The HR Room Podcast

As many of us know from the statistics, the research, the news, and even through our own experiences or the experiences of friends and family, fertility issues are commonplace, with different journeys and experiences for everyone going through fertility, pregnancy and everything that goes with it. Thankfully, we've seen huge support and progress in this area in the form of policies, supports, training etc. But unfortunately, it's still a topic that many find it hard to speak about, effectively support people through it, or even fully understand it. So today we're delighted to be joined by someone who can give us insights into all of the above, in a conversation I know is going to be really enjoyable and important – we're joined today by Dr Ciara O' Keeffe, Consultant at Waterstone Clinic.   In this episode we cover... 02:21 Common Fertility-Related Challenges Employees Face 05:18 Navigating Difficult Conversations: HR's Role 09:40 Best Practices for Supporting Employees 15:47 Creating a Supportive Workplace Culture 23:36 The Importance of Education and Awareness   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

We're back again with another episode of Liam's Law, where Liam joins us to discuss a high profile every month, and share his advice, guidance and key takeaways for you as employers and HR teams. So this week, of course, we're joined by Liam Barton, Commercial Director here at Insight HR, to discuss an interesting case concerning disciplinaries, dismissals, and all that goes with them!    In this episode we cover... 00:48 Details of the Unfair Dismissal Case 04:25 Investigation and Disciplinary Process 10:02 The Importance of Fair Procedures 14:39 Understanding Gross Misconduct 19:06 Key Takeaways for Employers and HR Teams   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

Disciplinaries, investigations, and managing misconduct can be a very tricky process. And when we get deep into the process, albeit necessary, it can be a strain on time and stress for all involved. And it's well-covered too – the formal processes behind dealing with misconduct are spoken about in detail by us and other experts alike. But do we talk about the informal process enough, and how successful this can be? And how we effectively mitigate these types of incidents going forward? Well that's exactly what we're speaking about today, as we're delighted to be joined by our very own Susie Lowe, Workplace Investigator here at Insight HR.   In this episode we cover... 04:47 When Informal Processes Are Not Enough 09:30 The Role of Education and Training in Misconduct 16:15 Tailoring Training for Effective Conflict Resolution 20:42 Proactive and Reactive Strategies for Managing Misconduct   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

We get it – budgets are tight. And even when you need something to support you, it can sometimes feel like you can't articulate the value and the ROI of what you need. HR support can be no different, but is something that can be so powerful. If you choose the right provider, you can save money, stress, lost time, and so much more. But how do you make sure it really is worth it, and even simpler, why should you bother with it at all? Well to tell us, we're delighted to be joined by our very own Barry Casserly, Head of Strategy & Growth here at Insight HR.   In this episode we cover... 01:59 Risks of Not Having HR Support 06:57 Building Strong HR Relationships 09:42 Preventing Issues Before They Arise 17:56 Training and Cultural Development 23:52 Compliance and Documentation 29:54 Understanding Limitations and Seeking Help   P.S Check out our latest client success story, showcasing how HR support transformed a HRBP's stress into success!    About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

Navigating the probation period is one of the most critical - and often misunderstood - phases of the employment journey. Far from being just a formality or an “easy exit” route, probation is a unique opportunity for both employers and employees to set the stage for long-term success. So to talk to us today about making the most of it, and how to avoid common pitfalls, we're delighted to be joined by Joe Thompson, Head of HR Services here at Insight HR.   In this episode we cover... 04:14 Distinguishing Conduct from Performance Issues 07:27 Common Pitfalls in Probation Management 12:28 The Importance of Probation Policies 15:46 Handling Serious Conduct Issues 19:59 Setting Up for Long-Term Success 26:05 The Role of Communication in Probation   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

Performance management is such a core piece of the employer employee relationship, and a key skill for leaders, managers and HR people. But it's also an area of real complications and pitfalls that can cause a lot of trouble for employers and employees alike. And with all the various ways, processes and approaches to this, it can be hard to find what works for you and your organisation! Well, to speak to us about this, we're delighted to be joined by Megan Power, Head of Change & Transformation here at Insight HR.     About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

It's that time again on the HR Room Podcast for another one of our C-suite specials, where we talk to leaders in various industries and organisations, sharing advice and insights for HR teams and employers everywhere. Bank of Ireland, in partnership with Morgan McKinley, recently published a new report titled "Fostering Ethnic Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace." The research explores the specific barriers ethnic minority groups face in accessing employment and progressing in the Irish labour market, with some data points and practical recommendations for employers. It's based on the experiences of over 2,700 people across 10 ethnic minority groups. And against the backdrop of current issues in wider society, and current issues faced by organisations and employees, this survey is one that simply must be looked at by HR teams and employers everywhere.  And to talk us through it, we're delighted to be joined again by Matt Elliott, Chief People Officer at Bank Of Ireland.    In this episode we cover... 02:26 The Importance of Ethnic Diversity in the Workplace 05:43 Barriers Faced by Ethnic Minorities in Employment 09:27 The Role of Organisations in Promoting Inclusion 14:14 Bank of Ireland's Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion 20:01 Practical Recommendations for Employers 29:46 Key Takeaways and Closing Thoughts   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

We're back again with another episode in our monthly series combining your two favourite things, Case Law and Liam Barton, where Liam will be joining us to discuss a high profile every month, and share his advice, guidance and key takeaways for you as employers and HR teams. So for our third episode of Liam's Law, we're delighted to be joined, of course, by Liam Barton, Commercial Director here at Insight HR.   In this episode we cover... 01:33 The Salesforce Case Overview 06:08 Lessons Learned for Employers 08:16 WRC's Role in Remote Work Cases 10:32 The Balance of Power in Remote Work Requests 12:59 Fairness in Remote Work Policies 14:45 Cynicism Towards Remote Work Denials 20:57 Flexibility in the Workplace   News coverage of the case here!    About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

Today we're diving into the latest findings from the AXA Mind Health Report, with a special focus on what they mean for Irish workplaces. The report, drawing on the experiences of 17,000 participants across 16 countries, reveals that Ireland now ranks at the bottom of the EU for overall mental health-an alarming statistic, with nearly half of Irish adults reporting they are struggling or languishing. For HR managers and organisational leaders, the findings are particularly relevant too – so let's explore them! To take us through the findings and what this all means for you and your organisation, we're delighted to be joined by Nicole Paulie, Chartered Psychologist and Clinical Lead at laya healthcare's 24/7 Wellbeing Support Programme.    In this episode we cover... 00:00 Understanding the AXA Mind Health Report 03:46 The Gap Between Employer Perception and Employee Reality 07:50 Impact of Mental Health on Workplace Performance 15:10 Trends in Mental Health and Future Outlook 19:54 Practical Steps for Organisations to Support Mental Health   Explore the findings and the full report at www.layahealthcare.ie/mind-health/   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

Workplace culture is spoken about a lot. It's a constant challenge and priority for organisations and HR teams, and rightfully so, but how can we effectively change, improve and transform workplace culture in a way that actually works? And how do we stop talking about company culture, and actually making the real long-term changes to improve it for everyone? Yes, we must analyse, but we must also act. And how do we do this? Well, with a full and intentional Culture Audit. But what is a culture audit, what should it be, and how do we really make it work? Well, to answer these questions and more, we're delighted to be joined by Megan Power, Head of Change & Transformation here at Insight HR.   In this episode we cover... 00:00 Understanding Workplace Culture and Culture Audits 10:06 The Importance of Leadership in Cultural Change 18:28 Navigating the Journey of Cultural Transformation 28:55 Building a Business Case for Culture Audits   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

It's that time again on the HR Room Podcast for another one of our C-suite specials, where we talk to leaders in various industries and organisations, sharing advice and insights for HR teams and employers everywhere. Today we're delighted to be joined by someone who is a leader here in Ireland for a company that does absolutely fantastic work here in Ireland, work which is intertwined with the workplace culture they have, and what they do to nourish that.  Joining us this week is the brilliant David Lane, Managing Director at Ecclesiastical Ireland.    In this episode we cover... 05:39 Intentionality in Company Culture 10:34 Engagement Surveys and Continuous Improvement 19:43 Long-term Focus on Culture and Leadership 23:54 Initiatives for Incremental Change 29:58 The Importance of Simple Changes 32:53 Balancing Business and Social Impact 37:42 Leadership's Role in Cultural Alignment 41:11 The Business Case for Purpose-Driven Work   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

Disagreements, tensions, and misunderstandings are a natural part of working life, but when left unresolved, they can escalate, leading to low morale, lost productivity, and even legal disputes. That's where mediation comes in - a structured but informal process that helps employees find common ground and rebuild working relationships. So today, we'll break down how mediation works, why it's a game-changer for HR, and how organisations can use it to foster a healthier, more productive workplace. To do this, we're delighted to be joined by Joe Thompson, accredited mediator and Head of HR Services here at Insight HR.   In this episode, we cover... 06:24 The Benefits of Mediation Over Formal Processes 11:08 When Mediation is Not Appropriate 15:10 The Mediation Process Explained 29:51 Practical Advice for HR Managers   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

We've spoken about many employment law cases on the HR Room Podcast over the years which have always been very popular episodes, and we've also spoken to our very own Liam Barton a lot over the years, who has also proved very popular. So we're back again with another episode in our new monthly series combining your two favourite things, Case Law and Liam Barton, where Liam will be joining us to discuss a high profile every month, and share his advice, guidance and key takeaways for you as employers and HR teams. So for our second episode of Liam's Law, we're delighted to be joined, of course, by Liam Barton, Senior HR Consultant here at Insight HR.   Today's case? This very interesting and complex case from The Rotunda Maternity Hospital!   In this episode, we cover... 01:46 Overview of the Rotunda Case 05:01 Analysis of the Case's Findings 10:22 Implications of Sexual Harassment Policies 14:05 Disciplinary Actions and Their Consequences 20:01 Constructive Dismissal and Its Challenges 25:11 Post-Investigation Measures and Mediation 30:53 Rights and Responsibilities in the Workplace 36:43 Conclusion and Key Takeaways   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

Trump and his tariffs have taken the headlines in recent days and weeks, and are on the mind of many politicians, business leaders, and everyone in between, as we watch the trade war begin to rage. But what do these tariffs and times of uncertainty mean for you, the HR person, the business leader, and the person trying to navigate through this period with your people in mind. Well to talk us through this, and just what we can do to help, we're delighted to be joined again by Liam Barton, Commercial Director here at Insight HR.   In this episode, we cover... 01:10 Navigating Uncertainty in Business 06:05 The Impact of Market Dynamics on HR 12:38 Future-Proofing Against Economic Challenges 18:34 Managing Employee Emotions During Change 26:52 The Importance of Communication in Restructuring   P.S Check out Mary's recent article on this topic right here!   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

It's that time again to bring you another C Suite Special, where we talk to C Suite leaders from some of Ireland's biggest organisations, giving us HR people fantastic insights into how they and their organisations operate and thrive. And to talk to us today, we're delighted to be joined by someone who we recently listened to at the CIPD Employment Law Conference, who I knew would be the perfect guest for this series on the podcast, as she gave such fantastic insights into an organisation that many of us are familiar with, but I might argue, could know a lot more about. We're joined today by the brilliant Audrey Cahill, Director General at the Workplace Relations Commission.   In this episode, we cover... 03:16 Audrey's Journey in HR 14:19 Demystifying the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) 20:12 The Humanisation of the WRC 25:16 Creating a Safe Environment for Dispute Resolution 30:00 The Importance of Early Intervention 34:55 Establishing Clear Policies and Procedures 38:15 The Impact of Trust on Organisational Culture 44:42 Balancing Compliance with Organisational Needs 48:59 The Foundation of Effective HR Practices   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

He said, she said – a nightmare situation for employers and HR teams trying to deal with a complaint of something like bullying, harassment or conflict, when both parties give different versions of events, and you're left in the middle trying to find a solution. But thankfully, there is an art to assessing credibility in investigations, and it's something that expert investigators deal with every day, when managing investigations for organisations up and down the country. So to talk us through the he said, she said dilemma, and just how expert investigators deal with the credibility challenge, we're delighted to be joined by our very own Rebecca Bowman, Head of Workplace Investigations here at Insight HR.    In this episode, we cover... 02:13 Initial Steps in Addressing Complaints 05:29 The Importance of Early Resolution 09:28 Assessing Credibility: Tools and Techniques 13:16 Understanding the Role of the Investigator 21:55 Reporting Findings: Clarity and Objectivity 25:30 Post-Investigation Reconciliation and Management   Check out this recent article from Liam Barton on evidence and credibility in investigations, and our recent coverage of the GAA Catfish case which also showcases the importance of a robust investigations process!   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

Workplace stress, burnout, long term absence, bullying complaints… these are the kinds of things that can keep HR professionals awake at night. But when do these issues cross the line from an HR challenge to a medical concern? And how well do HR and Occupational Health actually work together to navigate this tricky space? Well to talk to us this week about how to get this right for both you, your Occ health person, and most importantly, your people, we're delighted to be joined by Anne Dowling, an Occupational Health Nurse Advisor and Managing & Clinical Director at AMA Healthcare Services.    In this episode we cover... 02:13 The Role of Occupational Health 04:50 Current Trends in Occupational Health 05:54 Mental Health in the Workplace 10:47 Managing Return to Work 12:53 The Importance of Reasonable Accommodations 15:02 Early Intervention Strategies 19:06 Handling Investigations and Health Issues 23:20 Compassionate Approaches in HR 27:44 Effective Communication and Support 30:24 Best Practices for Occupational Health Referrals   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

We've spoken about many employment law cases on the HR Room Podcast over the years which have always been very popular episodes, and we've also spoken to our very own Liam Barton a lot over the years, who has also proven very popular. So this month, we're starting a new monthly series combining your two favourite things, Case Law and Liam Barton, where Liam will be joining us to discuss a high profile every month, and share his advice, guidance and key takeaways for you as employers and HR teams. So for our first episode of Liam's Law, we're delighted to be joined, of course, by Liam Barton, Senior HR Consultant here at Insight HR, to discuss a tricky case regarding sexual harassment, investigations and disciplinary processes.    In this episode we cover... 01:45 Overview of the Sodexo Case 05:30 Key Gaps in the Investigation Process 10:06 Importance of Fairness and Due Process 15:06 The Role of Evidence in Investigations 18:03 Training and Objectivity in Investigations 24:11 Bias and Its Impact on Investigations 27:29 The Rush to Suspend Employees 32:15 Conclusions and Practical Guidance   Check out the first instalment of Liam's Law over on LinkedIn, where he discussed this case! And P.S Here is the Volker Rail case we also mentioned during this chat!   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

Mergers, transfers and everything associated with them can often mark a fresh new journey for a business and a sign of expansion or progress, but they may also stir up some resistance, issues, and complicated challenges to solve. And one of those complicated challenges that many of us have at the top of our list of “least favourite acronyms” is the big, scary TUPE process. But is it complicated, is it scary, and how exactly can we make sure we do things the right way for our organisation and our people? Well to answer this and much more, we're delighted to be joined by Aoife Newton, Director at KPMG Law.   In this episode, we cover... 03:18 Understanding the TUPE Regulations 07:33 Challenges and Misconceptions of TUPE 11:26 Practical Applications and Case Law 19:18 Communication and Compliance in TUPE 24:22 Consequences of Mismanagement 27:38 Advice for HR Practitioners   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

Redundancies and tough restructurings are things that no HR person wants to manage. The emotional side of managing the process of people leaving your organisation, coupled with the intricate process and procedures that must be followed, makes it a less than enjoyable task to say the least. But there are ways that you can go through this process without losing sleep, putting  your organisation at risk, and losing the trust of your people. So to talk to us about how we can make this a process with positive outcomes for all involved, and just how we can help you make that happen, we're delighted to be joined by Megan Power, HR Consultant here at Insight HR.    In this episode, we cover... 01:50 Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Redundancies 12:06 Understanding the Legal Framework for Collective Redundancies 16:12 The Importance of Compassionate Leadership 24:22 Balancing Compliance with Employee Experience 32:59 Building Trust During Difficult Transitions   P.S Here's the Case Study we mentioned where we helped a company navigate business transformation, restructuring and redundancies with confidence and expertise. Is this something your company is facing? Then make sure you download this guide!   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

It's that time again on the HR Room Podcast for another one of our C-suite specials, where we talk to leaders in various industries and organisations, sharing advice and insights for HR teams and employers everywhere. Today we're delighted to be joined by someone who is a leader here in Ireland for one of the world's biggest and most well-known companies, and who has worked her way up the HR ranks through her commitment to people & purpose. Joining us this week is the brilliant Sinead Gogan, CHRO and People & Purpose Partner at Deloitte.    In this episode, we cover... 01:37 Sinead's HR Journey 06:14 Deloitte's People and Purpose Approach 13:03 The Importance of People in Business 18:21 Strategic HR in a Changing World 26:47 Building a Legacy in HR   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

Although diversity, equity and inclusion has faced it's fair share of resistance over the years, the latest moves by the US and government and in turn, Meta, one of the world's biggest companies, brings a whole new level of attack on corporate DEI work. But is all of the great work that continues to be done, really under threat? Is it a case of saying RIP to DEI, or is it simply just another speed bump on the road of good work and progress? Well to discuss this with us, and take a deeper look into what's going on with DEI in workplaces, we're delighted to be joined by a highly experienced Senior HR & Change expert, and Country Executive at the 30% club, the brilliant Gillian Harford.   In this episode, we cover... 01:58 The current state of DEI initiatives 06:23 Challenges and opportunities in DEI 11:47 The business case for DEI 18:27 Measuring DEI effectiveness 22:18 "Justifying" DEI investments 31:11 Practical steps for HR professionals   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

“Organisation's don't change, people do” – a phrase mentioned in our recent chat we had with today's guest, as we thrashed out what we'd be speaking about on this very episode. And it's a phrase that outlines how to make successful change happen, and just how important it is to have your people as your focus. And what do your people need most during a change process? Not to give away too much of this episode...but you guessed it...the answer is communication. So to talk to us about the power of communication in the world of change management, we're delighted to be joined by the brilliant Scott McInnes, Founder at Inspiring Change.   In this episode, we cover... 02:01 The Importance of People in Change 08:21 Communication as a Key Element 12:59 Planning vs. Communication in Change 20:04 Managing Rumors and Communication Strategies 20:39 The Importance of Communication During Change 24:17 Managing Rumours and Fears in Organisations 27:36 Authenticity and Empathy in Leadership 32:43 Real-Life Examples of Effective Change Management 38:16 Final Advice for Navigating Change   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

Change management may not always involve the professionals. And arguably understandably too, as maybe moving to a new tech tool doesn't require an expert? Right? Well, when it comes to making successful and sustainable change, people should be at the centre of the strategy. And with people needing support, communication, and guidance through culture change, getting HR experts involved, may be your not-so-secret ingredient. So to help us dive into this more and discuss all things change management, we're delighted to be joined by our very own Megan Power, HR Consultant here at Insight HR.   In this episode, we cover... 05:05 Challenges in Change Implementation 12:30 Navigating Resistance to Change 24:46 Effective Change Management Strategies 33:50 Key Takeaways for Successful Change Management   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

As you all know by now, organisations, HR professionals and many more of us, don't only look at the legislation to understand employment law and our obligations. We also look at the decisions made in the WRC to see how decisions are made, and what we can learn from them! So today, we're doing just that, as we take a look at recent trends from WRC judgements, and share some of the key learnings and key takeaways for you! And to do this, we're delighted to be joined by the brilliant Siobhra Rush, Partner and Head of the Dublin office at Lewis Silkin.   In this episode, we cover... Emerging Trends in WRC Judgments Understanding Remote Working Regulations Transparency in WRC Awards The Importance of Fair Processes in HR And much more!   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice what's important to you as a HR professional, an employer or people leader.  If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

Learning and development is vital for any organisation. With new skills needed for employees, managers, HR teams and leaders, the challenge of upskilling effectively is one that many organisations are facing. And with new technology and ways to learn, many are unsure where to start! Well the good news is, today, we're joined by a seasoned expert in reskilling and upskilling, who can guide us through how to achieve success in L&D in 2025.   We're delighted to be joined today by Ed' O Brien, Head of Learning & Development, for Europe & Latin America at Ericsson.    In this episode, we cover... 01:00 The Evolution of Learning and Development 07:50 The Role of Management in Learning 14:25 The Positioning of L&D in Organisations 20:27 The Necessity of Upskilling 26:00 Preventing Workplace Issues through Training 33:43 Adapting to Change in Learning Environments 39:54 Intentional Learning and Organisational Challenges   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you are enjoying these episodes, do please feel free to share them with colleagues, friends and family. And even better, if you can leave us a review, we'd really appreciate it! We love your feedback, we take requests, and we're also here to help with any HR challenges you may have! Requests, feedback and guest suggestions

We might have a New Year, but are there are any new trends we should be aware of as we head into another busy year? Well today we're joined by someone who can give us some great insights into this –  founder of Better Workday and the driving force behind the Better Workday Survey, a productivity and workplace, wellbeing expert and public speaker, the wonderful Niamh Moynihan.   In this episode, we cover... 00:00 Introduction and Background to the Better Workday Survey 10:56 The Importance of Manager Training 18:30 The Impact of Digital Connectivity on Work-Life Balance 24:04 Performance Management in a Changing Work Environment 29:54 Addressing Underlying Issues for Future Success   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.

Today we've got a special episode, the first of many C-suite specials, where we'll be talking to senior leaders in various industries and organisations, sharing advice and insights for HR teams an employers everywhere. And we couldn't think of a better way than to kick it off, than speaking to someone within a sector that we have worked so often with, and thoroughly enjoy working with, the brilliant charities sector. So joining us today to talk about the charities sector, and what we can all learn from it, we're delighted to be joined by Áine Myler, CEO at the Charities Institute Ireland.   In this episode, we cover... 1:59 The Unique Aspects of the Charity Sector 03:54 The Importance of HR in Charities 07:56 Challenges Facing the Charity Sector 15:47 Burnout and Compassion Fatigue in Charities 19:51 The Need for External Support 25:58 Advice for HR Managers in Charities   P.S. We're delighted to be partnering with the Charities Institute this year, and our first event is coming soon! Check out the details and save your spot at our HR Forum right here!   And that webinar we mentioned...here it is!    About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.

As we come to the end of the year, I'm sure many of you are thinking about New Years Resolutions, or maybe even more specifically, about how you can come back to work in 2025 with a fresh start and some clear goals.  So, joining us today to share their thoughts on what HR professionals and teams should be focusing on in the New Year, we're delighted to be joined by Megan Power, HR Consultant here at Insight HR.    In this episode, we cover... Remote & Flexible Working Change Management The importance of aligning to organisational strategy Listening to your employees Keeping compliant and up-to-date And much more!   P.S. we also want to talk to you, our listeners! Share your thoughts, suggest topics, tell us a story worth sharing, or reach out with a query using our feedback form here!   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.

We're back with the second instalment in our two-part, selection box series, containing some of the highlights from the year gone by.  Our selection box last week was packed with clips discussing some inspiring stories about the great work being done across the HR community. This week though, we're filling this episode with clips discussing some of the nitty gritty side of HR, and the many many employment law challenges that HR teams and employers faced this year.     In this episode, we include clips from our chats with... Jennifer Cashman, Partner & Head of Employment at RDJ Solicitors Siobhra Rush, Partner (Employment, Immigration and Reward) at Lewis Silkin Barry Crushell, Principal Solicitor at Crushell & Co | Law At Work Stephen Gillick, Partner & Head of Pensions at Mason Hayes & Curran LLP   P.S. we also want to talk to you, our listeners! Share your thoughts, suggest topics, tell us a story worth sharing, or reach out with a query using our feedback form here!   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.

Firstly, Happy Christmas to all of our listeners! A huge thank you for listening in this year, and hearing some of the fantastic insights and advice we were lucky enough to get from some amazing guests yet again this year. So as a thanks, and as a summary of some of the brilliant conversations we've had this year, we're finishing 2024 with a two-part, selection box series, containing some of the highlights from the year gone by. And what a year it's been. This week, Eoin is kicking off with his personal highlights from this year, as we showcase clips from some truly inspiring discussions about the great work being done out there in the HR community.    In this episode, we include clips from our chats with... Matt Elliott, Chief People Officer at Bank of Ireland  Samuel Riggs, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Manager at Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail Siobhan McKenna, formerly Head of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion at the Public Appointments Service Johanne Nevin, People Team Operations Manager at The Donkey Sanctuary Aoife Gaffney, Head of Employment at Down Syndrome Ireland   P.S. we also want to talk to you, our listeners! Share your thoughts, suggest topics, tell us a story worth sharing, or reach out with a query using our feedback form here!   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.

It's not just any episode, it's episode 200 of The HR Room podcast! 200 episodes, 200 weeks in a row, with over 150 different guests, and 50,000 listens, making us Ireland's longest-running HR podcast, with much more on the way too. And to mark the occasion, we're speaking to somebody who you've heard from 200 times, but who has never been the guest on this podcast! So to talk to us about her story, the story of Insight HR, what we do and why we do it, we're joined by our very own Mary Cullen, Founder and Managing Director here at Insight HR.   In this chat, we cover... 06:01 The Vision Behind Insight HR 11:48 The Importance of Real Human Support in HR 17:57 Client Success Stories and Impact 24:08 Advice for HR Professionals and Business Leaders   P.S. I also want to talk to you, our listeners! Share your thoughts, suggest topics, tell us a story worth sharing, or reach out with a query using our feedback form here!   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.

Another Christmas-related episode this week, as we unwrap employee engagement and reward, and how prioritising your reward strategy can have a positive effect on your people and your organisation. From Christmas vouchers and bonuses to salary and benefits, this is something that really isn't just for Christmas, and should be thought about all year round! So to talk about this, sharing his extensive experience in the world of reward and incentives, we're delighted to be joined by Jonathan Grey, Founder and CEO of Ovation Incentives and Optionscard.ie.    In this chat, we cover... 03:40 Understanding Engagement vs. Reward 05:57 The Importance of Engagement in Business 13:27 The Role of Culture in Employee Engagement 17:32 Strategic Approaches to Engagement and Rewards 25:34 Utilising Tax-Free Incentives for Employee Recognition 30:38 Practical Advice for All Companies on Engagement   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.

Workplace Investigations are a notoriously tricky challenge for HR teams and employers, with tough situations needing to be tackled, with integrity, transparency and a serious time commitment. We need only look back at our own coverage of this topic on our podcast, our webinar series, our blog, and more, to see that it's hugely popular for our audience. However, today, we're covering something that we and many others have yet to discuss, despite the vast majority of investigations being outsourced – the vitally important task of choosing the right workplace investigator. And to talk to us today about what you should look for, we're joined by Rebecca Bowman, Head of Investigations here at Insight HR.    In this chat, we cover... 02:08 The Importance of Choosing the Right Investigator 08:58 Outsourcing Investigations: Pros and Cons 15:04 Key Qualities of a Good Investigator 22:07 The Cost vs. Quality Debate 28:53 Common Mistakes in Internal Investigations 35:54 Final Thoughts and Checklist for Choosing an Investigator   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas, so you know what that means? Christmas Party time! And while these can be jolly and jovial affairs for most organisations, things have been known to turn sour quite easily, with many HR teams having to deal with the fallout from things like conflict, sexual harassment or other serious misconduct that can ruin the Christmas spirit, very quickly. So to talk about what we as HR professionals can do to proactively mitigate the risk here before the party even begins, we're joined by Liam Barton, Senior HR Consultant here at Insight HR.   In this chat, we cover... 01:50 The Risks of Christmas Parties 08:16 Real-Life Incidents and Experiences 15:31 Communication and Expectations 24:48 Training and Awareness 31:35 Proactive Measures for HR    About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.

According to a 2023 survey by the Central Statistics Office, 32% of workers aged between 20 and 69 are not signed up to a private pension. Without a change, hundreds of thousands of workers would be reliant solely on their State pension when they retire. But thankfully, the long-awaited and well-publicised pension auto-enrolment plan is now closer than ever, with employers and employees now double-checking what exactly is happening and what they must do! So to talk to us about exactly that, and help us share advice on this topic for HR teams and employers, we're delighted to be joined by Stephen Gillick, Partner at Mason Hayes & Curran.   In this chat, we cover... 02:30 Current State of Pension Auto-Enrolment in Ireland 08:13 Employer Perspectives on Auto-Enrolment 11:32 HR Challenges and Concerns 17:25 Cost Implications for Employers 21:19 Benefits of Auto-Enrolment for Employees 29:01 Preparing for Auto-Enrolment Implementation 34:58 Compliance and Future Considerations   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.

Significant updates to Ireland's employment permit system were recently introduced with the Employment Permits Act 2024, which took effect on September 2nd, in the hope of enhancing the system's efficiency, offering a more flexible and responsive approach to the evolving needs of the labour market, and essentially streamline the processes, making it easier for employers to recruit international talent and better address skill shortages across various sectors. So to talk us through the updates and everything in between, we're delighted to be joined by Declan Groarke, Senior Associate in Employment, Immigration and Reward at Lewis Silkin Ireland.    Chapters 00:00 Overview of Employment Permits Act 2024 02:17 Key Changes in Employment Permit System 10:38 Sector-Specific Impacts of New Legislation 11:06 Challenges in Recruitment and Retention 14:59 Navigating Compliance and Application Processes 25:30 Future Considerations and Budgeting for Recruitment   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.

Divine intervention in disciplinary procedures?! In today's episode we focus on a crucial element of fair disciplinary procedures: the employee's right to representation, and all the weird and wonderful nuances that can come with it! So to discuss why representation matters, how to manage the process, and what employers need to do to ensure this right is respected, we're delighted to be joined by David McCarroll, Partner at RDJ Solicitors!   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Employee Representation in Disciplinary Procedures 03:00 Understanding Employee Rights and Policies 05:47 The Role of Representation in Disciplinary Hearings 08:59 Navigating Trade Union Representation 11:49 Challenges Faced by HR in Disciplinary Processes 15:07 Advice for Employers and HR Practitioners 17:55 Conclusion and Key Takeaways   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.

In today's episode, we're diving into some important updates that will affect employers and employees across Ireland – the Maternity Protection (Amendment) and Miscellaneous Provisions Bill 2024. This new legislation introduces some significant changes to maternity leave and protections for parents in the workplace. We're discussing what these changes mean, why they're needed, and how HR professionals can ensure compliance while offering real support to their teams. And to do this, we're delighted to be joined by Emma Quinn, Associate in the Employment department at Eversheds Sutherland.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Maternity Protection Changes 03:02 Key Changes in Maternity Protection Amendment Bill 09:07 Ongoing Challenges of Maternity Discrimination 15:22 Assessing the Impact of New Legislation 17:05 Best Practices for HR in Supporting Employees 20:31 Consequences of Non-Compliance with New Regulations 26:35 Balancing Compliance with Employee Support   Please note, there have been some updates in the days since we recorded this chat with Emma. Mental health conditions have now been included but employees will need to be receiving in-patient treatment, rather than outpatient treatment for employees suffering from a physical condition. The NDA provisions that were outlined in the General Scheme have been removed. The Bill has passed the Seanad so the NDA provisions may still be reintroduced in the Dail.   Check out the most up-to-date and comprehensive version of the Bill, here!    About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.

In this episode, we're diving into some fascinating insights from Deloitte's latest survey of Ireland's Best Managed Companies.  The survey has revealed some key trends that are shaping the future of business in Ireland - everything from international expansion and sustainability, to the growing emphasis on talent retention. And to talk us through the findings, we're delighted to be joined by no other than Brian Murphy, Lead Partner for Deloitte's Best Managed Companies Awards Programme.    Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Deloitte's Survey Insights 02:39 Key Findings from the Survey 05:23 Challenges in Talent Retention 12:15 Strategies for Effective Talent Retention 15:28 Growth and Its Implications for HR 22:28 Actionable Takeaways for HR Professionals   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.

Today, we're diving into one of the more challenging and often nerve-wracking aspects of HR—managing a workplace disciplinary hearing. It's a process that, when not handled properly, can lead to unnecessary stress, strained relationships, and even legal challenges. But it doesn't have to be that way.  So, in this episode, to guide us through these complex procedures, outline best practices, common pitfalls, and how to ensure fairness and transparency throughout the process, we're joined by our very own Joe Thompson, HR Consultant here at Insight HR.    Chapters 00:00 Understanding the Disciplinary Hearing Process 06:30 Common Pitfalls in Disciplinary Hearings 13:14 The Importance of Structured Policies 19:53 Employee Rights and Obligations 25:53 Maintaining Impartiality in Disciplinary Processes 32:51 Key Takeaways for Conducting Fair Hearings   P.S Register for our upcoming webinar on Breaking Down Disciplinary Procedures here!   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.

While Ireland is known for its rich diversity and inclusive spirit, the reality is that racism remains an active issue in many organisations. As HR professionals, it's crucial to not only recognise and address these challenges head-on but also to proactively foster a culture of inclusion and respect. So today, we share practical advice on how to effectively combat racism in the workplace - from implementing robust policies and training to conducting fair investigations and driving meaningful change.   Chapters 00:00 Addressing Racism in Irish Workplaces 04:14 Building a Culture of Inclusion 08:01 Proactive Measures Against Racism 12:29 Handling Allegations of Discrimination 16:01 The Importance of Speak Up Policies 19:35 Post-Incident Analysis and Follow-Up 24:02 Advice for HR Teams on Diversity and Inclusion   P.S Check out our new Guide For Employers: Managing Dignity At Work Investigations here!   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.

A 2017 survey by the Transgender Equality Network Ireland found that 55% of respondents indicated that they had experienced or witnessed transphobic bullying in the workplace. In the 7 years since this survey, although we've seen progress in policies, culture, gender expression etc., challenges still remain for transgender people, with this issue far from solved. So to chat to us today and provide some insights and advice on what we can do about this from a HR perspective, we're delighted to be joined by our very own experienced HR leader, Susie Lowe, Workplace Investigator here at Insight HR.   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.

So you've caught someone red-handed, stealing from the workplace. Is what you do next simply black and white? Or is there some grey areas and a lot of red tape? If something like this happens out of the blue, will you be ready to manage it? Luckily today, and also in our webinar at the end of the month, we're be offering up some advice on a silver platter! So to do exactly that, and guide us through the topic of theft in the workplace, we're delighted to be joined by our very own Rebecca Bowman, Head of Workplace Investigations here at Insight HR.   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.

Although redundancies did capture the headlines in recent years and in certain sectors, redundancies are a challenge that many organisations across all industries will face at some point.  Thankfully, we have robust legislation in place, with even more changes recently announced! But as with any new legislation or HR subject like this, it's always a challenge to make sure you're doing the right thing! So to talk to us about the recent changes and what they mean for employers and HR teams, we're delighted to be joined by Siobhan Lafferty, Senior Associate at LK Shields Solicitors LLP.    About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.

As I'm sure we've all realised by now, remote working isn't a simple black and white subject for employers and employees alike. Yes, we have a code of practice, but the nuances, the contributing factors, the circumstances and even some case law still raise questions about how exactly all of this should operate. Well to help us sift through this and hopefully give a clearer picture on what is a big challenge for HR teams everywhere, we're delighted to be joined by Siobhra Rush, Partner and Head of Office at Lewis Silkin Ireland.   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.

In recent years, the rise of far-right movements and political shifts have brought renewed scrutiny and resistance to DEI efforts. Studies show that nearly 70% of organisations worldwide are re-evaluating their DEI strategies due to changing political climates. With a pivotal U.S. presidential election on the horizon, the ripple effects could be felt across boardrooms, influencing corporate culture and policies far beyond American borders. In this episode, we explore what this means for HR professionals and organisations in Ireland, with Siobhan McKenna, Head of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion at Public Jobs.   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.

Are you a standalone HR professional, a one person department, managing the HR function? Are you feeling overwhelmed and under-supported, but keen to do as much as you can? Well, the good news is, you're not the only one. So many people that we speak to here at Insight HR are in this exact position, going solo in HR, trying to do the best they can, but needing our help. And more good news, as today, we want to have a chat that's, in the famous words of Kylie & Jason, especially for you! So to chat to us today and provide some key advice for standalone HR professionals, we're delighted to be joined by our very own Liam Barton, Senior HR Consultant here at Insight HR.   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.

Back in 2018, Down Syndrome Ireland surveyed their members and found that only 6% of people were in deep and meaningful employment. Although many HR teams and organisations know that people with Down Syndrome should be supported and included, clearly something is missing. But thankfully, Down Syndrome Ireland is doing some fantastic work in this area to help make a change.   So today we're delighted to be joined by Aoife Gaffney, Head of Employment at Down Syndrome Ireland.  P.S check out the truly inspiring "hiring chain" video we mention in this episode, right here!   About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.

48pc of neurodivergent people have not disclosed their condition at work. This is a statistic that we spoke to Matt Elliott, Chief People Officer at Bank of Ireland about recently on this very podcast, in the context of their neurodiversity strategy that they built in partnership with a select number of experts in this area, one being Auticon, who's purpose is to help companies become a destination for neurodivergent talent. An autistic majority and award winning company, Auticon are inspiring in the work they do to build neurodiverse workplaces, so today we're delighted to chat about this with Auticon's Global Director of Neuroinclusion Services, the brilliant Kirsty Cook.    About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.

Beanbags, free beer, and bring-your-pet-to-work days: these are often thought to attract Generation Z graduates. Because Gen Z doesn't care about salary, only some vague notion of “meaningful” work, right? Nothing could be further from the truth. This is the opening paragraph from a recent Irish Examiner article about Gen Z workers, and what they really want in their roles. And this multi-generational satisfaction challenge is something that many HR professionals are certainly dying to hear more about, so that they can get it right. Well good news, as today we discuss exactly this, as we welcome back the brilliant Oliver Coakley, Director at Citris Reward Consulting.    About The HR Room Podcast The HR Room Podcast is a series from Insight HR where we talk to business leaders from around Ireland and share advice on how to create the HR systems and workplace culture that's right for your business. If you need any HR support in Ireland, get in touch with us at Insight HR. Whether it's conducting a complex workplace investigation, filling a gap by providing you with a virtual or an onsite HR resource, or providing advice via our HR support line, as an expert HR consultancy in Ireland, we'll help you resolve whatever Human Resources challenge your business is facing.