Work In Progress – People & Culture podcast

54:37

In this episode, Julie Reiter, Vice President of Human Resources and Sustainable Development at The Clarke Group, Inc., joins us to share how she—through appreciative inquiry, a relentless focus on sustainability efforts and cross-functional collaboration—has helped transform Clarke into a forward-thinking, engaged, and flourishing organization. Hear the story of how the CEO (Lyell Clarke) inspired a shift towards sustainable development and workforce engagement in the mosquito control pesticide products and services industry before anyone else was talking about higher purpose and building a business that does good in and for the world. And learn how Julie, from the perspective of HR and organizational development, expanded her role to support and sustain the change efforts in the organization so that they became lasting and ingrained into the structures and deeper culture of the organization. Throughout Clarke's transformation journey, the Appreciative Inquiry methodology has informed and guided the change efforts. This method values systemic thinking, experimentation, and a focus on building strengths. The approach has not only informed but also shaped the capabilities of Clarke's leaders and employees, concretely leading to improved performance reviews (quarterly check-ins fostering richer relationships and meaningful dialogues), an ingrained focus on sustainability in the daily business, and a significant boost in engagement. Ultimately, it has shaped a positive, solutions-oriented, flourishing organizational culture. Share Your Thoughts on this Episode Online Business Coaching getsession.com…

Work in Progress – People & Culture

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Reflections on 2024 and HR Trends and Predictions for 2025: The Year of Belonging – with Eric Knauf 28:48

for 9 weeks siden28:48

28:48

In this episode, we take a deeper look at what happened in HR in 2024 and what trends and predictions we see for 2025. As we transition into 2025, Eric Knauf, head of Talent and Culture and founder of BelongHQ, gives us a forward-looking perspective on how crafting a connected workplace and embracing AI and hybrid work will be paramount for HR in 2025 and how these trends started in 2024. The episode delves into the impact of technology on employee engagement and the disconnection that can arise in remote settings. Eric emphasizes the critical role HR plays in fostering psychological safety, inclusion, and support, which are essential for achieving a sense of belonging. The integration of AI-driven predictive analytics and change management emerges as a crucial tool in tailoring employee experiences and enhancing workforce strategies. Reflecting on 2024, the episode highlights how organizations and HR departments that continue to embrace AI and technological advancements will be in the front seat when it comes to answering the call for HR leaders to prioritize belonging and diversity. Eric explains the thrilling possibilities that lie ahead, with AI acting as a strategic enabler for fostering connections, driving engagement, and supporting employee development. The episode also touches on the broader implications of AI adoption in HR. Eric shares insights into how organizations can leverage AI to break down silos, foster cross-functional collaboration, and enhance agility. As AI becomes more integrated into workplace dynamics, the focus shifts to how technology can aid in creating a sense of belonging, even in hybrid work settings. The potential for AI-driven analytics to recommend tailored opportunities based on employee preferences is highlighted as a game-changer for enhancing employee experiences. Looking ahead to 2025, the conversation anticipates a year where belonging and inclusion take center stage in workforce strategies. HR needs to embrace agility, prioritize ROI, and leverage data literacy to drive impactful decisions. As the landscape of work continues to evolve, the integration of AI and the emphasis on belonging and inclusion are poised to shape the future of HR and people culture. In conclusion, this podcast episode provides a rich exploration of the transformative potential of AI in HR, with a strong emphasis on belonging and inclusion. As we look forward to new opportunities and growth in 2025, the conversation serves as a reminder of the importance of staying human and connected in an increasingly digital world. Share Your Thoughts on this Episode Online Business Coaching getsession.com…

Work in Progress – People & Culture

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Breaking the Mold: From HR to People & Culture through reimagining it all! With Camilla Miehs from Leman 57:20

for 13 weeks siden57:20

57:20

What if traditional HR models are holding your organization back? Join me, Pernille Brun, as I sit down with Camilla Miehs, the Group Chief People Officer at Lehman, to unearth a transformative approach to HR. Camilla shares her groundbreaking shift from conventional HR practices to a dynamic "people and culture" philosophy that prioritizes meaningful engagement and cultural development. We unpack her evolution from standard metrics like 360 feedback to systems that enhance employee well-being and align with business goals. Discover how the transition from HR to "People and Culture" signifies more than just a rebranding—it's a revolutionary change in how we support and engage our teams. Camilla challenges the status quo, questions outdated leadership hierarchies and the static pyramid model that many organizations still cling to. She explains the necessity of embracing diverse organizational approaches and the pitfalls of bureaucracy that hinder progress. Camilla calls out the misconception that some business practices are immutable natural laws and explores how breaking away from these norms can unlock organizational potential. Camilla's insights reveal the power of rethinking how we build and manage teams and organizations to foster more humane work places, which are also more sustainable and thus effective in the long run! Through eliminating unnecessary processes and implementing frameworks like OKRs and pulse surveys, Camilla has created a people-centric environment that champions autonomy and flexibility and added a "supermarket" of resources ready to be found and used - not by everyone - but by those who need them! Share Your Thoughts on this Episode Online Business Coaching getsession.com…

Work in Progress – People & Culture

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Standing Strong with the C-suite: Understanding the Business for Strategic Influence - with Jesper Diget from emagine 37:23

for 18 weeks siden37:23

37:23

What happens when a finance expert reshapes how to navigate the HR role? Join us as Jesper Diget, Group Chief People Officer at emagine, shares his intriguing journey from finance to human resources. Jesper offers a unique perspective on how financial acumen can reshape HR practices. With a background in finance, Jesper has leveraged his analytical skills to enhance HR's role in strategic leadership, emphasizing the importance of understanding financial metrics and their impact on organizational communication. Jesper's journey from finance to HR highlights the transformative potential of financial insights in human resources. His transition began with a focus on compensation and benefits, which gradually expanded into roles encompassing business partnering and executive management. Jesper's ability to interpret financial metrics has enabled HR to communicate more effectively with business stakeholders, ensuring alignment between organizational values and business goals. This episode emphasizes the importance of HR having a seat at the executive table, where it can drive culture and people strategies in tandem with overarching business goals. As HR evolves within the C-suite, Jesper shares insights on how HR professionals can assert themselves as equal contributors in business leadership. The episode delves into the dynamics of executive meetings, illustrating how HR is no longer just a support function but a key driver of business strategies. By fostering a collaborative environment and voicing informed opinions, HR can play a crucial role in driving business strategies alongside other executives. Jesper encourages HR professionals to embrace courage, engage in broader discussions, and take ownership of the organization's success. Towards the end of this episode, Jesper takes a look at the future and shares his vision for adapting HR practices to meet the changing needs of a dynamic workforce. From navigating frequent job transitions to addressing the desires of value-driven employees who prioritize environmental and social impacts, this episode explores the importance of strategic feedback mechanisms like engagement surveys emphasizing the importance of agile development initiatives. In summary, this podcast episode offers a comprehensive exploration of how financial insights can transform HR practices. Jesper's insights provide valuable guidance for HR professionals seeking to elevate their role within the organization and deliver strategic HR by aligning HR initiatives with business objectives. When HR professionals see themselves as integral parts of the business (not as separate entities), understand the business context, ask questions, and collaborate across departments, they can create true value for the organization. Share Your Thoughts on this Episode Online Business Coaching getsession.com…

Work in Progress – People & Culture

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Embracing ESG, the Rise of Zebra Companies, and Animals as Symbols of Corporate Values – with Ditte Buch Andersen from Neurons 21:16

for 21 weeks siden21:16

21:16

In this episode, Ditte Buch Andersen offers valuable insights into the process of identifying the right company values and how linking those values to specific animals can make them stronger and more memorable. In the case of the company Neurons, the elephant, gazelle, and zebra represent integrity, growth, and responsibility, respectively, sparking a wider conversation around the values and enabling them to be translated into meaningful actions. As ESG requirements shape the business landscape, companies face growing expectations to align their operations with societal contributions. Ditte and Neurons view this as an exciting opportunity, challenging the perception of ESG reporting and responsibilities as hard and meaningless. 'Zebra companies' present compelling alternatives to traditional 'unicorns,' attracting talent seeking meaningful impact. Speaking of attracting the right talent, Ditte also discusses the recruitment process. She emphasizes the delicate balance between finding individuals who fit into the current culture and those who can bring fresh perspectives—much like navigating the intricacies of dating! There's never a dull moment in this enlightening episode - so tune in, listen, and learn Share Your Thoughts on this Episode Online Business Coaching getsession.com…

Work in Progress – People & Culture

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Nurturing a Strong Organizational Culture Amidst Rapid Growth – with Michael Frantl from Novo Nordisk 41:26

for 22 weeks siden41:26

41:26

Unlock the secrets to fostering a strong organizational culture with our special guest, Michael Frantl, Global Culture, Engagement & Performance Solutions Lead at Novo Nordisk. Michael shares his expertise on maintaining a strong cultural identity amidst rapid company growth and leveraging hybrid and flexible work conditions to enhance employee engagement. Discover the innovative strategies he and his colleagues employ to ensure every employee feels a sense of belonging and alignment with Novo Nordisk's values. Explore the critical role of employee engagement with an in-depth look at engagement surveys, their execution, and their impact. Michael breaks down his experience with how these surveys can measure employee sentiment and drive meaningful actions, along with the importance of equipping managers to act on the data collected. With insights into both annual and continuous feedback mechanisms, Michael enlightens us on how to keep engagement efforts dynamic and impactful, ensuring a motivated workforce. Through discussions on performance, identity, and personal fulfillment, Michael also shares his experience of aligning personal values with company goals. Finally, in this episode you will gain practical advice for navigating different work environments, from startups to large corporations, and hear about the camaraderie-building Danish DHL rally that epitomizes team spirit. Don't miss this episode packed with actionable insights for anyone passionate about organizational behavior and culture. Share Your Thoughts on this Episode Online Business Coaching getsession.com…

Work in Progress – People & Culture

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Harnessing Diversity: Strategies for Inclusive Leadership and Employee Engagement with Stine Pi Halmind 33:03

for 27 weeks siden33:03