HR Mixtape

The Evolution of Workplace Investigations and Uncovering Hidden Signals with Lisa McConnell

Have you ever wondered what goes into conducting workplace investigations?

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson interviews Lisa McConnell, an HR professional with over 20 years of experience. They discuss the evolution of workplace investigations and share insights on conducting effective investigations.

Three key takeaways from the episode are:

1. The importance of being open-minded and asking thorough questions during investigations.
2. The significance of recognizing and addressing union activity as a potential trigger for workplace issues.
3. The need for empathy and reassurance when dealing with sensitive investigations, such as those involving assault.

Overall, this episode provides valuable advice and strategies for HR professionals conducting workplace investigations.

Guest(s): Lisa McConnell, Certified EEO Investigator, McConnell Consulting Services

Closing the Gap: Bridging the Divide Between Young Professionals and Employers with Kamber Parker

It's amazing how much we can learn from the younger generation!

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson interviews Kamber Parker, founder of the YoPro Know. They discuss the gap between young professionals and employers and debunk some common misconceptions about Gen Z and Millennials in the workplace.

Three key takeaways from this episode are:

1. The importance of embracing intergenerational communication to bridge the gap between different generations in the workplace.
2. The impact of AI on young professionals' roles and the need to train them in AI to ensure future success.
3. The significance of understanding young professionals' communication preferences and incorporating them into workplace communication strategies.

Overall, this episode provides valuable insights for HR professionals on how to better engage and empower young professionals in the workplace.

Guest(s): Kamber Parker, Founder & CEO, The YoPro Know

Preventing Wage and Hour Litigation: Proactive Measures for Employers with Kelly Bunting

Stay updated on the ever-changing laws surrounding wage and hour litigation.

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson interviews Kelly Dobbs Bunting, an experienced lawyer, to discuss proactive measures employers can take to prevent wage and hour litigation. Kelly emphasizes the importance of conducting audits to ensure compliance and suggests interviewing employees to create accurate job descriptions. She also highlights the need to understand both federal and state laws regarding wage and hour regulations.

Three key takeaways from this episode are:

1. Conducting regular audits can help employers identify and address potential wage and hour issues.
2. Understanding the duties and responsibilities of each job position is crucial for accurate classification of employees.
3. Staying informed about changes in legislation and laws regarding independent contractors is essential to avoid misclassification claims.

Overall, this episode provides valuable insights and practical advice for HR professionals looking to navigate wage and hour regulations effectively.

Guest(s): Kelly Bunting, Labor & Employment Attorney, Greenberg Traurig, LLP

 

Curiosity: The Greatest Gift for Effective Leadership with Sarah Noll Wilson

Developing self-awareness and emotional regulation skills is essential for effective leadership.

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson interviews Sarah Noll Wilson, an expert in leadership development. They discuss common challenges that HR professionals face when it comes to developing effective leadership skills. Sarah highlights the burnout and emotional fatigue experienced by HR professionals and emphasizes the importance of self-care. They also explore the trap of confusing knowing with doing and the need for HR professionals to practice what they teach.

Three key takeaways from this episode are:

1. Curiosity is a core skill for effective leadership. Being curious allows leaders to understand different perspectives, embrace experimentation, and increase self-awareness.
2. Developing first-time managers requires a holistic approach. HR professionals should include and invite as many team members as possible in leadership development opportunities to build essential skills throughout the organization.
3. Conflict avoidance is harmful to organizational culture. Leaders should embrace difficult conversations and approach conflict as a conversation rather than a confrontation. Creating a culture where conflict is seen as an opportunity for growth and learning is crucial.

Overall, this episode provides valuable insights into developing leadership skills and overcoming common challenges faced by HR professionals. Listeners will gain practical tips for fostering curiosity, preparing first-time managers, and addressing conflict in the workplace.

Guest(s): Sarah Noll Wilson, CEO and Chief Edge Officer at Sarah Noll Wilson, Inc.

Navigating Misconceptions in Hiring Individuals with Criminal Records with Jeffrey Korzenik

When companies embrace inclusive hiring practices, they benefit from highly motivated and engaged employees.

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson interviews Jeff Korzenik, a chief economist and author, about the business case for hiring individuals with criminal records. They discuss the immediate benefits that companies are seeing when they adopt more inclusive hiring practices.

Three key takeaways from the episode are:

1. Hiring individuals with criminal records can help address the labor shortage and deliver highly motivated, engaged, and loyal employees, leading to increased profitability.
2. One common misconception is painting this population with a broad brush. It's important to recognize that not all individuals with criminal records are the same, and partnering with community-based organizations can help identify potential fits for an enterprise.
3. Onboarding and integrating employees with criminal records require understanding and appreciation for the challenges they may have faced, such as poverty and lack of basic skills. Creating a supportive culture and providing additional resources like life coaches can contribute to their success.

Overall, the episode highlights the importance of HR professionals in driving inclusive hiring practices and adapting to the changing workforce landscape.

Guest(s):Jeffrey Korzenik, Chief Economist at Fifth Third Commercial Bank, Award-Winning Author, Speaker

 

The Future of Change Management: Adapting to the Next Iteration of Work with April Callis-Birchmeier

Are you struggling to influence change within your organization?

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson interviews change management expert April Callis-Birchmeier. They discuss the primary indicators of effective change management in organizations and the common obstacles faced during implementation. April emphasizes the importance of bringing people along with the change and crafting a relevant, relatable story. She also highlights the evolving field of change management, with a focus on being data-driven and leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) tools.

Three key takeaways from this episode are:

1. HR professionals should recognize their impact in change management and step into the role of guiding leaders through the change process.
2. Communication and advanced planning are crucial for successful change implementation.
3. AI tools, like ChatGPT, can be valuable resources for generating ideas and streamlining tasks, but it's important to vet the output and use it as a starting point rather than copying and pasting.

Overall, this episode provides valuable insights and strategies for HR professionals navigating change management in organizations.

Guest(s): April Callis-Birchmeier, Change Management Keynote Speaker, Author of READY, Set, Change! CCMP™ Guru, Springboard Consulting

Exploring the Core Principles of I/O Psychology and Its Relevance in the Workplace with Dr. Fred Rafilson

Ever wondered what I/O psychologists do for your workplace? 

In this episode, host Shari Simpson interviews Dr. Fred Rafilson, CEO of Rafilson & Associates LLC. Dr. Rafilson, an expert in industrial organizational psychology, discusses the core principles of I/O psychology and its relevance in today's workplace. They explore how I/O psychology focuses on understanding human behavior in organizational settings and aims to improve employee performance and well-being. Tune in to gain insights into the field and its impact on the workplace.

Guest(s): Dr. Fred Rafilson, CEO, Rafilson & Associates, LLC

Employee Design Thinking: A Strategic Approach to HR Initiatives with Lorraine King

Get ready to revolutionize your workplace with employee design thinking and digital workplace adoption.

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson interviews Lorraine King, the Director of Employee Experience and Adoption for Digital Workplace at Haleon. Lorraine shares her experience in EX and user-centric design thinking, product management, and change management. She discusses the exciting HR technologies coming out of the Viva space and how they have transformed employee engagement and innovation at Haleon.

Listeners will learn about the importance of HR in driving technology adoption and prioritizing employee experience. They will also learn about the impact of new technology on employees and the need for ongoing commitment to adoption and training efforts. Additionally, the podcast discusses the importance of thorough research and planning, managing expectations, measuring success, and addressing different segments of the audience. The challenges and opportunities of employee experience in the future are also explored, including knowledge management, empowerment, training, technology accessibility, simplification, change management, effective communication, engagement, collaboration, and employee design thinking.

Guest(s): Lorraine King, Director of Employee Experience and Adoption for Digital Workplace, Haleon