Blog and News

Let’s be honest — nobody really dreams of growing up to manage absence records. But here we are, clutching our Bradford Factor scores and trying to decide whether “my cat looked at me funny” counts as a legitimate reason to stay home. Absence management can be a tricky balance. Too strict, and you’re the workplace…

We don’t usually turn to Mattel dolls, footballers or Regency dramas for HR advice—but maybe we should. From pink convertibles to penalty kicks to polite society, our favourite cultural icons have more to say about workplace behaviour than we think. Here’s what Barbie, Beckham, and Bridgerton can teach us about professionalism, inclusion and how to…

Asking for references might seem like one of the simpler tasks in HR — a quick email, a few standard questions, and job done, right? Not quite. Unfortunately reference requests sit in a legal and practical grey zone that’s often misunderstood by both employers and employees. So here’s a quick guide from a HR perspective…

The lines between work and home have never been blurrier. Thanks to remote and hybrid working, many employees are sending emails at all hours, skipping lunch, and treating 10pm Teams messages like business as usual. But how sustainable is this, really? Enter: the “Right to Disconnect”. It’s not a new idea, but it’s gaining momentum…

Managing holiday leave requests might not sound like the most exciting part of running a business—but it can quickly become a headache if not handled well. Whether it’s overlapping summer breaks, last-minute Christmas leave, or confusion around bank holidays, poor planning can disrupt your operations and frustrate your team. Here’s what every business owner needs…

The way we work is changing, and the 4-day work week is gaining attention. Many businesses are trying it out, but is it the right move for everyone? What is the 4-Day Work Week? A 4-day work week means employees work four days instead of five, without a pay cut. The idea is to improve…

Workplace concerns and grievances are a natural part of any organisation. However, not every issue requires a formal complaint. Many concerns can be resolved more quickly and effectively through an informal grievance process. For managers, handling grievances informally can help maintain a positive workplace culture, improve communication, and prevent small issues from escalating. Here’s a…

Bringing dogs to work is becoming an increasingly popular workplace perk, fostering a more relaxed and engaging office culture. However, to ensure a positive experience for all employees, a well-thought-out policy is essential. Here are some key considerations when implementing a dogs at work policy. Assess Workplace Suitability Not all work environments are suitable for…

In today’s workplace, addressing mental health challenges is more important than ever. For Business Owners, fostering an environment that supports mental well-being can lead to a healthier, more productive workforce. Here are practical and simple steps to help employees facing mental health challenges: Promote Open Communication • Create a Safe Space: Encourage employees to speak…

In any organisation, employee turnover is inevitable. While the loss of a team member can be challenging, it also provides a unique opportunity for growth and improvement through exit interviews. Conducted properly, these interviews can offer invaluable insights into your company’s culture, management practices, and areas for improvement. This blog will explore the importance of…