Happier At Work

Are you hesitant to showcase your accomplishments? Join the conversation as we delve into the intricate world of self-promotion, with a particular focus on the challenges faced by women. Nicola sheds light on the biases and barriers that often undermine women's confidence in highlighting their achievements. Aoife and Nicola share personal experiences and discuss the societal expectations and cultural norms that contribute to this phenomenon.Furthermore, Aoife and Nicola offer practical strategies to empower women to overcome these obstacles and thrive professionally. They emphasise the importance of leveraging platforms like LinkedIn to amplify one's voice and build a strong personal brand. By embracing self-promotion and owning their successes, women can break through the glass ceiling and pave the way for gender equality in the workplace.This discussion serves as a call to action, urging individuals to recognize the significance of self-promotion not only for personal growth but also for achieving a more i

In this week’s Happier at Work podcast episode, Aoife O'Brien chats with Fania Stoney, Business Development Strategist with Great Place to Work. They explore a range of topics relating to the future of work: the challenges faced by entry-level employees in remote work settings, including the lack of cues and guidance needed to navigate the workplace effectively, the growing concern of isolation and the need for organisations to bring people together and create opportunities for collaboration. The main points throughout this podcast include: ● Job crafting: how to create a career you love● The importance of listening to your employees● The future of work is now and how to get remote/ hybrid right● Employer branding and the importance of stories● How to help women succeed at work● Menopause at work and the introduction of the Menopause Friendly Workplace Award“Any organisation can create a great culture. I truly believe that and sometimes it's about making what you're already doi

Are you ready to seize control of your path to success? In this empowering podcast episode, Simon Alexander Ong shares valuable insights on the importance of directing your attention towards what you can control and taking small steps forward. Discover how embracing a bias towards action, even without waiting for confidence or motivation, can cultivate the momentum and confidence you need to thrive. By making intentional choices and aligning your behaviours with your desired identity, you can overcome overthinking, eliminate self-sabotage, and propel yourself towards exponential growth.Simon emphasises the significance of creating a supportive and appreciative work environment where you can authentically express yourself and find joy in your endeavours. Learn how making conscious choices and understanding the power of choice can transform your work experience and lead to a happier, more fulfilling professional journey. Take that first courageous step towards the life you envision and unlock the keys to succes

Can entrepreneurship truly lead to freedom, success, and overcoming challenges? In this podcast episode, Aoife addresses the topic of entrepreneurship and shares her own journey as an entrepreneur. She highlights the reasons why many people consider starting their own businesses, such as the desire for freedom, flexibility, and the challenges of reaching the top in traditional corporate hierarchies. The host emphasizes the importance of finding a compelling "why" behind entrepreneurship and caring deeply about the opportunity.The podcast also explores the realities of being an entrepreneur, including the need to market and sell oneself, the challenges of securing clients and dealing with rejection, and the importance of setting clear boundaries and managing work-life balance. The issue of money and pricing is discussed, with the recognition that determining pricing can be challenging and that steady income is not guaranteed. The podcast concludes by encouraging listeners to consider key considerations and fa

How can organizations foster a culture of compassionate accountability? In a captivating conversation with Nate Regier, the CEO and founding owner of Next Element Consulting, the concept of compassionate accountability is explored. Nate emphasizes the significance of finding and retaining exceptional talent within organizations. He suggests that recruitment should focus not only on resumes but also on identifying individuals who possess a compassionate mindset. Moreover, he highlights the importance of fostering a quality culture and effective leadership to ensure employee satisfaction and retention. Nate delves into the idea of compassionate accountability, emphasizing the need for organizations to treat employees as valuable, capable, and responsible. He discusses the development of leadership competencies that align with what top performers desire, emphasizing the importance of values, capabilities, and responsibility. Nate also highlights the need for compassion and accountability beyond organizational bo

How can organizations effectively communicate their strategies to ensure that employees not only receive the information but also understand it, take action, and feel inspired to contribute towards achieving the organisation's goals? In this enlightening podcast episode, Joanna Parsons is a multi-award-winning internal communications leader, discusses the importance of effective communication strategies in the workplace. Academically trained as a sociologist, Joanna brings her expertise in human behaviour and research into the world of internal communications and she delves into the significance of understanding a company's business goals and objectives when developing a communication strategy and emphasizes the need to align communication efforts with broader business objectives, such as increasing market share, driving sales, and enhancing customer satisfaction. The main points throughout this podcast include: - Build a communication strategy aligned with business objectives. - Effective communication g

Are you looking to reduce the amount of time you spend at work while maintaining productivity? In this episode, Aoife discusses work-time reduction strategies that enhance productivity and promote work-life balance with her guest Joe O’Connor, the director and co-founder of the Work Time Reduction, Center of Excellence, in Toronto Canada. They explore the concept of Parkinson's Law and the importance of optimizing time as a limited resource. Discover the significance of building a culture of trust and involving employees in decision-making processes. Learn about job redesign, technology automation, and reevaluating the necessity of meetings. Understand the crucial role of leaders in monitoring progress, setting clear expectations, and managing distractions. Delve into the benefits of AI and alternative billing structures. Discover how work-time reduction fosters sustainability, prevents burnout, and improves overall well-being. Join us for a transformative discussion on optimizing productivity and achieving a

Have you ever experienced the mismatch between what senior leaders think about employee well-being and what employees actually feel? On this latest solo episode of Happier at Work, Aoife discusses the importance of well-being at work and how to better influence senior leadership, with data to back it up. Get ready to learn how to create a happier workplace with Aoife's valuable framework and discover what it takes to ensure your team is adequately staffed and set clear boundaries between work and home life. Plus, learn the key to providing regular feedback and recognition within the workplace. Further points throughout include: - Well-being at work: why it matters and the implications of ill-being at work- The role of well-being in talent recruitment and retention- The cost of disengaged and underperforming employees - Addressing wellness obstacles: The C-Suite mismatch of well-being in the workplace - Are you optimising your organisational data? - An insight into the Happier at Work framework - Workplace au

As managers, it's our job to create an environment that fosters a sense of belonging, motivation, and development among our team. But with the ever-changing workplace, how can we ensure we always have productive, meaningful conversations with our employees?Anna Rasmussen, CEO and founder of OpenBlend, shares her expertise in creating a positive work environment by having structured conversations around well-being, motivation, development, feedback, and performance. Anna emphasises the importance of a sense of belonging at work, where employees feel aligned with company culture, part of a team, and valued as individuals. Anna also provides practical advice on how managers can create clarity and transparency for their employees to understand their contribution to the bigger picture, providing feedback on their performance to foster growth and development. Further key points throughout include: - An introduction to Anna Rasmussen and the OpenBlend framework- The importance of structured performance management c

Are businesses investing enough in their people? Happiness and well-being at work aren't a one-size-fits-all approach. It requires a systemic approach that puts people first and gives them the power to choose! Joining Aoife to explore how companies can create a happier workplace is Ally Fekaiki, the CEO of Juno, a global platform offering a complete well-being solution for employees. Ally delves into the importance of investing in employee well-being as a crucial focus for businesses worldwide. Ally also discusses the future of remote work and the importance of need satisfaction in creating a supportive and empowering work environment. So if you want to foster a positive workplace culture, this episode is a must-listen! Further key points throughout include: - An introduction to Ally Fekaiki - The system of well-being - The importance of putting yourself and your needs first - The role of need satisfaction in the workplace- Is delayed gratification impacting your work? - The challenge of becoming comfortabl

Is workplace toxicity holding you back? If so, prepare to learn how to thrive in the workplace by recognising and avoiding toxic work environments. Joining Aoife this week is special guest Siobhan Kelly, founder of Mosaic Consultancy and host of the Glass House Podcast. Siobhan shares her career journey and offers invaluable insights on navigating toxic work environments, the negative impact of societal busyness, and the crucial importance of taking responsibility for one's own role in shaping workplace culture. Further key points throughout include: - An introduction to Siobhan Kelly - Blurred lines: Can overworking be a coping mechanism?- Unravelling from a work-based identity and overcoming traumatic experiences in the workplace - The impact of the busyness badge of honour and operating in fear- How the COVID-19 pandemic has redistributed power in the workplace - The importance of switching off from work - Employee development: the importance of career mapping- The warning signs of bad management - What b

To mark the approach of National Well-Being Day (April 28), this solo episode dives into the world of workplace well-being. With a focus on collaboration between employees and organisations, Aoife serves up actionable steps and resources for improving overall well-being and delves into the impact of stress, feedback, and challenges on overall well-being. Aoife also highlights the importance of self-awareness and managing emotions. Further key points throughout include: - The Happier at Work framework - What does well-being at work means?- Building self-awareness and emotional maturity at work - How to ensure your needs are being satisfied in the workplace - Striking a balance between good and bad stress - Should companies be responsible for the well-being of employees?THE LISTENERS SAY:Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you! Resources: Aoife O'Brien's wellbeing at work 2023 survey link:

Have you ever wondered how leaders clear the path to success? Joining the podcast this week is special guest Aoife Donovan Lee, a leadership and development expert. Aoife shares insights on the importance of transformational leadership in the workplace and explores women's challenges when returning to the workplace. Drawing from her career journey, Aoife emphasises the power of networking and empathy in business and dives into the four pillars of transformational leadership, the Skill/Will Matrix, and prioritising mental health and well-being in the workplace. Further key points throughout include: - An introduction to Aoife Donovan Lee- Your network is your net worth: networking and building connections- The challenges women face reentering the workforce - The power of cultivating empathy in business- Leadership styles: Why leaders should set expectations from the get-go- The Skill/Will Matrix: How to deal with micromanagement - How to smoothly transition into a management role- The key to achieving through

To celebrate episode 150 of Happier at Work, friend and previous podcast guest Bhushan Sethi is here to catch up and share insightful commentary on the challenges and opportunities facing businesses and workers in this post-pandemic economy. From navigating hybrid work arrangements to supporting caregivers, Bhushan emphasises the need for progressive businesses to lead by example and embrace technology to build a more resilient and agile workforce. With a focus on inclusivity and human leadership skills, this podcast offers practical solutions for businesses and workers to thrive in the face of uncertainty. Further key points throughout include: - An introduction and catch-up with Bhushan Sethi- The role of technology during the Covid-19 Pandemic - Is the five-day office working week a thing of the past? - Is hybrid working here to stay?- Navigating through a new era of leadership- The challenge of talent onboarding - The future of work and ESG THE LISTENERS SAY:Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this d

Are you longing to find satisfaction in your work? Should feeling connected, engaged & fulfilled at work be such a struggle? Joining Aoife this week is special guest Kelly Mackin, a workplace well-being and culture leader and co-founder of Motives Met. Kelly discusses the importance of autonomy, purpose, well-being and connection in job satisfaction and offers a wonderful framework for leaders to have meaningful conversations with their employees. By embracing motive diversity and creating a psychologically safe workplace, listeners will discover how to identify and meet their needs and increase engagement, loyalty and retention within their organisations. Further key points throughout include: - An introduction to Kelly Mackin - Kelly's journey of ill-being at work- The non-BS approach to workplace well-being - The 28 primary human needs that create well-being at work- How leaders can create a thriving environment - Effective leadership: why tough conversations need to happen- The importance of prioriti

In our fast-paced world, success is often defined by external factors such as job titles, salaries, and material possessions. In this week's solo episode, your host Aoife O'Brien challenges this definition and encourages you to redefine success on your own terms. Whilst exploring the concept of success, Aoife questions whether it is a never-ending pursuit and discusses the importance of recognising the hard work that goes into achieving success and not falling into the trap of believing in overnight success. Further key points throughout include: - What does success mean to you?- Is the road to success a never-ending journey? - The importance of living in the present moment - The benefits of working in alignment with your values- The key to redefining success and the power of human connection THE LISTENERS SAY:Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you! "If you keep pursuing more and more an

Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed and stressed out at work? We know how tough that can be, and this week's guest Lesley Cooper is here to help you leap from burnout to bliss. Lesley is the proud owner of WorkingWell Limited, which helps businesses across the globe create engaged and energised cultures whilst supporting sustainable and healthy performance levels. Get ready to discover how employee well-being and performance are increasingly intertwined within the modern workplace. Lesley shares fascinating insights on creating a psychologically safe culture and emphasises the importance of addressing work-related stress, recognising internal narratives, and prioritising physical and emotional well-being. Further key points throughout include: - An introduction to Lesley Cooper- The red flags of workplace toxicity and creeping irritabilities - Minding your well-being: the pressure of busyness- Psychological safety: are you bringing your authentic self to work? - Stretch to Strain: Pressure VS Stress VS Gro

Do you ever feel like work is overwhelming, and you're unsure what to do next? Fear not, as Sanja Lacina, Organisational psychologist, and President of QuestionPro Workforce, is here to help! Learn about Sanja's journey from Serbia to success, the importance of identifying the best way to fit work into your life and filling your own cup first. Sanja shares the secret to working smarter, not harder and how to prioritise self-care and relationships and also reveals the magic that can happen when you create a supportive and inclusive environment for employees. So, if you are looking for an extra boost of motivation to help take your career or organisation to the next level, this episode is for you. Further key points include:- An introduction to Sanja Licina- Achieving personal and professional ambitions - Embracing humanity within the workplace - The key to authenticity and emotional support in business - Identifying your needs and speaking up at work- What is your definition of success? - Communication in the

Since the arrival of the unprecedented Covid-19 pandemic, there is no doubt that the way we work is swiftly changing. Is money the key to unlocking happiness? Joining Aoife this week is special guest Marisa Elizundia. Marisa is a people development coach and creator of the Emotional Salary Barometer.Through research-based insights, practical advice, and real-life examples, Marisa discusses taking personal responsibility for your work experience and reveals how you can become more empowered in your career. Get ready to unlock how you can become happier at work by maximising the non-financial benefits of your job. Further key points throughout include: - An introduction to Marisa Elizundia- Aside from money, why do people work?- An overview of the Emotional Salary Barometer tool- How leaders can impact your emotional salary - The knowing-doing gap: what is holding you back?- How empowered employees are influencing the future of work - Why taking responsibility for your experience at work matters - Are self-lim

With International Women's Day fast approaching, today's episode honours and celebrates women at work and empowering women in the workplace. In this solo special, tune in to hear valuable insights that have been shared from three female experts who are making waves in their industries, Paula Sheridan, Niamh Hannan and Carla Miller. Learn how to stop being overlooked and underappreciated, take radical responsibility for your career, strengthen your influence, and much more! Further key points throughout include: - Are you being underappreciated at work? - The gift of feedback: Why you should seek out feedback in the workplace- Recognising and celebrating your success - Supporting women in work and tackling a broken system in an organisation- Leadership traits and cultivating self-awareness- Choosing collaboration over competition - Get ready to put on your cloak of authority! - Your personal brand: What are people saying about you? THE LISTENERS SAY:Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If