HR Hacks & Halos

Season Finale: Reflecting on Change, Courage, and the Future of HR in Season Two

In this final episode of Season 1, Jivan takes a look back at the various powerful themes explored throughout the season, including the impact of NDAs on silencing victims, the challenges of toxic leadership, and the importance of emotional vulnerability in the workplace. Make sure you stay tuned for Season 2, as Jivan continues her deep dive into the future of HR. KEY TAKEAWAYS The podcast highlighted the detrimental effects of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) that silence victims of sexual assault, emphasizing the need for policy changes to promote justice and transparency in the workplace. Discussions around toxic leadership behaviours, such as bullying and gaslighting, contrasted with the qualities of effective leaders who demonstrate empathy, accountability, and kindness, underscoring the need for a cultural shift in leadership styles. The episode on crying at work reframed tears as a form of data that signals underlying issues within workplace culture, advocating for the recognition of emotional vulnerability as a strength rather than a weakness. Conversations around LGBTQ+ rights and the importance of inclusion emphasised that fostering a diverse workplace is not merely an HR initiative but a daily leadership responsibility that contributes to overall workplace happiness and acceptance. BEST MOMENTS "When I started this podcast, I really wanted to give a voice to people like myself that had been silenced by systems, by NDAs, by fear, by power imbalance." "Tears aren't a weakness. They're data. They help us understand what's going on in our businesses." "Nobody chooses to wake up in the wrong body, right? Nobody chooses to be that unhappy with your body that you choose to be a different body." "Inclusion isn't just an HR initiative. It's a daily act of leadership." "If season one was all about calling out some of the problems, season two is going to be all about building those solutions." 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 This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

How AI is Reshaping Roles and Redefining Job Security

Jivan looks at the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the workforce, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges it presents. Drawing on insights from notable figures like Ulrika Johnson and Senator Bernie Sanders, she highlights the stark divide emerging between those empowered by AI and those at risk of being left behind KEY TAKEAWAYS AI is rapidly transforming the job landscape, with predictions that it could displace millions of jobs across various sectors, including fast food, teaching, accounting, and healthcare, within the next decade. The emergence of AI is creating a divide in the workforce, where some individuals are empowered and enhanced by AI, while others face uncertainty, exclusion, or replacement. Rather than outright replacing humans, AI is reshaping roles by taking over predictable tasks, allowing humans to focus on more complex and profound responsibilities, leading to what is termed the "great unbundling of work." The rapid integration of AI into the workforce may exacerbate existing inequalities, particularly for non-office workers, and could lead to broader societal issues such as social unrest and a breakdown of trust within communities. HR professionals need to adopt a strategic approach to AI integration by focusing on culture, inclusivity, and transparency, ensuring that all workers, including frontline and part-time employees, have access to digital upskilling and support as AI becomes more prevalent in the workplace. BEST MOMENTS "AI is rewriting the rules for work and taking away the future of our young people." "For young professionals, that means AI isn't going to take your job, but someone who knows how to use AI better probably will." "AI is handling the predictable, which means that it's freeing humans up to handle the profound." "The transition is going to be painful, uneven, and probably, in societal terms, unfair." "If AI is a new colleague, then non-knowledge workers deserve an introduction, not just a redundancy notice." 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 This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Navigating Hypergrowth - With Dimitri Coumbias, CHRO, Finera PSP

In this episode, Jivan sits down with Dimitri Coumbias, CHRO at Finera, a rapidly growing fintech start-up. They delve into the challenges and opportunities that arise during periods of hypergrowth, emphasising the critical importance of maintaining company culture amidst rapid scaling. Dimitri shares insights on the intentionality required in hiring practices, the significance of preserving the organisation's cultural DNA, and the role of leadership in fostering a collaborative environment. KEY TAKEAWAYS As companies experience rapid growth, maintaining the essence of their original culture is crucial. Leaders must be precise when preserving the cultural DNA while allowing it to evolve naturally. In a hypergrowth environment, every hire must be intentional. A single bad hire can have significant ripple effects on team alignment and overall momentum, making it essential to prioritise cultural fit and alignment with company values. The active participation of the leadership team, including founders and C-suite executives, is vital in shaping and maintaining company culture. Their energy and vision help to keep the culture alive and aligned with the organisation’s goals. Embracing technology, particularly AI, can enhance job satisfaction by automating mundane tasks, allowing employees to focus on more strategic and fulfilling work. This can lead to increased engagement and retention. Regular leadership summits and open communication channels are essential for aligning the team with the company’s vision and values. This helps to ensure that as the organisation grows, everyone remains connected to the core purpose and culture. BEST MOMENTS "Every hire has to be intentional because of the impact they're going to bring." "Culture doesn't stand still, especially during hypergrowth. It either gets shaped deliberately or it drifts accidentally." "We're looking at an array of candidates that can add value based on skill." "You have to ensure that every hire lands, and once they do land, the production can assist with and generate the impact." "Be really thoughtful with your hiring. Build leadership muscle." GUEST BIO Dimitri has more than a decade of global HR leadership experience across fintech, technology, oil & gas. He has led teams through M&As, rapid scale-ups, and cultural transformations. Dimitri started in law but quickly found his passion in people and culture, building a track record of aligning HR strategy with business growth across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Today, he’s focused on shaping modern HR practices that drive performance, inclusion, and trust while advising CEOs and leadership teams on the people's side of scaling businesses. dimitrisc@finera.com www.finera.com 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 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 consultant, she offers bespoke consultancy to help companies navigate transformation that delivers a better employee experience and cultural shifts to create healthier, happier, and more inclusive workplaces for all. Jivan Dempsey FCIPD GMBPsS | LinkedIn 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

The Dual Approach to Effective Networking

Jivan investigates the often daunting topic of networking, transforming it from a source of anxiety into a powerful tool for career and business advancement and, importantly, personal branding in a physical and digital world. She shares insights on how effective networking can unlock hidden job and business opportunities by fostering meaningful connections. Jivan emphasises the importance of reframing networking as a two-way exchange focused on curiosity and genuine interest in others, rather than a transactional endeavour. KEY TAKEAWAYS A significant percentage of jobs are filled through networking rather than traditional job applications. Building connections can help you tap into the hidden job market and increase your chances of landing opportunities. Every interaction contributes to your personal brand. Engaging in conversations, sharing insights, and being visible in your industry helps shape how others perceive you and can lead to career and business advancement. Instead of viewing networking as a daunting task, approach it as an opportunity to connect, listen, and learn from others. Focus on building genuine relationships rather than just collecting contacts. Networking should be about giving rather than taking. Offer value in your conversations, whether through sharing insights, resources, or making introductions, to create goodwill and memorable interactions. Both online and in-person networking have unique advantages. Use virtual platforms to connect globally and maintain relationships, while leveraging face-to-face interactions to build trust and create memorable moments. BEST MOMENTS "Networking isn't just about awkward events, small talk or collecting business cards. It's one of the most powerful tools you have for shaping your career." "Most jobs aren't filled because someone has applied cold through some kind of job board. They're filled through networks, through recommendations, through referrals." "When people build a brand about themselves, they actually are projecting their own satisfaction and therefore they feel more confident and they feel more employable." "Networking is not about take, take, take. It's about connecting, being curious, listening, and finding some common ground." "The more you do, the less scary it's going to feel. And before you know it, your network isn't just a list of names." Email info@fiverivers-consulting.com for a copy of our FREE guide "Networking Like A Pro" 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 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 HR services to help companies navigate HR that delivers a better employee experience and cultural shifts to create healthier, happier, and more inclusive workplaces for all. Let's connect: Jivan Dempsey FCIPD GMBPsS | LinkedIn Email: 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 This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

People First: The Power of Axiometrics to Quantify Company Culture with Andrea Burns

Today, Jivan interviews Andrea Burns, founder of Catapult Solutions, a company that specialises in creating positive company cultures. Andrea explains how enabling company culture is the key to an organisation's success and shares her personal experiences with toxic work environments. Andrea introduces her unique framework, Axiometrics, which uses a mathematical model to help companies understand and improve their culture. She provides a new way for HR professionals to demonstrate the value of a strong company culture to business leaders. KEY TAKEAWAYS The core concept of a successful culture is that it enables a company's talent to perform at their best. Andrea argues that companies often fail to get the best out of their employees, regardless of how talented they are, because the work environment does not enable them. Andrea's framework, Axiometrics, is based on a mathematical model by Robert S. Hartman, who sought to define "goodness." This framework views culture through three dimensions: purpose (the "why"), practicality (the "how"), and people (the "who"). Everything in the world, including culture, can be broken down into these three areas. Andrea explains that traditional psychometric tools like Myers-Briggs or DiSC are based on inductive reasoning, which means they measure personality and behavior from the outside in. In contrast, her framework uses value science to measure a person's value judgments, providing a deeper understanding of their cognitive capabilities and thinking patterns. BEST MOMENTS "You can have the most superb CV in front of you, but unless you create an environment which nurtures that talent and that person feels confident and valued in order to bring their best selves to the table, then they are not enabled." "Culture is not an end game. It's a living and breathing thing and we as human beings need to be enabled." "We need to understand our people differently." GUEST BIO Andrea Burns is an Executive Coach and Culture Expert, passionate about embedding innovation into business cultures. As Managing Director of Catapult Solutions Ltd and co-author of "Good Culture: Align Your People, Profits & Purpose for the Greater Good" she helps leaders create environments where ideas and people can flourish. andreaburns@catapult-solutions.co.uk 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 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 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 HR services and bespoke consultancy to help growing businesses navigate change, deliver a better employee experience and cultural shifts to create healthier, happier, and more inclusive workplaces for all. Jivan Dempsey FCIPD GMBPsS | LinkedIn 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