It’s not just any episode, it’s episode 200 of The HR Room podcast! 200 episodes, 200 weeks in a row, with over 150 different guests, and 50,000 listens, making us Ireland’s longest-running HR podcast, with much more on the way too. And to mark the occasion, we're speaking to somebody who you’ve heard from 200 times, but who has never been the guest on this podcast! So to talk to us about her story, the story of Insight HR, what we do and why we do it, we’re joined by our very own Mary Cullen, F...
Dec 10, 2024•38 min•Ep. 200
Another Christmas-related episode this week, as we unwrap employee engagement and reward, and how prioritising your reward strategy can have a positive effect on your people and your organisation. From Christmas vouchers and bonuses to salary and benefits, this is something that really isn’t just for Christmas, and should be thought about all year round! So to talk about this, sharing his extensive experience in the world of reward and incentives, we’re delighted to be joined by Jonathan Grey, F...
Dec 03, 2024•37 min•Ep. 199
Workplace Investigations are a notoriously tricky challenge for HR teams and employers, with tough situations needing to be tackled, with integrity, transparency and a serious time commitment. We need only look back at our own coverage of this topic on our podcast, our webinar series, our blog, and more, to see that it’s hugely popular for our audience. However, today, we’re covering something that we and many others have yet to discuss, despite the vast majority of investigations being outsourc...
Nov 26, 2024•30 min•Ep. 197
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, so you know what that means? Christmas Party time! And while these can be jolly and jovial affairs for most organisations, things have been known to turn sour quite easily, with many HR teams having to deal with the fallout from things like conflict, sexual harassment or other serious misconduct that can ruin the Christmas spirit, very quickly. So to talk about what we as HR professionals can do to proactively mitigate the risk here before the party e...
Nov 19, 2024•41 min•Ep. 198
According to a 2023 survey by the Central Statistics Office, 32% of workers aged between 20 and 69 are not signed up to a private pension. Without a change, hundreds of thousands of workers would be reliant solely on their State pension when they retire. But thankfully, the long-awaited and well-publicised pension auto-enrolment plan is now closer than ever, with employers and employees now double-checking what exactly is happening and what they must do! So to talk to us about exactly that, and ...
Nov 12, 2024•39 min•Ep. 196
Significant updates to Ireland's employment permit system were recently introduced with the Employment Permits Act 2024, which took effect on September 2nd, in the hope of enhancing the system's efficiency, offering a more flexible and responsive approach to the evolving needs of the labour market, and essentially streamline the processes, making it easier for employers to recruit international talent and better address skill shortages across various sectors. So to talk us through the updates an...
Nov 05, 2024•31 min•Ep. 195
Divine intervention in disciplinary procedures?! In today’s episode we focus on a crucial element of fair disciplinary procedures: the employee's right to representation, and all the weird and wonderful nuances that can come with it! So to discuss why representation matters, how to manage the process, and what employers need to do to ensure this right is respected, we’re delighted to be joined by David McCarroll, Partner at RDJ Solicitors! Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Employee Representation i...
Oct 29, 2024•36 min•Ep. 194
In today’s episode, we’re diving into some important updates that will affect employers and employees across Ireland – the Maternity Protection (Amendment) and Miscellaneous Provisions Bill 2024. This new legislation introduces some significant changes to maternity leave and protections for parents in the workplace. We’re discussing what these changes mean, why they’re needed, and how HR professionals can ensure compliance while offering real support to their teams. And to do this, we’re delight...
Oct 22, 2024•33 min•Ep. 193
In this episode, we’re diving into some fascinating insights from Deloitte’s latest survey of Ireland’s Best Managed Companies. The survey has revealed some key trends that are shaping the future of business in Ireland - everything from international expansion and sustainability, to the growing emphasis on talent retention. And to talk us through the findings, we’re delighted to be joined by no other than Brian Murphy, Lead Partner for Deloitte’s Best Managed Companies Awards Programme. Chapters...
Oct 15, 2024•34 min•Ep. 192
Today, we're diving into one of the more challenging and often nerve-wracking aspects of HR—managing a workplace disciplinary hearing. It’s a process that, when not handled properly, can lead to unnecessary stress, strained relationships, and even legal challenges. But it doesn’t have to be that way. So, in this episode, to guide us through these complex procedures, outline best practices, common pitfalls, and how to ensure fairness and transparency throughout the process, we’re joined by our ve...
Oct 08, 2024•39 min•Ep. 191
While Ireland is known for its rich diversity and inclusive spirit, the reality is that racism remains an active issue in many organisations. As HR professionals, it’s crucial to not only recognise and address these challenges head-on but also to proactively foster a culture of inclusion and respect. So today, we share practical advice on how to effectively combat racism in the workplace - from implementing robust policies and training to conducting fair investigations and driving meaningful cha...
Oct 01, 2024•30 min•Ep. 190
A 2017 survey by the Transgender Equality Network Ireland found that 55% of respondents indicated that they had experienced or witnessed transphobic bullying in the workplace. In the 7 years since this survey, although we’ve seen progress in policies, culture, gender expression etc., challenges still remain for transgender people, with this issue far from solved. So to chat to us today and provide some insights and advice on what we can do about this from a HR perspective, we’re delighted to be ...
Sep 24, 2024•32 min•Ep. 189
So you've caught someone red-handed, stealing from the workplace. Is what you do next simply black and white? Or is there some grey areas and a lot of red tape? If something like this happens out of the blue, will you be ready to manage it? Luckily today, and also in our webinar at the end of the month, we’re be offering up some advice on a silver platter! So to do exactly that, and guide us through the topic of theft in the workplace, we’re delighted to be joined by our very own Rebecca Bowman,...
Sep 17, 2024•41 min•Ep. 188
Although redundancies did capture the headlines in recent years and in certain sectors, redundancies are a challenge that many organisations across all industries will face at some point. Thankfully, we have robust legislation in place, with even more changes recently announced! But as with any new legislation or HR subject like this, it’s always a challenge to make sure you’re doing the right thing! So to talk to us about the recent changes and what they mean for employers and HR teams, we’re d...
Sep 10, 2024•43 min•Ep. 187
As I’m sure we’ve all realised by now, remote working isn’t a simple black and white subject for employers and employees alike. Yes, we have a code of practice, but the nuances, the contributing factors, the circumstances and even some case law still raise questions about how exactly all of this should operate. Well to help us sift through this and hopefully give a clearer picture on what is a big challenge for HR teams everywhere, we’re delighted to be joined by Siobhra Rush, Partner and Head o...
Sep 03, 2024•42 min•Ep. 185
In recent years, the rise of far-right movements and political shifts have brought renewed scrutiny and resistance to DEI efforts. Studies show that nearly 70% of organisations worldwide are re-evaluating their DEI strategies due to changing political climates. With a pivotal U.S. presidential election on the horizon, the ripple effects could be felt across boardrooms, influencing corporate culture and policies far beyond American borders. In this episode, we explore what this means for HR profe...
Aug 27, 2024•39 min•Ep. 186
Are you a standalone HR professional, a one person department, managing the HR function? Are you feeling overwhelmed and under-supported, but keen to do as much as you can? Well, the good news is, you’re not the only one. So many people that we speak to here at Insight HR are in this exact position, going solo in HR, trying to do the best they can, but needing our help. And more good news, as today, we want to have a chat that’s, in the famous words of Kylie & Jason, especially for you! So t...
Aug 20, 2024•47 min•Ep. 184
Back in 2018, Down Syndrome Ireland surveyed their members and found that only 6% of people were in deep and meaningful employment. Although many HR teams and organisations know that people with Down Syndrome should be supported and included, clearly something is missing. But thankfully, Down Syndrome Ireland is doing some fantastic work in this area to help make a change. So today we’re delighted to be joined by Aoife Gaffney, Head of Employment at Down Syndrome Ireland. P.S check out the truly...
Aug 13, 2024•37 min•Ep. 183
48pc of neurodivergent people have not disclosed their condition at work. This is a statistic that we spoke to Matt Elliott, Chief People Officer at Bank of Ireland about recently on this very podcast, in the context of their neurodiversity strategy that they built in partnership with a select number of experts in this area, one being Auticon, who’s purpose is to help companies become a destination for neurodivergent talent. An autistic majority and award winning company, Auticon are inspiring i...
Aug 06, 2024•40 min•Ep. 182
Beanbags, free beer, and bring-your-pet-to-work days: these are often thought to attract Generation Z graduates. Because Gen Z doesn’t care about salary, only some vague notion of “meaningful” work, right? Nothing could be further from the truth. This is the opening paragraph from a recent Irish Examiner article about Gen Z workers, and what they really want in their roles. And this multi-generational satisfaction challenge is something that many HR professionals are certainly dying to hear more...
Jul 30, 2024•39 min•Ep. 181
Each year, the CIPD conducts its HR practices in Ireland survey in conjunction with the Kemmy Business School, University of Limerick, to collate annual insights on the challenges and concerns of the people profession in Ireland. The CIPD conducted this survey of members and people professionals in Ireland in November and December 2023 across a wide range of industries, shapes and sizes, and as always, the results have been very interesting. So, to talk to us about this today, who better to join...
Jul 23, 2024•41 min•Ep. 180
The charity sector is a sector which has always been valued highly here in Ireland in particular, with hundreds of charities all around Ireland doing fantastic work across a wide range of goals, for a wide range of reasons, and thankfully with a wide range of employees and volunteers to make the good work happen. But, of course, work in the charity sector is not without it’s challenges. And for HR teams, HR leaders and employers, supporting the people who do all of this great work, is of paramou...
Jul 16, 2024•38 min•Ep. 179
Navigating the world of HR and employment law can be a daunting task for any organisation. Whether you are an overwhelmed and under supported solo HR function in a small company, a growing business without a dedicated HR team who needs the right foundations in place, or a large corporation looking to outsource specific HR tasks, choosing the right HR support is crucial. The right partner can make all the difference in fostering a productive, compliant, and happy work environment. So if something...
Jul 09, 2024•42 min•Ep. 178
The termination of one’s employment, for whatever reason, is a significant occurrence in anyone's professional life. It is very often a difficult and emotionally charged period. When this occurs, the need for clear processes and clear understanding, on both sides, is key. So when it comes to settlement agreements, which can be a common occurrence in the world of terminating employment, what is the process, and what must we, as HR professionals, understand? In this great 1:1 discussion, our very ...
Jul 02, 2024•35 min•Ep. 177
As HR professionals, we know driving change is difficult. But we also know that driving change is essential – not just for organisations to grow and thrive, but most importantly for our people, of all backgrounds, abilities and characteristics to grow and thrive also. One thing that does make managing change easier however, is data. So where do we get it, and how do we properly use it? Well to talk to us about this today we’re delighted to be joined by a guiding light in this area, and a familia...
Jun 25, 2024•47 min•Ep. 175
A probation period, at a simple level is a period of time at the start of a permanent full-time or part-time employment relationship that gives the employer the opportunity to assess whether their new employee is capable, reliable and suitable for the job. Simple in essence, but not so simple if not handled properly - with potentially both the employer and the employee left feeling frustrated if the key fundamentals and communication are missed. So, to talk to us about how to ensure performance ...
Jun 18, 2024•37 min•Ep. 176
Unfortunately, whether we like to admit it or not, we’ve all at some point felt that Sunday fear of having to return to work to a mountain of emails after a really nice long weekend or holiday. But what about people who are returning from a much longer period away from work? People trying to figure out how they’ll slot back in to working life after months or maybe even a year away from the office? For them, it’s a little bit different, to say the least! So to talk us through this today, chatting...
Jun 11, 2024•40 min•Ep. 174
In a 2023 study by Indeed, over half (53%) of respondents who identify as LGBTQ+ felt discriminated against at work. And although, of the 500 surveyed participants who identified as LGBTQIA+, 92% stated they were 'out' at work, only 34% were 'out' to everyone they worked with, while 57% disclosed this only to those they trusted at work. Something is wrong here. Although we see fantastic groups constantly pushing the inclusion agenda forward, and some employers doing good work in this area, it se...
Jun 04, 2024•41 min•Ep. 173
Is your HR team struggling to balance your HR budget, while still trying to enhance employee wellbeing? While the latter is a driver for commercial success, the Return-On-Investment (ROI) of wellbeing initiatives often comes under scrutiny during challenging financial times. The ROI of wellbeing is a critical area of interest at Top Employers Institute who are the global authority on recognising excellence in people practices. So who better to speak to about this than Abigail Britnell, European ...
May 28, 2024•32 min•Ep. 172
Some of the challenges or topics we speak about on this podcast, or see in the headlines may not affect us all. There are however, a select few topics that will almost certainly land on the table of every single one of us – and one of those is retirement. But despite the fact that this is a topic that is pretty much unavoidable, it’s not without its challenges and concerns for HR teams and employers. So let’s dig a little deeper in to this, and share some very topical and practical advice, as to...
May 21, 2024•41 min•Ep. 171
