Author: Edward Cook

It’s often the case that the relentless pursuit of efficiency often overshadows…

In a chilling echo of dystopian fiction, imagine a world gripped by fear, where individuality is suppressed and conformity is enforced. In a totalitarian state, even the most innocent of concepts can be weaponised to maintain control. One such victim would surely be the humble Venn diagram.

The Killers might have been asking a philosophical question back in 2008, but in the age of digital overload, it’s a question HR departments are grappling with too. ‘Human’ is the new buzzword (sadly, not ‘dancer’). Organisations all around us are plastering it across their mission statements and culture decks. But is it just lip service, or are they truly embracing what it means to be human in a world increasingly dominated by algorithms?

So, you’ve a brilliant business plan, but your team lacks the enthusiasm to make it come to life. That’s the essence of the famous quote, “Culture eats strategy for breakfast.”

Your company’s culture is the foundation of everything you do. It shapes your people’s behaviour, decision-making, and ultimately their satisfaction. A strong culture fits with your strategy and supports your people to achieve your shared goals.

Let’s talk about wellbeing at work – that’s our mental and physical health. It’s a big deal, and companies are definitely taking notice. Wellbeing programs are popping up everywhere, from lunchtime yoga sessions to mindfulness apps. But are these initiatives truly helping employees, or are we just striking a pose?

The chairman of Timpsons has a radical idea: a happy and productive workforce doesn’t need a stifling rulebook or a controlling HR department. Timpson has implemented a unique management style called “upside-down management.”

“I hear that courdroy pillows are all the rage at the moment – they’re making headlines.” #dadjokesrule

It’s fair to say that traditional workplaces can feel like a right old slog. We spend a so much of our waking time in an environment that can be rather rigid and humourless. But a workplace can be a place where laughter is encouraged and lightheartedness is celebrated.

Feeling lost in the office labyrinth? We’ve all been there. That’s where a good workplace mentor can be your guide, helping you through the twists and turns of your career. But the benefits can go beyond just navigating office politics. A strong mentor-mentee relationship can be a career-changer for both of you.

Leadership. It’s a word that conjures images of authority figures barking orders. But what if true leadership was about more than just giving directions? What if it was about empowering and uplifting those you lead? This is the core of servant leadership, a philosophy that flips the traditional leadership model on its head.

It can be a real challenge in a hectic world to maintain a healthy work-life balance. The constant stream of emails, looming deadlines, and the temptation to check in outside of working hours can lead to burnout. However, prioritising annual leave isn’t simply a perk, but a strategic investment in your mental wellbeing and professional development.