a strong support network, investing in automation and systems, and keeping your employment law knowledge up to date.Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay's website: Bright Sky Career Coaching Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email. How Fay & Bright Sky Career Coaching Can Help YouIf you've been enjoying the podcast & would like some support from Fay or her colleagues at Bright Sky, take a look at all their services detailed on the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Mentioned in this episode:Get Your 2024 HR PlannerSet yourself up for the best year of your HR career with the 2024 HR Planner. Order your copy today. 2024 hardback HR Planner