Now you might not want to admit it, but you probably know that the summer months aren’t best known for being the most productive of seasons in the workplace. With so many employees heading off on holiday, or dreaming of more exotic locations than your offices, output can often take a bit of a slide in the wrong direction. But …
Can’t afford to hire an HR consultant? Maybe you can’t afford NOT to
Maybe you think you can’t afford an HR consultant? Know you could do with a helping hand with those tricky people issues that have been bubbling away under the surface for some time, but wondering whether you can really spare the budget? Considering whether you’d be better off just hoping for the best and carrying on as you are? We …
Three ways to rocket your team’s performance in 2016
So when you take a look back at how your business performed in 2015, are you satisfied with what was achieved? A little reflection is always useful, but now’s the time to start thinking about the future. You no doubt have big plans for the next 12 months. You’ve got targets to meet and goals to smash, and if you …
Top HR considerations for business owners in January
Now that the dust has settled on the new year, it’s time for many leaders to get back to business and start creating their 2016 success story. You’ve hopefully been able to spend some time relaxing over the festive period, so you’re ready to face your new challenges with excitement. Whether you were planning to ease yourself in gently, or …
Three difficult questions you need to ask yourself before 2016
By now, it’s highly likely that you’ll have asked yourself the big, important, and very obvious questions about how your business measured up during 2015. You’ll know how much you increased your turnover, how many new staff you recruited, and what your goals are moving forward. Planning and reflection sessions can be hugely useful, but sometimes, it can be …
Three signs your business isn’t ready for the Christmas rush
The baubles and oversized biscuit tins are filling up the stores. Parents across the land are starting to encourage good behaviour by reminding their kids that Father Christmas is paying close attention. According to research by VoucherCodes.co.uk, 16% of people had begun their shopping by the end of last month. Christmas is coming, and there’s nothing that anyone can do …
How to welcome new staff into existing teams
Recruiting a new member of staff for your growing business can be a really exciting time, but it’s something that you should definitely consider carefully before you rush into taking action. One of the key challenges that you’re going to face is ensuring that your new recruit is welcomed into your existing team without any significant teething problems. Now of …
It’s time to rethink your appraisals
Recent research from PwC revealed that two thirds of larger companies are thinking about revamping their appraisals processes. The 2015 Performance Management Research found that businesses are becoming increasingly eager to ditch the once-a-year approach and instead concentrate on developing practices that create a continuous feedback culture. It’s often suggested that it’s time for appraisals to be scrapped in …
Are your HR practices in desperate need of an overhaul?
You probably started your own business because you’re passionate about bringing your product or service into the world, and providing a much-needed solution for your customers and clients. This people management malarkey though – it’s not necessarily what you signed up for. Call it a necessary evil if you like, but the fact remains that if you want to grow …