The HR Mentor

#100: Rooted in Purpose, Ready to Grow

In this milestone 100th episode of the HR Mentor Podcast, Melanie reflects on her journey creating the podcast, the key lessons learned, and audience feedback that has made the experience rewarding. She shares the origins of the podcast, aimed at helping early-career HR professionals navigate the job market through actionable advice. Melanie reminisces on her favourite guest episodes and student success stories, emphasizing the power of connections and mentorship in the HR field. Looking ahead, Melanie reveals plans to deepen discussions on thriving in HR roles and shares her continued commitment to guiding HR newcomers. She wraps up with a heartfelt thank you to listeners, guests, and supporters, while hinting at what's to come in future seasons. 🎙️ Episode Timeline * 00:00 Welcome to Episode 100! * 01:02 Reflecting on the Podcast Journey * 02:28 The Origin Story of HR Mentor 06:20 Listener Success Stories * 09:55 Favourite Guest Episodes * 17:22 Lessons Learned and Advice * 23:14 Future of the HR Mentor Podcast * 25:27 Thank You and Season Finale 🔗 Links & Resources * Join the HR Career Accelerator [https://unicorngroup.kartra.com/page/hrcaform] and land your first HR role! (use discount code: HRMENTORPOD for an amazing listener discount. * Includes 8 self-paced modules, Gallup Strengths Finder assessment, worksheets, templates, and private coaching group access. * Join the HR Career Cafe on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13971041/] * Sign up for the Newsletter [https://unicorngroup.kartra.com/page/xuq10] Let’s Stay Connected! If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a fellow HR grad or early career professional! Your support helps others find the show, and I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a rating and review on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/4HXJnBHMmGfGkXLGW4R5Lr?si=Q-zaBw0VRLSl6wicXk9p5A], Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-hr-mentor/id1521597478], or LinkedIn [http://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-reed-hrmentor]. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! You can find The HR Mentor on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Podbean [https://thehrmentor.podbean.com/].

#99: What to Expect in an Entry-Level HR Role

If you're a new HR graduate or actively job searching for your first HR role, this episode is packed with exactly what you need to confidently navigate your search. In this episode, Melanie breaks down the most common entry-level HR positions, typical responsibilities, the key skills employers are looking for, and how understanding these roles can help you define your HR niche and build a more focused, successful job search strategy. 🎙️ Episode Timeline * [00:00] Introduction & Purpose of the Episode * [03:00] Common Entry-Level HR Job Titles * [18:40] Typical Responsibilities in Entry-Level HR Roles * [28:43] The Growing Role of AI in Entry-Level HR * [30:44] Key Skills and Qualities for Success * [41:24] Finding Your HR Niche Through Role Exploration * [44:26] Resume Tailoring & Standing Out to Employers * [47:30] Episode Recap & Final Takeaways 👣Action Steps for Listeners: 1. Review 3–5 HR job postings today and highlight the tasks that resonate most with your skills and interests. 2. Start narrowing your job search focus to roles that best align with your HR niche. 3. Tailor your resume and cover letter for each job posting to stand out. 🔗 Links & Resources * Join the HR Career Accelerator [https://unicorngroup.kartra.com/page/hrcaform] and land your first HR role! (use discount code: SPRING50 for 50%) - Sale ends June 19, 2025! * Includes 8 self-paced modules, Gallup Strengths Finder assessment, worksheets, templates, and private coaching group access. * Join the HR Career Cafe on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13971041/] * Sign up for the Newsletter [https://unicorngroup.kartra.com/page/xuq10] Let’s Stay Connected! If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a fellow HR grad or early career professional! Your support helps others find the show, and I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a rating and review on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/4HXJnBHMmGfGkXLGW4R5Lr?si=Q-zaBw0VRLSl6wicXk9p5A], Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-hr-mentor/id1521597478], or LinkedIn [http://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-reed-hrmentor]. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! You can find The HR Mentor on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Podbean [https://thehrmentor.podbean.com/].

#98: It's (Probably) Not Your Resume: What''s Really Holding Back Your HR Job Search

In this episode, I’m getting real about one of the biggest frustrations in the HR job search. If you’ve been sending out applications and hearing crickets, I know how tempting it is to blame your resume. But here’s the surprising truth: it’s probably not your resume holding you back. Today, I share why clarity about your career goals, skills, and values is far more powerful than endlessly tweaking bullet points. I’ll walk you through the common pitfalls, help you reframe your job search strategy, and give you actionable steps to gain momentum and land that HR role you’ve been dreaming of. If you’re feeling stuck, this episode is a must-listen! 🎙️ Episode Timeline * [2:18] – Why so many job seekers automatically assume their resume is the problem. * [4:57] – Understanding the real issue: lack of clarity around what you want, what you offer and what you value. * [11:17] - An example of why this is important. * [12:54] – A step-by-step strategy to shift your job search approach and stop the resume hamster wheel: self-reflect, define your targets, then (and only then) create your tailored communication tools (resume, cover letter, LinkedIn), network with intention. * [17:30] – Practical takeaways you can act on today or over the next few days to get closer to landing your dream HR role. * [18:18] - A special offer for all the new grads and early career professionals who want hands-on, step-by-step implementation of these strategies! Links & Resources * Join the HR Career Accelerator [https://unicorngroup.kartra.com/page/hrcaform] and land your first HR role! (use discount code: SPRING50 for 50% off with code SPRING50! ) * Includes 8 self-paced modules, Gallup Strengths Finder assessment, worksheets, templates, and private coaching group access. * Listen to Episode 3: How Your Values Impact Your Career and Job Search [https://thehrmentor.podbean.com/e/3-how-your-values-impact-your-career-and-job-search/] * Take the Schwartz Human Values Test [https://www.idrlabs.com/human-values/test.php] (I have no affiliation with this site, but have tried the test myself and found it fairly accurate) * Join the HR Career Cafe on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13971041/] * Sign up for the Newsletter [https://unicorngroup.kartra.com/page/xuq10] Let’s Stay Connected! If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a fellow HR grad or early career professional! Your support helps others find the show, and I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a rating and review on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/4HXJnBHMmGfGkXLGW4R5Lr?si=Q-zaBw0VRLSl6wicXk9p5A], Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-hr-mentor/id1521597478], or LinkedIn [http://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-reed-hrmentor]. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! You can find The HR Mentor on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Podbean [https://thehrmentor.podbean.com/].

#97: Inclusive Leadership and the Power of Connection with Greg Morley

In today’s episode, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Greg Morley, a seasoned global HR executive, DEI strategist, author, and speaker, who brings over two decades of experience from companies like Disney, LVMH Moët Hennesy, and Hasbro. Greg’s journey is one of bold decisions, adventurous career pivots, and a deep commitment to inclusive leadership. From starting in a call center at GE to leading HR and DEI in Paris, Hong Kong, and Shanghai, Greg shares the wisdom and lessons he’s gathered along the way. Trust me—this conversation will leave you feeling inspired, informed, and ready to lead with authenticity. We talked about the real-world impact of inclusive leadership, the essential role of credibility and learning in HR, and the importance of micro-inclusion moments. Greg also opened up about what led him to write his book Bond: Belonging and the Keys to Inclusion and Connection, and shared actionable advice for early-career HR professionals navigating today’s uncertain job market. If you’re looking for real talk and practical insights on building connection and credibility as an HR leader, this episode is for you. 🔑 Episode Highlights * [3:32] Greg shares his career journey from GE to Disney, and how an unexpected opportunity in Paris changed his life * [4:30] Why call centers are a crash course in emotional management and communication for future HR leaders * [6:02] Greg talks about the importance of learning the fundamentals of HR and the understanding the business to build credibility * [7:35] How Greg’s time at Disney brought him to Paris and the lessons he learned about branding for career success and taking risks. * [11:28] Why credibility in HR starts with authenticity, humility, and a willingness to say “I don’t know” * [15:35] How the speed of change (especially with AI) is reshaping how we learn, teach, and lead in HR * [19:09] Making the business case for DEI with data, storytelling, and real-world impact * [25:38] Greg shares a story that illustrates the role of micro-inclusion moments in creating sustainable, inclusive cultures * [30:28] How you can be an inclusive leader regardless of your role. * [37:02] An inside look at Greg’s book Bond—and how finding common ground fuels belonging * [45:38] Greg’s advice for early-career HR professionals on confidence, continuous learning, and being easy to work with 🔗 Links & Resources * Connect with Greg Morley on LinkedIn: LinkedIn Profile  [https://www.gregmorley.com/%20%20https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregcmorley/] * Visit Greg’s website: https://www.gregmorley.com/ [https://www.gregmorley.com/]  * Read Greg’s book Bond: Belonging and the Keys to Inclusion and Connection [https://www.indigo.ca/en-ca/bond-belonging-and-the-keys-to-inclusion-and-connection/9798989456215.html] through Indigo.ca [http://indigo.ca] or your favourite book seller.  * Learn more about the Gay Games and their global inclusion mission: Gay Games Official Site [https://www.gaygames.org/] * Greg’s is reading: The Broken Rung [https://www.indigo.ca/en-ca/broken-rung-when-the-corporate-ladder-breaks-for-women--and-how-to-fix-it/9781647827182.html] by Kweilin Ellingrud, Lareina Yee, and Maria Del Mar Martinez. 🔗 Additional Links: * Join the HR Career Cafe on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13971041/] * Join the HR Career Accelerator [https://unicorngroup.kartra.com/page/hrcaform] and land your first HR role! (use discount code: HRMENTORPOD) * Sign up for the Newsletter [https://unicorngroup.kartra.com/page/xuq10] Let’s Stay Connected! If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a fellow HR grad or early career professional! Your support helps others find the show, and I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a rating and review on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/4HXJnBHMmGfGkXLGW4R5Lr?si=Q-zaBw0VRLSl6wicXk9p5A], Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-hr-mentor/id1521597478], or LinkedIn [http://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-reed-hrmentor]. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! You can find The HR Mentor on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Podbean [https://thehrmentor.podbean.com/].

#96: How a Growth Mindset Can Help Your Job Search

Job searching as a new HR graduate can feel overwhelming—especially when rejections start piling up. But what if your mindset was the key to transforming your job search experience? In this episode, we’re diving into how shifting to a growth mindset can help you overcome obstacles, stay motivated, and ultimately land your first HR role. I’ll walk you through five actionable strategies to develop a growth mindset, including how to reframe rejection, take proactive steps to improve your skills, and leverage networking as a learning opportunity. Plus, we’ll explore how AI tools can support your job search and help you continuously improve along the way. If you’re feeling stuck or frustrated in your job hunt, this episode is for you! Episode Highlights: [2:15] – What is a growth mindset, and why is it critical for job seekers? [6:40] – The difference between a fixed and growth mindset in your job search [9:55] – Reframing rejection: How to turn setbacks into learning experiences [14:20] – The power of taking small, actionable steps to improve your skills [18:35] – Why networking is a game-changer (and how to make it easier) [22:50] – The impact of growth-oriented self-talk and how to practice it [26:10] – Setting process-oriented goals instead of focusing only on outcomes [30:45] – How AI tools can help you improve your resume, interview skills, and job search strategy Resources & Links: 🎧 Related Episodes: * Episode 87: Networking for Introverts with Michelle Amaral * Episode 49: Nix Your Networking Fears * Episode 33: Building Successful Relationships * Episode 8: The Importance of Making Connections 💡 Other Helpful Links: * Join the HR Career Cafe on LinkedIn * Join the HR Career Accelerator (use discount code: HRMENTORPOD) * Sign up for the Newsletter Let’s Stay Connected! If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a fellow HR grad or early career professional! Your support helps others find the show, and I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a rating and review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or LinkedIn. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! You can find The HR Mentor on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Podbean.