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On Friday I went to the Sister Snog Fabulous Friday event at the University Women's Club. Our discussion focussed on 'Pearls of Wisdom' and of course we all wore pearls! So here are some of my pearls of wisdom having been in business since 2009. 💝Build relationships Networking is more than exchanging business cards. Focus on creating genuine, long-lasting relationships. These connections will evolve over time and may bring unexpected opportunities. 💝Keep learning The business landscape constantly evolves. Be open to learning, whether it's new technology, leadership techniques, or industry changes. Staying adaptable is key to staying relevant. 💝Collaboration over competition Women in business can often feel competitive pressure. Instead, focus on collaboration and lifting each other up. There’s enough business to go around, and supporting one another strengthens the community. Check out the book 'Fab Collab' and My book 'The Red Thread'. 💝Know your worth You’ve accumulated years of valuable experience. Share your knowledge generously, but also don’t hesitate to assert your worth and expertise and charge for it! Your insights are valuable. It's easy to undervalue yourself, especially when starting out or when comparing yourself to others. Trust in your experience, skills, and contributions. Know what you bring to the table and don’t be afraid to ask for what you deserve 💝Prioritise self-care Burnout is real, especially for women who balance multiple roles. Taking care of yourself—whether through physical health, mental well-being, or downtime—is critical to sustaining long-term success. 💝Authenticity is crucial. Be yourself in business settings—people gravitate towards those who are genuine and trustworthy. Do share your own pearls of wisdom in the comments.

A perk or a right? New analysis of UK job ads by Rippl reveals that nearly half of vacancies list basic statutory rights, like pensions and holiday entitlement, as benefits! Companies are also promoting amenities such as free parking and tea as significant perks, which are often expected rather than exceptional. Its important that employers offer perks, competitive salaries, and genuine support for employee wellbeing, rather than relying on basic necessities or trivial treats. What do you think are important perks to offer staff over and above statutory rights? #EmployeeWellbeing #WorkPerks #CompanyCulture #EmployeeBenefits #WorkLifeBalance #JobPerks

#HappyMonday "Life is simple; sometimes the human mind makes it complicated." This quote highlights a profound truth about how we perceive and experience life. At its core, life can be straightforward, filled with basic needs and simple joys. However, our thoughts, worries, and overanalysis can create unnecessary complexities. This serves as a reminder to embrace simplicity, focus on what truly matters, and avoid getting entangled in the mind's tendency to complicate things. Do you agree? Have a great week! #SimpleLife #Mindfulness #EmbraceSimplicity #LifeQuotes #PositiveMindset #MondayMotivation

Employers can make several mistakes when managing their staff, but three of the biggest are once I see frequently which often lead to misunderstandings and other problems. 1. Poor Communication When you fail to communicate expectations, goals, and feedback clearly to your staff, it leads to confusion, frustration, and decreased productivity. If you don't listen to or value employee feedback the end result is usually a disengaged workforce and missed opportunities for improvement. 2. Micromanagement Micromanaging staff stifles creativity, autonomy, and motivation. Employees may feel distrusted and demoralised and you might find this increases staff turnover. When employees are not given the freedom to make decisions or take ownership of their work, it hampers their development and growth. Let your team use their initative. 3. Failure to Recognise and Reward Not recognising or rewarding employees for their hard work and contributions can lead to a lack of motivation and loyalty. Employees who feel undervalued are more likely to disengage or seek opportunities elsewhere. Employers who do not invest in their employees' professional growth through training, promotions, or career development opportunities risk losing top talent and facing skill gaps within their teams. If you need any advice on your HR procedures, policies and staff development do get in touch. #EffectiveCommunication #EmployeeEngagement #LeadershipDevelopment #ManagementMistakes #WorkplaceCulture #EmployeeRecognition

It is important if you employ staff that you have an understanding of what HR Compliance is required. There are some key legal HR requirements that every small business should know, even if you outsource your HR. Navigating the world of HR compliance can be challenging, especially for small businesses with limited resources. However, understanding and adhering to legal requirements is crucial to avoid costly penalties and foster a fair, safe, and productive work environment. Here are the key legal HR requirements every small business should know https://lnkd.in/evzWJtey #SmallBusinessHR #HRCompliance #LegalHR #HRManagement #EmploymentLaw

Hello, September! For me, autumn is a season that speaks to both the senses and the soul, with its captivating beauty, cosy comforts, and deep connection to nature’s cycles. It’s a time I hold dear, with its vibrant colours and the refreshing sense of change that fills the air. And as many of you know, my love for the colour orange only adds to my affection for this season! Plus it is my birthday month! I see autumn as a period of transition—a moment that inspires reflection, new beginnings, and personal growth. What do you love about autumn?

Communicating with staff whilst they are on sick leave. Here is another case I am sharing which might require you to consider a policy in your staff handbook about communicating with staff when they are off sick. A recent tribunal case where an HMRC worker won after receiving a birthday card while on sick leave highlights the importance of cautious communication with employees on sick leave, especially when it involves work-related stress or protected characteristics. Employers should establish a clear communication policy that respects the worker's needs while keeping them updated on important matters. By agreeing on a communication plan early, companies can balance their duty of care with operational needs, reducing the risk of legal consequences due to unwanted contact or harassment. Consistency and understanding are key to supporting employees on long-term leave. Here is a link to the article which if you employ staff you might find interesting https://ow.ly/s2PX50T62bH #EmployeeWellness #HRPolicy #EmploymentLaw #HR #HRConsultant

In today's fast-paced world, where the lines between work and personal life often blur, the concept of a family-friendly workplace has become more crucial than ever. For employers, creating an environment that supports employees in balancing their professional responsibilities with family life is not just a trend—it's a vital aspect of fostering a productive, loyal, and engaged workforce. What Does It Mean to Be a Family-Friendly Employer? Being a family-friendly employer involves a holistic approach to workplace policies and culture that acknowledges and supports the diverse needs of employees with families. In my blog this week I have shared why it is important to be a family friendly employer and some links to additional information. https://lnkd.in/egaKAJHW #FamilyFriendlyWorkplace #WorkLifeBalance #EmployeeWellness #SupportingEmployees #HR #HRconsultancy

WHY DID I WRITE THE RED THREAD? My journey to writing The Red Thread began long before I even knew I would pen to paper to share these stories. Arriving in the UK as a refugee from Uganda in 1972, I faced challenges and experiences that shaped my perspective on life. My mother, Indira, was the heart of this inspiration. My book intertwines her wisdom with my own experiences, and those of my sister and the incredible women I have admired over the years. I felt this was so important to share. The Red Thread is not just a collection of stories; it is a tapestry of resilience, love, and determination. Through humour, failures, friendships, and successes, primarily experienced by women, I share in my book the strength we find in ourselves and each other. The stories span from the early 20th century to today, proving that no matter where you are in life, you can overcome. The message I wanted to share is simple: Do not despair; there is always a way. Have faith, commit to your vision, believe in yourself and your higher power, and trust the process. Everything will work out for the better.

The modern workplace is diverse, so fostering inclusivity and accommodating the needs of all employees is crucial. While visible disabilities may prompt immediate attention, it's equally important to address the challenges faced by individuals with invisible disabilities. These conditions, such as chronic illnesses, mental health issues, and neurological disorders, may not be apparent, but their impact on employees' well-being and productivity is significant. Here are some ways employers can create a supportive environment for employees with invisible disabilities. https://lnkd.in/eMhJYGbV #InclusiveWorkplace #DiversityandInclusion #InvisibleDisabilities #ChronicIllnessSupport #Neurodiversity #EmployeeWellbeing