In this festive episode of "HR Hacks and Halos," Jivan welcomes her longtime friend Seema Grantham, to discuss her role at BHETA, a trade association for home and garden wares and small domestic appliances. The conversation is filled with light-hearted banter as they reminisce about their 40-year friendship, share holiday plans, and reflect on Seema's recent adventures, including a memorable trip to Peru. Seema highlights the various ways BHETA supports its members, from connecting them with retailers to providing export advice. The episode captures the spirit of the holiday season while emphasising the importance of community and connection in both personal and professional parts of your life.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Festive Celebrations: The conversation highlights the importance of festive gatherings and traditions, such as hosting on Christmas Eve, annual events like the Strictly Finals party, emphasising the joy of connecting with friends and family during the holiday season.

2. Professional Engagement: The discussion covers the role of BHETA, a trade association that supports members in the housewares and small domestic appliances sector, showcasing its efforts in networking, lobbying, and providing resources for businesses to thrive post-Brexit.

3. Travel Experiences: Personal travel experiences, including a memorable trip to Peru and plans for future travels, illustrate the value of exploring new cultures and the importance of taking time off for relaxation and adventure amidst a busy work schedule.

4. Community and Networking: The significance of community is emphasised through the mention of various industry connections and collaborations, as well as the importance of networking events that help members expand their business opportunities.

5. Work-Life Balance: The dialogue reflects on the challenges of maintaining a work-life balance, particularly during busy periods like the holiday season, while also highlighting the benefits of sharing experiences and staying connected with loved ones.

BEST MOMENTS

"Every workplace can be transformed when we challenge the bad and celebrate the good."

"I wanted to do something different. It's Christmas. Just general chit-chat really."

"If you are thinking of joining BHETA and you've got some home and garden wares or small appliance kind of business, I think you'll be truly well looked after."

HOST BIO

Jivan Dempsey has first hand experience of workplace toxicity and bad boss behaviour. Triggered by the #MeToo movement she was compelled to talk about her experiences in her early career, assaulted and bullied at work which impacted her work performance, mental health and eventually cost her a job she'd loved.

Listeners are drawn to her raw honesty and insightful reflections on change and resilience. Her book, "The HR Change Manager's Handbook" and collaboration on "Can't Break Me," attest to her change and transformation expertise and dedication to empowering others - from someone who's been in the trenches and emerged stronger.

As a seasoned HR professional, consultant, psychologist and speaker, she offers bespoke consultancy and programmes to help companies navigate HR transformation that delivers a better employee experience and cultural shifts to create healthier, happier, and more inclusive workplaces for all.

Please connect with her on Linked In:

Jivan Dempsey FCIPD GMBPsS | LinkedIn

Or email at:

jivan@fiverivers-consulting.com

HRhacksandhalos@gmail.com

Resources:

HR Change Manager’s Handbook: The 3 Step Guide To Managing HR Transformation: https://amzn.eu/d/drvToPv

Are you working in a toxic environment? Take our free quiz to find out

https://bit.ly/3BPZXSR

In this episode, Jivan delves into the intricacies of resignations, emphasising the importance of HOW to leave a job, especially in high-stakes industries like life sciences and healthcare. Drawing on recent high-profile resignations, such as those of Rosie Duffield and Louise Haig, Jivan contrasts the impact of emotional versus professional exits. She discusses the potential long-term consequences of burning bridges and offers practical steps for a respectful resignation process, including planning an exit, securing a new role, and drafting a professional resignation letter.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• How you resign can significantly impact your career, especially in specialised industries where reputations are crucial. Maintaining professionalism during resignation helps preserve future opportunities and relationships.

• Before resigning, reflect on your reasons for leaving and secure your next role if possible. This preparation minimizes disruption and helps maintain your professional reputation.

• Craft a concise resignation letter that focuses on your role, notice period, and gratitude for your experiences. Avoid airing grievances in the letter; save those discussions for an exit interview.

• Employers should use exit interviews to gather insights about employee departures. This feedback can help improve workplace culture and retention strategies, addressing issues like poor leadership and lack of growth opportunities.

• If an employee resigns abruptly or publicly criticizes the organization, it's essential for leadership to respond thoughtfully. This may involve holding all-hands meetings, issuing professional statements, and analyzing the reasons behind the resignation to implement necessary changes.

BEST MOMENTS

"How you resign matters more than you think. It can shape your career for years to come."

"I think perhaps maybe put it in a drawer overnight and then look at it again in the morning."

"You never know when you might need somebody again in the future."

"I think exit interviews are probably a little bit more productive than the resignation letter."

"A resignation, moving on, that's what fixes it, not the I feel great now because I vented at somebody."

HOST BIO

Jivan Dempsey has first hand experience of workplace toxicity and bad boss behaviour. Triggered by the #MeToo movement she was compelled to talk about her experiences in her early career, assaulted by a boss at work and his subsequent aggressive and bullying behaviours which impacted her work performance, mental health and eventually cost her a job she'd loved.

Listeners are drawn to her raw honesty and insightful reflections on change and resilience. Her book, "The HR Change Manager's Handbook" and collaboration on "Can't Break Me," attest to her change and transformation expertise and dedication to empowering others - from someone who's been in the trenches and emerged stronger.

As a seasoned HR professional, consultant, psychologist and speaker, she offers bespoke consultancy and programmes to help companies navigate HR transformation that delivers a better employee experience and cultural shifts to create healthier, happier, and more inclusive workplaces for all.

Please connect with her on Linked In:

Jivan Dempsey FCIPD GMBPsS | LinkedIn

Or send her an email at:

jivan@fiverivers-consulting.com

HR Change Manager’s Handbook: The 3 Step Guide To Managing HR Transformation: https://amzn.eu/d/drvToPv

Are you working in a toxic environment? Take our free quiz to find out

https://bit.ly/3BPZXSR

In this episode, Jivan is flying solo, diving into the critical topic of Diversity, Equality, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) within the workplace. Drawing from years of experience in life sciences, healthcare, and pharma, Jivan emphasises the importance of creating environments where all employees feel valued and heard. She discusses the financial and cultural benefits of strong DEIB initiatives, highlighting research that shows how they can drive innovation, enhance decision-making, and improve employee engagement.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Diversity, Equality, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) are essential for creating a workplace culture where employees feel valued, heard, and safe. This is particularly crucial in industries like healthcare and life sciences, where innovation and collaboration are vital.

• Organisations that invest in DEIB initiatives see significant financial benefits, including a 25% increase in profitability and 30% lower turnover rates. These metrics highlight the correlation between strong DEIB programmes and improved business performance.

• For DEIB to be effective, senior leaders must actively champion these initiatives, model inclusive behaviours, and integrate DEIB goals into the organisation's strategic priorities. This includes aligning DEIB objectives with key performance indicators (KPIs) across departments.

• Organisations should openly share their DEIB goals, progress, and challenges to build trust among employees. Regular assessments and feedback mechanisms are necessary to refine DEIB strategies and ensure they remain a priority.

• The concept of belonging is crucial for employee engagement and retention. Creating an environment where individuals feel connected to the organisation enhances their overall experience and strengthens the organisation's impact in its industry.

BEST MOMENTS

"DEIB isn't just a nice to have, it's essential for staying competitive and building a workforce that reflects the global communities we serve."

"Toxic behaviours cost organisations billions in turnover, absenteeism, and lost productivity. It's staggering."

"Companies with strong DEIB programs outperformed others by 25% in profitability and reported 30% lower turnover rates."

"Senior leaders need to see DEIB as a strategic priority, not just something that sits within HR."

"By embedding the notion of DEI, particularly the concept of belonging, you're not only improving the employee experience but also strengthening your industry's impact."

HOST BIO

Jivan Dempsey has first hand experience of workplace toxicity. Triggered by the #MeToo movement she was compelled to talk about her experiences in her early career, assaulted by a boss at work, his aggressive and bullying behaviour which impacted her work performance, mental health and eventually cost her a job she'd loved.

Listeners are drawn to her raw honesty and insightful reflections on change and resilience. Her book, "The HR Change Manager's Handbook" and collaboration on "Can't Break Me," attest to her change and transformation expertise and dedication to empowering others - from someone who's been in the trenches and emerged stronger.

As a seasoned HR professional, consultant, psychologist and speaker, she offers bespoke consultancy and programmes to help companies navigate HR transformation that delivers a better employee experience and cultural shifts to create healthier, happier, and more inclusive workplaces for all.

Please connect with her on Linked In:

Jivan Dempsey FCIPD GMBPsS | LinkedIn

Or send her an email at:

jivan@fiverivers-consulting.com

www.fiverivers-consulting.com

HR Change Manager’s Handbook: The 3 Step Guide To Managing HR Transformation: https://amzn.eu/d/drvToPv

Are you working in a toxic environment? Take our free quiz to find out

https://bit.ly/3BPZXSR

In this episode, Jivan welcomes performance coach Mark Dinardo, who shares his transformative journey from a secure career in the IT industry to managing his own health and wellness clinic. Mark discusses the toxic workplace dynamics he experienced, including the challenges of advocating for his team's well-being amidst rigid performance metrics and calibration processes. He reflects on the personal toll of stress and burnout, which ultimately led him to reassess his career path.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Toxicity in the workplace can stem from rigid processes and a lack of understanding of individual contributions, leading to stress and burnout among employees. It's crucial for organizations to recognize the unique value each team member brings rather than forcing them into a standardized performance curve.

• Personal health and well-being are paramount. The transition from a high-stress job to a focus on health and wellness can be a transformative experience, highlighting the need for individuals to prioritize their mental and physical health over job security.

• Encouraging open discussions about stress, burnout, and work-life balance is essential. Managers should advocate for their teams and seek to implement supportive initiatives, even when faced with resistance from higher management.

• Individuals should explore personal outlets outside of work, such as hobbies or community activities, to decompress and manage stress. Engaging in activities that bring joy can help mitigate the negative effects of a toxic work environment.

• Sometimes, a significant life event or realization can prompt a career change. Recognizing when a job no longer aligns with personal values or well-being is crucial, and individuals should be open to pursuing new paths that better suit their passions and health.

BEST MOMENTS

"I felt I had a duty to care for those people and to look out for them, but just got a sense that it was obviously jarring with too many people."

"Sometimes the whole point of a calibration exercise is meant to have a much wider helicopter view of all of the ratings, but it has to work for everybody."

"It was only through taking a break from that that I realized how much stress I'd built up in myself, it took the point of actually coming to that final health crisis."

"Pain doesn't just come from nothing. Pain is manifesting from emotions, different situations. And once we uncover what that actually is, we can do something about it."

"No one actually deserves to be working in an environment where it is so toxic that they're not actually enjoying it."

HOST BIO

Jivan Dempsey has first hand experience of workplace toxicity and bad boss behaviour. Triggered by the #MeToo movement she was compelled to talk about her experiences in her early career, groomed and assaulted by a boss at work, his subsequent aggression and bullying behaviour which impacted her work performance, mental health and eventually cost her a job she'd loved.

Listeners are drawn to her raw honesty and insightful reflections on change and resilience. Her book, "The HR Change Manager's Handbook" and collaboration on "Can't Break Me," attest to her change and transformation expertise and dedication to empowering others - from someone who's been in the trenches and emerged stronger.

As a seasoned HR professional, consultant, psychologist and speaker, she offers bespoke consultancy and programmes to help companies navigate HR transformation that delivers a better employee experience and cultural shifts to create healthier, happier, and more inclusive workplaces for all.

Please connect with her on Linked In:

Jivan Dempsey FCIPD GMBPsS | LinkedIn

Or send her an email at:

jivan@fiverivers-consulting.com

www.fiverivers-consulting.com

HR Change Manager’s Handbook: The 3 Step Guide To Managing HR Transformation: https://amzn.eu/d/drvToPv

Are you working in a toxic environment? Take our free quiz to find out

https://bit.ly/3BPZXSR

In this episode Jivan welcomes Jeanette Linfoot, a former corporate CEO turned entrepreneur and mentor, to discuss her extensive career and insights on leadership, workplace culture, and the significance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in business. Jeanette shares her journey from the corporate world, where she held high-level positions in the travel and hospitality sectors, to her current role as an advisor and mentor. Jeanette emphasizes the need for open communication, employee feedback, and the co-creation of values to foster a positive workplace culture.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• An organization's tone is primarily set by its leadership. Effective leaders are critical in shaping workplace culture and ensuring that core values are communicated and lived throughout the organization.

• Regular and transparent communication is essential for fostering trust and teamwork within an organization.

• While progress has been made in DEI initiatives, significant work remains across various dimensions, including gender, LGBTQ+, disability, and social mobility. Organizations must actively work to create equal opportunities for all.

• A hands-on leader who engages directly with teams and customers can provide valuable insights into the organization's culture and performance.

• For values to be effective, they must be co-created with input from employees at all levels.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think the environment has shifted. And I think all businesses need to adapt to what is important to their teams in today's world, not the world of 20 years ago."

"You have to have male allies. You can't do it otherwise. It doesn't work."

"If one of our values is honesty, then are we calling out when we see dishonesty? You have to align the values with a set of behaviors."

"If leaders are approachable and leaders have a human side to them... that pays dividends in terms of how you are with your employees."

"You need to be able to have... a process for any of these situations as of when they come up."

HOST BIO

Jivan Dempsey has first hand experience of workplace toxicity. Triggered by the #MeToo movement she was compelled to talk about her experiences in her early career, groomed and assaulted by a boss at work, his subsequent aggression and bullying behaviour which impacted her work performance, mental health and eventually cost her a job she'd loved.

Listeners are drawn to her raw honesty and insightful reflections on change and resilience. Her book, "The HR Change Manager's Handbook" and collaboration on "Can't Break Me," attest to her change and transformation expertise and dedication to empowering others - from someone who's been in the trenches and emerged stronger.

As a seasoned HR professional, consultant, psychologist and speaker, she offers bespoke consultancy and programmes to help companies navigate HR transformation that delivers a better employee experience and cultural shifts to create healthier, happier, and more inclusive workplaces for all.

Please connect with her on Linked In:

Jivan Dempsey FCIPD GMBPsS | LinkedIn

Or email at:

hrhacksandhalos@gmail.com

www.fiverivers-consulting.com

HR Change Manager’s Handbook: The 3 Step Guide To Managing HR Transformation: https://amzn.eu/d/drvToPv

Are you working in a toxic environment? Take our free quiz to find out

https://bit.ly/3BPZXSR

In this episode, Jivan Dempsey interviews Christina Robinson, the CEO of Green Umbrella Marketing, who shares her inspiring journey from the hospitality industry to becoming a successful business owner. Christina discusses the importance of values in business leadership and how she fosters a thriving company culture by understanding and aligning with her team's strengths and aspirations. Christina reflects on her experiences with mentorship, the challenges of transitioning from employee to owner, and the significance of creating an inclusive environment where team members feel valued and empowered.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The importance of aligning personal and organizational values is crucial for fostering a strong company culture. Engaging the team in identifying and owning these values can lead to a more cohesive and motivated workforce.

• A strong sense of curiosity drives personal and professional growth. Actively seeking knowledge and understanding gaps in skills can lead to better performance and innovation within a business.

• Recognizing that each team member has unique challenges and strengths is essential. Tailoring support to meet individual needs, whether through mentorship or flexible work arrangements.

• Open and honest communication is vital in addressing issues within a team. Asking the right questions and being prepared for any response fosters an environment where employees feel safe to share their struggles.

• True leadership involves caring deeply about team members and understanding their journeys. Building connections and providing support can empower individuals to grow and thrive.

BEST MOMENTS

"I always say I'm known for three things: marketing, mindset, and mischief. And hopefully the mischief will become apparent as we go through this."

"When you understand people, it's amazing the conversations you have... it's not just about the business and the marketing; it's also about who they are as a person."

"You can't use a cookie cutter approach because that isn't going to work... they haven't spent long enough really getting to understand what the individual wants."

"I always want people that come into my team to start here and leave there. If you are the same person when you left as when you started, I'm not a good leader."

"It's about what resources can we put in place? Every organization should have something in place, even if it's your mental health first aider."

HOST BIO

Jivan Dempsey has first hand experience of workplace toxicity. Triggered by the #MeToo movement she was compelled to talk about her experiences in her early career, groomed and assaulted by a boss at work, his subsequent aggression and bullying behaviour which impacted her work performance, mental health and eventually cost her a job she'd loved.

Listeners are drawn to her raw honesty and insightful reflections on change and resilience. Her book, "The HR Change Manager's Handbook" and collaboration on "Can't Break Me," attest to her change and transformation expertise and dedication to empowering others - from someone who's been in the trenches and emerged stronger.

As a seasoned HR professional, consultant, psychologist and speaker, she offers bespoke consultancy and programmes to help companies navigate HR transformation that delivers a better employee experience and cultural shifts to create healthier, happier, and more inclusive workplaces for all.

Please connect with her on Linked In:

Jivan Dempsey FCIPD GMBPsS | LinkedIn

Or email at:

hrhacksandhalos@gmail.com

www.fiverivers-consulting.com

HR Change Manager’s Handbook: The 3 Step Guide To Managing HR Transformation: https://amzn.eu/d/drvToPv

Are you working in a toxic environment? Take our free quiz to find out

https://bit.ly/3BPZXSR

In this episode, Jivan welcomes life coach and author Angela Allan-Burns, also known as Ang, to discuss the profound challenges of navigating divorce and its impact on the workplace. Ang shares her personal experiences of a lengthy divorce process and emphasizes the emotional toll it can take on productivity and mental health. Through her podcast, "Do I Really Hate Men?", she aims to support individuals, particularly women, in rebuilding their lives post-divorce and highlights the importance of emotional support and flexibility from employers.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Divorce can significantly affect an individual's productivity and mental health, making it challenging to maintain focus and performance at work.

• Employees going through a divorce should feel encouraged to communicate their situation to their employers or line managers, as this can lead to necessary support and flexibility in the workplace.

• Employers should consider implementing flexible work arrangements to accommodate employees dealing with personal crises, such as divorce, to help reduce absenteeism and improve overall well-being.

• Many individuals experience feelings of shame and guilt when going through a divorce, which can prevent them from seeking help or sharing their struggles with colleagues and managers.

• Prioritizing self-care is crucial for individuals navigating divorce. Taking time for oneself can lead to better emotional health, which ultimately benefits both the individual and their children.

BEST MOMENTS

"Divorce could go on a long time. Mine went on just short of six years. It was a long time of strife and difficulty."

"You have to look after yourself. If you don't look after yourself, you can't look after your children."

"A broken home is a home where there is fighting going on every night and control issues and abuse."

"Sometimes it's not going to work for them nor for someone going through a divorce who needs to be somewhere for their children."

"Divorce is like a new beginning. It really is... it's taken me to this point where I can really help other people."

HOST BIO

Jivan Dempsey has first hand experience of workplace toxicity. Triggered by the #MeToo movement she was compelled to talk about her experiences in her early career, groomed and assaulted by a boss at work, his subsequent aggression and bullying behaviour which impacted her work performance, mental health and eventually cost her a job she'd loved.

Listeners are drawn to her raw honesty and insightful reflections on change and resilience. Her book, "The HR Change Manager's Handbook" and collaboration on "Can't Break Me," attest to her change and transformation expertise and dedication to empowering others - from someone who's been in the trenches and emerged stronger.

As a seasoned HR professional, consultant, psychologist and speaker, she offers bespoke consultancy and programmes to help companies navigate HR transformation that delivers a better employee experience and cultural shifts to create healthier, happier, and more inclusive workplaces for all.

CONTACT

Please connect with her on Linked In:

Jivan Dempsey FCIPD GMBPsS | LinkedIn

Or email at:

hrhacksandhalos@gmail.com

jivan@fiverivers-consulting.com

HR Change Manager’s Handbook: The 3 Step Guide To Managing HR Transformation: https://amzn.eu/d/drvToPv

Are you working in a toxic environment? Take our free quiz to find out

https://bit.ly/3BPZXSR

www.fiverivers-consulting.com

In this episode, Jivan engages in a thought-provoking conversation with leadership advisor Olga Vtorushina and Dorrit Kromans board professional about their upcoming book, "Board Dynamics," set to be published in the first quarter of 2025. The discussion delves into the often misunderstood role of boards within organisations, highlighting their overarching responsibilities, the importance of diverse voices, and their critical influence on company culture and decision-making. Olga and Dorrit share insights on how boards can foster productive environments, address diversity and inclusion challenges, and ensure all members feel empowered to contribute.

olga.vt@sociallearningtalent.com dorrit@kromanns.com

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Boards hold the overall responsibility for an organization, including strategic direction, compliance, and hiring C-level executives, while maintaining a boundary that prevents them from engaging in operational work.

• Diverse boards, in terms of gender, age, and background, lead to more productive discussions and decision-making.

• The chairperson plays a crucial role in fostering a healthy board environment by ensuring that all voices are heard and that the meeting is productive.

• Due to existing dynamics, new board members often face challenges in asserting their voices.

• Boards significantly influence organizational culture and decision-making processes. By addressing underlying issues and fostering open communication.

BEST MOMENTS

"The board is the overall responsible. They are responsible for the right strategy, for compliance, and for hiring most of the C-level executives."

"I always think about the board meeting itself as how productive that should be for any important decision to come out."

"When you have a very homogeneous board, you don’t really need to think about how to speak. But when you start to have diversity, you need to listen differently."

"New people have a tendency to observe, to listen in, to think they are still here to learn, but their contribution is important."

"The chair's most important task is to make sure something intelligent is happening at the meeting."

HOST BIO

Jivan Dempsey has first hand experience of workplace toxicity and bad boss behaviour. Triggered by the #MeToo movement she was compelled to talk about her experiences in her early career, groomed and assaulted by a boss at work, his subsequent aggression and bullying behaviour which impacted her work performance, mental health and eventually cost her a job she'd loved.

Listeners are drawn to her raw honesty and insightful reflections on change and resilience. Her book, "The HR Change Manager's Handbook" and collaboration on "Can't Break Me," attest to her change and transformation expertise and dedication to empowering others - from someone who's been in the trenches and emerged stronger.

As a seasoned HR professional, consultant, psychologist and speaker, she offers bespoke consultancy and programmes to help companies navigate HR transformation that delivers a better employee experience and cultural shifts to create healthier, happier, and more inclusive workplaces for all.

Please connect with her on Linked In:

Jivan Dempsey FCIPD GMBPsS | LinkedIn

Or send her an email at:

jivan@fiverivers-consulting.com

www.fiverivers-consulting.com

HR Change Manager’s Handbook: The 3 Step Guide To Managing HR Transformation: https://amzn.eu/d/drvToPv

Are you working in a toxic environment? Take our free quiz to find out

https://bit.ly/3BPZXSR