I Hate It Here (Hebba Youssef)

Today we’re going to embrace the messy, imperfect, and downright hilarious side of learning from making mistakes. Kim has seen it all, done it all, and definitely messed it all up a few times too! It’s part of the growth process, as you know. From compensation catastrophes to performance management mishaps, she has the stories (and the scars) to prove that sometimes, the best lessons come from the biggest blunders. Besides, who doesn’t love a good “I can’t believe I did that” moment? Are you ready to unlock the full potential of your workforce? PI empowers organizations to align talent with business strategy, helping you drive results and build a culture where your people truly thrive. Transform how you hire, engage, and lead—visit predictiveindex.com to learn how you can create meaningful change in your organization today! 00:03:23 - Something Kim is Insanely Curious About Right Now 00:06:16 - The Time Kim F&%$#d up Compensation 00:23:25 - Kim’s Performance Management Mistakes, Explained 00:29:51 - The Real Purpose of Performance Management Reviews 00:36:53 - How AI Might Impact Performance Management 00:45:50 - Kim’s Advice on How to Prepare for the Future of HR And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Kim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-minnick/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

As People Leaders, we love our people, but sometimes we miss how the two worlds of business strategy and people strategy need to work together to drive results.  Joining me is the brilliant Halai Shukran, COO at Pluribus Digital, who’s built her career around understanding exactly how people and business strategy intersect. From leading talent functions to overseeing operations, IT, and comms, Halai’s insight is next level.  She’s breaking down how to speak the language of other business units, why you should get your seat at the table, and how to prioritize when resources are tight. Plus, we talk about the big picture—how seeing the whole organization helps shape better leadership and decision-making. So, if you’ve ever felt stuck in the HR bubble, today’s episode is your guide to breaking out and making a real impact.  Now, Working Not Working is helping to keep that talent with NTRNL— the new platform that unlocks employee passions and ignites productivity. So you can see your people as they see themselves: as humans, not headcount. Visit seeyourpeople.com to learn more or book a demo. 00:02:27 - One Thing People in HR Should Rethink 00:06:10 - How Halai Discovered Her Zone of Genius 00:10:43 - Keeping Business and People Strategies Aligned 00:18:10 - The Process for Diagnosing Organizational Challenges 00:23:30 - Prioritizing When Resources are Limited 00:37:18 - Approaching Prioritization When Working Across Multiple Teams 00:42:57 - How Seeing the Bigger Picture Influences Leadership and Decision-making 00:48:14 - Advice for Leaders who Want to Cultivate the “Big Picture” Mindset 00:50:58 - What Excites Halai About the Future of Work And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Halai: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/halai-shukran-sphr/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

As we wrap up 2024, it's time to start thinking ahead to 2025—and let’s be honest, it’s about time we take our place as the experts in the room.  From fixing the broken candidate experience to building stronger bridges with other teams, it’s time for HR to show up and show out! This episode features a series of friends/leaders sharing their bold wishes for the future, and why 2025 is our year to make real change happen. We’re not holding back! Now, Working Not Working is helping to keep that talent with NTRNL— the new platform that unlocks employee passions and ignites productivity. So you can see your people as they see themselves: as humans, not headcount. Visit seeyourpeople.com to learn more or book a demo. 00:00:55 - Tara Turk-Haynes’s Wish for HR in 2025 00:10:01 - Sarika Lamont’s Wish for HR in 2025 00:16:02 - Cassidy Edwards’s Wish for HR in 2025 00:19:35 - Noah Warder’s Wish for HR in 2025 00:26:52 - Cassandra Babilya’s Wish for HR in 2025 And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Tara: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ttaraturkhaynes/ Follow Sarika: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarikal/ Follow Cassidy: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassidy-edwards-yyom/ Follow Noah: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noahwarder/ Follow Cassandra: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassandra-babilya/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

How do you manage the wellbeing of employees when everyone seems stressed? A pandemic, economic downturns, and the general challenges of life have left so many people feeling burnt out. How can employers handle the stress of their employees?  Hebba is joined by a panel of People and HR experts -  Amande Halle, Founder of People Tech Guru, Jomana Elwenni, Head of People at Community.com and Charkie Quarcoo, Program Manager at the Predictive Index. They get straight into discussing what work factors cause the most stress for employees, the most effective mechanisms of support, and how HR professionals can (and should) take care of their own health. Join Hebba and the panel at this virtual event discussing how to manage stress and wellbeing the right way, plus fielding Q&As from viewers. Thanks to our sponsors New Stand - partnering with companies to deliver better work experiences, including onsite and virtual team stores, employee rewards, and pop-up events.  New Stand helps bridge the onsite - offsite gap for distributed teams with their premium wellbeing, community, and recognition programs. Learn how to bring joy to your team by visiting newstand.com And The Predictive Index. Bonus payouts around the corner? Don't panic. The Predictive Index gives you (and your managers) the tools you need to create a more engaging culture. Go to trypi.com/hrt  to get started for free. And if you love HR Therapy, sign up to I Hate it Here, the newsletter for jaded, overworked and emotionally burned out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/ Follow Hebba:  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

What does it really take to make HR more human?   Today, we’re exploring that question by diving into the concept of the zone of genius—that flow state where you’re most creative and impactful.  Joining me is Demario, a powerhouse connector, community builder, and unofficial HR bestie.  We talk about everything from leading with authenticity to why curiosity is the key to shaking up HR (yes, we need more people asking “why”!).  Demario opens up about his journey in building inclusive spaces, fostering a genuine culture, and why the future of HR is all about connection.  Whether it’s building strong relationships with your team, manager, or broader community, Demario shows us how human connection is at the core of it all.  Now, Working Not Working is helping to keep that talent with NTRNL— the new platform that unlocks employee passions and ignites productivity. So you can see your people as they see themselves: as humans, not headcount. Visit seeyourpeople.com to learn more or book a demo. 00:04:14 - Something That HR Folks Should Rethink 00:06:23 - How Demario Became a Connector of People and What That Means 00:15:20 - How to Connect People From Different Backgrounds and Walks of Life 00:22:40 - Building an HR Community Without an HR Background 00:32:56 - Bridging the Gap Between Conceptual HR Ideas and Directly Practicing in the Field 00:41:55 - How Leading an HR Community for the First Time Influenced Demario’s Perspective 00:46:16 - Demario’s Culture First Community And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Demario: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/demario-bell-7a510994/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

I’ve been on a mission this season to learn something new in every episode, and today?  Buckle up, because we’re diving into the world of investing and retirement planning—and I promise, it’s way more interesting than it sounds! It’s also an incredibly important topic that not enough people in our roles are talking about at length. Unfortunately, financial stress is the #1 stressor for most people, and HR leaders are no exception.  But here’s the thing: investing doesn’t have to be a jargon-filled nightmare! So in this episode, Breene Murphy and I are breaking down what HR leaders need to know about investing—no fluff, no confusing terms, just practical insights to help you build a retirement plan that works for your company and your people! Are you ready to unlock the full potential of your workforce? PI empowers organizations to align talent with business strategy, helping you drive results and build a culture where your people truly thrive. Transform how you hire, engage, and lead—visit predictiveindex.com to learn how you can create meaningful change in your organization today! 00:03:16 - A Topic Breene Has Been Interested in Lately 00:05:46 - One Thing Every HR Leader Should Know About Investing 00:09:52 - Why It’s so Important for HR Leaders to Understand Investing 00:13:17 - The Best Ways to Evaluate Your 401k Providers 00:25:46 - Why Newer Generations Contribute Less to Their Retirement Funds 00:42:12 - The Biggest Mistakes HR Leaders Make When it Comes to Offering Benefits 00:51:32 - What Breene Would Change About How Companies Approach Investing 00:53:17 - Tools and Resources to Learn About Investing And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out  https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Breene: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/breene-murphy-climate-friendly-401k/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

Wait— we thought that parents just don’t understand. But as it turns out, workplaces don’t understand parents at all. So how can HR help to better support the working parent? Hebba engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Kim Rohrer, Principal Partner at Oyster, a global employment platform reshaping cross-border hiring. With 15 years in HR under her belt, Kim sheds light on the critical role HR plays in nurturing a compassionate workplace as they explore the challenges faced by working moms and parents.  Kim delves into the essential ingredients for parental success, the need for robust childcare options, and how HR teams can foster a supportive environment.  Plus, Kim and Hebba also delve into the impact of microaggressions on employees of color, the case for doing away with unpaid labor, and the value of women's time.   For even more exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube page.      Follow Kim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimrohrer/   Follow Hebba:  LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef   15Five is the performance management platform that drives business results and gives HR teams a complete solution to deliver high employee performance, engagement, and retention while improving manager effectiveness.  Find out more about 15Five here.

Work sucks, I know. And since we can’t all make it to Blink 182’s show… How exactly do we cope with the uncertainty of an insanely competitive, wildly unstable job economy?  In this special series with New Stand, a startup company setting out to improve everyday employee experience—and bring a little bit of daily joy back into employees’ lives—CEO Dave Garcia chats with Hebba about the #problematic aspects of workplace culture.   In this ep, they’re breaking down why the effects of a rapidly changing job economy have led to an epidemic of “quiet staying” and why employees have such difficulty staying engaged with, well… doing actual work.   Plus, you might think you can do a better job than your manager… but can you really? Let’s be real—it’s not as easy as it looks. Thanks to our sponsors, New Stand, who partner with companies to deliver better work experiences, including onsite and virtual hospitality, employee gifting and rewards, and pop-up events. New Stand helps bridge the onsite/offsite gap for distributed teams with their premium programs designed to enhance employee wellbeing, community, and recognition. Learn how to bring more joy and satisfaction to your team by visiting newstand.com. And if you love HR Therapy, sign up to I Hate it Here, the newsletter for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration.   https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   Check Out New Stand:  Website: https://www.newstand.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisisnewstand/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thisisnewstand  Follow Dave:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nycddg/   Follow Hebba:  LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

On today’s episode, you’re going to hear one word a million times… And that is strategic. Let’s be real, we’ve all heard the word “strategic” thrown around a million times, but what does it ACTUALLY mean? And why does it feel like everyone has a different definition?  It’s probably because they do.  Joining me today is the incredible Morgan Williams, CEO and founder of Peak HR. Morgan’s resume is basically the HR equivalent of a mic drop—she’s handled everything from massive layoffs to reopening retail stores for giants like Macy’s, Casper, and Topshop.  She’s been in the trenches, and she’s here to help us unpack the myths, misconceptions, and realities of what it means to be strategic in HR. Are you ready to unlock the full potential of your workforce? PI empowers organizations to align talent with business strategy, helping you drive results and build a culture where your people truly thrive. Transform how you hire, engage, and lead—visit predictiveindex.com to learn how you can create meaningful change in your organization today! 00:01:25 - Something Morgan is Interested in Right Now 00:04:52 - What Being Strategic Means to Morgan as an HR Leader 00:08:00 - Why the Word Strategic is Often Misunderstood in HR 00:14:58 - How to be Seen as More Strategic and Less Operational 00:22:11 - Why HR Teams Struggle to Align Their Work With Business Goals 00:30:37 - Making Sure Your Initiative Have Measurable Impact on Business Outcomes 00:34:50 - Skills That Will Make You More Strategic 00:33:30 - Barriers HR Leaders Face Trying to Implement Strategic Initiatives 00:43:00 - Key Differences Between Operational and Strategic Thinking in HR 00:46:24 - How HR Leaders Can Advocate for Resources to Execute on Plans 00:50:41 - Some of the Risks of Focusing TOO Much on Strategy And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Morgan: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morganbwilliams/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

Most of us have experienced it before—there’s nothing worse than working for a company that doesn’t practice what it preaches.  If you don’t actually stand for the things you’re talking about, how can your employees gain the trust you need for them to succeed? Today, we’re talking about authenticity and why the “long game” in business means actually living up to what you say.  Joel Lalgee, aka The Realest Recruiter, joins us with insights from his 2 billion views of no-BS content on how companies and brands can truly earn employee trust.  Joel shares his take on building a personal brand, keeping creative energy alive, and why he cranks out videos every single day (yep, every day). Let’s dive in! Now, Working Not Working is helping to keep that talent with NTRNL— the new platform that unlocks employee passions and ignites productivity. So you can see your people as they see themselves: as humans, not headcount. Visit seeyourpeople.com to learn more or book a demo. 00:06:00 - Something That HR Folks Should Rethink 00:15:24 - Joel’s Zone of Genius: Creative Work and Connecting People 00:21:15 - The Beginning of Building a Personal Brand 00:34:05 - How to Stay Creatively Inspired 00:39:14 - How Many Videos Joel Makes on an Average Day 00:46:50 - The One Thing you Need to Start a Personal Brand 00:49:10 - Where to Connect With Joel  And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Joel: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joellalgee/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

If HR is one of the most soul-crushing industries to work in, how come we’re not talking about it more? I Hate it Here is the unflinching podcast for People professionals talking honestly and openly about HR and sharing best-in-class resources to make the hardest job in the world, a little bit easier. Hosted by Hebba Youssef, Chief People Officer and creator of the I Hate it Here podcast and newsletter at Workweek, this is the show for HR People who want to get things done right - even if they do feel dead inside. You’ll hear from different people in the industry, not just the same old voices, sharing all the things you’re secretly thinking but never said out loud. Each week Hebba will dive into a topic and discuss the questions most HR folks are afraid to ask, digging into real-life examples and giving solutions and strategies. Season 1 drops soon with new episodes every week. Make sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

The job market and talent world feels way too confusing right now, so what’s going on?  In this series finale, Hebba is joined by Rie Grant, a Recruiting Manager, Anessa Fike, CEO and Founder of Fike + Co, and Cassandra Smith, Technical Talent Acquisition at NPR, for this last virtual event. They discuss five questions that get right to the heart of talent acquisition, including how to help candidates stand out in a crowded marketplace, red flags to look for during interviews, and what recruiters are focusing on right now. Plus you’ll hear the panel’s responses to questions from the live audience. Thanks to our sponsors New Stand - partnering with companies to deliver better work experiences, including onsite and virtual team stores, employee rewards, and pop-up events.  New Stand helps bridge the onsite - offsite gap for distributed teams with their premium wellbeing, community, and recognition programs. Learn how to bring joy to your team by visiting newstand.com And The Predictive Index. Bonus payouts around the corner? Don't panic. The Predictive Index gives you (and your managers) the tools you need to create a more engaging culture. Go to trypi.com/hrt  to get started for free. And if you love HR Therapy, sign up to I Hate it Here, the newsletter for jaded, overworked and emotionally burned out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/ Follow Rie: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rie-grant/ Follow Anessa: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anessafike/ Follow Cassandra: LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassiesmithrecruiter/ Follow Hebba:  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

The poles have never been further apart when it comes to employer vs employee expectations. Can HR help fix the problem? Welcome to the first episode of the I Hate It Here podcast. Kicking off the season, Hebba Youssef, Head of People at Workweek, gets into conversation at a live event, with David Garcia, President of New Stand, and passionate campaigner for wellbeing at work. Hebba and David dive into creating psychologically safe spaces, monitoring your own (and others’) emotional states, and how to manifest well-being as part of your company’s culture. The pair throw open the floor for a live Q&A session from listeners, tackling the kinds of topics you were too afraid to talk about. Thanks to our sponsors New Stand - partnering with companies to deliver better work experiences, including onsite and virtual team stores, employee rewards, and pop-up events.  New Stand helps bridge the onsite - offsite gap for distributed teams with their premium well-being, community, and recognition programs. Learn how to bring joy to your team by visiting newstand.com And The Predictive Index. Bonus payouts around the corner? Don't panic. The Predictive Index gives you (and your managers) the tools you need to create a more engaging culture. Go to trypi.com/hrt  to get started for free. And if you love HR Therapy, sign up to I Hate it Here, the newsletter for jaded, overworked and emotionally burned out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/ Follow David:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nycddg/ Follow Hebba:  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

I’m back in your ears with another banger of an episode, and this one’s the season finale! I couldn’t think of a better way to wrap things up than by geeking out with my incredibly impressive friend Jeet Mukerji, co-founder and CEO of Kinfolk. Whether you’re an AI skeptic or a full-on tech enthusiast, there is a lot of food for thought to digest. Are you ready to unlock the full potential of your workforce? PI empowers organizations to align talent with business strategy, helping you drive results and build a culture where your people truly thrive. Transform how you hire, engage, and lead—visit predictiveindex.com to learn how you can create meaningful change in your organization today! 00:02:25 - A Topic Jeet Has Been Interested in Lately 00:03:57 - What Inspired Jeet to Build Kinfolk? 00:06:00 - The Biggest Challenges HR Teams Face With Employee Requests 00:11:01 - Why AI Complements the Human Piece of HR, Not Replaces 00:16:09 - The Biggest Misconceptions About AI in HR 00:21:10 - Using Data to Show Why AI Will Improve Efficiency in HR 00:28:58 - Can AI Handle the Nuances of Emotion in Text? 00:36:03 - Can AI be Used to Make a More Equitable, Inclusive Workplace? 00:42:00 - A Bold, Groundbreaking Thing Jeet Would Love to See in HR 00:44:49 - The Biggest Hurdle in HR Teams Adopting AI Tools And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out  https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Jeet: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeetmukerji/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

  Over 50% of all employees are stressed out at work. Could it have anything to do with the fact that in the same survey, 69% of managers said they felt uncomfortable actually managing them?   In this live virtual event, Hebba chats with the co-founder of the employee-centric HR suite, Skillcycle, about the role that power dynamics play in the managing workplace relationships. How do you show empathy to employees who feel powerless in the workplace, and what can you do when the people without power have no one that looks like them in those positions of power?    Hebba and Rebecca talk about managing conflict with difficult coworkers, some of the most common mistakes people make when it comes to navigating relationships at work, and how to handle a leader with a low EQ.   Plus, stay tuned at the end as they field audience questions.    And if you love HR Therapy, sign up to I Hate it Here, the newsletter for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration.   https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   Follow Rebecca:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccataylor2/   Follow Hebba:    LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef  

Let’s face it— not everyone wants to be at work. So how do you build a better sense of community without feeling like you’re pulling out teeth?  In this live virtual event featuring a panel of HR experts, Hebba and crew discuss the ways in which you can create a better workplace community. How can you foster more virtual interactions? How do you rebuild trust after massive layoffs? And how should you respond to a workforce that doesn’t want to attend work-sponsored events? Plus, stay tuned at the end as they field a rapid-fire round of audience questions, including how to mesh clashing divisions together and whether or not you should attempt to pry a hermit out of its shell.    And if you love HR Therapy, sign up to I Hate it Here, the newsletter for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration.   https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   Follow Hebba:  LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef   Follow Alex:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexseiler/   Follow Suraiya: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suraiya-kara-peopleandculture/   Follow Adrienne:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrampaul/

Alright— that’s it. We’re finally settling the debate of who wore it best: remote, hybrid, or in-person. Or uh… at the very least, we’re coming to some massively inconclusive conclusions about which work style reigns supreme. In this special series with New Stand, a startup company setting out to improve everyday employee experience— and bring a little bit of daily joy back into employees’ lives— CEO Dave Garcia chats with Hebba about how to cope with in-office mandates, the difficulties of conversational nuances over Slack, and how to chisel away at a person’s professional persona to connect with their juicy, human core (hint: snacks are always a good start).  Plus: How many hours a day do people actually work, and how can workplaces strengthen the employer-employee relationship? But more importantly, why does Hebba despise eating at her desk so much?    Thanks to our sponsors, New Stand, who partners with companies to deliver better work experiences, including onsite and virtual team hospitality, employee gifting and rewards, and pop-up events.   New Stand helps bridge the onsite/offsite gap for distributed teams with their premium programs designed to enhance wellbeing, community, and recognition. Learn how to bring joy to your team by visiting newstand.com.   And if you love HR Therapy, sign up to I Hate it Here, the newsletter for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration.   https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   Check Out New Stand:  Website: https://www.newstand.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thisisnewstand  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisisnewstand/   Follow Dave:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nycddg/   Follow Hebba:  LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

Why do employees quit?  Compensation, growth opportunities, and environment are usually the top 3 reasons cited.  But what does all that actually mean to the employees and is there anything HR can really do to stop employees from fleeing?  Jessica returns to sit down with Hebba to clear up what growth actually means, the biggest misconceptions about compensation, and red flags to look out for to identify toxic cultures. You’ll hear their take on why counter-offers shouldn’t be a regular practice and if it's even worth trying to recover an employee who is ready to jump ship.  Plus, stay tuned as Hebba and Jessica later discuss navigating conflict in toxic work environments and learning valuable lessons from employee exit interviews.    00:00:00 - Navigating Employee Turnover in HR 00:02:27 - Building a Career Coaching Empire 00:07:22 - Three Pillars That Drive Employee Turnover 00:11:00 - Redefining Growth Beyond Promotions 00:17:22 - Fostering Healthy Growth Through Transparency 00:24:44 - Why Counter Offers Don't Work 00:32:07 - Advocating for Better Employee Experiences 00:33:06 - Recognizing Toxic Work Environments: Red Flags 00:36:23 - Can HR Fix Toxic Workplaces? And if you love HR Therapy, sign up to I Hate it Here, the newsletter for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow Jessica:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicadwinder/ Buy “The Hidden Gem Within”: https://www.amazon.com/Hidden-Gem-Within-Discovering-Fulfilling/dp/B0BW2KMG6V   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

Feeling stuck in your career? You’re not alone. Join Hebba and special guest Tori Lazar, a strategic storyteller and executive coach, as they discuss how to recognize career quagmires and turn stalemates into personal growth.  What are the top three warning signs of career unhappiness, and how can leaders be more personally aware of their own internal red flags? Tori shares insights on tapping into your inner child, overcoming fear, and pinpointing the source of unhappiness in your current career.  Tori and Hebba also discuss the fine art of not giving @#$! about what people think of you. How can you get over the fear of not being liked and still advocate for the employees who may view you as public enemy #1? They dive into the role of HR professionals in advocating for employees and explain how to maintain a positive work culture and persevere through the constant barrage of criticism that’s synonymous with the job.    00:02:37 - Tori Lazar: Strategic Storyteller and Executive Coach 00:03:13 - Optimizing Your Time 00:07:13 - Top 3 Signs of Being Stuck in Your Career 00:21:51 - Gen Z Challenges Workplace Norms 00:27:24 - Advocating for Every Employee  00:34:57 - Overcoming Fear in Unfulfilling Careers 00:41:23 - Harnessing Childhood Experiences to Build Confidence 00:43:17 - How Practice Builds Confidence in Overcoming Fear 00:47:23 - Why Great Leaders Need Great HR Departments 00:51:40 - Identifying Unhappiness in HR Careers   And if you love HR Therapy, sign up to I Hate it Here, the newsletter for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow Tori:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tori-lazar/ Take the Course: https://course.girlboss.com/courses/spark-your-career-renaissance   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

Oil and water. Fire and ice. CEOs and CPOs.  Some things just don’t go together like they should. But does it always have to be that way?  In this super candid conversation, Hebba chats with her IRL CEO at Workweek, Adam Ryan, to discuss the complex relationship between CEOs and CPOs. Adam opens up about the CEO’s perspective on HR and shares his thoughts on how HR leaders can build a better relationship with their CEO.  What role can honesty, vulnerability, and empathy play in building a better path forward for both sides? And does there always have to be a conflict of interest between the two departments? Adam reveals what it’s like to hold the weight of an entire company on his shoulders and explains the role that ego can play in conflict. Plus, what’s the best way to capture the attention of a reluctant or stubborn CEO? Adam shares his best tips for effective communication strategies and opens his playbook for successful HR/CEO relations.  And later, find out the top warning signs and red flags of when a CEO/CPO relationship is about to turn sour and Adam’s super juicy take on why employees leave.    00:00:00 - Navigating the Tension Between HR and CEO 00:01:13 - When Company Values Clash: Reasons to Leave 00:08:57 - CEO and CPO Relationship Dynamics Unpacked 00:13:58 - The Importance of Consistent Communication with CEOs 00:16:56 - Navigating Tensions in Company Communications 00:23:25 - Understanding Your CEO's Perspective in Decision Making 00:28:44 - HR and Finance Roles: A Balancing Act 00:34:37 - Building Strong Working Relationships at Work 00:38:01 - Strengthening HR-CEO Relationship with Empathy    And if you love HR Therapy, sign up to I Hate it Here, the newsletter for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow Adam:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamtryan/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/AdamRy_n Podcast: Perpetual   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

Retaining top talent looks easy on paper. So why then, do so many companies have difficulty with their retention strategies?  Hebba chats with “Modern People Leader” podcast hosts Daniel and Stephen Huerta about personalization in the age of information, the rise of AI, and the best ways companies can boost their retention strategies. Having spoken to over 200 people leaders on their pod, Daniel and Stephen understand a thing or two about the importance of a great people ops team. They break down why trust is so important in the workplace and explain how it can help to improve employee retention rates. They also explore the ways that AI is changing the nature of work and how it might change the way we view HR. Plus, will the constant in-fighting in HR ever stop? Will it be HR’s ultimate downfall? Daniel, Hebba, and Stephen discuss the ways remote work has changed retention strategies and explain why it’s causing so much bickering within company lines. Is it time to rethink the system?  Reach every worker with Firstup’s intelligent communication platform. Firstup helps you connect with your employees, deliver personalized communication, and gain engagement insights to deliver an exceptional employee experience. Visit Firstup.io to learn more.   00:00:00 - Retaining Top Talent  00:07:55 - Maintaining Trust in the Workplace 00:11:28 - Navigating Remote Work Accountability Challenges 00:15:44 - Causes of Employee Turnover Explored 00:17:49 - HR's Identity Crisis: Retaining Talent 00:25:04 - How AI is Fundamentally Changing the Way We Work 00:27:14 - Retaining Employees Through Clear Communication 00:30:21 - Embrace Remote Work for Success 00:38:57 - Power Dynamics in Retention Strategies 00:44:12 - Improving Talent Mobility in Companies 00:49:43 - Maximizing Employee Retention Through Referrals 00:54:38 - The Hardest C-Suite Job      And if you love HR Therapy, sign up to I Hate it Here, the newsletter for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Listen to the Modern People Leader Podcast here.   Follow Stephen: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenhuerta/   Follow Daniel:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-huerta-mpl/   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

How can you help employees when a company is small and has limited growth opportunities? What happens when an employer insists there’s a dress code… but only for curvier employees?   Hebba and talent strategist/culture connoisseur Erica Spitale tackle some super juicy questions submitted by listeners. From navigating terminations without legal repercussions to encouraging CEOs to offer more health benefits, they’re tackling a wide range of topics that any HR professional or leader can relate to. Tune in as Hebba and Erica break down the importance of trust in the workplace, go over the challenges of unrealistic expectations, and explain the value of seeking consistent feedback.  Plus, how can you handle dress code policies, toxic leaders, and professional development opportunities in small companies? You won’t want to miss this expert-level advice—tune in now! Reach every worker with Firstup’s intelligent communication platform. Firstup helps you connect with your employees, deliver personalized communication, and gain engagement insights to deliver an exceptional employee experience. Visit Firstup.io to learn more.   00:01:51 - Avoiding Values Misalignment in Companies 00:03:29 - How to Handle Unhappy Employees 00:09:01 - How to Handle Toxic Leadership 00:13:24 - Regaining Trust in the Workplace 00:17:03 - When Details for a Promotion are Fabricated 00:22:17 - Managing Professional Development in Small Companies 00:27:03 - Encouraging CEOs to Offer Health Benefits 00:33:31 - Considerations for Transitioning from Operations to HR 00:39:06 - Navigating Employee Relations in Nonprofits 00:41:49 - Setting Realistic Expectations and Seeking Feedback 00:47:39 - Curvier Woman Faces Dress Code Dilemma   And if you love HR Therapy, sign up to I Hate it Here, the newsletter for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow Erica:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erica-j-spitale-psyd/   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef  

Change doesn’t come easy— in fact, it can be downright disruptive, And worse yet, it’s often at the forefront of employee turnover. So how can HR leaders prevent change from becoming an unmanageable force?  Keynote speaker Tiffany Lanier drops by to chat with Hebba about the widespread impact of organizational change, and to explain how massive restructuring can impact employee well-being.  Having helped thousands of leaders develop systems of support during intense change, Tiffany reveals why change management is a core skill for HR professionals. She explains how, by embracing change, employees can improve their personal well-being and implement practical strategies for creating space for future disruptions.  Tiffany also addresses the different needs and personalities of employees during times of change, from therapy and counseling to the prioritization of spending time alone and sticking to common rituals and routines.  Whether you're undergoing organizational restructuring or dealing with other consequences of change, you won’t want to miss out on these actionable tips to help you prioritize employee well-being.   Reach every worker with Firstup’s intelligent communication platform. Firstup helps you connect with your employees, deliver personalized communication, and gain engagement insights to deliver an exceptional employee experience. Visit firstup.io to learn more. And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow Tiffany:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanylanier/ Website: https://livewithtiffany.com   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

In HR, quitting is a part of the job. But no one talks about what happens when HR is ready to quit HR.  RyanMae McAvoy, Senior Director of People Operations at Blackthorn.io, joins Hebba to unpack quitting from an HR-centric point of view. When is it time to call it quits? And what factors are the primary motivators behind discontentedness in HR?  RyanMae and Hebba break down the emotional aspects of leaving a job, explain why community is pivotal in decision-making, and reveal the greatest challenges faced by HR professionals on a day-to-day basis. They also dive into the role of empathy, boundary-setting, and personal acknowledgment in creating a happier workplace.  Why are so many HR professionals contemplating quitting? And why does it so often feel like HR is on an island of its own? Together, Hebba and RyanMae shed light on the often neglected aspect of HR professionals contemplating leaving the field.   Reach every worker with Firstup’s intelligent communication platform. Firstup helps you connect with your employees, deliver personalized communication, and gain engagement insights to deliver an exceptional employee experience. Visit firstup.io to learn more.   00:00:37 - Accidental HR Career Leads to Leadership 00:03:27 - Improving Employee Retention Through Acknowledgement 00:08:03 - AI vs. Human Touch in HR 00:09:27 - Reasons People Want to Quit 00:12:34 - Coping Through COVID 00:17:44 - Focusing on Mental Health in Workplace 00:21:51 - How to Prioritize Family Time 00:22:09 - Empathy in HR 00:27:40 - Why Setting Expectations is Key for Mental Health 00:31:49 - How to Handle Employee Resignations 00:36:37 - Understanding the Emotional Toll of HR 00:40:56 - Navigating Relationships When Leaving a Job 00:42:53 - Struggling with Authenticity in Workplace 00:48:12 - Balancing Humanity and Work Demands 00:52:17 - Advice for Dealing with Burnout   And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow RyanMae:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rm80920/   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

With grandiose job descriptions, and rose-tinted portrayals of the workplace, is it really any wonder there are a lot of problems in recruiting boiling underneath the surface?? A lot of retention problems actually start in the recruiting process..  Is it that far of a stretch to understand why new hires are noping out of fresh jobs in the first six months? Def not.  In the quest to find the perfect hire, job descriptions and interview tactics often portray a false image of what the position actually entails. So why aren’t recruiters being more honest about the roles they’re hiring for? Hebba chats with Talent Acquisition Consultant and Content Creator Rhona Pierce about how the recruitment system is broken and what HR can do to fix it. How can recruiters be more honest about job descriptions and work culture in their hiring practices? Hebba and Rhona debate if there’s a way to make employees understand the full scope of a job’s duties during the interview process before revealing some of the best practical strategies that can help retain, attract, and engage qualified talent.  00:00:10 - Recruiting Misconceptions: Valuable Talent Acquisition 00:02:52 - Company Actions That Prompt Immediate Resignation 00:05:01 - Navigating the Gap Between Job Expectations and Reality 00:09:28 - Why People Quit 00:15:14 - Is Recruiting Broken? 00:19:26 - Truth in Interviews 00:23:47 - Asking Questions Before Accepting a Job 00:27:24 - Navigating the Current Job Market 00:36:51 - Transparent Recruiting: Setting Clear Expectations 00:39:35 - Aligning Job Expectations Through Communication 00:44:15 - Maximizing Preparation for Successful Hiring Reach every worker with Firstup’s intelligent communication platform. Firstup helps you connect with your employees, deliver personalized communication, and gain engagement insights to deliver an exceptional employee experience. Visit firstup.io to learn more.   And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out  https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow Rhona: Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4R6bJ4JZpqOlFdYelWwsBr?si=841dc4e5b2924a30 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

“If you dislike the company so much, then why don’t you just leave?” At some point, we’ve all been given that advice from a friend or a loved one about a job we couldn’t stomach. Yet, chances are good, we probably kept it for several months after that advice was doled out. So why don’t employees leave when they’ve overstayed their welcome? And when is it time for HR to give them a nudge in the right direction? Q Hamirani, an executive coach and advisor talks with Hebba about what happens when employees refuse to leave. How can leaders approach workers from a place of empathy and understanding when it’s obvious their career is on the wrong trajectory? Are there risks to asking employees to quit? And what’s the best way to frame such a difficult conversation? Hebba and Q also dissect the value of offering company opt-out packages before exploring the importance of candid communication, personal growth, and finding joy in your work. Learn why strong relationships with employees are the key to unlocking their full potential and how you can build more satisfying relationships today. Reach every worker with Firstup’s intelligent communication platform. Firstup helps you connect with your employees, deliver personalized communication, and gain engagement insights to deliver an exceptional employee experience. Visit firstup.io to learn more   00:02:25 - Transitioning to Executive Coaching and Advising 00:07:22 - Improving Communication to Retain Employees 00:10:47 - Encouraging Employees to Leave Gracefully 00:15:58 - Dealing with Underperforming Employees Effectively 00:17:28 - Navigating Tough Conversations in Leadership 00:24:16 - The Risks of Encouraging Employees to Leave 00:29:13 - Incentivizing Employee Departures with Packages 00:36:50 - Encouraging Employee Growth and Retention 00:45:16 - Exploring HR and AI Intersection Follow Q: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hamirani/   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef   And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out  https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!  

If anyone preaches to you about the power of authenticity in the workplace, pay attention when it’s coming from an ex-Enron employee who has a few thoughts about how a little honesty can go a long way for a company.  Needless to say Nicole Alvino knows a thing or two about the value of authentic leadership, thanks to her early Enron experience. As the current CEO and Founder of Firstup, she’s on a mission to revolutionize intelligent, personalized employee communication and to deliver a phenomenal employee experience. She chats with Hebba about how personalization can make or break employee engagement rates and explains why individualized processes are the key to preventing burnout and producing more meaningful interactions. Plus, how can you implement video and omnichannel communications to improve workplace culture? Learn how HR leaders can use technology and automation to scale personalized experiences and create a culture of connection and authenticity.   Reach every worker with Firstup’s intelligent communication platform. Firstup helps you connect with your employees, deliver personalized communication, and gain engagement insights to deliver an exceptional employee experience. Visit firstup.io to learn more. 00:00:06 - Balancing Personalization and Scale in Company Growth 00:03:35 - Career Lessons from Enron's Downfall 00:04:46 - Firstup: The Personalized Workplace Communication Tool for HR 00:08:49 - Bridging Consumer and Employee Experiences 00:11:50 - Personalized Experience's Impact on Employee Engagement 00:14:27 - Struggling HR Leaders Seek Personalization Solutions 00:18:53 - Deciding Right: The Key Step 00:23:12 - Getting C-Level Executives Onboard for Personalized Workplace Culture 00:25:10 - A Tool for Creating Authentic Workplace Connections 00:26:10 - How to Improve Work Emails 00:31:00 - Emerging Trends in Workplace Personalization 00:38:48 - Communication Solves Most Problems in HR   And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out  https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow Nicole: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolealvino/   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

There's so much we can learn from the sports that we love. So lace up your sneakers and pull up your socks, because this episode is a full-court press of insights, laughs, and way too many basketball metaphors! Today, Chris Henrichs is giving a masterclass on how the lessons from the court can transform the way we think about HR, leadership, and building a workplace that doesn’t just survive, but thrives. From Michael Jordan’s killer competitiveness to the art of drafting the right players (or employees), Chris breaks down all the interesting parallels between basketball and HR.  We’re talking leadership styles, creating a winning culture, handling competition, and why HR is basically the coach, GM, and referee of the workplace. Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan or someone who thinks a “pick-and-roll” is a bakery order, you’ll still hae actionable takeaways that’ll make you rethink how you lead, collaborate, and bounce back from setbacks. Are you ready to unlock the full potential of your workforce? PI empowers organizations to align talent with business strategy, helping you drive results and build a culture where your people truly thrive. Transform how you hire, engage, and lead—visit predictiveindex.com to learn how you can create meaningful change in your organization today! 00:03:45 - One Topic Chris is Really Interested in Right Now 00:06:00 - The Connection Between Basketball and HR 00:08:07 - How Competition Helped Shape Chris’s Career  00:13:22 - Who Inspires Chris in Sports, and How it Translates to HR Leadership 00:18:31 - How This Famous Michael Jordan Quote Plays Out in the Workplace 00:21:22 - Lessons Chris Learned About People Ops From Playing Basketball 00:27:26 - Different Leadership Styles and How They Compare to Leaders on the Court 00:31:24 - Balancing Top Perfomers With the Rest of the Team 00:34:45 - HR’s Equivalent of Drafting the Right Players 00:42:02 - Creating a Workplace Where People Challenge Each Other But Still Collaborate 00:43:57 - Bouncing Back From a Rough Patch 00:46:57 - Creating a Competitive But Healthy Work Environment 00:53:13 - Chris’s Dream Basketball Team Roster And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Chris: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrishenrichs/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

Do you wear sweatpants all day and night? Do you find yourself going days without leaving the house? Is binge-watching 7 hours of “Pride and Prejudice” the only thing that seems to give you life? Good news— you may not be a full-on Depressed Barbie just yet! You might just be the average remote worker. In this ep, Hebba chats with Austen Tully (the SVP Director of Integration and Culture at Guided by Good) about the struggles of creating strong connections and relationships at work in an increasingly more remote environment. What can we do to alleviate loneliness? Austen and Hebba share their best strategies for accommodating both in-person and remote interactions (without making things feel forced or super awkward). They discuss the power of one-on-one conversations, the impact of leaders’ behavior on team dynamics, and the need for empathy and inclusivity in the workplace. Plus, how can you create a culture audit? Austen gives her best tips for creating a culture audit of your own and explains the significance of communication, connection, creativity, and recognition in creating a positive work environment.

It's no surprise that I think HR and people leaders have one of the hardest roles at any organization. For me, it feels like sometimes we're not seen as true organizational partners. Or our role is so diminished and viewed as not important, yet everyone else in a business performs better because of the work that HR does. Coincidence? I think not! So, how can we finally be seen as key drivers to company growth, instead of the employee who puts out fires and pushes paperwork? My guest, Chris Haygood of Astute Edge, is here to shine a light on just how pivotal HR is when it comes to tackling big organizational challenges, not just the compliance stuff. We’re diving into how the view of HR is changing, its strategic importance, and some hands-on tactics to help HR pros cement their role as key business influencers. Our chat also touches on the next decade of HR, including the role of AI and the need for HR leaders to be considered for CEO positions. It’s time for HR leaders to finally be seen as strategic partners, because the success of our teams depend on it! 00:01:03 - Chris Hagood’s Introduction and Credentials 00:03:20 - What is the Key to Maintaining Strong Relationships at Work? 00:05:19 - Why HR Leaders Struggle to Be Seen as True Partners 00:12:40 - Common Misconceptions Other Executives Have About HR 00:16:34 - How Does Organizational Structure Impact HR Influence? 00:22:38 - When Do You Need a Senior People Leader? 00:31:49 - The Legal Misconceptions Around HR Duties 00:38:12 - The Exciting Potential of HR in the Next 10 Years 00:45:15 - How Organizations Should Perceive and Integrate HR Leaders 00:53:19 - Advice For HR Leaders Struggling to be Seen as Strategic Partners And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out  https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow Chris: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisrhagood/ X/Instagram: @chrisrhagood @astutedge Newsletter: https://astutedge.beehiiv.com/subscribe Company LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/company/astutedge/   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

What shapes who we are at work? Join Hebba and her guests, Catalina Colman (COO and Co-Founder of Peak HR), and Morgan Williams (CEO and Co-Founder of Peak HR), as they dive into the factors that shape our work personalities. From upbringing and education to work experience and more, they discuss the challenges and lessons they've learned along their storied HR career paths. How has the immigrant experience shaped Catalina’s journey? She reveals the true effect of assimilating into American culture from a young age and explains how it shaped her HR career. Catalina and Morgan also discuss how their backgrounds shaped their views on fairness and how they managed to navigate corporate America despite feeling like outsiders to the system. How did empathy and understanding help them to ultimately succeed in their careers and find happiness? Tune in now to find out.   00:00:20 - Factors Influencing Identity in Workplace 00:01:24 - Supporting Growing Businesses with Progressive HR 00:02:39 - Empathy and Understanding Key Leadership 00:04:13 - Kat's Immigrant Journey to Success 00:07:04 - Transition from Psychiatry to HR Success 00:10:03 - How Immigrant Parents Influenced Their Philosophy 00:11:56 - Push Towards Education: A Personal Journey 00:21:09 - Navigating Life as a First-Gen 00:22:28 - Challenges in Corporate America 00:27:37 - Navigating Pressure to Conform at Work 00:32:14 - Career Challenges in Uncertain Times 00:40:19 - Impact of Upbringing on HR Leadership 00:42:46 - Equity in HR Leadership Strategies 00:46:26 - Navigating Workplace Fairness as an Immigrant Child   And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out  https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow Catalina: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catalinaandradecolman/   Follow Morgan: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morganbwilliams/   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

There’s nowhere safe you can go to avoid politics anymore. Social media? Forget about it. Family holidays? Highly unlikely. Work? Definitely not. So when, if ever, is talking politics at work a problem? And how should HR professionals handle the upcoming elections? Hebba and Jessica Winder (Senior VP of People at CoLab Software) break down how to handle the upcoming election season— how much is too much when it comes to allowing employees to talk about politics? And is there such a thing as workplaces not allowing employees to talk about politics enough? From the impact of political decisions on HR practices to creating a more respectful and inclusive culture, Jessica and Hebba also explore how to handle differing political opinions and the importance of aligning with company values. And stay tuned because later, they’re dishing out some of the juiciest stories about social media political posting gone completely haywire… You won’t want to miss this insanity!   And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out  https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow Jessica: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicadwinder/   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

Let’s be real, HR doesn’t exactly scream creativity to most people, right?  But, are we selling it short by overlooking all of the hidden opportunities?  Could HR actually be a secret powerhouse of creativity, ready to lead the charge in fostering a culture of innovation within organizations? I’m here to tell you that is possible to carve out that creative space in your role as an HR leader, and Cassidy Edwards is here to break down the many ways HR can lead the charge in fostering a culture of creativity and innovation within your company. Cassidy will also dig into how HR can work hand-in-hand with marketing to craft stories that resonate with employees, the role of curiosity in driving creative thinking, and tips for keeping team relationships vibrant and productive—you’ll also get her take on the coolest sneakers out there. 00:02:280 - Cassidy’s Current Favorite Pair of Sneakers 00:03:45 - The Key to Strong Work Relationships 00:04:48 - Defining Creativity in Work and Personal Life 00:06:34 - What Inspires Cassidy’s Creativity? 00:013:12 - Inspiring Creativity Through Photography Books 00:15:46 - Why Creativity Matters in HR Roles 00:19:11 - Creative Best Practices for Day-to-day Duties 00:25:33 - Fostering Creative Cultures to Keep Employees Satisfied 00:31:12 - Injecting Creativity into Employee Training 00:36:50 - How to Foster a Creative Environment in Your Team 00:41:47 - Cassidy’s Advice for Unlocking Creative Potential And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out  https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow Cassidy: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassidy-edwards-yyom/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

We hate so much about things he chose to be. Let’s get into it once and for all: was Toby Flenderson the worst HR representative in the history of TV? Or was he just trying his best to preserve his mental health from the wild antics of Dunder Mifflin? Hebba and special guest Kim Roher discuss some of television's best (and worst) portrayals of HR. Which fictional universes could have benefitted most from an HR rep (*cough* Silicon Valley *cough*)? And which real-life work sets were desperately in need of a decent CPO?   Yeah, Joss Whedon we’re pointing a well-deserved finger at you. Maybe Buffy didn’t need to slay demons when the real monsters were the humans all along…   00:00:14 - Parenting and Pop Culture with Kim Rohr 00:07:04 - “The Office”- Uncanny HR Valley?  00:18:32 - Michael Scott's Insensitivity in "The Office" 00:23:46 – Silicon Valley 00:37:15 - Exploring Buffy's Impact on HR 00:38:38 - Hollywood's Broken HR System Exposed 00:47:18 - Leadership in HR: Impactful Behind-the-Scenes Work 00:48:20 - Exploring Pop Culture in HR   And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out  https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow Kim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimrohrer/   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

Growing up, I heard about how often my sister was the only woman in some rooms. She is an electrical engineer and her field was heavily dominated by men.   The lack of diversity isn’t just a numbers issue—it affects how tech solves problems and perpetuates existing biases. So on today’s episode, we're diving into a hot topic with Marissa McNeelands: tackling gender diversity in tech and its impact on building equitable systems.  Marissa is on the frontline, championing the push to level the playing field in tech. We're exploring why having a diverse team isn’t just good ethics, it’s smart business, sparking innovation and creativity.  Join us as we discuss the challenges, the victories, and why every step toward diversity is a step toward better technology. 00:03:45 - The Key to Maintaining Strong Relationships at Work 00:06:37 - The Origin Story Behind the Creation of Toast 00:11:24 - Transitioning From Project Management to Tech 00:14:37 - Common Challenges Women Face in the tech Industry 00:20:53 - Why Gender Diversity in Tech Creates a More Innovative Culture 00:24:03 - How to Motivate Companies to Prioritize Diversity  00:31:20 - Trends Emerging Between AI and HR in the Next Few Years 00:35:25 - Advice for Women in Tech Who are Struggling to Integrate And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out  https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow Marissa: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marissamcneelands/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

People are at the core of everything we do at HR, but let’s face it people—can be DIFFICULT.  Not because they have difficult personalities, but because no two people you meet are the same. Eventually, the things that make us different can create problems if we’re not aware of how to exist across differences. A lot of the conflict at work can simply be between people who are just different. That complexity is exactly what we're unpacking today with Jennifer Laurie. In this episode, we're exploring how the things that make us all different can sometimes lead to workplace conflicts, and what HR can do to help everyone not just coexist but truly thrive together.  We’re talking about fostering inclusive, equitable environments and how HR can bridge gaps and manage conflicts when personalities and perspectives clash. From discussing how to maintain strong relationships at work to handling power imbalances and supporting marginalized employees, we've got a lot to cover.  Jennifer shares her insights on why recognizing differences is crucial and offers practical advice for HR professionals navigating the evolving landscape of workplace diversity. 00:01:45 - The Key to Maintaining Strong Relationships at Work 00:04:08 - What Does Existing Across Differences Mean? 00:07:25 - Why Recognizing Differences is So Important Today 00:10:10 - How Does HR Help Employees Exist Across Their Differences? 00:12:50 - How to Learn Conflict Management, Even Without Resources 00:16:35 - How HR Can Address Power Imbalances Across Differences 00:20:00 - Supporting Employees Who Feel Marginalized 00:25:25 - Bridging the Gap Between Employees With Different Worldviews 00:29:42 - Common Obstacles With Building an Inclusive Environment 00:34:08 - Advice for HR Professionals New to Dealing With Diversity 00:37:42 - How Diversity is Evolving With the Addition of Global Employees 00:40:25 - What Initiatives Will Help HR With Diversity in the Coming Years? And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow Jennifer: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferlauriehr/  Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

Why are leaders so damn difficult to deal with sometimes?  It all comes down to "The Shadow of a Leader"—the unseen influence leaders have on workplace culture, performance, and relationships.  In this episode, Dave Garcia joins me to unpack this concept.  We dive into how every word, action, and decision from leaders impacts teams, often more than they realize.  We’ll discuss why communication is a leader’s most important tool, the nonverbal cues that leaders send, and how HR can help leaders recognize their blind spots.  Plus, Dave shares his personal experience with confronting his own leadership shadow. 00:01:41 - The Key to Maintaining Strong Relationships at Work 00:04:50 - The Shadow of a Leader Concept, Explained 00:09:37 - How The Shadow of a Leader Impacts Culture and Performance at Orgs 00:20:30 - Common Positive/Negative Shadows That Leaders Cast 00:26:43 - Why is Information so Inaccessible at Some Orgs? 00:32:23 - Examples of Leadership Shadows That Strongly Influenced Teams 00:42:15 - How Leaders Can Be More Aware of the Shadows They Cast 00:46:07 - A Time Dave Had to Confront His Own Leadership Shadow 00:56:00 - How Orgs Can Encourage Leaders to be Mindful of Their Shadows 01:01:16 - Advice For Emerging Leaders and The Shadows They Cast And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out  https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Dave: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nycddg/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

In every generation, there’s a “chosen one”—but I’m not talking about Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Right now, we’ve got five generations working side by side: Traditionalists, Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z. So yeah, managing this mix isn’t exactly a walk in the park.  This week, Dave Garcia has returned to dive into the wild world of multi-generational workforces and bring some clarity to it all.  We’re busting some myths, breaking down what each generation really wants (spoiler: it’s not all about avocado toast), and exploring how to lead a team that spans decades.  Whether you’re trying to figure out how to get everyone on the same page or just curious about which generation started the job-hopping trend, this episode is packed with insights. 00:02:50 - How Many Companies Are Still Working With the Traditionalist Generation? 00:06:12 - Challenges With Managing a Multi-generational Workforce 00:10:30 - Using ChatGPT to Better Understand Generational Stereotypes 00:21:55 - Did Gen X Start the Trend of Job Hopping? 00:30:22 - Dave’s Take on Gen Z 00:38:03 - How to Create an Inclusive Culture Among Such Diverse Generations 00:45:30 - Benefits of a Multi-generational Workforce 00:50:26 - The Best Leadership Style for Managing a Multi-generational Workforce 00:55:20 - How to Future Proof Your Organization  And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Dave: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nycddg/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

98% of HR professionals are burnt out, stressed out, and just plain fed up with the functions of the job. If you’ve ever considered changing positions, just know you’re not in the minority.  How can building a safe space help us to stay motivated and fulfilled in HR? How do we remind ourselves of the reasons we got into HR to begin with? And is Gen Z the key to vanquishing toxic hustle culture for good? Laura Garcia Courrau, the Global HR Director for Our World Energy, joins Hebba to discuss how HR professionals can find inspiration in the job again. Laura shares her personal insights, offering valuable advice for any HR professional looking to make a positive impact in their work. Laura and Hebba also chat about the importance of self-awareness and self-knowledge in finding inspiration and how to build a growth trajectory as an HR leader. Laura shares her own experiences and challenges in the HR field, highlighting the unity and fulfillment that comes from making a difference in someone's work experience. If you’ve ever found yourself doubting your future in HR, we hope this podcast will help reignite that spark from within—it’s still in there somewhere, we promise. Let’s help you to find it.    The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at https://www.predictiveindex.com/. Snappy is the award-winning B2B gifting platform that takes all of the guesswork out of gifting and helps companies build cultures of gratitude and appreciation. Send gifts to anyone (employees, customers, co-workers) for any occasion (birthdays, holidays, Employee Appreciation Day - coming up March 1, hint hint!). Choose the perfect gift from Snappy’s extensive gifting catalog, create custom swag, or send gift options and let them pick! They put in their own address, and Snappy takes care of the rest. It’s fast, easy, and delightful!  Go to www.snappy.com/ihateithere to sign up for free and start gifting today.  00:00:06 - Finding Inspiration at Work in HR 00:02:03 - Finding Inspiration in HR Leadership 00:09:50 - Finding Balance and Inspiration in Life 00:17:13 - The Power of HR in Influencing Change 00:23:36 - Boosting Morale in HR Through Middle Manager Relationships 00:30:28 - The Fulfillment and Frustration of Work 00:33:35 - How HR Generalists Can Thrive 00:37:52 - Finding Inspiration in the Marketing Industry 00:40:19 - The Power of Saying No in the Workplace 00:43:50 - Overcoming Impostor Syndrome For even more exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube page.    Follow Laura: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauramgc/   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

80% of workers report they’re disengaged when it comes to work. So what’s the driving force behind employees’ increasing discontentment, disengagement, and rejection of the status quo?  Hebba chats with the Fractional Chief People Officer who’s led more than 100 worldwide companies to scale, Anessa Fike about the importance of transparency, feedback, and revolutionizing work to create a better experience for employees.  Anessa shares her thoughts on the disengagement crisis in the workforce and explains why it’s time leaders stop avoiding feedback and start embracing transparency and vulnerability.  And later, Anessa and Hebba explore the illusion of professionalism. Does the idea of professionalism only exist to maintain the status quo of those in charge? And how are millennials and Gen Z impacting change when it comes to questioning the construct of professionalism? It’s time to change the way we think about work. Tune in now to join the thought revolution. The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at https://www.predictiveindex.com/. Snappy is the award-winning B2B gifting platform that takes all of the guesswork out of gifting and helps companies build cultures of gratitude and appreciation. Send gifts to anyone (employees, customers, co-workers) for any occasion (birthdays, holidays, Employee Appreciation Day - coming up March 1, hint hint!). Choose the perfect gift from Snappy’s extensive gifting catalog, create custom swag, or send gift options and let them pick! They put in their own address, and Snappy takes care of the rest. It’s fast, easy, and delightful!  Go to www.snappy.com/ihateithere to sign up for free and start gifting today.    00:00:48 - The Problem with New Year's Resolutions 00:03:57 - Insights from a Fractional Chief People Officer 00:05:39 - Revolutionizing Work: Ending Disengagement 00:08:31 - Achieving Equality in Compensation Methods 00:14:34 - Breaking Down Barriers to Transparency in Organizations 00:20:00 - The Importance of Transparency in Leadership 00:27:35 - The Connection Between Performance and Feedback in Compensation 00:29:38 - The Illusion of Professionalism Unveiled 00:34:38 - Challenging the Status Quo at Work    For even more exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube page.    Follow Anessa: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anessafike/ Pre-order her book: https://www.fikeandco.com/the-book   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef  

Nearly 50% of employees say that their productivity is impacted by ineffective communication.  So does that mean the average person is bad at communicating at work? Maybe…  Dinah Alobeid, Senior Director of Content and Communications at Greenhouse, joins Hebba this week to discuss the importance of being direct, authentic, and straightforward in your communication with employees.  Hebba and Dinah delve into the challenges of communicating during times of change, the role executives play in effective communication, and the need for companies to keep their messaging simple and human. Dinah also shares her tips for building your personal brand as an HR professional and the value of connecting with people online. Could improving your company’s communication abilities actually impact your employees’ engagement and overall success? Hint: YES.  The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at https://www.predictiveindex.com/. Snappy is the award-winning B2B gifting platform that takes all of the guesswork out of gifting and helps companies build cultures of gratitude and appreciation. Send gifts to anyone (employees, customers, co-workers) for any occasion (birthdays, holidays, Employee Appreciation Day - coming up March 1, hint hint!). Choose the perfect gift from Snappy’s extensive gifting catalog, create custom swag, or send gift options and let them pick! They put in their own address, and Snappy takes care of the rest. It’s fast, easy, and delightful!  Go to www.snappy.com/ihateithere to sign up for free and start gifting today.  00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:06 - The Power of Communication 00:01:28 - Why Communicating Well is Important  00:02:09 - The Issues with Workplace Communications 00:03:08 - The Impact of Direct Communication 00:11:41 - Why Effective Communication Can Be Tricky at Work 00:14:23 - How to leverage AI for Internal Communications 00:21:35 - When Communication Goes Wrong  00:23:45 - Communicating Employee Departures 00:29:48 - Communicating Important Messages  00:32:27 - Career Advice for HR Professionals 00:32:45 - Building Your HR Brand Online And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Hebba:  LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef Follow Dinah: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dinahalobeid/ Website: https://dinahsusanalobeid.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dinahsusanalobeidwrites/

Should DEI live within HR? And what’s the importance of prioritizing diversity in the workplace?  Hebba chats with Tara Turk-Haynes, founder of Equity Activations, about transforming businesses through the power of diversity, equity, and inclusion.  They chat about what can be performative during Black History Month, ruminating on why companies are so quick to utilize it for marketing purposes, but so slow to understand the true purpose behind the month itself. Are some companies simply better off avoiding Black History Month altogether?  Their answers may surprise you.  And later, Tara and Hebba dive into the complexities of the black experience in the workplace, discussing the importance of connecting DEI strategies to the purpose of an organization. How can HR and DEI departments increase empathy, allyship, and accessible resources for all communities in the workplace? And how can we acknowledge the black experience in an impactful manner?  Whether you're struggling to find balance in your own DEI efforts, or simply looking for helpful advice, tune in to discover Hebba and Tara’s most actionable advice!   00:00:09 - Unveiling the Truth about HR Challenges 00:05:45 - Celebrating Black History Month's Importance 00:11:33 - The Ethics of Black History Month Marketing 00:14:32 - Tips for HR Leaders Celebrating Black History Month 00:23:26 - The Importance of Inclusion  00:25:43 - Making the Business Case for DEI Should Stop 00:30:55 - Challenging Stereotypes in the Entertainment Industry 00:33:52 - Advocating for Black Women in the Workplace 00:39:54 - Ava Duvernay's Movie Origins: A Moving Experience 00:43:12 - The Challenges of DEI Professionals 00:44:46 - The Emotional Intensity of HR Jobs   The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at https://www.predictiveindex.com/.   Snappy is the award-winning B2B gifting platform that takes all of the guesswork out of gifting and helps companies build cultures of gratitude and appreciation. Send gifts to anyone (employees, customers, co-workers) for any occasion (birthdays, holidays, Employee Appreciation Day - coming up March 1, hint hint!). Choose the perfect gift from Snappy’s extensive gifting catalog, create custom swag, or send gift options and let them pick! They put in their own address, and Snappy takes care of the rest. It’s fast, easy, and delightful!     Go to https://www.snappy.com/ihateithere to sign up for free and start gifting today.   And if you love HR Therapy, sign up to I Hate it Here, the newsletter for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow Tara: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ttaraturkhaynes/   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef  

Treat others the way you want to be treated. It’s a lesson as old as time—so why are we still fighting so hard to make it a priority in the workplace?  Hebba and the CPO of Greenhouse, Donald Knight, discuss the importance of authenticity, transparency, and continual evolution in the workplace. How can HR practitioners prioritize employee well-being in a meaningful way that connects to crucial business outcomes?  Discover the crucial role of HR in caring for employees, and why empathy, vulnerability, and authenticity are the key ingredients to empowering talent and creating a healthy work environment. We’re sick of inheriting damaged talent, so isn’t it time that workplaces start taking care of their own?  And later, Hebba and Donald also discuss the positive impact of Gen Z, and their hopes for a massive shift in workplace dynamics in the future.    The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at https://www.predictiveindex.com/.   Snappy is the award-winning B2B gifting platform that takes all of the guesswork out of gifting and helps companies build cultures of gratitude and appreciation. Send gifts to anyone (employees, customers, co-workers) for any occasion (birthdays, holidays, Employee Appreciation Day - coming up March 1, hint hint!). Choose the perfect gift from Snappy’s extensive gifting catalog, create custom swag, or send gift options and let them pick! They put in their own address, and Snappy takes care of the rest. It’s fast, easy, and delightful!     Go to https://www.snappy.com/ihateithere to sign up for free and start gifting today.   00:03:00 - Creating Thriving Environments for Employees 00:15:12 - The Importance of Responsibility in HR 00:25:44 - How HR Shapes Company Culture 00:36:09 - Embracing Imperfection 00:37:08 - The Role of HR in Empowering Talent for Future Success 00:42:58 - The Rise of Gen Z in the Workforce 00:45:28 - The Future of Work and Society   And if you love HR Therapy, sign up to I Hate it Here, the newsletter for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow Donald:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/proximityknight/   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

It’s not just in your head—we’ve all felt underappreciated at work at one point or another. So how can managers and HR cultivate an environment where people, not just their accomplishments, are appreciated?  Megan Paige, CMO of Snappy, stops by the pod to chat with Hebba about the art of appreciation and implementing employee appreciation strategies that go beyond simply recognizing workplace accomplishments. Hear why she believes there is no ROI for gratitude and why, sometimes, recognition campaigns backfire, leaving employees feeling like the entire thing was just part of a “to-do” list that needed to be checked off.  And later, Megan shares her top tips for creating authentic shared experiences in a remote work environment and reveals the best ways to show appreciation for your team.   Snappy is the award-winning B2B gifting platform that takes all of the guesswork out of gifting and helps companies build cultures of gratitude and appreciation. Send gifts to anyone (employees, customers, co-workers) for any occasion (birthdays, holidays, Employee Appreciation Day - coming up March 1, hint hint!). Choose the perfect gift from Snappy’s extensive gift offerings, create custom swag, or send gift options and let your recipient pick! They put in their own address, and Snappy takes care of the rest. It’s fast, easy, and delightful!   Go to https://www.snappy.com/ihateithere to sign up for free and start gifting today.   The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at https://www.predictiveindex.com/.   And if you love HR Therapy, sign up to I Hate it Here, the newsletter for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow Megan: Website: https://www.snappy.com/ihateithere LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meganclevelandpaige/   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

Too often, HR is expected to bet the jack of all trades for a business. But what do you do when it leaves you feeling like a master of none? Hebba sits down with Sarah Rose Hattem, a former HR team of one and currently a Senior HR Consultant for Rippling, to discuss the challenges of being a one-person HR department. How, as a one-person department, can you more effectively communicate your value to leaders who may not view you as a primary function of the business?  Sarah Rose shares why utilizing technology to streamline day-to-day processes is absolutely critical for better time management and reveals the top HR tools she simply couldn’t function without. Then, she dives into some of her most time-tested strategies for better task prioritization before unpacking the nuances balancing the needs of the business with the mission-critical tasks that need to be done.     The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at https://www.predictiveindex.com/.   Snappy is the award-winning B2B gifting platform that takes all of the guesswork out of gifting and helps companies build cultures of gratitude and appreciation. Send gifts to anyone (employees, customers, co-workers) for any occasion (birthdays, holidays, Employee Appreciation Day - coming up March 1, hint hint!). Choose the perfect gift from Snappy’s extensive gifting catalog, create custom swag, or send gift options and let them pick! They put in their own address, and Snappy takes care of the rest. It’s fast, easy, and delightful!   Go to https://www.snappy.com/ihateithere to sign up for free and start gifting today.   00:01:09 - Sarah Rose Hattem’s HR Journey 00:03:15 - Balancing HR Responsibilties 00:06:47 - Efficient Time Management Tips for HR Teams 00:14:12 - Balancing HR Functions as a Team of One 00:19:37 - Leveraging Technology for a One-Person HR Team 00:26:25 - Elevating HR's Role in Business 00:36:00 - Balancing Business and People Needs 00:38:47 - Surviving Difficult Days in HR 00:41:01 - How to Connect with Sarah Rose   And if you love HR Therapy, sign up to I Hate it Here, the newsletter for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow Sarah Rose:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-hattem/   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

Puberty. Periods. Motherhood. Menopause.   Let's be real—women go through a lot of challenging life stages. So why then, do employee benefits often feel like a one-size-fits-all? How can HR find a way to help women throughout all stages of their life, in a way where they feel fully supported? Hebba sits down with Isha Vij, Vice President of Sales at Maven Clinic, a digital health organization focused on women’s and family health, to chat about the challenges and solutions surrounding women’s health benefits in the workplace. What are the logistical challenges to supporting IVF and fertility treatments? If cost is a major impediment to fertility support, how then, can employers still show support for employees in their family-building journey? Isha and Hebba discuss how current access to reproductive care is often insufficient and explain the massive impact reproductive and family benefits can have on workers’ happiness.    And later, Isha explains how Maven Clinic supports women beyond family planning and into menopause. Why is menopause often so poorly understood? With symptoms like insomnia, brain fog, hot flashes, and pain, what can employers do to ensure women receive proper support through this oft-misunderstood life event? She explains why the status quo simply isn’t enough and how Maven is seeking to revolutionize things.    The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at https://www.predictiveindex.com/.   Snappy is the award-winning B2B gifting platform that takes all of the guesswork out of gifting and helps companies build cultures of gratitude and appreciation. Send gifts to anyone (employees, customers, co-workers) for any occasion (birthdays, holidays, Employee Appreciation Day - coming up March 1, hint hint!). Choose the perfect gift from Snappy’s extensive gifting catalog, create custom swag, or send gift options and let them pick! They put in their own address, and Snappy takes care of the rest. It’s fast, easy, and delightful!   Go to https://www.snappy.com/ihateithere to sign up for free and start gifting today.   00:00:25 - Digital Health VP Talks HR Challenges 00:10:13 - Balancing Work and Motherhood Expectations 00:19:03 - Employer Support for Fertility Treatments 00:23:36 - Accessing Fertility Treatments: Major Challenges 00:30:31 - Creating a Consolidated Benefits System 00:34:28 - The Importance of Access to Virtual Healthcare 00:37:59 - Workplace Benefits for Menopausal Women And if you love HR Therapy, sign up to I Hate it Here, the newsletter for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow Isha:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ishavij/   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

Whether employers like it or not, greater pay transparency is the future. So why do HR leaders need to start embracing pay transparency rather than fearing it?   Lulu Seikaly, a senior corporate employment attorney with Payscale, sheds light on the topic in a candid conversation with Hebba about the impact of pay transparency laws on employees, the challenges employers face when implementing them, and the future of pay transparency on a global and local scale. How has Gen Z become the poster child for greater pay transparency practices? Why are employers so darn afraid to post salary ranges? And should employees who live in high-cost-of-living areas earn more than their coworkers?  Lulu chats with Hebba about the rights that employees have in relation to pay transparency and offers advice for companies navigating these laws. She also explains how pay transparency is vital to building a better workplace culture and one of the foremost things HR departments can do to create change for underrepresented groups.  Join in on this informative and thought-provoking discussion as Lulu and Hebba explore the evolving landscape of pay transparency and its implications for organizations and employees.   The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at https://www.predictiveindex.com/.   01:35 Pay Transparency Laws 07:30 How the Rest of the World Deals with Pay Transparency 10:20 Challenges to Implementing Pay Transparency 16:10 Why Employers Are Afraid of Posting Salary Ranges 24:20 Adhering to Pay Transparency Laws 30:51 Why HR Gets Such a Bad Rap 34:00 Tearing Down the Gender Pay Gap 37:12 The Right to Disconnect Law & the European Work Ethos 41:20 Location Agnostic Pay Ranges 49:20 The Future of Paid Transparency 52:01 Eliminating Bias in Promotions   And if you love HR Therapy, sign up to I Hate it Here, the newsletter for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow Lulu:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lseikaly/   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

 “How much do you make?”  It’s the one question that sends chills up corporate spines and the one question every employee is secretly dying to ask one another. But what if it didn’t have to be that way? What if pay was… *gasp* actually transparent? Meet the viral TikTok sensation daring to bring pay transparency to the forefront of the social media conversation, Hannah Williams. Sick of corporate America making employees feel powerless in the pay cycle, Hannah’s viral TikTok series, “Salary Transparent Street” set out to tear down the pay transparency wall by encouraging strangers to disclose all the dirty deets of exactly how much they make.  She chats with Hebba about how her personal experience of being underpaid sparked a social media revolution and inspired her to fight back against discriminatory employment practices and pay gaps disproportionately affecting women, POC, disabled communities, and LQBTQIA+ groups.  Together, Hannah and Hebba break down strategies for setting pay bands in a fair and earnest way, discuss why employers are so scared of people talking about pay, and reveal how budget-strapped employers can think outside of the box when it comes to negotiations.     The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at https://www.predictiveindex.com/.  00:05:50 - Revolutionizing Salary Transparency in Content 00:08:18 - Transparency Leads to Higher Earnings 00:14:35 - Pay Transparency Legislation Also Aids Equality 00:22:05 - Gen Z Advocates for Pay Transparency 00:34:25 - Increasing Employee Motivation with Pay Transparency 00:39:33 - Revisiting Employee Pay Levels for Success 00:45:52 - Employers Fear Being Recorded by Employees 00:49:21 - Hannah’s Shark Tank Experience 00:52:38 - Interviewing Top Content Creators   And if you love HR Therapy, sign up to I Hate it Here, the newsletter for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow Hannah:  Website: https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com Newsletter: https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahawilliams/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@salarytransparentstreet   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef  

There’s more to people than what you see when they show up for work.  Stories matter because we are in the age of radical authenticity and transparency. Exciting? Yes! Challenging? Also yes. Torrin Ellis, a powerhouse in recruitment, talent development, and operationalizing diversity and inclusion is here to break it all down!  We’ll unpack Torrin’s latest report, Reducing Bias in HR Using AI, and explore building trust, vulnerability, and doing things differently to push humanity further and deeper into your respective organization. Plus, we’ll tackle the scary stuff—like how to do the right thing even when it’s hard and why re-skilling is non-negotiable in the age of AI. Don’t worry, we’ll also squeeze in some hot takes on the Super Bowl performance because, well, priorities. Tune in, take notes, and let’s make work better, one uncomfortable conversation at a time. Are you ready to unlock the full potential of your workforce? PI empowers organizations to align talent with business strategy, helping you drive results and build a culture where your people truly thrive. Transform how you hire, engage, and lead—visit predictiveindex.com to learn how you can create meaningful change in your organization today! 00:05:01 - How Hebba and Torin Met 00:10:26 - Breakdown of the Superbowl Performance 00:18:42 - Understanding Bias and Prejudice  00:30:22 - What Inspired Torin’s Report about Reducing Bias in HR using AI 00:38:56 - The Pros and Cons of Capitalism 00:44:35 - Doing the Right Thing, Even When It’s Scary 00:51:09 - Torin’s ONE Takeaway You Should Have From This Episode 00:53:37 - Get in Touch With Torin And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Torin: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/torinellis/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

Work is changing FAST.  Between global pandemics, remote work, and the Great Reshuffle, it’s no wonder we’re all feeling a little unhinged! Nothing like building a deep work connection to help you adjust to it all, eh? That’s why this week’s episode is a fun (slightly wild) ride with Chris Hagood, CEO of AstutEdge and all-around HR powerhouse.  We’re covering everything from the role of work friendships to whether you’d take $10,000 to return to the office (spoiler: Chris has thoughts).  Plus, we’re throwing in some HR raps courtesy of ChatGPT because why not?! Whether you’re here for the laughs, the insights, or just to feel less alone in your corner of chaos, this episode has it all.  Are you ready to unlock the full potential of your workforce? PI empowers organizations to align talent with business strategy, helping you drive results and build a culture where your people truly thrive. Transform how you hire, engage, and lead—visit predictiveindex.com to learn how you can create meaningful change in your organization today! 00:03:00 - A Topic Chris Has Been Interested in Lately 00:08:04 - What the F&*%$ is Going on in the World? 00:11:34 - Does Christ Have a Best Friend in Life That he Met at Work? 00:13:52 - Should HR Play an Active Role in Fostering Friendships at Work? 00:17:19 - Would You Take $10,000 to Return to the Office? 00:23:00 - Professional Myths or Facts 00:33:35 - Yes or No? 00:37:08 - HR Raps From ChatGPT 00:42:12 - 3 Things HR Definitely Shouldn’t Say   And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Chris: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisrhagood/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef Hostile Government Takeover Song  Gallup Best Friend at Work survey

“The Proposal.” “Two Weeks Notice.” “The Office.” “500 Days of Summer.” What do these things have in common? They all taught us to believe in the power of the good old-fashioned office romance.  So what happens when the workplace rom-com turns into an IRL horror movie? Just ask HR expert Kim Rohrer, as she and Hebba unleash some absolutely WILD horror stories submitted by viewers about the office love story gone horribly, horribly wrong. Because sometimes, Jim and Pam don’t get together and everyone doesn’t live happily ever after. These are those stories. If you thought your Valentine’s Day was bad, hold on tight, because this episode is here to assure you, it could always be worse.    And if you love HR Therapy, sign up to I Hate it Here, the newsletter for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow Kim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimrohrer/   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

Just how different is a work environment that’s unionized versus one that isn’t? Today, we’re diving headfirst into the world of unionized workplaces with the brilliant Morgan Williams!  Spoiler alert: unions aren’t just about strikes and tension—they can actually make your organization stronger if you know how to play the game.  Morgan’s expertise? Managing unionized environments, reducing conflict, and building collaboration that lasts.  She’s here to drop some knowledge on how you can navigate union demands without breaking a sweat (or losing your mind). Plus, why you should care about union negotiations—because, trust me, what they’re asking for today might just be what your employees are eyeing tomorrow. Now, Working Not Working is helping to keep that talent with NTRNL— the new platform that unlocks employee passions and ignites productivity. So you can see your people as they see themselves: as humans, not headcount. Visit seeyourpeople.com to learn more or book a demo. 00:02:15 - Something That HR Folks Should Rethink 00:04:20 - What Sparked Morgan’s Interest in Working With Unions 00:07:30 - How the Election Could Impact Unionized Work 00:10:47 - Working in a Unionized Environment VS a Non-unionized Environment 00:13:04 - Common Misconceptions About Unionized Workplaces 00:20:00 - Why Some People Don’t Support Unions 00:22:17 - Fostering Positive Labor Relations and Reducing Conflict 00:28:58 - How Employee and Union Relationships Have Changed Over the Years 00:38:10 - Where Can People Educate Themselves on Unions? 00:45:22 - Where to Get in Touch With Morgan And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Morgan: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morganbwilliams/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

Last week, the US elected its 47th president. As I was sifting through the reactions of family, friends, and coworkers online, feelings of excitement and feelings of sadness were all over the place, and it was a lot to think about. But the thing I kept coming back to was the mission of I Hate It Here and the ways that elections affect us all! So today, we’re taking a stroll down HR memory lane, digging into the laws that flipped the script on how we work. From the Fair Labor Standards Act to the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, we’re exploring the major pieces of legislation that shaped HR as we know it. Now, Working Not Working is helping to keep that talent with NTRNL— the new platform that unlocks employee passions and ignites productivity. So you can see your people as they see themselves: as humans, not headcount. Visit seeyourpeople.com to learn more or book a demo. 00:01:00 - The Misson of I Hate It Here 00:01:50 - The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) 00:03:55 - The Civil Rights Act of 1964 00:06:00 - The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) 00:08:05 - The Employee of Income Retirement Security Act (ERISA) 00:10:04 - The Americans With Disability Act 00:11:04 - The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) 00:13:17 - The Affordable Care Act 00:15:05 - The Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act 00:17:40 - The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

New year, new perspective? As we get ready to face the new year, we may need some inspiration to tackle the never ending dumpster-fire that can be HR and People Ops.    In this special episode, we've gathered insights from some of the top HR experts around. Join Hebba in the all-star studded episode where she asks her guests one important question:    “What’s your one wish for HR in 2024?”   From prioritizing employee well-being to reevaluating the job candidate experience and reassessing the value of DE&I, if you’re looking for some inspiration for your own HR goals into the new year, you won't want to miss out on this episode!    For even more exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube page.    Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef   15Five is the performance management platform that drives business results and gives HR teams a complete solution to deliver high employee performance, engagement, and retention while improving manager effectiveness.    Find out more about 15Five here.   And if you'd like to keep learning, Hootsuite’s new 2023 Social Media Career Report is loaded with insights about social marketers’ pay, promotions, job satisfaction, challenges, gender pay equity, mental health, and more—to help you attract, hire, and retain the best social marketers. Uncover the state (and state of mind) of the social media marketer in the full report!

Recruiting is rough right now. Job seekers are frustrated, recruiters are overwhelmed, and everyone’s wondering, “Is it just me, or is this whole system broken?”  In this episode, I sit down with Kiersten Greggs, founder of Trap Recruiter and a 24-year recruiting veteran, to unpack the chaos.  Kiersten pulls back the curtain on what’s really happening in today’s job market, why recruiters are the unsung heroes of HR, and how both candidates and hiring teams can navigate this mess. Are you ready to unlock the full potential of your workforce? PI empowers organizations to align talent with business strategy, helping you drive results and build a culture where your people truly thrive. Transform how you hire, engage, and lead—visit predictiveindex.com to learn how you can create meaningful change in your organization today! 00:02:19 - A Topic Keirsten Has Been Interested in Lately 00:05:03 - What is Happening in Today’s Market? 00:10:01 - How Will the Job Market Look in the Next Year? 00:14:06 - How to Stand Out During a Hiring Process 00:23:04 - Why Does Everybody Think You Need to Beat the ATS? 00:29:14 - Using AI for Resumes or Job Searching 00:36:39 - The Biggest Inefficiencies in the TA Process Right Now 00:44:16 - How Long Should the Overall Interview Process be? 00:51:46 - What is the Most Important Part of the Candidate Experience?  00:57:03 - The One Tip Kiersten Would Give Recriuters And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Keirsten: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/traprecruiter/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

Welcome to a brand new season of the podcast, where I’m flipping the script and diving deep into more diverse topics! I’ll be challenging myself (and my guests) to rethink what we think we know about the world of work, and how seemingly unrelated topics still tie back to HR. Today, we’ve got the one and only Sarika Lamont, aka my Comp Guru Queen, joining us! If you want to understand pay transparency and total rewards in a way that actually makes sense, Sarika is here to break it all down.  Spoiler alert: pay isn’t as simple as it seems—and neither is the communication behind it.  We talk about why employees often misunderstand compensation, how we can improve the conversation, and why education is the key to getting pay transparency right. Are you ready to unlock the full potential of your workforce? PI empowers organizations to align talent with business strategy, helping you drive results and build a culture where your people truly thrive. Transform how you hire, engage, and lead—visit predictiveindex.com to learn how you can create meaningful change in your organization today! 00:05:45 - One Topic Sarika is Interested in Right Now 00:16:05 - Explaining Compensation and Total Rewards in Simple Terms 00:19:07 - How do you Decide What Employees Should be Paid? 00:36:22 - What Makes Creating Good Pay Packages so Challenging? 00:53:55 - What do Employees Misunderstand About Pay, Benefits, and How They’re Determined? 01:13:55 - Should Companies be Open About How Much They Pay Employees? 01:16:02 - Non-money Rewards That Companies Can Offer to Make Employees Feel Valued 01:17:36 - How Pay and Rewards for Employees Will Change in the Future And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Sarika: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarikal/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

When your team is fully remote, can you really create a sense of community? Hebba’s guest on today’s episode is Jessica Winder, SVP of People at Refine Labs, and CEO and Founder of Hidden Gems, the career coaching service helping underrepresented job seekers through every stage of their career development. Jessica and Hebba get straight into why Jessica felt moved to help others move upwards in their careers, the importance of putting in and sticking to boundaries in the workplace, and a Q&A session from listeners at the I Hate It Here virtual event where this episode was recorded. Thanks to our sponsors New Stand - partnering with companies to deliver better work experiences, including onsite and virtual team stores, employee rewards, and pop-up events.  New Stand helps bridge the onsite - offsite gap for distributed teams with their premium wellbeing, community, and recognition programs. Learn how to bring joy to your team by visiting newstand.com And The Predictive Index. Bonus payouts around the corner? Don't panic. The Predictive Index gives you (and your managers) the tools you need to create a more engaging culture. Go to trypi.com/hrt  to get started for free. And if you love HR Therapy, sign up to I Hate it Here, the newsletter for jaded, overworked and emotionally burned out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/ Follow Jessica: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/refinelabsjessica/ Follow Hebba:  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

How can you give (and receive) feedback in a way that puts wellbeing firmly at the center? Hebba is joined by Nesa K. Johnson, Global Chief People Officer at GCI Group. They get into how trauma can affect how you receive feedback, the best approach to take when blame becomes an issue, and how to think of feedback as a strategic input. Plus Hebba and Nesa answer questions from the audience at this virtual event. Thanks to our sponsors New Stand - partnering with companies to deliver better work experiences, including onsite and virtual team stores, employee rewards, and pop-up events.  New Stand helps bridge the onsite - offsite gap for distributed teams with their premium wellbeing, community, and recognition programs. Learn how to bring joy to your team by visiting newstand.com And The Predictive Index. Bonus payouts around the corner? Don't panic. The Predictive Index gives you (and your managers) the tools you need to create a more engaging culture. Go to trypi.com/hrt  to get started for free. And if you love HR Therapy, sign up to I Hate it Here, the newsletter for jaded, overworked and emotionally burned out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/ Follow: Nesa: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nesajohnson/ Follow Hebba:  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

What are companies getting wrong about parental leave? Well, quite a few things actually! Allison Whalen the Co-founder and CEO at Parentaly joins as a guest this episode to discuss parental leave and how to support expecting parents! Her company Parentaly helps turn parental leave into a competitive advantage through coaching, planning and support services to expecting and new parents.  Hebba and Allison discuss what companies get wrong about leave, how to think about leave as a competitive advantage and how to support all expecting parents regardless of how a family was formed.  Join Hebba and Allison at this virtual event, discussing how to do parental leave right and fielding Q&As from viewers. Thanks to our sponsors New Stand - partnering with companies to deliver better work experiences, including onsite and virtual team stores, employee rewards, and pop-up events.  New Stand helps bridge the onsite - offsite gap for distributed teams with their premium wellbeing, community, and recognition programs. Learn how to bring joy to your team by visiting newstand.com And The Predictive Index. Bonus payouts around the corner? Don't panic. The Predictive Index gives you (and your managers) the tools you need to create a more engaging culture. Go to trypi.com/hrt  to get started for free. And if you love HR Therapy, sign up to I Hate it Here, the newsletter for jaded, overworked and emotionally burned out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/ Follow Allison: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allison-whalen-7824168/ Follow Hebba:  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 03:45 Coming Back Strong 09:14 The Aha Moment 15:03 Communication On Your Terms 16:26 Getting Adoption Leave Right 18:30 Struggling With Terminology 22:13 Diving Into The Stats 27:07 Life And Work Past Birth 29:54 Giving Companies The Competitive Advantage 34:09 Support For Pregnancy Loss

Beyond the typical day-to-day activities in HR… I’m just a mega-dorknerd with a fierce love for books, especially when they whisk me away to worlds filled with fantasy, sci-fi, and heart-stirring romance! And today, we're exploring how the twists and turns of romance novels can actually offer fascinating insights into HR.  I'm thrilled to have Georgia Clark with us to guide us through these narrative mazes! She’s not just any novelist—she’s a storytelling wizard who’s penned titles like Most Wonderful and Island Time, and she lights up New York's iconic Joe's Pub with her storytelling night, Generation Women. During our chat, we discuss how romance and the hero's journey in novels can uniquely resonate within the corridors of HR, enhancing empathy and understanding, which are crucial for anyone in this role. Are you ready to unlock the full potential of your workforce? PI empowers organizations to align talent with business strategy, helping you drive results and build a culture where your people truly thrive. Transform how you hire, engage, and lead—visit predictiveindex.com to learn how you can create meaningful change in your organization today! 00:02:12 - A Topic Georgia is Interested in Right Now 00:05:50 - Georgia’s Favorite Buffy the Vampire Slayer Episode 00:09:47 - How Georgia Became a Writer 00:16:24 - How Georgia Develops Her Characters 00:21:29 - The Approach Behind Character Transformation 00:30:30 - How Georgia Thinks About Conflict While Creating Characters 00:39:15 - Uncovering Character Motivations in a Natural Way 00:45:58 - How to Make a Story Truly Captivating for People 00:48:28 - What is Generation Women? 00:53:35 - Why the Hero Journey in Romance Novels Resonates With People 01:00:07 - Making Stories Reflect Diverse Perspectives and Experiences And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Georgia: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgia-clark-b451412/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

This weekend I was featured in the New York Times article, “So Human Resources is Making You Miserable.” And NGL… I may have ruffled a few feathers. But let’s face it— the CPO/CHRO role is one of the hardest jobs out there, and there’s going to be plenty of bad days to go around. BUT that doesn’t mean HR can’t have a brat girl summer.  Rebecca Taylor (Chief Customer Officer and Co-Founder of SkillCycle) joins me to discuss the state of HR and chat about how we’re fighting to battle old perceptions of HR on the daily. What lessons are worth taking away from the NYT article? And is it possible that this mutual frustration will eventually pave the way for innovation? Yes. ENTHUSIASTICALLY YES. So let’s channel that frustration with HR into positive change— don’t miss out on this super special bonus episode! And don’t forget to read the New Times article here.   Follow Rebecca: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccataylor2/   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef   And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out  https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!

If there is one silver bullet for connecting with other people, it’s storytelling! Last episode, my friend Georgia Clark and I unpacked the lessons HR can glean from romance novels about character development and storytelling.  Today, I’m pushing that conversation forward with Tara Turk-Haynes. Tara isn't just any guest—she’s a powerhouse in talent acquisition, employee engagement, and DEI, with a vibrant background in the arts like playwriting and screenwriting.  With her at the helm of DEI initiatives and her roots in creative storytelling, Tara will share how authentic narratives can be the perfect bridge to deeper connections within the workplace. Are you ready to unlock the full potential of your workforce? PI empowers organizations to align talent with business strategy, helping you drive results and build a culture where your people truly thrive. Transform how you hire, engage, and lead—visit predictiveindex.com to learn how you can create meaningful change in your organization today! 00:02:48 - What Topic Has Been Interesting to Tara Lately? 00:07:24 - Why Storytelling is Critical for Building Connections 00:10:45 - What Makes Stories Truly Resonate With People? 00:25:20 - A Story That Has Stuck With Tara Over the Years 00:31:43 - How Story Revelations Apply to the Workplace 00:41:02 - How can HR Professionals Become Better Storytellers? 00:44:39 - Storytelling Mistakes People Make, and How to Avoid Them 00:50:01 - How Tara Would Change How Stories are Told in Corporate Spaces And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Tara: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ttaraturkhaynes/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

In this week’s pod, Hebba sits down with Jessica Zwaan, COO of Whereby and the author of "Built for People,” to chat about AI’s potential impact on the structure of compensation and equity in the workspace and the evolving landscape of HR. Jessica unleashes a few of her hottest HR takes, predicting a shift towards employees demanding more equity stakes in something she affectionately calls "tech space communism." Then, she and Hebba speculate on the future of compensation structures before bonding over the importance of long-term incentives in companies. Plus, Jessica reveals why HR professionals need to get more obsessed with the numbers— and explains why being obsessed with the metrics is one of the best things you can do for your HR career.    And if you love HR Therapy, sign up to I Hate it Here, the newsletter for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration.   https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   0:00 Jessica’s Background 3:59 HR Hot Take 10:34 The Tech Startup Equity Model 18:41 The Role of HR in Equity 21:02 HR and Structuring 23:50 How HR Can Improve at Business Ops 31:00 Market Shifts 36:52 Setting Yourself Up for Future HR Success 41:16 An HR Hill to Die On   For even more exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube page.    Follow Jessica:  Get the Book: https://www.koganpage.com/hr-learning-development/built-for-people-9781398608023 Website: https://www.jessicamayzwaan.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicamayzwaan/   Follow Hebba:  LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef 15Five is the performance management platform that drives business results and gives HR teams a complete solution to deliver high employee performance, engagement, and retention while improving manager effectiveness.  Find out more about 15Five here.

People trust their next-door neighbor more than they trust their HR department—and that’s a massive problem.  So how can HR work to create an environment built upon trust and transparency? Minda Harts, author of "The Memo," joins Hebba to discuss the importance of trust in the workplace and how HR professionals can rebuild it after layoffs. Minda and Hebba explore the challenges of transparency and confidentiality and the role of HR in shaping the future of work.  How do you bridge the gap between what the people need and what the business needs? Turns out there is a solution! Tune in for the answer and an insightful conversation that will leave you inspired to bring your authentic self to work and foster a culture of trust.   00:00:00 - Minda Hartz Discusses HR Challenges 00:00:24 - Mindar's Journey: From Author to HR Professional 00:02:07 - Building Workplace Trust: Common Challenges 00:03:44 - The Impact of Trust in Workplace Communication 00:10:09 - Restoring Trust in the Workplace 00:14:49 - Rebuilding Trust After Layoffs: Tips for Employers 00:21:07 - Building Trust in Remote Communication 00:25:49 - Building Trust Requires Fixing Bad Habits 00:31:59 - The Importance of Trust in HR 00:33:00 - Balancing Transparency and Confidentiality in HR 00:40:35 - Reframing the Role of HR 00:42:56 - Mindaharsh's Close Second to Beyonce Concert   For even more exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube page.    Follow Hebba:  LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef     Check Out Minda’s Books:  Website: https://www.mindaharts.com/ Follow Minda: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindaharts/   Follow Hebba:  LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef 15Five is the performance management platform that drives business results and gives HR teams a complete solution to deliver high employee performance, engagement, and retention while improving manager effectiveness.  Find out more about 15Five here.

What separates the good from the great HR leaders? Adam Weber, host of HR Superstars and Chief Evangelist at 15five, has talked to thousands of HR leaders and in this episode he shares his observations about what characteristics make an HR leader exceptional. From the importance of understanding the business to activating your managers, Adam shares what he’s learned and how you can deploy it tomorrow.   00:02:53 - What Separates Good HR Leaders from Great Ones? 00:04:45 - Improving Employee Departures 00:07:21 - Helping HR Leaders Overcome Obstacles 00:09:58 - Learning from HR Leaders: 5 Tips for Success 00:12:27 - The Traits of Courageous HR Leaders 00:24:08 - Key Metrics for HR Success 00:30:54 - The Impact of Managers on Employee Experience 00:38:51 - Improving Manager Activation in HR 00:42:27 - Revolutionizing Performance Management in HR 00:44:31 - Adam Weber Shares Insights on Strategic HR   For even more exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube page.    Follow Adam:  Podcast: HR Superstars LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetadam/   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef 15Five is the performance management platform that drives business results and gives HR teams a complete solution to deliver high employee performance, engagement, and retention while improving manager effectiveness.  Find out more about 15Five here. And if you'd like to keep learning, Hootsuite’s new 2023 Social Media Career Report is loaded with insights about social marketers’ pay, promotions, job satisfaction, challenges, gender pay equity, mental health, and more—to help you attract, hire, and retain the best social marketers. Uncover the state (and state of mind) of the social media marketer in the full report!

Is it possible to eliminate bias in the workplace? Not really, no. However, we can, at the very least, strive to minimize our unconscious biases. In this episode, Hebba sits down with Dani Herrera, an expert in talent and recruiting with a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, to discuss the various challenges recruiters face and how they often lack the necessary tools and resources to excel in their roles. Dani also shares her insights on mitigating the lesser-known biases in hiring while emphasizing the importance of utilizing more inclusive and equitable hiring practices. Plus, is anyone actually reading your cover letter? Tune in to hear Dani’s personal case for doing away with cover letters and her thoughts on why hiring processes are in desperate need of modernization   00:00:02 - Improving Workplace Cultures 00:01:32 - Separating DNI and HR Departments 00:03:12 - The Importance of Inclusive Hiring 00:09:19 - Mitigating Unconscious Bias in Hiring 00:16:30 - Rethinking Resumes and Cover Letters 00:25:14 - The Importance of Inclusive Hiring for Diversity Recruitment 00:34:57 - Building Inclusive Talent Practices for Hiring Success 00:41:43 - The Untapped Potential of Recruiters 00:44:23 - The Importance of Diversity in HR 00:45:58 - Connect with Dani on LinkedIn   For even more exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube page.    Follow Dani:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielagherrera/ Newsletter: https://www.deibydani.com   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef 15Five is the performance management platform that drives business results and gives HR teams a complete solution to deliver high employee performance, engagement, and retention while improving manager effectiveness.  Find out more about 15Five here. And if you'd like to keep learning, Hootsuite’s new 2023 Social Media Career Report is loaded with insights about social marketers’ pay, promotions, job satisfaction, challenges, gender pay equity, mental health, and more—to help you attract, hire, and retain the best social marketers. Uncover the state (and state of mind) of the social media marketer in the full report!  

Startup founders aren’t always building their companies with equity in mind… On this week’s pod, Hebba sits down with Desiree Morton, a DEI practitioner and tech founder, to discuss the importance of building companies with equity in mind from the beginning. From managing expectations to prioritizing equity initiatives, Desiree shares valuable insights and advice for creating a more inclusive and equitable workplace.  Bonus: Hebba and Desiree chat about why manipulation isn’t always a bad thing when it comes to equity, why it’s okay to admit your baby’s ugly (because, let’s face it, not everyone thinks it’s cute), and how “He’s Just Not That Into You” is applicable to just about everything. Plus, everyone’s got baggage—so how can we approach difficult situations (and er… people) using a more empathetic framework?    00:01:24 - The Influence of DEI in Operations 00:03:30 - Building a Company with Equity 00:14:19 - Addressing Equity Problems in HR 00:15:59 - Building Strong Employee Resource Groups 00:18:22 - Challenges of Building with Equity 00:24:47 - Prioritizing Equity Initiatives in Business 00:29:36 - How to Juggle Business and HR Priorities 00:36:09 - Creating an Equitable Environment for Employees 00:39:41 - Equity Issues: Advice for First-Time Founders 00:44:49 - Innovate, Not Rely on Tech for HR Equity 00:50:15 - Building Equity and Exit Strategies   For even more exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube page.    Follow Desiree: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/desireekmorton/ Website: https://www.aginci.com/   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef 15Five is the performance management platform that drives business results and gives HR teams a complete solution to deliver high employee performance, engagement, and retention while improving manager effectiveness.  Find out more about 15Five here. And if you'd like to keep learning, Hootsuite’s new 2023 Social Media Career Report is loaded with insights about social marketers’ pay, promotions, job satisfaction, challenges, gender pay equity, mental health, and more—to help you attract, hire, and retain the best social marketers. Uncover the state (and state of mind) of the social media marketer in the full report!

Determining if employee-workplace fit should be a two-way street. So why does the recruitment process feel like a one-way street for so many job-seekers?  Jessica Winder, Senior VP of People at Refine Labs, shares her insights on how workplaces should rethink compatibility, and the steps employees can take to ensure a potential workplace is right for them.   From considering factors like transparency in the interview process to creating lists and asking the right questions, Jessica provides valuable advice for job seekers like the importance of work-life balance, career growth, and compensation in the decision-making process.  00:01:43 - The Truth Behind Corporate Math 00:02:55 - How to Determine Company Compatibility 00:03:45 - The Importance of Flexibility and Innovation in the Workplace 00:06:30 - Interview Tips: The Power of Lists 00:07:47 - Red Flags to Watch for in Job Interviews 00:11:47 - Navigating Temporary Jobs During Unemployment 00:16:15 - The Rise of Remote Work 00:18:18 - The Importance of Leadership in Job Interviews 00:22:13 - Ensuring Candidates Understand Company Culture 00:25:43 - The Problem with the Phrase "Culture Fit" 00:28:57 - Ranking the Importance of Workplace Factors 00:32:09 - Research Before Accepting a Job   For even more exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube page.    Follow Jessica: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicadwinder/ Buy Her Book “The Hidden Gem Within”   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef   15Five is the performance management platform that drives business results and gives HR teams a complete solution to deliver high employee performance, engagement, and retention while improving manager effectiveness.    Find out more about 15Five here.   And if you'd like to keep learning, Hootsuite’s new 2023 Social Media Career Report is loaded with insights about social marketers’ pay, promotions, job satisfaction, challenges, gender pay equity, mental health, and more—to help you attract, hire, and retain the best social marketers. Uncover the state (and state of mind) of the social media marketer in the full report!

Burnout and failure are inevitable in HR. So how can we grow and learn from our own mistakes? Tracie Sponenberg, Chief People Officer of the Granite Group, joins Hebba to discuss her storied career in HR and to share her love/hate relationship with the industry as a whole. She reveals why open communication and having conversations with your employees, whether it’s good, bad, or anything in between is vital to anyone working in HR.  Then, she and Hebba delve into various topics, including the challenges of maintaining a small company culture while scaling, the changing landscape of HR roles, and the shift towards leading with humanity rather than compliance. And stay tuned because later, Tracie opens up about her own experiences with burnout and offers advice on setting boundaries and protecting yourself from burnout in the HR field. 00:01:36 - HR Hot Take 00:03:43 - From Personnel to HR: Finding My Passion 00:07:40 - Key Inflection Points in Tracy’s HR Career 00:11:53 - The Changing Landscape of HR 00:18:08 - The Emotional Burden of HR 00:22:59 - The Evolution of HR and Internal Communication 00:26:35 - Maintaining Company Culture as You Scale 00:28:52 - Preventing and Healing from Burnout 00:37:19 - The Future of HR and People: More Advisory and External Roles 00:43:29 - The Importance of Communication with CEOs For even more exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube page.  Follow Tracie: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/traciesponenberg/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef 15Five is the performance management platform that drives business results and gives HR teams a complete solution to deliver high employee performance, engagement, and retention while improving manager effectiveness.  Find out more about 15Five here. And if you'd like to keep learning, Hootsuite’s new 2023 Social Media Career Report is loaded with insights about social marketers’ pay, promotions, job satisfaction, challenges, gender pay equity, mental health, and more—to help you attract, hire, and retain the best social marketers. Uncover the state (and state of mind) of the social media marketer in the full report!

Who needs Halloween night, when we barely survive our own horror story each and every day?  Join Hebba as she shares hair-raising HR horror stories that will send shivers up your spine and make you double-check each and every email and document you send in this Halloween special. From ghostbusting in the workplace to employees submitting unusual receipts, she’s got audience stories that will leave you even more scarred for life than *that one* scene from “Signs.” …Yeah, you know the one we’re talking about.  But it's not all fright and fear—Hebba also discusses some real-life workplace issues, such as morale, growth, and talent retention. Discover the challenges of creating a dog-friendly office and the unexpected consequences of implementing new benefits. And if you have your own HR horror story to share, don't be afraid to submit your own spine-chilling tales through Hebba’s anonymous form. So grab your favorite Halloween treat, lock your computer, strap down you last shred of sanity, and prepare for a descent into the upside-down world of HR!   00:00:00 - HR Horror Stories Shared on Podcast 00:02:44 - Employee Discovers Termination Email on Manager's Computer 00:04:05 - The Hilarious Expense Receipt Fail 00:06:38 - AI Notetaker Bots Transforming Meeting Efficiency 00:09:17 - Avoid HR Mistakes: Double Check 00:11:29 - Solving Morale, Growth, and Talent Retention Issues 00:13:18 - Halloween-Inspired HR Horror Stories 00:14:40 - Manager's Inappropriate Relationships Cause Scandal   For even more exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube page.    Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef   15Five is the performance management platform that drives business results and gives HR teams a complete solution to deliver high employee performance, engagement, and retention while improving manager effectiveness.    Find out more about 15Five here.  

It’s not that HR doesn’t want to pay you equitably… It’s that sometimes we just can’t. The odds are… rarely ever in our favor. So what can we do to eliminate the constant source friction that pay inequity causes?    Hebba dives into the complex world of compensation management with guest Enrique Esclusa, co-founder and co-CEO of Assemble. They unravel the reasons why understanding equity as an employee is so important, the role of market data in decision-making, and the challenges HR departments face in managing pay equity and transparency. Enrique shares insights on how misalignment between leadership, HR, recruiting, and finance can lead to compensation problems, and emphasizes the need for fair and consistent practices.  Plus, can we finally just be done with the shortcomings of spreadsheet compensation management? Enrique certainly thinks so—he explains the benefits of using a platform like Assemble to streamline the process and ensure pay transparency and equity.   00:00:00 - Assemble: Revolutionizing Compensation Management Platform 00:01:02 - HR Hot Take 00:02:50 - Avoiding Common Mistakes in Compensation Management 00:05:57 - Aligning Leadership and HR 00:10:56 - The Downside of Traditional Compensation Management 00:16:48 - Boosting Employee Morale with Transparent Compensation 00:25:08 - Understanding Equity: 3 Key Factors 00:31:46 - The Importance of Data in HR Compensation 00:40:50 - Addressing Pay Equity in DEI Programs 00:47:52 - The Root Cause of Compensation Problems 00:53:57 - HR's Potential to Fix Compensation Problems   For even more exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube page.    Learn More About Assemble:  Website: https://www.assemble.inc/demo   Follow Enrique: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/enrique-j-esclusa/   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef   15Five is the performance management platform that drives business results and gives HR teams a complete solution to deliver high employee performance, engagement, and retention while improving manager effectiveness.    Find out more about 15Five here.  

Spotted in the Podcast studio this week: Hebba Youssef and Rodney Evans chatting about the role of gossip in the workplace and how sometimes, it can actually be a good thing (IKR?).  Brave New Work podcast host and Partner at The Ready, Rodney Evans was heard talking up a storm about the unseen emotional labor of HR professionals in the workplace and breaking free from the codependent caretaker role they often take on.  I also heard a juicy rumor that HR might go the way of the dinosaurs. Out with a bang, amiright? My sources heard Rodney say, “It’s an evolve-or-die situation for HR. If HR doesn’t take the evolution game seriously, it’s just going to become a non-function. It will ultimately be disbanded if it doesn’t change into the thing that HR people know it should be.” Later, Rodney and Hebba were overheard discussing the pitfalls of performance management, the power of influencing and politicking, and the importance of having a clear vision and obtaining the necessary permissions to drive change.  But don’t take it from me. Tune in to hear all the hot tea they spilled in the podcast for yourselves. Trust me, it’s a game-changer.   XOXO -Gossip Girl   00:00:09 - The Cycle of Rescuing and Regret 00:01:12 - Exploring Workplace Cultures with Rodney Evans 00:01:46 - The Evolution of HR: Adapt or Perish 00:03:54 - The Unseen Emotional Labor of HR 00:07:43 - Breaking Free from Codependent HR Behavior 00:12:27 - The Role of Gossip in Establishing Rules 00:20:39 - The Impact of Influencing in the Workplace 00:28:17 - Transforming HR: Permission, Not Perfection 00:32:10 - Navigating the Challenges of HR Initiatives 00:39:32 - Creating Psychological Safety in Meetings 00:44:09 - The Evolution and Challenges of HR 00:45:59 - Connect with Rodney for HR Insights   For even more exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube page.    Follow Rodney:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodneyeevans/ Website: https://www.theready.com      Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef   15Five is the performance management platform that drives business results and gives HR teams a complete solution to deliver high employee performance, engagement, and retention while improving manager effectiveness.    Find out more about 15Five here.  

Did you know that 63% of workers who receive low-quality feedback are likely to quit within the next year?  Performance feedback isn’t just an HR problem, it’s a business problem. And in this week’s pod, Hebba’s sitting down with Kieran Snyder, CEO and Co-founder of Textio, to dive deep into the world of performance management and fairness in the workplace.  Is being labeled an overachiever really just coded language for exceeding management’s low expectations? And what role can accountability and quality feedback play in creating a fairer system?   Kieran sheds light on the vicious cycle between performance feedback and confirmation bias and explains why true accountability at all levels is essential. She unpacks how women and people of color often face different feedback standards than other groups, and reveals why management must face the same performance standards as everyone else in order for a system to truly be equitable.   And stay tuned to discover how Textio is working to bridge the gap between HR leaders' intent for fairness and the tools available to them.   00:00:00 - Improving Communication at Work  00:02:52 - The Truth About Training and Performance Management 00:04:53 - Improving Fairness in Performance Management 00:09:07 - Common Challenges in Traditional Performance Reviews 00:17:10 - The Impact of Confirmation Bias in the Workplace 00:24:45 - Improving Employee Feedback with Software 00:27:00 - Improving Quality Feedback from Managers 00:30:35 - Closing the Gap on Pay Equity 00:32:56 - Addressing Systemic Racism in the Workplace  00:35:24 - Closing the Gender Feedback Gap 00:39:58 - The Importance of Feedback Culture   For even more exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube page.     Learn More About Textio:  Website: https://textio.com/   Follow Kieran: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieran-snyder-60572987/   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef   15Five is the performance management platform that drives business results and gives HR teams a complete solution to deliver high employee performance, engagement, and retention while improving manager effectiveness.    Find out more about 15Five here.  

Hot take: Nobody is inherently a good leader. Being a leader is a learned skill. What does it really take to be a good leader?  It’s not about being perfect, having all the answers, or walking in like a natural-born boss! Leadership is messy, vulnerable, and learned.  In this episode, my unofficial co-host (and leadership guru) Jessica Winder is back to break it all down.  We talk about why vulnerability is a must (not an option), how to lead when you have zero authority, and why leadership isn’t a natural-born trait—it’s a skill you grow over time. Now, Working Not Working is helping to keep that talent with NTRNL— the new platform that unlocks employee passions and ignites productivity. So you can see your people as they see themselves: as humans, not headcount. Visit seeyourpeople.com to learn more or book a demo. 00:01:35 - Jessica’s Background  00:03:45 - One Thing That HR People Should Rethink 00:06:30 - What Does it Mean to be a Leader? 00:11:57 - How Jessica’s Leadership Style Evolved Over the Years 00:16:13 - When Jessica Realized Leadership as Her Zone of Genius 00:19:20 - Common Myths About Leadership, Debunked 00:23:38 - What Qualities Differentiate a Good Leader From a Great Leader? 00:30:40 - Balancing Empathy and Decision-making as a Leader 00:36:48 - Advice for People Stepping Into Their First Leadership Role 00:38:27 - What Leadership Could Look Like in 5-10 Years And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Jessica: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicadwinder/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

Let’s talk about fairness—or, more accurately, let’s talk about how your company is probably failing at it! You know the drill: the ‘neutral’ policies that somehow always disadvantage the same people, the DEI initiatives that start and end with a Slack emoji, the performance reviews that feel more like a lottery than actual feedback.  This week, Zach Nunn (founder of Living Corporate and certified corporate truth-teller) joins me to rip apart the illusion of fairness at work!  We’re talking remote work double standards, the sneaky policies that keep marginalized employees stuck, and why ‘transparency’ is often just corporate code for ‘we’ll tell you the rules but not how to win.’  If most workplaces were actually fair, we wouldn’t need this episode!  But since that’s not our reality yet… press play and let’s get figure it out together. Choosing the wrong HR platform is rife with regrets: losing a top performer, promoting the wrong person, or failing to engage your team when the business needs it most. Fortunately, you don’t have to choose between investing in people programs and consolidating your tech stack. With Lattice, you can have both. Visit lattice.com to learn more. Multi-state compliance is a nightmare—but SixFifty makes it easy.Get instant answers to employment law questions, generate a compliant multi-state handbook in minutes, and stay ahead of changing laws with automated updates.Visit SixFifty.com to learn more! 0:03:43 - One Truth About Work Zach Wishes More Leaders Understood 0:11:30 - What is Living Corporate and What Inspired Zach to Start It? 0:17:02 - What Most Companies Get Wrong About Fairness at Work 0:25:42 - Defining a Fair Workplace and How It Feels to Employees 0:38:52 - Policies That Seem Neutral, But Actually End up Being Unfair 0:52:54 - One Thing HR Should Stop Doing Immediately to Build Fairer Workplaces 0:53:50 - What Gives Zach Hope? 0:56:32 - Get in Touch With Zach And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out  https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Zach: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacharynunnphr/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

This episode of I Hate It Here is getting spooky with a second edition of HR Horror Stories!  Last year, we dove into tales that had us shaking our heads, and this year?  Let’s just say my jaw’s still on the floor after these submissions.  I’ll be reading these stories exactly as they were submitted, and trust me, they’re a reminder that nobody outside of HR quite understands the unique trauma we face.  Tune in to hear about The Bad Employee, The Unhinged CEO, and yes, even a Rubber Duck and Plastic Dinosaur making their grand entrance. 00:02:09 - The Tale of the Bad Employee 00:05:33 - The Tale of the Interesting Meeting 00:08:30 - The Rubber Duck and Plastic Dinosaur 00:10:35 - The Tale of ‘Do Not Disturb’ 00:11:55 - The Tale of Lack of Gratitude 00:12:51 - The Tale of the Group Text 00:16:10 - The Tale of the Unhinged CEO 00:19:02 - The Tale of Bad References 00:20:50 - The Tale of the Mediator 00:22:29 - The Tale of the Pervert And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out  https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef  Got an HR horror story of your own? Submit it here!

Get ready for a trip down memory lane as we relive some of the hottest, juiciest, takes from the last season of guests! Jessica Winder, author of "The Hidden Gem Within," kicks things off discussing the issue of lack of growth opportunities and how HR teams can address this concern. She emphasizes the importance of data and people analytics in understanding and addressing employee needs. Next, Tori Lazar shares insights on the value of facing challenges head-on and the rewards that come with it. Adam Ryan, CEO of Workweek, shares his insights on the relationship between CEOs and Chief People Officers (CPOs). He emphasizes the importance of honesty and transparency in resolving tensions and ensuring HR stays connected to the pulse of the company. Steven and Daniel Huerta, hosts of the Modern People Leader podcast, share their insights and lessons learned from over 200 conversations with people leaders.  Finally, Erica Spitale closes the conversation, highlighting the role of HR in promoting growth and development within organizations. She challenges the traditional hierarchy and advocates for rebranding organizations as hubs for growth and development. 00:00:38 - Jessica Winder, one of the most honest voices in HR, highlighting why transparency for growth opportunities is so important 00:03:01 - Tori Lazar shares how to turn career stalemates and challenges into personal growth 00:06:57 - Adam Ryan breaks down the complicated relationship between CEOs and CPOs 00:09:55 - Stephen and Daniel Huerta discuss the unique challenges facing HR today, using insights from 200 HR leaders 00:12:22 - Erica Spitale joins me for one of my favorite segments—answering audience-submitted questions And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out  https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Jessica:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicadwinder/ Follow Tori:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tori-lazar/ Follow Adam:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamtryan/ Follow Stephen: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenhuerta/   Follow Daniel:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-huerta-mpl/ Follow Erica:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erica-j-spitale-psyd/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

We all know TJ Lavin hates quitters. But real life isn’t “The Challenge.” And sometimes, quitting is the only option when you’re burnt-out, stressed out, unacknowledged, and at your wit’s end. So what leads employees to quit? More importantly, what’s the one thing a company could do to cause someone to hand in their two weeks notice without pause? This past season, I’ve asked each of my guests one simple question to find the root cause of employee dissatisfaction— “What would cause you to quit?” And in this episode, we’re taking a look at the best answers my all-star roster of HR experts had to give. From being unacknowledged to feeling like you’re stuck at a dead-end job, you don’t want to miss out on these red-flag warning signs.   And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out  https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

Want to know what’s at the heart of every successful organization? Connection, gifting, recognition, and appreciation! All four of these are so core to making somebody feel seen and heard at work. So in today’s episode, we're discussing connection-building because let's face it, loneliness is hitting hard and it's an epidemic that is creeping into our workplaces.  Join me and Ross Langley from Snappy as we unpack innovative and personalized ways to foster connections with anybody in the office.  We’re diving deep into creating meaningful experiences, leveraging personalization in gifts, and ensuring everyone in your organization feels truly seen and appreciated. Are you ready to unlock the full potential of your workforce? PI empowers organizations to align talent with business strategy, helping you drive results and build a culture where your people truly thrive. Transform how you hire, engage, and lead—visit predictiveindex.com to learn how you can create meaningful change in your organization today! 00:01:35 - What Topic Has Been Interesting to Ross Lately? 00:05:07 - How We Define Meaningful Connections at Work and Why It Matters 00:08:17 - The Biggest Challenges Orgs Face Trying to Build Authentic Connections 00:13:41 - How Unique Gifts Build Genuine Relationships at Work 00:21:59 - Leveraging Personalization to Create Emotional Impacts 00:25:35 - The Impact of Experiential Vs Physical Gifts 00:30:37 - Creative Ways for HR to Integrate Gifting Into Engagement Programs 00:37:07 - Potential Pitfalls With Using Gifts to Build Connections 00:41:14 - Advice for HR Leaders Incorporating Gifting Into Their Connection-building Efforts And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Ross: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-ross-langley/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

Ever feel like recruiting is just herding cats—or maybe gremlins?  And job searching? Let's call it what it is these days: a special kind of torture. In this episode, I’ve rounded up some previous guests and we’re tackling the dual headache of being a recruiter and a job seeker in today’s chaotic market! With 2025 shaping up as the “Year of the Personal Brand,” we’re dishing out the tea on trust, relationships, and why recruiters who don’t build a foundation are always playing defense. Now, Working Not Working is helping to keep that talent with NTRNL— the new platform that unlocks employee passions and ignites productivity. So you can see your people as they see themselves: as humans, not headcount. Visit seeyourpeople.com to learn more or book a demo. 00:02:22 - Shannon’s Biggest Piece of Advice for Recruiters 00:04:41 - What Job Seekers Should Consider in This Market 00:09:32 - Rhona’s Biggest Piece of Advice for Recruiters 00:11:42 - Tips for Job Seekers of Today 00:15:21 - Brandon’s Biggest Piece of Advice for Recruiters 00:17:34 - Brandon’s One Tip for Job Seekers 00:21:15 - Sean’s Biggest Piece of Advice for Recruiters 00:22:24 - Sean’s One Tip for Job Seekers 00:26:53 - Can you Beat the ATS? 00:34:58 - What is the Best ATS System to Use? And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Shannon: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonogborn/ Follow Rhona: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/ Follow Brandon: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandohires/ Follow Sean LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-page-capm/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

When was the last time you felt truly creative at work? If your answer is "uh… never," then this episode is for you! Today, we’re shaking up everything you thought you knew about HR.  We talk about how HR can move into the future by embracing creativity, joy, and collaboration.  My guest, Justin Gignac, is the ultimate collaborator and brainstorming guru, and we dive deep into how we can stop recreating the same old things in HR and start thinking outside the box.  We tackle why HR is often too self-conscious and fearful to take risks, and how bringing joy and bold ideas into the mix can transform how we connect with people and create better workplaces. For more than a decade, the world’s most innovative brands and companies have trusted Working Not Working to help them discover and hire top-tier Creative talent.  Now, Working Not Working is helping to keep that talent with NTRNL— the new platform that unlocks employee passions and ignites productivity. So you can see your people as they see themselves: as humans, not headcount. Visit seeyourpeople.com to learn more or book a demo. 00:02:19 - Something That HR Folks Should Rethink 00:05:48 - Justin’s Zone of Genius Explained: Brainstorming and Collaborating 00:08:27 - How Did Justin Discover His Zone of Genius? 00:12:43 - How to Create an Optimal Environment for Effective Collaboration 00:18:27 - Why People Are Afraid to be Themselves at Work 00:23:12 - Approaching Collaboration in Remote and Hybrid Settings 00:31:56 - Ensuring That Everybody’s Voice is Heard in a Collaboration 00:34:43 - Common Barriers That Happen During Brainstorming 00:37:49 - Determining Which Ideas to Pursue or Abandon And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Justin: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justingignac/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

If HR should be anything it’s these two things: creative and curious. This week’s guest is as delicious as the bagels her company makes (and that’s saying something).  Nikki Rappaport, Chief People Officer at Call Your Mother—aka my go-to for stress-eating bagels—is here to share her creativity and wisdom! With a decade of experience in creative marketing and employee experience design, Nikki shares how curiosity and creativity drive exceptional HR practices.  From storytelling to culture-building, we’re exploring how HR can learn from marketing to build trust, align teams with company values, and create meaningful employee experiences. Also, yes, we talk a little bit about bagels. Obviously. Now, Working Not Working is helping to keep that talent with NTRNL— the new platform that unlocks employee passions and ignites productivity. So you can see your people as they see themselves: as humans, not headcount. Visit seeyourpeople.com to learn more or book a demo. 00:03:50 - One Thing People in HR Should Rethink 00:04:53 - How Nikki Found Her Zone of Genius 00:07:20 - How Creativity Translates into Exceptional Employee Experiences 00:10:50 - The Overlap Between Marketing and HR 00:15:38 - The Connection Between Marketing and a Strong Workplace Culture 00:18:53 - How HR Can Utilize Storytelling to Strengthen Culture and Branding 00:24:53 - How to Align Employees With Company Missions and Values 00:36:30 - Lessons From Customer Experience Design That HR Should Learn And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba’s newsletter! It’s for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content! Follow Nikki: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkirap/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef