Happier At Work: Leadership, Culture, Performance

‘’Doing good by people is also good business.’’ – Kevin Campbell.Are you looking to create a positive space for employees but don’t know where to begin? If so, this episode focused on data analytics and people experience is a must-listen! Joining Aoife on the show this week is special guest Kevin Campbell. Kevin is the founder of Lifted Leadership LLC and is an employee experience scientist at Qualtrics, where he helps people fall in love with their work. In this episode, Kevin dives into how you can boost your business with data analytics and enhance employee experiences to create a happier working environment for people to thrive in. Throughout, we learn about the multiplier effect, the outcome of putting people first and how data can help solve business problems and achieve business goals. Kevin also shares his effective ABC 123 approach to cultivating greater employee engagement. Further points discussed include:- An introduction to Kevin Campbell.- Identifying and closing gaps in the employee experience. - The impact of putting people first in business. - The rising issue of talent retention and competition in wages. - Learnings from employee engagement data. - Experience data VS operational data.- The stages of an employee journey.- Why a pulse check is a must for all businesses.- The U-shaped Road to recovery of employee disengagement. - The value of autonomy and belonging at work.- The Pygmalion effect in management. - Acting on employee experience data.- Kevin’s guide to getting started with people analytics. - What Happiness at Work means to Kevin. 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:Blog: The ABC’s of Employee Experience Action Planning and Six Roadblocks to Avoid:https://www.xminstitute.com/blog/taking-action-ex/ Connect with Kevin Campbell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevingeorgecampbell/ https://www.qualtrics.com/ https://www.liftedleadership.com/ Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: https://www.happieratwork.iehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrienhttps://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQhttps://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.iehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcastproduced in partnership with http://www.podlad.com

Welcome to this week’s solo episode of Happier at Work. This week in the midst of a rare thunderstorm in Dublin, Aoife answers a listener’s burning question regarding leaping into leadership. From having a boss who made decisions and called the shouts to now being in command – Aoife dives into the transition into leadership and offers valuable advice on how to lead effectively and strategically. So if you are making big moves in business, this episode is for you as Aoife discusses the importance of gaining clarity and asking questions in the workplace. We also learn how companies can be enhanced through the power of listening and observing. The main points covered in this episode include:- Preparation is vital: questions to ask as a business leader.- Understanding the business: do your core values and the organisational values align? - Resources for imposter syndrome. - The impact of collecting employee feedback. - Building and maintaining business relationships.- Setting a vision and team development plan. - Thinking out loud and effective decision making in business. 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:LISTEN BACK: Happier at Work episodesOvercoming imposter syndrome and igniting empowerment with Aoife O’Brien:https://happieratwork.ie/77-overcoming-imposter-syndrome-and-igniting-empowerment-with-aoife-obrien/ The values of business with Irial O’Farrell:https://happieratwork.ie/happier-at-work-74-the-values-of-business-with-irial-ofarrell/ Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: https://www.happieratwork.iehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrienhttps://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQhttps://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.iehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

In this week’s podcast, Aoife focuses on a topic very close to her heart - data and the impact of a data-driven workplace culture. Joining Aoife to explore this topic further is special guest Natalie Cramp. Natalie is the proud CEO of London-based data agency, Profusion, which specialises in helping businesses become more efficient, effective and profitable by embracing data science. In this episode, Natalie discusses the path to transforming organisations with data, how transparency is a confidence builder and how data is a key ingredient to creating happier work environments. Key points throughout the episode include:- An introduction to Natalie Cramp. - Decision-making processes in the workplace.- Employee performance management: Identifying your organisation’s top talent. - The starting point of organisational transformation.- Using data to drive your business strategy. - The power within aligning HR and Marketing teams.- Why it’s time to embrace data-driven decisions.- The importance of asking the right questions.- Employee retention: securing your top talent.- The benefits of checking in with your staff and listening to your employees. - Understanding your company data and business trends.- How data can support employee engagement during a hybrid and remote period.- Using data to track inclusion in the workplace.- Insights and success stories of data implementation.- What Happier at Work means to Natalie.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! Connect with Natalie Cramp:https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliescramp https://profusion.com/ Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: https://www.happieratwork.iehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrienhttps://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQhttps://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.iehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

Welcome to Happier at Work’s brand-new solo series, where Aoife will be shaking things up a little as she focuses on the widespread issue of unhappiness at work. At some point throughout your professional career, you may have encountered challenges and hardships at work dealing with a tricky manager, which can drive a great sense of job dissatisfaction. In this week’s episode, Aoife hone’s in on one of the root causes of feeling unhappy at work: having a bad boss. Aoife highlights poor managerial attributes, shares valuable tips on handling a bad boss and discusses her personal experiences and learnings of dealing with weak bosses and empowering leaders. To ensure you always feel happier at work, Aoife also advises how you can avoid terrible bosses in the future. The main points covered in this episode include:- No one wants to be micro-managed.- The impact of employee comparison. - Dealing with broken promises at work. - The key to understanding your boss. - Knowing when to leave your job. - A distant boss: Is this a sign of weak management? - Developing a curious mindset. - Employment issues: the benefits of creating a paper trail.- Bring solutions to your boss, not problems. - How to communicate with a difficult boss. - Setting work boundaries and prioritising your workload.- How to avoid terrible bosses in the future. - An empowering boss with a coaching approach. 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:Listen back: Good Boss Bad Boss: EP 8 with Aoife O’Brien https://www.stephennaughton.com/good-boss-bad-boss-podcast/2019/9/16/good-boss-bad-boss-podcast-episode-8-aoife-obrien Why delivering effective and constructive feedback is so vital with Aoife O’Brienhttps://happieratwork.ie/85-why-delivering-effective-and-constructive-feedback-at-work-is-so-vital-with-aoife-obrien/ Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: https://www.happieratwork.iehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrienhttps://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQhttps://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.iehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

“Doubt keeps us humble and curious. If you didn’t experience this healthy and normal emotion of doubt, it means that you wouldn’t care about your audience. It means you wouldn’t care about doing good work.” – Kelli Thompson. Joining Aoife on the podcast this week is special guest Kelli Thompson. Kelli is an inspirational women’s leadership coach, speaker and author who made the brave leap of leaving a secure job with Corporate America to start her own practice to help empower women across the globe. Kelli’s mission is to help women create a career they love and advance and make an impact in the rooms where decisions are made. In this jam-packed episode, Kelli shares how to ignite your confidence and create a career you love. We learn about workplace issues faced by women, how imposter syndrome is self-sabotage and why we need to normalise feelings of doubt and trust our bodies. Kelli also asks how you would like to be described when you’re not in the room? Key points throughout the episode include:- An introduction to Kelli Thompson. - Overcoming the confidence gap. - Systemic inequalities and likability bias in the workplace. - Reframing flaws into gifts. - The importance of setting boundaries. - Workplace wellbeing and the unpaid workload of women. - Trusting your body and listening to your gut. - Imposter syndrome and the impact of expensive thoughts. - Stretching your comfort zone and creating emotional resilience. - How data can reveal reasons for change. - What Happier at Work means to Kelli.“As a woman leader, trusting your gut is going to be your competitive advantage at work if we really want to redefine workplaces and lead in a whole new way in a way that feels right for you.” – Kelli Thompson. COMING SOON! Kelli’s book Closing the Confidence Gap lands on November 1, 2022. For early access opportunities, join the waitlist at https://www.kelliraethompson.com/ 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:Listen back: Karin Tischler on Flexible Working for Gender Equalityhttps://happieratwork.ie/happier-at-work-46-karin-tischler-on-flexible-working-for-gender-equality/ Connect with Kelli Thompson:https://www.kelliraethompson.com/ https://www.kelliraethompson.com/book https://www.instagram.com/kelliraethompson/?hl=en https://www.linkedin.com/today/author/kelliraethompson/ Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: https://www.happieratwork.iehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrienhttps://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQhttps://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.iehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

This week, Aoife is serving up a challenging and thought-provoking solo episode focused on talent management, inspired by a college lecture-discussion she took part in a couple of years ago. In this episode, Aoife explores organisational performance and the measurements of talent in the workplace, unlocking our fullest potential and excelling in our career, and probes the question; is everyone good at something? The main points covered include: - The bell curve: measuring employee performance.- Favourable treatment and equality at work. - Unlocking your key strengths and finding your career purpose.- The importance of giving people the chance to excel. - The damages a lack of employee recognition can cause. - The concept of the Peter principle. - Bluffing your way in business. - How to identify your strengths and potential. - Managing high performers and underperformers. 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:Listen back: Aoife O’Brien live on Newstalk discussing Imposter Syndrome. https://www.newstalk.com/podcasts//imposter-syndrome-in-the-workplace Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: https://www.happieratwork.iehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrienhttps://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQhttps://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.iehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

Did you know there is a parallel link between human psychology and animal behaviour? Here to break it down for us is this week's special guest Beth Anstandig who will be discussing the animal within and awakening our natural leadership. Beth is a licensed psychotherapist, lifelong cowgirl and author with over 25 years of experience working with human herds offering leadership, corporate culture and well-being programs through The Circle Up Experience. Get ready for a truly fascinating discussion as Beth unleashes our mammal instincts, explains the heart of psychological safety, explores supportive leadership and how to embrace collaboration in a remote world and much more. Key points throughout the discussion include: - An introduction to Beth Anstandig.- Transforming a team into a community. - Activating autopilot and ignoring our body's needs.- Is psychological needs the same as physical needs?- Overcoming conflict at work. - The culture of you and how to avoid wasted energy. - Questioning your purpose and the self-care crisis. - How to prevent group communication gaps. - Unlocking the power of self-awareness.- The impact of lack of workplace humanity and connection.- An introduction to the thought partnership: how to ignite collaboration. - The dangers of assumptions in the workplace. - Removing the shame from role modelling and teaching in the workplace. - Leadership: how can we lead ourselves effectively? - What Happier at Work means to Beth.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:The Human Herd: Awakening Our Natural Leadership by Beth Anstandighttps://www.thecircleupexperience.com/thehumanherdbook/ Connect with Beth Anstandig:https://www.thecircleupexperience.com/ https://www.facebook.com/thecircleupexperience/https://www.instagram.com/thecircleupexperience/https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethanstandig992861132/%C2%A0Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O'Brien: https://www.happieratwork.iehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrienhttps://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQhttps://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.iehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

This week’s solo episode focuses on the rising concept of toxic productivity and the busyness badge of honour. We can all strive to be productive, but do we recognise the detrimental impact of busyness on our mental health and bodies, and is it a badge of honour worth wearing? In this episode, Aoife discusses the link between busyness and success, the need for setting personal boundaries and the importance of self-reviewing to reflect and identify where time is being spent in order to create a more manageable workload. The main points covered in the discussion include:- The impact of toxic productivity and the busyness badge of honour.- The link between busyness and success. - Time management and self-evaluation: where is your time being spent?- Conducting business meetings: are they necessary? - Are you doing the right work?- The importance of setting self boundaries and goals. - Reactive VS proactive behaviour. - The blurred line between work and home. - The danger of unclear work objectives.- Managing perfectionism and imposter syndrome. - Is your overwhelming workload a form of escapism?- Getting a handle on your work routine. - The rise of stress and work burnout. 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! Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: https://www.happieratwork.iehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrienhttps://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQhttps://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.iehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcastResources: Recent Irish Times feature with Aoife O’Brien: https://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/health-family/toxic-productivity-has-become-a-hazard-to-our-health-1.4852917Happier at Work playback episodes: https://happieratwork.ie/82-creating-a-better-workday-with-niamh-brady/https://happieratwork.ie/happier-at-work-81-setting-boundaries-at-work-with-aoife-obrien/

‘’We're fighting in this war of talent. Google are coming in and knocking on the door of our people, Microsoft and Amazon too. We're losing our people to huge organisations and I don't have the weapons to keep them but I do have one great weapon, which is belonging.’’ – Stephanie Brady. Welcome back to Happier at Work. This week, Aoife is delighted to be joined by HR expert and enthusiast Stephanie Brady. Stephanie is an experienced HR leader with seven years of experience steering the HR agenda in Retail inMotion (IT/ Retail/ Aviation). But that’s not all; Stephanie also runs StephBe – a safe haven where she shares her passion and ideas, and helps people transform their lives and businesses through her coaching services. For Stephanie, when it comes to self-development and tapping into self-potential – the sky’s the limit! In this episode, Aoife and Stephanie discuss belonging: the secret weapon of business, how Covid-19 shook the travel industry overnight, Stephanie’s fertitlity journey, supportive work environments and so much more. The main points throughout include: - An introduction to Stephanie Brady.- Breaking into a new industry. - The concept of belonging in the workplace. - War for talent and employee retention. - Supportive and family-like organisations. - How to maintain company culture in a hybrid/remote working world.- Dealing with imposter syndrome and the sense of not belonging at work.- Allowing time to adapt and settle into a new working environment. - Importance of aligning personal core values and work values. - Handling hardship and challenges at work. - Stephanie’s personal fertility treatment journey.- The power of kindness at work. - The benefit of setting clear expectations and having honest conversations. - What Happier at Work means to Stephanie.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! Connect with Stephanie Brady:http://stephbe.ie/https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-brady-7b852022/https://www.instagram.com/stephbe.ie Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: https://www.happieratwork.iehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrienhttps://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQhttps://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.iehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

‘’People will leave managers rather than leaving organisations because the managers are the touchpoint for individuals within the organisation, especially now with most people working remotely or in a hybrid situation.’’ – Aoife O’Brien. Welcome back to Happier at Work! This week’s solo episode is inspired by a statistic that Aoife recently came across on LinkedIn, stating that only 28% of organisations have any leadership development programs in place. With the revelation of this shockingly low statistic, Aoife is dedicating this episode to discussing why investment in leadership development is vital and shares thoughts and actions on what companies should be doing to enhance their leadership training to encourage the organisation’s performance. Throughout the discussion, Aoife shares personal experiences throughout her professional journey of receiving development investment at the perfect timing, working with undertrained and inexperienced managers, and receiving delayed managerial training. The main points covered include:- Why employee development should not be overlooked. - The negative impacts of a bad manager. - Striking the right time for career development training. - Understanding your role and setting clear expectations for employees. - How to deliver effective feedback.- Introducing accountability and responsibility at work. - How organisations can support managers.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! Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: https://www.happieratwork.iehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrienhttps://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQhttps://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.iehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

‘I always say if you don't have a plan yourself, you will become part of somebody else's.’’ – Katrin Sturm. Welcome back to Happier at Work. This week, Aoife is delighted to welcome German-born, Dublin based renowned personal growth mentor, CEO and founder of Scale & Shine, Katrin Sturm. Katrin is passionate and devoted to empowering female leaders to reach new career heights in male-dominated industries and helps organisations close the gender gap through the incredible work of her business. So many avenues get explored in this jam-packed session with many golden nuggets peppered throughout. Aoife and Katrin discuss how the time to scale & shine is now, unconscious bias, gender stereotype language in the workplace, your own definition of success, and so much more. The main points throughout include: - An introduction to Katrin Sturm.- Transitioning into a managerial role. - The link between career progression and loneliness. - Supporting women in business and bridging the gap of workplace gender bias. - The power of mindset and the impact of imposter syndrome on businesswomen. - Understanding what drives and motivates employees. - Do women need additional or different support to men? - The importance of self-reflection and identifying your definition of success.- Understanding and aligning your value systems. - Relocating for work: would you consider it? - Katrin’s advice for achieving professional growth. - The benefits of business coaching and mentoring. - Unlocking self-appreciation: why we must be kinder to ourselves and acknowledge our wins.- Don’t hold back asking for what you want at work. - What Happier at Work means to Katrin.Listen out as Katrin also reveals exciting details of Scale & Shine’s forthcoming Leadership Circle programme, a 6-month mastermind and accountability programme to help you become the best possible leader in a male-dominated industry. ‘’You should not compare yourself with others. The only person you should compare yourself with is the one you were yesterday.’’ – Katrin Sturm.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! Connect with Katrin Sturm:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrinsturm https://www.scaleandshine.io/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/scaleandshine/ https://www.instagram.com/scaleandshine/ Join the Leadership Circle – a virtual 6-month mastermind & accountability programme: https://www.scaleandshine.io/leadership-circle Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: https://www.happieratwork.iehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrienhttps://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQhttps://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.iehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcastResources: Listen back: Happier at Work EP 77 – Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and igniting empowermenthttps://happieratwork.ie/overcoming-imposter-syndrome-igniting-empowerment

Welcome back to Happier at Work! To celebrate the recent milestone of reaching 100 episodes, Aoife has put together a selection of unique episodes. For today’s solo special, Aoife opened the floor to the listeners for any questions or topics of interest that they wished to get covered. Today’s episode will be focused on maintaining employee satisfaction during the great reshuffle as a brilliant question came in from an anonymous listener wondering how to manage an ambitious team when there are limited opportunities for career progression during these challenging times of change. Aoife will discuss the key to motivating employees and sustaining employee engagement, the power of open communication in the workplace and will share prevention techniques for employee turnover so you can retain your top talent. Key points covered include: - Work progression: are you ready to move into management? - The importance of understanding employee motivation. - Introducing opportunities for lateral moves in the workplace.- Effectively increasing responsibility at work. - Allowing time to assess career moves. - Are your employee’s satisfaction needs being met? - The value of open communication within your team.- How to encourage employee autonomy at work. THE LISTENERS SAY:Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion, or have a burning question that you would love to ask? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: https://www.happieratwork.iehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrienhttps://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQhttps://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.iehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

"I've actually never come across an organisation that doesn't value and doesn't require the skill of problem-solving." – Irial O'Farrell. Returning to the podcast this week is special guest Irial O'Farrell. Last July, Irial joined Aoife on the podcast to discuss The Values of Business. If you missed that in-depth discussion, fear not, as you can listen back here. This week, Irial returns to discuss the topic of the manager's dilemma to celebrate the release of her third and latest book. Throughout the episode, Irial explores the managerial mindset and differentiates between a manager VS an expert. Irial also uncovers problem-solving techniques and why we should focus on performance development rather than performance management. Listeners will also learn valuable tips on how to work smarter! Key points throughout the discussion include:- The concept of the manager's dilemma. - The difference between managers -VS- experts. - How role dimensions can enhance clarity in the workplace. - The benefits of mapping management processes.- What is leading to the great resignation? - Managing complexity in the workplace.- Imposter syndrome: feeling out of depth at work. - Why performance development is vital for business success. - Onboarding junior staff and connecting employees with the organisation. - How effective time management can vastly improve your work routine. - The rules of escalation at work. - A sample of questions every manager should be asking. - What happiness at work means for Irial. Connect with Irial O'Farrell:http://www.evolutionconsulting.ie/http://www.linkedin.com/in/irialofarrell/http://www.facebook.com/irialofarrellbookshttp://www.instagram.com/irialofarrellbooks/ http://www.twitter.com/evolution_aryIrial O'Farrell's books: https://www.evolutionconsulting.ie/product/the-managers-dilemma/ Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O'Brien: http://www.happieratwork.iehttp://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrienhttp://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQhttp://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.iehttp://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

"Corporate culture matters. How management chooses to treat its people impacts everything for better or for worse." – Simon Sinek. Welcome back to Happier at Work! Did you know that today marks Workplace Wellbeing Day? To celebrate, Aoife will be dedicating this solo episode to releasing the top-line results from a survey she carried out last year amidst the global pandemic focusing on well-being at work. If you wish to gain access to the full survey findings, don't hesitate to get in touch with Aoife directly via her website - https://happieratwork.ie/contactIn today's episode, Aoife will discuss why it's time to prioritise well-being at work, the business impacts of Covid-19 and unpacks the challenges the pandemic brought to the surface for businesses and remote workers across the globe. Aoife kicks off the discussion by revealing startling statistics on mental health in the workplace and explores employee concerns about the future of work. Key points throughout include: - Workplace challenges during COVID-19. - The struggles with working remotely: social isolation, communication and workplace boundaries.- Unlocking work-life harmony. - The rise of job insecurity. - Striving for career fulfilment. - A loss of productivity at work. - The struggle of maintaining company culture in a remote world. - The transition of returning to work. - The key to employee retention. - Concerns with career advancement. 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! Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O'Brien: https://www.happieratwork.iehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrienhttps://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQhttps://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.iehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

‘’You can never please everybody, but you can listen to everybody. And you can say, I hear you, and this is what we can do.’’ – Sarah Courtney. Welcome back to Happier at Work, you asked for it, and Aoife listened! Listeners have requested today’s topic of re-entering the working world, which Aoife has been excited to cover for some time now. This jam-packed episode features special guest Sarah Courtney from Sarah Courtney Coaching. Sarah is a mum first, a coach second and a champion of supporting parents who wish to work in an inclusive, family-friendly workforce. Much ground gets covered within this episode as Sarah and Aoife discuss returning to work after a leave of absence and unpack how businesses can support their staff through times of massive transition, not just for mothers and fathers but for anyone who has taken a substantial career break. The main points throughout the episode include: - An introduction to Sarah Courtney. - Transitioning back into the workplace. - Feeding the gender pay gap issues.- The importance of senior role models in an organisation. - Making choices: professional identity -VS- personal identity. - Why living policies at work are essential. - How any size business can create a family-friendly workplace culture.- Tackling difficult conversations and managing conflict at work. - How to identify and meet your needs.- The benefits of open communication at work. - The art of leading and listening: how to make your employees feel heard. - The reality of positive returns to work. - How transitioning into parenthood welcomes new skills and growth. - Breaking the narrative of mommy guilt. - What makes Sarah happier at work.‘’Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.’’ – Maya Angelou. 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! Connect with Sarah Courtney:https://sarahcourtneycoaching.ie/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-courtney https://www.instagram.com/sarahcourtneycoaching/ Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: https://www.happieratwork.iehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrienhttps://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQhttps://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.iehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcastResources: Book: Shorter: Work Better, Smarter and Less by Alex Soojung-Kim Panghttps://www.amazon.com/Shorter-Work-Better-Smarter Listen back: Happier at Work episode with Bettina Arnafjall: https://happieratwork.ie/10-bettina-arnafjall-from-womens-career-lift/ Book: Invisible Women by Caroline Criado Perez https://carolinecriadoperez.com/book/invisible-women/DCU research:https://pubsonline.informs.org/doi/abs/10.1287/orsc.2021.1508 https://hbr.org/2018/09/how-companies-can-ensure-maternity-leave-doesnt-hurt-womens-careers

This week's episode comes with a twist as the podcast interviewer becomes the interviewee to celebrate the milestone of reaching 100 episodes. Stepping in to host this unique episode is Irish born, Sydney based guest Cathal Quinlan. Cathal holds over 20 years of experience working in corporate and has recently become the proud owner of Better@Work – helping people transform their working experiences and boosting performance personally and within others. This week, listeners will get to absorb so much more about the founder of Happier at Work as we dive into Aoife's personal and professional journey, learn about the evolution of her purpose and find out what the future looks like for the business. Listeners, get ready to embark on the squiggly road trip to Happier at Work. Whilst on the hot seat, Aoife will explore many topics that haven't been discussed before and reveals a fascinating opportunity. The main points throughout the episode include:- Stepping into employment after college. - Working abroad: making big moves for an international career. - Coping with feeling overloaded with work.- Dealing with empty promises and a lack of recognition at work.- The importance of confidence in the workplace. - Returning to work after a career break. - Falling in and out of love with your job. - Choosing a career and igniting your strengths. - Feeling unhappy at work and stepping into the unknown. - The damaging effects of micromanagement and value conflict at work. - Business attitudes: understanding the profile of an organisation. - How to enhance retention to avoid the great resignation. - When is Aoife happiest at work? - Podcast learnings and the power of gratitude. - The ongoing journey of Happier at Work and what is next for Aoife O'Brien. 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! Connect with Cathal Quinlan:https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathal-quinlanConnect with Happier at Work host Aoife O'Brien: https://www.happieratwork.iehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrienhttps://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQhttps://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.iehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcastResources: The Squiggly Career by Helen Tupper and Sarah Ellis.https://www.amazingif.com/ The No Asshole Rule by Robert I. Sutton PhDhttps://www.amazon.com/Asshole-Rule

Welcome to the 100th episode of Happier at Work! This week's episode is a highlight special dedicated to the array of wonderful past guests who have featured on the show since the podcast made its debut back in September 2019. To celebrate such an incredible milestone, your host Aoife O'Brien revisits a selection of episodes where we hear openly and honestly from inspiring HR and business leaders about what drives their happiness at work. Even though we hear from 15 unique individuals, no answers are the same as they range from the simple acts of welcoming music into your day, allowing for continued learning and much more. However, you will start to sense a common theme throughout and soon realise the recipe's key ingredient for truly being happier at work. So, get ready to stroll down memory lane as we revisit discussions with some of our favourite industry game-changers. Special guests in order of appearance are as follows: Episode 7 - Andrew BarnesEpisode 11 - Louise GossEpisode 14 – Emiliana SimonEpisode 22 - Fiona EnglishEpisode 24 - Tim KiddEpisode 26 - Timen BaartEpisode 35 - Mike VacantiEpisode 49 - Aoife MollinEpisode 50 - Bhushan SethiEpisode 57 - Aaron BurnettEpisode 61 - Lucinda CarneyEpisode 70 - Jennifer DowlingEpisode 62 - Paul WalkerEpisode 82 - Niamh Brady Episode 84 - Stefan TonnonTHE LISTENERS SAY:Have you thought about what makes you happier at work? 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! Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O'Brien: https://www.happieratwork.iehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrienhttps://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQhttps://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.iehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcastTo access the entire catalogue of Happier at Work episodes, visit: https://happieratwork.ie/happier-at-work-podcast/

“We spend so much of our time at work, when we’re not happy at work, that filters into other aspects of our lives.” – Aoife O’Brien. Welcome back to Happier at Work! To mark the 99th episode of the show, host Aoife O’Brien dedicates this solo discussion to the heartbeat and purpose of the podcast, finding happiness at work. Would you agree that people are the number one asset in any business!? Aoife’s mission is to help organisations identify the power of putting people first to create a happier working environment. Did you know that a happier environment enhances workplace productivity, performance and helps attract and retain top talent? In this episode, Aoife explores the benefits of establishing a healthy work-life balance from an individual and organisational perspective. Aoife also takes us on her journey of establishing happiness at work, sharing her personal experience of losing a sense of autonomy at work and revealing when she feels most fulfilled. Key points throughout the episode include: - Why is job satisfaction so important? - The stats don’t lie: the benefits of a positive work culture. - How being unhappy at work impacts our lives.- How to conduct a happiness audit for your workplace. - The key to being proactive when improving working environments. - Dealing with a workplace conflict of values. - The harm of micromanagement in business.- Identifying gaps: how to ignite your strengths at work. - The art of knowledge sharing.- When does Aoife feel happiest at work? - The downfalls of disengaged 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! Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: https://www.happieratwork.iehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrienhttps://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQhttps://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.iehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcastResources: Listen back: Finding Your Purpose at Work with Aoife O’Brien. https://happieratwork.ie/97-finding-your-purpose-at-work-with-aoife-obrien/ Book: The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achor.https://www.shawnachor.com/books/happiness-advantage/

“It’s very easy to say we’re offering flexible working but actually what are you changing within how you run your business, how you engage with your staff, how you manage your staff, how you promote your staff, all of those things have to be factored in.” – Niamh O’Brien. Welcome back to Happier at Work! This podcast is for leaders who put people first and care about engagement and belonging, performance and productivity, leadership, equity and the future of work. Today’s episode is an O’Brien double as joining your host is special guest Niamh O’Brien. Niamh is a director of BDO Talent management at BDO Ireland and holds over twenty years of experience working across recruitment, people solutions, talent management and talent acquisition. Niamh is passionate and driven about employee experience, diversity, and inclusion at work. In this episode, Niamh unpacks how people are the heart of the business and explains why people are always at the forefront of everything she does. Niamh also reveals why companies should never overlook alternative talent pools and shares valuable advice on why now is the time for welcoming the future of work. Main points throughout the episode include: - An introduction to Niamh O’Brien.- How to embrace flexible work. - The war of talent. - The anticipation of the great resignation. - Career reflections post-pandemic: what really matters? - What does the future of work look like? - The key to attracting and retaining staff. - The rise of outcome-based work culture. - Leading and managing in a remote world. - Dipping into alternative talent pools. - Overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome. - What makes Niamh happier at work.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! Connect with Niamh O’Brien: https://www.linkedin.com/in/niamhobrien/ https://www.bdo.ie/en-gb/bdo-ireland Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: https://www.happieratwork.iehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrienhttps://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQhttps://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.iehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

"Employees are looking to work in organisations that have a clearly defined purpose, and whose purpose really aligns with what it is that they want to do themselves as well." – Aoife O'Brien. Welcome back to Happier at Work! Over the last couple of years, we have all experienced a tremendous amount of change in our lives from experiencing challenging lockdowns, movement restrictions, a lack of human connection and, of course, a complete overhaul in how we operate at work. Home dining tables and spare box rooms unexpectedly became our new working environments, transforming cosy nests into new makeshift office spaces. In today's solo episode, Aoife revisits the topic of finding your work purpose to discuss developments that have occurred since the arrival of the Covid-19 pandemic. Aoife explores how workers are redefining their purposes, looking inward to explore their true professional needs and wants, and how they wish to spend their time. Aoife also discusses the link between employee disengagement and the great resignation. Further key points throughout the discussion include: - The meaning of purpose at work. - Arising opportunities within a pandemic. - Recruitment strategies: The importance of obtaining and maintaining suitable candidates. - The attraction of purpose-driven organisations.- Aoife's journey of bidding farewell to the corporate world.- Overcoming negative work experiences.- Aoife's mission to create happier workplaces. - The link between employee dissatisfaction and the great resignation. - The Sparketype Test: discover the work that makes you come alive. - Have you unlocked fulfilment at work?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! Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O'Brien: https://www.happieratwork.iehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrienhttps://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQhttps://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.iehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcastResources: Listen back to the Happier at Work episode with Fiona English on Meaning at Work. https://happieratwork.ie/22-fiona-english-on-meaning-at-work/ The Golden Circle Presentation by Simon Sinek https://simonsinek.com/commit/the-golden-circle The Good Life Project Podcast with Jonathan Fields https://www.goodlifeproject.com/podcast The Sparketype Test https://sparketype.com//

“I think energy is such an important thing. When you walk in as a leader, if you’re coming into the workplace, keeping an eye on your energy, and what you’re actually presenting in the business is really important.” – Gillian French.Welcome back to Happier at Work! Following two traumatic and life adjusting years facing a global pandemic, major operational shifts are undergoing within organisations and workplaces across the globe. This week on the podcast, Aoife is delighted to be joined by special guest Gillian French. Gillian holds the brilliant title of Expert in Residence with Workvivo. Employee experience, HR and putting people first rather than profit is Gillian’s driver, and on this episode, Aoife and Gillian explore that and a whole lot more!Gillian is passionate about helping organisations create wonderful sustainable cultures which support workers to flourish, work to their strengths and allow them to show up every day as their true selves. In this jam-packed discussion, Aoife and Gillian explore belonging at work and how people are the most important business asset. Gillian also highlights how work systems were broken pre-pandemic and questions if performance management may soon be a thing of the past. Further key points covered throughout include: - An introduction to Gillian French.- Finding a sense of belonging in the workplace. - The ripple effect of energy at work.- The most important business asset. - How to tackle employee disengagement. - How to avoid burnout from work.- Mastering time management at work. - Setting boundaries at work to avoid workaholism. - What does the future of work look like? - The challenges of hybrid working. - The downfalls of competition in the workplace.- How to increase and maintain employee happiness.- What makes Gillian happier at work. Connect with Gillian French:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gillianfrench https://www.workvivo.com/ Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: https://www.happieratwork.iehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrienhttps://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQhttps://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.iehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcastResources: Book: Reinventing organisations by Frederic Laloux.https://www.reinventingorganizations.com/ Playback previous Happier at work episodes: Andrew Barnes – From 4 Day Week https://happieratwork.ie/7-andrew-barnes-from-4-day-week/ Andrew Barnes and Charlotte Lockhart – From 4 Day Week https://happieratwork.ie/34-andrew-barnes-charlotte-lockhart-from-4-day-week-5/ Lasse Rheingans – The 5 Hour Work Day https://happieratwork.ie/happier-at-work-51-lasse-rheingans-on-the-5-hour-work-day/ Setting boundaries at work with Aoife O’Brienhttps://happieratwork.ie/happier-at-work-81-setting-boundaries-at-work-with-aoife-obrien/ Don’t miss out!Aoife hosts live discussions on LinkedIn with her podcast guests each week, discussing hot topics from episodes and answering listeners’ questions. Connect with Aoife today to ensure you don’t miss out!

"I'm not driven by money, but I'm driven by fairness, and if I feel that something is not fair, or that I don't understand why it's happening, then I think that's something that really bothers me and makes me unhappy at work." – Aoife O'Brien.Welcome back to Happier at Work! In this week's solo episode, Aoife chats finance by sparking a conversation focused on pay scales and fairness at work. How do you feel about pay right now? Is your salary always at the forefront of your mind? For many, workplace salary discussions can be an uncomfortable taboo topic to bring to the table, and it's a topic that hasn't been unravelled on this podcast before until now. In this episode, Aoife differentiates between the gender pay gap and equal pay, shares her personal experiences of reviews and pay-related discussions, explores if pay transparency is the future and highlights the importance of fairness and knowing your worth. Key points throughout the discussion include; - The hygiene factor of pay. - Gender pay gap VS equal pay. - Getting paid – where does the responsibility lie? - Aoife's personal experience of employee performance reviews. - The art of negotiating in the workplace and knowing your worth. - Climbing the salary ladder: how organisations handle pay progression.- The importance of setting workplace expectations. - An insight into pay structures and the taboo-busting concept of pay transparency. - How to negotiate a salary. 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! Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O'Brien: https://www.happieratwork.iehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrienhttps://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQhttps://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.iehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

Welcome back to Happier at Work! Buckle yourself in for a mind-blowing listen as joining Aoife this week for a very unique discussion is special guest Katrijn van Oudheusden. Katrijn is a consultant and selfless leadership coach with over twenty years of experience in organisational development. Katrijn is passionate about creating a better workplace for all through authentic and non-dual practices. In this episode, Katrijn explains the meaning of selfless leadership and highlights the transformative effects of tackling the roots of our self-beliefs to shrink our ego and unlock our true selves. Key points covered throughout include: - An introduction to Katrijn van Oudheusden. - An insight into organisational pitfalls – ego, posturing and power. - The impact of leadership ego on employees. - Culture fit and belonging in the workplace. - What is servant leadership?- An exploration of identity formation and self-beliefs.- The key to unlearning. - The four insights of selfless leadership.- The human being connection. - Unlocking your true self. - The positive outcomes of selfless service. - The concept of doing by not doing. - What makes Katrijn Happier at Work. Connect with Katrijn van Oudheusden:https://katrijnvanoudheusden.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrijnvo/ Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O'Brien: https://www.happieratwork.iehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrienhttps://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQhttps://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.iehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcastResources: Book: Selfless Leadership by Katrijn van Oudheusden https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09MV4789C/

Bienvenido de nuevo a Happier at Work - Welcome back to Happier at Work! Aoife dedicates this week’s solo episode to her experience of kickstarting 2022 with a sense of adventure by working remotely in Spain’s largest Canary Island, Tenerife. When posting online about working from abroad, Aoife was flooded with questions from fascinated followers, and with that has decided to share her travelling tale. In this episode, Aoife unpacks her experience of travelling and working remotely, shares insights on the importance of discipline and routine, and reveals what she would do differently next time around. Main points throughout include: - Finding suitable accommodation for your needs. - What is remote working and is it for everyone? - Discipline and commitment: The keys to working remotely. - The importance of creating an effective work routine. - Remote and flexible working guidelines. - Work time management: setting goals and prioritising tasks. - The pitfalls of remote working. - Managing work productivity and achieving work objectives. - The importance of leadership communication in a remote world. - Adjusting back home after working abroad. THE LISTENER’S SAY: Have a topic in mind that you would love for Aoife to explore on future podcasts? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: https://www.happieratwork.ie https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien https://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie https://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast Resources: Aoife’s interview on LMFM Radio’s Late Lunch with Gerry Kelly - 28 January 2022: https://play.acast.com/s/lmfm-late-lunch/latelunchfridayjanuary28th2022 Aoife’s feature in The Sunday Times: https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/covid-in-ireland-remote-workers-swap-desk-chairs-for-deck-chairs Airbnb Vacation rental company: https://www.airbnb.ie/ Duolingo - language learning website and app: https://www.duolingo.com/

"As an organisation, you've got to make a decision, that your tone, your character, your commitment, comes out in all sorts of different ways, not just in the behaviours of leaders." – Bev Attfield. Joining Aoife this week is special guest Bev Attfield. Bev had the wonderful title of 'Principle of Workplace Science' at Jostle and hosted the People at Work podcast. Since the time of recording, Bev has become a Partner at Within People. Specialising in the human experience at work, Bev is a wealth of knowledge and shares many valuable tips and insights on how organisations can maintain employee satisfaction by creating an environment of psychological safety and a thriving workplace culture. Throughout the discussion, Bev reflects on how businesses have had to adapt to a startling new reality due to the Covid-19 pandemic and delves into the new realm of communicating and working remotely. Bev highlights the importance of keeping in line with organisational values and reveals the key to unlocking fulfilment at work. Key points covered throughout include: - An introduction to Bev Attfield. - What are the emotional drivers of an employee? - The great re-prioritisation. - Adapting to change and finding happiness at work. - The impact of Covid-19 on businesses. - Workplace active listening: the time for understanding and change is now. - Women in the workplace. - How to support workplace equality. - Creating and maintaining a living workplace culture. - An insight into Jostle. - Maintaining human connection in a remote world. - The importance of psychological safety at work. - Why employee communication is vital. - What is the difference between asynchronous and synchronous communication? - The concept of working out loud. - Managing flexibility at work. - What makes Bev Happier at Work. LISTEN BACK: You can listen back to Bev and Aoife's "Changing perspective to be happier at work" discussion from the People at Work podcast here: https://blog.jostle.me/blog/people-at-work/aoifeobrien Connect with Bev Attfield: I believe people are happiest at work when they’re supported in their life and work. When they’re surrounded by kindness and feel encouraged to explore, create, and belong at work. That’s why my mission is to evolve leader thinking and organizational structures to produce incredible experiences and supportive environments for humans in the workplace. A once-in-century opportunity to reimagine work is here, now. I’m privileged to have a hand in shaping what this looks and feels like, for the good of all at work. My effort at Within helps me achieve my own ideal state of work-life, while discovering new people-centric ways forward with each of my clients. Within People is a global partnership of business strategists and coaches who are building a new model for growth in the 21st century. We believe it’s one where people are the most important asset, so unleashing their full potential is what unlocks growth. The Within Way® is how we help our clients grow - and how we grow our own partnership. We are what we do, and our structure and business model is a reflection of the vision we have for 21st century business. That's why I'm so excited to apply my knowledge and passion to this collective of strategic thinkers and doers. I'm a regular writer on workplace matters and have hosted over 100 leader conversations as host of the People at Work podcast. https://www.linkedin.com/in/bevattfield/ Jostle's Blog: https://blog.jostle.me/blog People at Work Podcast: https://intranet.jostle.me/people-at-work Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O'Brien: https://www.happieratwork.ie https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien https://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie https://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

‘’You’ll never change your life until you change something you do daily. The secret of your success is found in your daily routine.’’ – John C. Maxwell. Welcome back to Happier at Work! This week’s solo episode continues as we dive into part two of ‘’The secret to creating routines to reach your goals’’ with your host Aoife O’Brien. If you missed part one of this session, fear not, as you can catch up on playback HERE. This week, Aoife discusses goal setting and habit formation and explores what are limiting beliefs and how we can overcome them. Aoife also weighs up the importance of focusing on commitment rather than waiting for moments of motivation to arrive. Essential points covered throughout this episode include: - Acknowledging and overcoming disruptive goal blockers. - How to stay in your own lane. - Why it is important to listen to your body. - Making time for self-reflection. - Overcoming imposter syndrome and tackling limiting beliefs. - How commitment is vital for goal achievement. - The difference between growth and fixed mindsets. - Striking the balance between self-compassion and self-discipline. - The Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin. - The importance of delegation and embracing support. - The return on investment with your time and money. Resources: Year Compass – Free booklet to help you reflect on the past year and prepare for a new year ahead. https://yearcompass.com/ Book: Wink and Grow Rich by Roger Hamilton. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Wink-Grow-Rich-Guide Book: The Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin. https://gretchenrubin.com/books/the-four-tendencies/intro/ Quiz: The Four Tendencies quiz by Gretchen Rubin. https://quiz.gretchenrubin.com/ THE LISTENER’S SAY: Have a topic in mind that you would love for me to explore on future podcasts? If so, please connect with me via the links below and let me know. I would love to hear from you! Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: https://www.happieratwork.ie https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien https://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie https://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

Aoife's Master acquaintance Chris Flack joins us on the podcast. Born in the UK and currently based in Dublin, Chris carries over fifteen years of experience specialising in tech and organisational behaviour consulting and is the proud co-founder of UnPlug. The mission of UnPlug is for people to take control of their technology instead of their technology usage controlling them. "If we make some small changes in how we use technology, we can have some really positive impacts on our behaviour, our well being and our productivity." – Chris Flack. Have you ever felt strained and overwhelmed with work or feel like you have developed the bad habit of always being available 24/7!? This week's episode will resonate with so many as we explore excessive technology usage and our right to unplug and disconnect from the culture of always being on. After all, our bodies cannot fully recharge if we don't allow for vital downtime. This episode is jam-packed with fascinating statistics, insights, and practical tips that will help you disconnect and gain control of your time, which will boost not only your productivity levels but, ultimately, your well-being. Key points covered throughout include: - An introduction to Chris Flack. - The relationship between loneliness and technology. - Overwhelm at work and the always-on culture. - The promise of technology. - Understanding our internal technology triggers. - The key to managing time and task prioritising. - Working from home productivity statistics. - Setting boundaries and switching off when working remotely. - Flexible work VS work design. - Assumptions linked to the hybrid working model. - The struggle of career development for remote workers. - The importance of human connection in a remote world. - Building a culture of support. - How to create behavioural change. - Chris' tips on disconnection and digital mindfulness. - What makes Chris Happier at Work. Chris is an instructor at the Digital Wellness Institute and is a highly sought-after award-winning speaker who has led discussions throughout some of the largest companies across Europe. THE LISTENER'S SAY: Have a topic in mind that you would love for Aoife to explore on future podcasts? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Connect with Chris Flack: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-flack/ https://unplughq.com/team/ https://right2disconnect.com/ Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O'Brien: https://www.happieratwork.ie https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien https://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie https://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast Resources: Book recommendation: Tiny Habits by BJ Fogg. PhD https://tinyhabits.com/book/ Playback recommendation: Previous Happier at Work episode – The Future of Remote and Hybrid work with Aoife O'Brien https://happieratwork.ie/83-the-future-of-remote-and-hybrid-work-with-aoife-obrien/

‘’What you do every day matters more than what you do once in a while.’’ – Gretchen Rubin. Have you ever set goals that quickly went out the window or became unreachable? If so, this episode on effective goal setting will be of interest to you. We are delighted to reveal this week’s solo episode with your host Aoife O’Brien is a two-part special focusing on the secret to creating routines to reach your goals. Throughout this discussion, Aoife shares her approach and valuable tips on setting goals and explores the power behind building productive daily habits to help make your goals more achievable. Let’s not forget small steps can lead to significant changes! There is no doubt about it that 2021 was a rollercoaster year for all, so if you have eased yourself gently into 2022 so far without setting any year-end development goals, fear not as you can set goals at any given time that works best for you. This short episode is full of actionable tips and tools to help you plan, adapt, and smash your yearly targets. Essential points covered throughout this episode include: - The pressure from social media. - Why is self-reflection important? - The benefits of meditation. - Aoife’s intentional theme for 2022. - Commitment acknowledgement and celebrating wins. - Understanding and embracing the habit loop. - Reward methods for boosting motivation. - Assessing your Wheel of Life. - The impact of small changes. - Goals VS Systems. - Unlocking happiness and making time for self-evaluation. Be sure to come back and join us on Friday 4 February 2022 for part two of this session. THE LISTENER’S SAY: Have a topic in mind that you would love for me to explore on future podcasts? If so, please connect with me via the links below and let me know. I would love to hear from you! Resources: Happier at Work replay episode - Gerry Duffy on Goal Setting: https://happieratwork.ie/8-gerry-duffy-on-goal-setting/ Best-selling author, podcast host and in-demand speaker Gretchen Rubin: https://gretchenrubin.com/ Goodreads, the world’s largest site for readers and book recommendations: https://www.goodreads.com/ Book recommendations: Charles Duhigg – The Power of Habit https://www.amazon.com/Power-Habit-What-Life-Business/ James Clear – Atomic Habits https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits Aoife O’Brien’s recommended reading list: https://happieratwork.ie/category/aoifes-reading-list/ DuoLingo, language learning website: https://www.duolingo.com/ Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: https://www.happieratwork.ie https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien https://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie https://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

"People say their ideal leader wouldn't have any vulnerabilities, but actually in reality, and the research shows that when a leader is vulnerable, everybody else feels more comfortable with being vulnerable themselves, and therefore being more authentic, and essentially happier at work." - Seònaid Ó Murchadha. Welcome back to Happier at Work. Joining Aoife this week on the podcast is the inspirational Seònaid Ó Murchadha. Seònaid's passion lies within helping organisations embrace disability by advising businesses on the journey of diversity. Over the last two decades, Seònaid has worked endlessly advocating and highlighting employment rights for disabled people and can often be seen doing so through various media outlets nationwide. Today's show focuses on why disability inclusion in the workplace is important. Throughout the episode, Seònaid shares her personal story, discusses the reality of disability disclosures and non-disclosures, and reveals vital steps for creating open and inclusive environments. Essential points covered throughout include: - Introduction to Seònaid Ó Murchadha. - How can organisations be inclusive? - Creating and activating workplace policies. - Embracing diversity at work. - Requesting disability accommodation and assistance. - Seònaid's personal experience of interviewing for employment. - The power of open and honest conversations in an organisation. - Coming to terms with invisible skills. - Welcoming disability into the workplace culture. - Recommended steps and tools for workplaces to become more inclusive. - The Human Rights approach to disability. - Barriers and challenges facing people with disability. - The benefits of open workplace culture. - What makes Seònaid Happier at work. Seònaid, also widely known as the Bionic Businesswoman since receiving her new bionic arm in 2017, co-founded the Amputee Disability Federation in Ireland. Seònaid currently lectures at Maynooth University on disability studies and provides support for members of the Irish Small and Medium Business Enterprise Association. THE LISTENER'S SAY: Have a topic in mind that you would love for Aoife to explore on future podcasts? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Connect with Seònaid Ó Murchadha: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bionicwoman/ https://twitter.com/bionicwoman_ie Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O'Brien: https://www.happieratwork.ie https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien https://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie https://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast Resources: The Reasonable Accommodation Passport scheme: https://www.ibec.ie/-/media/documents/influencing-for-business/labour-market-and-skills/reasonable-accommodation-passport-2019.pdf Irish organisation dedicated to ending mental health stigma: https://seechange.ie/ https://www.isme.ie/ AHEAD: Association for Higher Education Access & Disability: https://www.ahead.ie/wam TED TALK: The Myth of Average by Todd Rose: https://ed.ted.com/on/4s8O5loM

extended break, this week’s episode is a short solo session where Aoife looks back and reflects on 2021. Aoife shares her personal experience managing COVID-19 throughout a busy December and highlights why our health should always be a top priority. During the session, Aoife gives an insight into the importance of time-off and reveals what lessons she will be carrying forward into this new year ahead. Main points covered throughout include: - Why we should prioritise our health and well-being. - The importance of allowing your body to rest. - Embracing holidays and time off from work. - How to analyse and manage your task list. - Becoming comfortable with accepting help and delegating. - Setting goals for 2022. THE LISTENER’S SAY: Have a topic in mind that you would love for Aoife to explore on future podcasts? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: https://www.happieratwork.ie https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien https://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie https://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

"I've coached over 200 CEOs and C-suite leaders, and one of the first things I would always say is don't ever give yourself the luxury of a bad day like that's a luxury. You have to show up every day. Everyone's looking." – Bonnie Hagemann. We are delighted to welcome leadership expert and CEO of EDA, Bonnie Hagemann, onto the podcast this week to discuss the benefits of embracing change in the workplace and why it is vital to show up as your best self at work. Bonnie is a wealth of knowledge regarding leadership, strategy, and workplace culture development. Throughout the conversation, Bonnie kindly shares valuable books and tools specialising in people development and the art of tackling crucial discussions. Bonnie also reveals fascinating insights from her 2021 Executive Development trend report. Essential points covered throughout the session include: - An introduction to Bonnie Hagemann. - Fast-paced business operations. - What is Visionary leadership? - Preparing for tough business challenges. - The key to success: entrepreneurial mindset and discipline. - Showing up and bringing your A-Game to work. - Developing an influential organisational culture. - The power of workplace commitment. - A reminder to vote with your wallet! - The importance of self-care. - Leading through change and a crisis. - Becoming comfortable with embracing change in the workplace. - What makes Bonnie Happier at Work. Having created lasting and compelling business cultures and coaching over 200 CEOs and senior leaders, it is no surprise that Bonnie is often sought after for expert advice from giant media outlets, including The Wall Street Journal, CNN and US News and more. THE LISTENER'S SAY: Have a topic in mind that you would love for Aoife to explore on future podcasts? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Connect with Bonnie Hagemann: https://www.bonniehagemann-coach.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhagemann/ Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O'Brien: https://www.happieratwork.ie https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien https://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie https://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast Resources: Book: Crucial Conversations by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Al Switzler and Ron McMillan. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Crucial-Conversations-Tools-Talking-Stakes/ Book: Leading with Vision by Bonnie Hagemann, John Maketa & Simon Vetter. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Leading-Vision-Blueprint-Compelling-Workforce/ 2021 Report: Trends in Executive Development by Bonnie Hagemann https://www.amazon.in/Trends-2021-Benchmark-Report-Development-ebook/

Have you ever delivered or received feedback in the workplace? For many of us, the thought of having these difficult conversations can instantly fill us with feelings of awkwardness, worry, and fear. In this week’s episode, host Aoife O’Brien breaks down feedback barriers, exploring why delivering effective and constructive feedback at work is so vital and why we should view feedback as a gift and an opportunity for growth. “The intention of the person delivering the feedback is to actually help you, and so you should treat feedback as a gift that someone is giving you this feedback in order to help you develop in your career, in order to develop in the role that you’re in, in order to help you to work more effectively’’. – Aoife O’Brien. Throughout the session, Aoife will share the importance of declaring the intention of feedback and will conclude the show with her top do’s and don’ts of providing effective feedback. Key points during the show include: - The importance of feedback. - How feedback welcomes growth. - Addressing difficult workplace conversations. - Creating psychological safety at work. - Identifying feedback intentions. - Setting clear expectations at work. - Preparation is key: plan your feedback process. - Focus on behaviour, not the individual. - Why clarity and feedback examples on performance are essential. - Finding the right balance of workplace autonomy. - Allowing time for feedback to be digested and understood. - Taking responsibility for behaviour. - Aoife’s final round-up – the do’s and don’ts of giving and receiving feedback. DID YOU KNOW? Today’s topic on delivering effective feedback is one of the keynotes that Aoife provides in organisations. If you would like Aoife to deliver this to your team or the wider organisation, please feel free to enquire directly TODAY. THE LISTENER’S SAY: Have a topic in mind that you would love for Aoife to explore on future podcasts? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you! Resources: Brene Brown on Feedback: https://brenebrown.com/collections/a-courageous-approach-to-feedback/ Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: https://www.happieratwork.ie https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien https://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie https://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

Welcome back to Happier at Work! This week’s episode features a podcast debut appearance from an HR business leader who specialises in implementing transformational systems and initiatives within an organisation to create a high-performing and happier working environment. ‘’When things go really, really bad, the value systems keep everything together and keep the happiness, and we lift each other up. That’s what you want to do in real life. That’s what you want to do in a company. That’s what you want to do as a human being.’’ – Stefan Tonnon. In conversation with Aoife is Stefan Tonnon, the vice president of HR for EMEA at Insight. With over 25 years of experience, Stefan will share insights throughout the discussion on the importance of HR, creating a happier working environment, and living and growing within a values-based culture. Main points covered throughout include:  Introduction to Stefan Tonnon.  Why company values are important?  Aligning the core values of hunger, heart, and harmony.  The power of business communication and listening to understand.  The sense of belonging at work.  Receiving sponsorship and guidance from the top.  Leadership styles in business.  Building trust and psychological safety at work.  Cultivating kindness in the workplace.  Tips for creating a happier working environment.  The benefits of workplace empowerment.  What makes Stefan Happier at Work. Is Imposter Syndrome standing in your way? Beat the imposter with Aoife’s 6-week online course Imposter to Empowered. For further details, visit http://www.impostersyndrome.ie/impostertoempowered THE LISTENER’S SAY: Have a topic in mind that you would love for Aoife to explore on future podcasts? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Connect with Stefan Tonnon: http://www.linkedin.com/in/stonnon Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: http://www.happieratwork.ie http://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien http://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ http://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie http://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

‘’If you're asking employees, what it is that they want, it's really, really important that you need to listen to what they actually say.’’ – Aoife O’Brien. Welcome back to Happier at Work! In this week’s solo episode, Aoife will focus on the hot topic: the future of remote and hybrid work. In light of the global pandemic, many people continue to work from home or are now hybrid working. In this episode, Aoife shares insights into how businesses are operating today, highlights the importance of companies not following the crowd when creating strategies, and explains why companies should be listening internally to analyse what will work best for them. ‘’I think really bringing people on that journey with you, bringing people into it, getting their feedback, and really listening to what they have to say, is the crucial part of making this remote and hybrid future of work a reality and making it really work well for you!’’ – Aoife O’Brien. As we all universally continue to navigate and adapt to remote work or splitting our working week from the office and home desk, Aoife explores whether this is a temporary working model or if this indeed is the new way of working. Stay tuned throughout as Aoife will reveal the pros and cons to both hybrid and remote models. Further key points covered include:  How businesses are operating today.  The key to listening internally within an organisation.  Why is workplace communication important?  Pros and cons to remote and hybrid work.  Collaborating effectively when working remotely.  How to build virtual connections during Covid-19.  Handling your energy at work.  Setting and managing expectations at work.  Enhancing your workplace visibility.  How to prevent presenteeism at work.  Planning for career development.  Pitfalls to be aware of when entering this new working model. Is Imposter Syndrome standing in your way? Beat the imposter with Aoife's 6-week online course Imposter to Empowered. For further details visit http://www.impostersyndrome.ie/impostertoempowered THE LISTENER’S SAY: Have a topic in mind that you would love for me to explore on future podcasts? If so, please connect with me via the links below and let me know. I would love to hear from you! Resources: Shorter: How Working Less Will Revolutionise the Way You Gets Things Done by Alex Soojung-Kim Pang http://www.amazon.co.uk/Shorter-Working-Revolutionise-Company-Things/ For further insights on mentoring programs with Katherine from Mentoring Resources, visit: http://www.mentoringresources.ie/ Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: http://www.happieratwork.ie http://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien http://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ http://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie

‘’We are not machines; we actually need to re-energize ourselves. And if we invest in doing that, it comes back into work in a better way. Then you can apply the time that you have, to direct that energy towards the work that matters.’’ – Niamh Brady. Welcome back to Happier at Work! Joining Aoife this week is productivity coach, creator of the ‘A Better Workday’ programme and author Niamh Brady. Listeners are in for a treat as this week’s episode will resonate with so many as we focus on productivity and creating a better workday. Niamh’s mantra is ‘everyone deserves a better workday’ and we couldn’t agree more! Throughout this captivating discussion, Niamh will explore the importance of managing our time, energy and attention and will also offer productivity methods to help us conquer the balance between work and wellbeing. Key points covered throughout include:  Introduction to Niamh Brady.  What is productivity?  The key to managing time effectively.  How to analyse and protect your energy.  Coping with working from home guilt.  The impact of a workaholic cycle.  Why is setting goals important?  Working in a fast-paced environment  Creating psychological safety and becoming comfortable saying no at all levels.  Improving your work-life balance.  Niamh’s top tips for boosting your energy.  Coping with work overwhelm and a lack of motivation.  What makes Niamh Happier at Work. Is Imposter Syndrome standing in your way? Beat the imposter with Aoife's 6-week online course Imposter to Empowered. For further details visit http://www.impostersyndrome.ie/impostertoempowered THE LISTENER'S SAY: Have a topic in mind that you would love for Aoife to explore on future podcasts? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Connect with Niamh Brady: http://www.niamhbrady.com/ http://www.linkedin.com/in/nbrady/ http://www.instagram.com/niamhbradycoach Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O'Brien: http://www.happieratwork.ie http://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien http://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ http://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie http://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast Resources: Book: Remote Working Essentials by Niamh Brady http://www.niamhbrady.com/what-we-do/remote-working-essentials/

‘’The only people who get upset when you start setting boundaries are the ones who benefited from you not having them.’’ Welcome back to Happier at Work! Aoife recently conducted poll research on LinkedIn to gather feedback on what listeners would be interested in hearing in these future solo episodes. The results overwhelmingly steered towards the hot topic of hybrid work, along with setting boundaries at work. In this episode, Aoife will be diving into boundaries – what are they, and what impact weak boundaries have. Establishing and communicating healthy boundaries at work is vital from the get-go. Boundaries help set clear expectations and protect individuals from work overwhelm, stress, and burnout, which can quickly lead to job dissatisfaction. During this discussion, Aoife will share personal insights with listeners on setting clear boundaries from an individual and a managerial perspective. Further key points covered include:  What are boundaries?  The importance of boundaries and the impact they have.  How to identify weak boundaries.  The importance of communication at work.  Setting expectations with employees.  Is resignation the solution?  Handling boundary blurred lines whilst working from home.  Tips to restore work-life balance.  Imposter syndrome and people-pleasing.  Getting comfortable with saying no and preparing for pushback.  The key to prioritising tasks.  Creating a safe work environment.  Understanding the boundaries of others. THE LISTENER’S SAY: Have a topic in mind that you would love for me to explore on future podcasts? If so, please connect with me via the links below and let me know. I would love to hear from you! Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: http://www.happieratwork.ie http://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien http://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ http://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie http://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

‘’Your work is important, it is, but you are more important than your work!’’ – Nicole Mixdorf. Welcome back to Happier at Work! Joining Aoife this week is special guest Nicole Mixdorf – chief wellness officer at Balanced by Nature, who was recently crowned the most influential woman in Corporate Wellness Services throughout the US. Workplace stress is a topic many listeners will relate to, and today’s show will focus on why your wellbeing and mental health matter. In this episode, Nicole will share her transformational journey of climbing the corporate ladder for over a decade, experiencing intense feelings of burnout whilst juggling major stressors that ultimately led to debilitating health effects. After taking time to heal her mind and body, Nicole launched Balanced by Nature, a corporate health and wellness firm that offers award-winning programs that support employees physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. ‘’There's a reason our company is called Balanced by Nature. When we have all these stressful, crazy moments in our day, the only way to bring that equilibrium to balance, is by giving yourself enough of those nurturing quiet moments to balance it out.’’ – Nicole Mixdorf. Have a pen and paper to hand, as Nicole kindly shares inspirational tips and practical tools to implement into your morning to conquer the day ahead! Key points covered throughout the episode include:  Introduction to Nicole Mixdorf.  Listening to your body to manage stress.  Pandemic anxiety: the universal feeling.  Understanding, managing, and aligning organisational culture and strategy.  The benefits of flexibility at work.  Wellbeing activities and ideas for self-care.  The importance of nutrition and boosting your immune system.  Nicole’s top tips for finding balance.  Morning habits to conquer your day!  Making the most of micro-moments.  Make your wellbeing a priority.  The great resignation: what is happening?  How to empower employees?  Empower employees  What makes Nicole Happier at Work. COMING SOON! On Wednesday, 3rd November, Aoife will host a one-hour webinar to help you overcome Imposter Syndrome. For further details and to reserve your space today, visit http://www.impostersyndrome.ie/webinar THE LISTENER’S SAY: Have any questions or a topic in mind that you would love for Aoife to explore on future podcasts? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below to let her know! Connect with Nicole Mixdorf: http://balancebynature.com/ http://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolemixdorf/ Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: http://www.happieratwork.ie http://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien http://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ http://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie http://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

Welcome back! Did you know that the Happier at Work podcast is now two years in the running!? To mark this second solo episode, host Aoife O’Brien will exclusively focus on the podcast’s identity, discussing the true meaning of happiness at work. Throughout the episode, Aoife will share her first-hand experience of dealing with dissatisfaction at work and how it became the driving force behind her business today. Aoife will explore the significance of cultivating a positive work environment and will share fascinating insights from her dissertation research centred around values, needs and strengths. Key points covered throughout the episode include:  Staff turnovers: the costly impact on your business.  How happiness can boost your business.  Effects of a toxic work environment.  Aoife’s journey to unlocking true happiness at work.  What is Person-Environment Fit?  Aligning recruitment with company values.  Assessing and understanding strengths.  An insight into the three universal psychological needs – autonomy, competence, and relatedness.  The importance of feedback.  Psychological Safety in the workplace. COMING SOON! On Wednesday 27th October and Wednesday 3rd November, Aoife will host a one-hour webinar to help you overcome Imposter Syndrome. For further details and to reserve your space today, visit http://www.impostersyndrome.ie/webinar THE LISTENER’S SAY: Have any questions or a topic in mind that you would love for Aoife to explore on future podcasts? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below to let her know! Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: http://www.happieratwork.ie http://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien http://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ http://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie http://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast Resources: Book: The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achor http://www.shawnachor.com/books/happiness-advantage/ Previous Happier at Work episode: The Values of Business with Irial O’Farrell https://happieratwork.ie/happier-at-work-74-the-values-of-business-with-irial-ofarrell/

We are switching things up a little in this latest Happier at Work episode! Instead of focusing on workplace psychological impacts, this week, we will be concentrating on workplace physical wellness with special guest Annette Cashell. Annette is an ex-corporate with a managerial marketing background of 10 years. Following harrowing health concerns and avoiding a neck fusion operation, Annette is now a distinguished Pilates teacher and movement coach, passionate about helping others undo and prevent any excessive sitting damages. Since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic and to this day, many individuals across the globe are continuing to work from home or are adjusting to a hybrid working model. In this fascinating discussion, Annette will highlight the impact of excessive sitting and unsuitable office equipment and why we should allow ourselves permission to move. Annette kindly offers valuable tips on how you can boost muscle movement into your daily routine. Key points covered throughout include:  Introduction to Annette Cashell.  The dangers of Sitting Disease.  How to create a safer working environment.  Permission to move your body and avoid being an active couch potato!  Welcoming movement into meetings.  Tips for promoting physical wellness whilst working.  The Knowing-Doing Gap.  Introducing corrective exercises and lifestyle changes for a better future.  What makes Annette Happier at Work. Annette’s Movement Makeovers program for Primary Schools was accepted into the Academy Mentoring Program with Social Entrepreneurs Ireland in 2018. Connect with Annette via the links below to keep up to date with her offerings of weekly online classes, virtual workshops, and wellness webinars. Connect with Annette Cashell: http://www.malahidepilates.com/ http://www.facebook.com/MovementMakeovers http://www.instagram.com/MovementMakeovers/ http://www.linkedin.com/in/annette-cashell Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O'Brien: http://www.happieratwork.ie http://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien http://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ http://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie http://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast Resources: Annette’s FREE 45-minute webinar - ‘Take the pain out of working (from home)’ http://www.malahidepilates.com/take-the-pain-out-of-working-from-home/ Annette’s guide on how to make sitting less damaging: http://thriveglobal.com/stories/top-3-tips-to-make-sitting-less-damaging-instantly/ Annette features in Katy Bowman’s book ‘Grow Wild’: http://www.nutritiousmovement.com/product/grow-wild-the-whole-child-whole-family-nature-rich-guide-to-moving-more-paperback/

Welcome back to Happier at Work! Long-time listeners of the podcast will know that with each new episode, I interview business experts to discuss various topics, including leadership, diversity, well-being, inclusion, and unlock what ultimately makes each of our guests happier at work. To coincide with the launch of my new program, Imposter to Empowered, I will be releasing solo episodes throughout the podcast focusing on a range of business topics. Did you know that up to 70% of people experience Imposter Syndrome at some point in their career!? If you have ever felt out of place, felt like a fraud, or experienced an overwhelming sense of self-doubt, rest assured that you are not alone! In this episode, I explore what is Imposter Syndrome and share my personal experience with overcoming Imposter Syndrome and igniting empowerment. Key points covered throughout include: What is Imposter Syndrome?  The signs and triggers of Imposter Syndrome. New Level, New Devil.  Who experiences Imposter Syndrome? Imposter Syndrome: How It Makes Us Feel. The Five faces of Imposter Syndrome – The Perfectionist, The Natural Genius, The Soloist, The Superhero and The Expert. Acknowledging and moving forward with Imposter Syndrome.  The ABC framework to managing Imposter Syndrome.  The Power of Feedback. Is Imposter Syndrome standing in your way? Beat the imposter with Aoife's 6-week online course Imposter to Empowered. For further details visit http://www.impostersyndrome.ie/impostertoempowered THE LISTENER'S SAY:Have a topic in mind that you would love for me to explore on future podcasts? If so, please connect with me via the links below and let me know. I would love to hear from you! Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O'Brien: http://www.happieratwork.iehttp://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrienhttp://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQhttp://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.iehttp://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcastResources: http://www.impostersyndrome.ie/ QUIZ: What kind of imposter are you? http://www.impostersyndrome.ie/quiz

Welcome back to Happier at Work! After a lovely break, I am delighted to kickstart this brand-new series with Truthsayers CEO & Co-founder Simon Stapleton. Simon and his team are on a mighty mission to enable happier and more productive workplaces across the globe by helping leaders understand their employees at an emotional level via Truthsayers cutting-edge Neurotech® platform. In this episode, both Aoife and Simon offer their insights into workplace engagement and share their previous experiences of feeling a lack of psychological safety at work. Simon also shines a light on the importance of bringing authenticity to work and the positive impacts that doing so will bring. Main points covered throughout the show include: - An introduction to Simon Stapleton. - The importance of being honest. - Bringing authenticity to work. - How a lack of engagement and psychological safety can affect a business. - Taking responsibility for the business culture. - Aligning recruitment with company values. - Creating an environment of inclusion. - Excelling and reaching your potential at work. - What makes Simon Happier at Work. With over 20 years of experience in building digital platforms for service industries, Simon has led the creation of technology that enhances the lives of millions of people worldwide. Simon's objective is to apply Neurotech to vast and present challenges that businesses face today, such as diversity and inclusion, sustainability and hybrid working. Did you know? Simon is a partner in a craft brewery, so when he isn't working, you can catch him creating unique ales! Connect with Simon Stapleton: http://truthsayers.io/ http://twitter.com/tneurotech http://www.linkedin.com/company/truthsayers/ http://www.linkedin.com/in/simonstapleton/ http://twitter.com/simonstapleton Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O'Brien: http://www.happieratwork.ie http://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien http://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ http://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie http://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

Announcement: The Happier at Work podcast will return on Friday 1st October 2021. I have some great guests lined up between now and the end of the year. I'll be doing some solo episodes - if you have a topic you'd liked covered, please reach out! Also announcing the launch of my programme, Imposter to Empowered. More details can be found at https://www.impostersyndrome.ie

Welcome back to Happier at Work! Do you feel there is something missing from your work life? Have you ever let fear get in your way!? If so, you will thoroughly enjoy this discussion with Torch podcast host and social media & branding powerhouse Tiana Madera. Tiana has a deep passion for personal development, identifying wants and not allowing fear to limit any career or lifestyle moves. In this episode, Aoife and Tiana discuss how to let go of fear and craft your career. Tiana shares a beautiful insight into her world, including how she carved her professional path and shares how she successfully built a social media department for a $1 billion corporation through her self-belief and self-leadership skills. Main points covered throughout the show include: - An introduction to Tiana Madera. - Self-management: identifying our wants & needs. - The professional impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic. - The importance of autonomy. - Tapping into your creativity and letting go of fear. - How to create psychological safety at work. - Igniting the power within and embracing opportunities. - Overcoming limiting beliefs. - Job crafting and accepting personal responsibility. - What makes Tiana Happier at work. "In life, people tend to wait for good things to come to them. And by waiting, they miss out. Usually, what you wish for doesn't fall in your lap; it falls somewhere nearby, and you have to recognize it, stand up, and put in the time and work it takes to get to it. This isn't because the universe is cruel. It's because the universe is smart. It has its own cat-string theory and knows we don't appreciate things that fall into our laps." – Neill Strauss. Currently based in LA, Tiana hosts Torch – a podcast for women in leadership focused on finding your strengths and moving past fears leading to a better life. You can listen to episode 55 of Torch featuring Aoife O’Brien here: 3 Needs to be Happier at Work with Aoife O’Brien - http://torchpodcast.com/55-2/ Connect with Tiana Madera: http://www.facebook.com/tianakaimadera http://www.instagram.com/torchpodcast/ http://www.instagram.com/tianapix http://twitter.com/TianaPix http://www.linkedin.com/in/tianakai/ http://torchpodcast.com Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O'Brien: http://www.happieratwork.ie http://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien http://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ http://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie http://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

‘’The first time I came across the concept of values was as part of my executive coaching course, and it was one of those massive a-ha revelations that changed my life.’’ – Irial O’Farrell. Founder of Evolution Consulting, Irial specialises in delivering change, enhancing business performance, and building better companies. On this latest Happier at Work episode, host Aoife O’Brien and guest Irial O’ Farrell dive into the subject of values. We as individuals all hold values consciously and subconsciously. Throughout this episode, Irial discusses the values of business and the impact of identifying, defining, and reflecting values throughout the organisational culture. Irial also shares insights on conflicts in work as our values might not always be on par with others from time to time, and this disparity could lead to clashes and trust erosion throughout the workforce. Points throughout the show include: - An introduction to Irial O’Farrell. - The concept of workplace values. - The importance of defining values and setting work boundaries. - Putting values in place -VS- the lived experience. - Learning to rank core business values. - The power of vulnerability in leadership. - Workplace law of attraction. - Actively using values when seeking new fitting team members. - Driving accountability in the workplace. - The importance of a competence framework. - The business impact of disconnecting with values. - What makes Irial Happier at Work. Did you know? Irial is the first and at present only CMI-Accredited Master in Change Management in Ireland. Stay tuned as Irial’s forthcoming third book exploring unnecessary escalation of issues is due in September 2021. Connect with Irial O’Farrell: http://www.evolutionconsulting.ie/ http://www.linkedin.com/in/irialofarrell/ http://www.facebook.com/irialofarrellbooks http://www.instagram.com/irialofarrellbooks/ http://www.twitter.com/evolution_ary Irial O’Farrell’s books: http://www.evolutionconsulting.ie/shop/ Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: http://www.happieratwork.ie http://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien http://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ http://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie http://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

"If you haven't started focusing in as a leader on building trust, well, there's an old Chinese adage, right? The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago, and the second-best time is to do it today." – Brenda Neckvatal. Joining Aoife on this latest Happier at Work episode is amazon bestseller and award-winning HR professional Brenda Neckvatal. Brenda will treat listeners to her HR perspective, discussing building workplace trust, how the time to make change is now and why leaders need to understand that their people are their greatest asset. Brenda's work and practices have impacted businesses on an international level, and whilst listening to the episode; you'll quickly understand why Brenda is often referred to as the "HR force of nature" by her clients. Key points throughout the show include: - An introduction to Brenda Neckvatal. - The influence of great leaders. - The powerful combination of leadership and HR. - Getting the people side of the business right. - The value of investment. - Setting up for success and creating a trusting environment. - Employees want to be led, not managed. - The importance of communicating and managing workforce expectations. - Implementing change – how small steps forward are better than none. - Mastering difficult conversations. - Dealing with trust killers and toxicity in the workplace. - What makes Brenda Happier at Work. Throughout her 30-year career in business, Brenda has consulted to nearly 500 small businesses and C-suite leaders. She has optimised employee effectiveness and helped mitigate the high costs that are associated with making hasty employment related decisions. Perseverance, integrity, and relentless optimism are just of the few of the ingredients that make up what you experience when meeting and working with Brenda. Some food for thought... CFO asks the CEO: "What happens if we invest in developing our people and they leave?" CEO: "What happens if we don't, and they stay?" Connect with Brenda Neckvatal: http://brendathehrlady.com/ http://www.linkedin.com/in/neckvatal/ http://www.instagram.com/brendathehrlady The Best Practices in Human Resources Podcast http://brendathehrlady.com/podcast Book: Best Practices in Human Resources: How to Crawl from Want-to-be to VP by Vrenda Neckvatal. http://brendathehrlady.com/shop Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: http://www.happieratwork.ie http://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien http://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ http://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie http://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

Ever wondered what the difference is between stress and burnout!? In this latest Happier at Work episode, Aoife chats to expert in hope Lindsay Recknell about burnout, her personal experience dealing with it and how it navigated Lindsay into her career today. Lindsay is a workplace mental health consultant, speaker, and podcaster with a passion for helping companies increase and embrace psychological health & safety in the workplace. In this episode, Aoife and Lindsay explore how burnout can impact us, why we need to normalise mental health conversations in the workplace, the power of being proactive and how we can close cycles of stress. Key moments throughout the episode include: - Introduction to Lindsay Recknell. - What is burnout, and how does it affect us? - How to close the cycle of stress. - The significance of having a creative outlet. - Creating Psychological Safety environments. - Normalising conversations about mental health. - Coping throughout a pandemic. - Vulnerability in the workplace. - The importance of setting boundaries and communicating our boundaries. - What makes Lindsay Happier at Work. Lindsay empowers individuals, strengthens teams and transforms organizations through her Hope Motivates Action, Mental Health in Minutes and Burnout & Boundaries programs. ‘’Everybody deserves to work in a place where they feel psychologically safe to come to work and be their whole selves in a respectful and productive way.’’ – Lindsay Recknell. Connect with Lindsay Recknell: http://www.expertinhope.com/ http://www.expertinhope.com/programs/ http://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsay-recknell http://www.facebook.com/expertinhope/ http://www.instagram.com/lindsayrecknell Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: http://www.happieratwork.ie http://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien http://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ http://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie http://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast

‘’As long as you’re still producing the work and collaborating like you need to and hitting those key results, we can offer that flexibility.’’ – Karen Weeks. You are in for a treat! Joining Aoife on this latest Happier at Work episode is HR specialist Karen Weeks. Karen exited stage left from the world of theatre 20 years ago and has been a celebrated HR leader and coach ever since. With a drive for helping organisations create incredible cultures and a passion for guiding individuals to get unstuck from their careers and leading them to a professional path of fulfilment, it is no surprise that Karen was listed as one of the Notable Women in Talent by Crain’s New York Business in 2020. In this episode, you will get the perspective of an HR leader as Aoife and Karen dive into how HR can impact work environments and create happier employees, discuss why igniting employee experience matters, and review how the future of work is looking flexible. Key takeaways include: - Karen’s career journey from theatre to HR. - The essential role of HR. - Onboarding new employees and the power of asking questions. - Motivating employees by thinking of their needs and goals. - Psychological Safety and creating a safe space for honest conversations. - Different types of managerial styles. - Why Employee Experience matters. - What is workplace flexibility? - Managing flexible work arrangements. - How to build trust in the workplace? - What does success look like? - Understanding workplace values. - How personal life can affect work and vice versa. - What makes Karen Happier at Work. Karen is currently the SVP of People at Ordergroove and is a certified career coach, speaker, advisor to start-up companies, Girls in Tech NYC board member, the published author of “Setting the Stage: A Guide to Preparing for Any Feedback Conversation”, and host of the podcast “Getting off the Hamster Wheel”. Connect with Karen Weeks: http://www.karendweeks.com/ http://www.karendweeks.com/book/ http://www.karendweeks.com/podcast/ http://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-d-weeks-sphr-ms-5965775 http://twitter.com/career_changers http://www.ordergroove.com/ Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: http://www.happieratwork.ie http://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien http://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ http://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie http://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast Resources: The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni http://www.amazon.co.uk/Five-Dysfunctions-Team-Leadership-Lencioni/dp/0787960756 http://gretchenrubin.com/

Jennifer Dowling is a Chartered Work and Organisational Psychologist and Director of Train Remote. She specialises in remote, flexible and hybrid working. Jennifer has a strong background in people development, psychometrics, selection, training and coaching. In this episode, Aoife and Jennifer discuss the future of hybrid-remote working in the wake of the COVID-19 Pandemic, the power of autonomy in work and the benefits of effective time management and self-observation. Main points covered throughout the episode include: - An introduction to Jennifer Dowling. - The future of work and flexibility. - Transitioning from an interactive environment to remote work. - The power of autonomy in work. - The importance of self-awareness and understanding your working needs and values. - Understanding individual differences. - Building, communicating and demonstrating trust in the workplace. - The impact of self-limiting beliefs VS empowering beliefs. - Temporal awareness and mastering time management at work. - The benefit of practising self-observation and self-check ins. - Learning from daily reflections. - Recognising the difference between observation and judgement. - What makes Jennifer happier at work. Jennifer has worked with many organisations on the transition to remote working. She specialises in training, coaching and team development for managers and teams transitioning to more agile and flexible working. She is qualified in several psychometric tools and an experienced trainer, facilitator and coach. She is fuelled by curiosity, primarily in people; what makes us tick, makes us different and what contributes to making us the best version of ourselves! Connect with Jennifer Dowling: http://www.trainremote.ie/ http://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-dowling http://twitter.com/trainremote Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: http://www.happieratwork.ie http://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien http://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ http://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie http://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast Resources: Article: The Neuroscience of Trust by Paul J. Zak http://hbr.org/2017/01/the-neuroscience-of-trust Talks at Google: The Lucifer Effect – Phillip Zimbardo http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rUyDznt5V4I App: Mood Meter – A gift of self-awareness for yourself and others. http://moodmeterapp.com/

Duena is the author of “Emotional Banking” and “People Before Tech: The Importance of Psychological Safety and Teamwork in the Digital Age”. She is a doer, an entrepreneur, an industry influencer, a blogger with a cutting-edge opinion style, a writer for Forbes, an international keynote speaker and the creator of the Emotional Banking™ and Human Debt™ concepts. Duena is the Co-Founder and CEO of PeopleNotTech - a company designing a revolutionary team software solution measuring and increasing Psychological Safety for high performing teams. In this episode, Aoife and Duena dive into the hot topic of workplace Psychological Safety and discuss effective team dynamics. Duena also shares her drive for making teams and humans happier at work by increasing psychological safety and reducing human debt. Main points covered throughout the episode include: - An introduction to Duena Blomstrom and her professional background. - The concept of human debt. - The impacts of not speaking up and being heard. - Toxicity in the Workplace. - How performance and productivity are essential. - Understanding and establishing workplace wellbeing. - Organisational permission and support. - A look at Psychological Safety on an individual basis and team basis. - The power of positive team dynamics. - The importance of building safety & trust in the workplace. - How superheroes can arise from any level within an organisation and make a significant change. - What makes Duena Happier at Work. Over the past 20 years, Duena has worked with multiple large organisations, be it to assist them in their digital strategy or to help them transform. With a background in Psychology and Business, Duena is on a crusade to see lasting change in this VUCA world, to assist companies avail themselves of Agile and the new ways of work and bring humanity back to the workplace. Connect with Duena Blomstrom: http://www.duenablomstrom.com/ http://www.duenablomstrom.com/books/ http://www.linkedin.com/in/duenablomstrom http://www.twitter.com/duenablomstrom http://www.peoplenottech.com/ Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: http://www.happieratwork.ie http://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien http://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ http://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie http://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast Resources: http://www.forbes.com/sites/duenablomstrom

Listeners interested in psychology, sociology and leadership are in for a real treat with this special extended Happier at Work episode with father-son duo Edgar and Peter Schein. Ed and Peter co-founded the Organizational Culture and Leadership Institute (OCLI.org) in 2015. Ed and Peter have just completed their fourth collaboration, the upcoming 2nd Edition of Humble Inquiry. In this episode, Aoife O’Brien, Edgar Schein and Peter Schein discuss the importance of communication, the gentle art of Humble Enquiry and the benefits of moving forward with an open and curious mind to create a better culture. Key points covered throughout the episode include: - An introduction to Ed and Peter Schein’s backgrounds. - What is Humble Inquiry? - Why we should attack the culture of telling and promote a culture of inquiry. - The importance and influence of personal & trusting relationships. - Psychological safety and cultural evolution. - Encouraging people to speak up. - Rewarding courage in the workspace. - Exploring professional distance. - Process of inquiry – taking time out to examine are you asking the right questions. - The power of groups and learning how to work effectively in a team. - What makes Ed and Peter Happier at Work. Edgar Schein is Professor Emeritus of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Sloan School of Management. Ed received BA degrees from the University of Chicago and Stanford and his PhD in Social Psychology from Harvard University. He is the 2009 recipient of the Distinguished Scholar-Practitioner Award of the Academy of Management, the 2012 recipient of the Life-Time Achievement Award from the International Leadership Association, the 2015 Lifetime Achievement Award in Organization Development from the International OD Network. Peter Schein is the co-founder and COO of OCLI.org. He provides counsel to senior management on organizational development challenges facing private and public sector entities worldwide. Peter’s work draws on 30 years of industry experience in marketing and corporate development at technology pioneers including Apple, SGI, Sun Microsystems, and numerous internet start-ups. Ed and Peter’s first work together, the 5th edition of Organizational Culture and Leadership, was published in 2016. In 2018, Ed and Peter published Humble Leadership, which won the Nautilus Book Awards Silver Medal, and in 2019 they published Culture + Change +Leadership: The Corporate Culture Survival Guide 3rd Edition. Connect with Edgar & Peter Schein: http://www.scheinocli.org/ http://www.linkedin.com/in/peteraschein/ http://www.scheinocli.org/publications Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien: http://www.happieratwork.ie http://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien http://www.twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ http://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie http://www.facebook.com/groups/happieratworkpodcast Resources: Douglas McGregor – Theory X Theory Y concept http://www.businessballs.com/improving-workplace-performance/mcgregors-xy-theory-of-management/ Bob Johansen – Institute For The Future http://www.iftf.org/bobjohansen/