HRi HR Voices

Episode 80: HR Audits – The Hidden Opportunity for HR Consultants and Their Clients

Episode 80: HR Audits – The Hidden Opportunity for HR Consultants and ...

Episode 80: HR Audits – The Hidden Opportunity for HR Consultants and Their Clients
Host: Mary Asante
Guest: Tania Harland, Founder of HR Diagnostics

What exactly is an HR audit, and why should ...every HR consultant have one in their toolkit?

In this episode of HR Voices, Mary Asante is joined by Tania Harland, founder of HR Diagnostics, to discuss how HR audits can help organisations reduce risk, improve compliance, and create opportunities for business growth.

With major employment law changes on the horizon, including the Employment Rights Act 2025, now is the perfect time for employers to review their HR practices and ensure they have the right foundations in place.

In this episode, we cover:
✅ What an HR audit is and why it matters
✅ The difference between an HR audit, health check and compliance review
✅ Common HR and employment law risks employers overlook
✅ How audits help identify gaps in contracts, policies and processes
✅ The impact of the Employment Rights Act 2025
✅ Why HR audits are a valuable business development tool for consultants
✅ Using audits to build credibility, strengthen client relationships and create additional revenue opportunities

Tania's Four-Step HR Audit Framework
Assess – Review current HR practices and documentation
Identify – Highlight compliance gaps and risks
Evaluate – Prioritise actions based on business impact
Remedy – Create a practical action plan

Key Takeaway
An HR audit is more than a compliance exercise. It provides a clear picture of where an organisation is today, highlights potential risks, and creates a roadmap for improvement.
For HR consultants, it can also be a powerful way to demonstrate value, build trust and uncover opportunities to support clients more strategically.

Tania's Top Tips
✔ Don't wait for a crisis before reviewing your HR practices
✔ Use data and evidence to guide conversations with clients
✔ Treat every audit as the start of a longer-term partnership

🎧 Whether you're an HR consultant, business owner, HR leader or people professional, this episode offers practical insights into reducing risk and strengthening your people practices.
📩 Questions or topics for future episodes?
[email protected]

#HRVoices #HRAudit #HRConsultant #HRCompliance #EmploymentLaw #EmploymentRightsAct2025 #HRLeadership #PeopleProfessionals #BusinessGrowth #HRStrategyShow More

Episode 79: What We’ve Learned About Wellbeing at Work

Episode 79: What We’ve Learned About Wellbeing at Work Mental Wealth, ...

Episode 79: What We’ve Learned About Wellbeing at Work
Mental Wealth, Financial Wellbeing, Psychological Health and Men’s Health
Host: Mary Asante

Over the last four episodes of HR Voices, we have explored some ...of the most important wellbeing challenges facing today’s workplaces.

From mental wealth and leadership to financial wellbeing, psychological health, stress, remote working and men’s health, one message has consistently emerged:

People often struggle long before anyone notices.
In this special recap episode, Mary Asante brings together the key insights and practical lessons from Episodes 75–78, highlighting what HR professionals, business leaders, managers and independent consultants can learn from these powerful conversations.

In this episode, we explore:
✅ Why wellbeing is about far more than mental health alone
✅ The connection between mental health, financial wellbeing, physical health and workplace performance
✅ How stress, burnout and "drift" can develop quietly over time
✅ Why awareness alone is not enough to create meaningful change
✅ The emotional load carried by HR professionals, leaders and managers
✅ The impact of financial stress on employee wellbeing, productivity and engagement
✅ Psychological health in remote and hybrid working environments
✅ Why men’s health remains an important workplace conversation
✅ The role of managers in spotting early warning signs and creating supportive workplace cultures
✅ How isolation affects employees, leaders and independent consultants alike
✅ Why early intervention and meaningful conversations matter

Key themes from Episodes 75–78
Mental Wealth and Leadership
Building strong support networks, recognising "drift" early, and understanding why leaders often struggle in silence.
Financial Wellbeing at Work
The impact of money worries on employee wellbeing, mental health, productivity and workplace performance.
Psychological Health and Remote Working
Managing stress, burnout, psychological strain and maintaining healthy boundaries in increasingly flexible workplaces.
Men’s Health at Work
Breaking stigma, encouraging earlier conversations, supporting preventative healthcare and creating workplaces where people feel safe seeking help.

Key Takeaway
Wellbeing challenges rarely appear overnight.
Whether someone is experiencing stress, financial pressure, burnout, isolation, mental health challenges or physical health concerns, early support can make a significant difference.
The most effective workplaces are not those that wait for a crisis to happen—they are the ones that create environments where people feel able to speak up, seek support and have meaningful conversations before problems escalate.

Reflection for HR Professionals and Leaders
As professionals who spend much of our time supporting others, it is important to remember that wellbeing applies to us too.
Who supports the supporter?
Who notices when you disappear?
Who checks in on you?
Creating healthy workplaces starts with creating healthy support systems for ourselves as well as for those around us.

A simple reminder
Sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is:
📞 Pick up the phone.
🤝 Check in.
💬 Start a conversation.

You may be closer to support, clarity, change and recovery than you think.

🎧 Listen now and revisit the key lessons from Episodes 75–78 of HR Voices.
📩 Questions or topics for future episodes?
Email: [email protected]

#HRVoices #WorkplaceWellbeing #MentalHealthAtWork #MentalWealth #FinancialWellbeing #PsychologicalSafety #PsychologicalHealth #MensHealth #Leadership #EmployeeWellbeing #HRProfessionals #PeopleProfessionals #HybridWorking #RemoteWorking #BurnoutPrevention #OccupationalHealth #WorkplaceCulture #HRCommunity #HRIndependents #PeopleManagementShow More

BONUS EPISODE 78: Men's Health in the Workplace– Mental Health, Stress, Burnout & Early Intervention

Host: Mary Asante Guest: Dr Mani Khan, Occupational Health Assessments ...

Host: Mary Asante
Guest: Dr Mani Khan, Occupational Health Assessments

In this special episode of HR Voices, Mary Asante is joined by occupational health specialist Dr Mani Khan to discuss one ...of the most important and often overlooked workplace topics: men's health.
While workplace wellbeing is now a regular part of organisational conversations, many men still delay seeking support for both physical and mental health concerns. This can lead to increased stress, burnout, long-term sickness absence, and in some cases devastating outcomes for individuals, families and employers.

Drawing on over 30 years of clinical and occupational health experience, Dr Khan shares practical insights into the health challenges affecting men today, the warning signs employers should recognise, and how managers, HR professionals and occupational health specialists can work together to support employees earlier and more effectively.

In this episode, we discuss:
Men's mental health in the workplace
Stress, anxiety and depression at work
Burnout and long-term sickness absence
Presenteeism and hidden signs of distress
Why men often delay asking for help
Suicide awareness and men's mental health
The role of occupational health in supporting employees
Building supportive workplace cultures
Psychological safety and employee wellbeing
Musculoskeletal disorders and workplace health
Cardiovascular health, diabetes and obesity
Prostate cancer awareness and prevention
Hybrid working, remote working and isolation
The importance of manager check-ins and early intervention
The Equality Act, reasonable adjustments and employee support
Health promotion and wellbeing initiatives in the workplace
Why this conversation matters

Many health conditions affecting men are preventable, manageable or treatable when identified early.
Whether it is stress, burnout, anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, diabetes, musculoskeletal conditions or prostate health, early conversations and proactive support can make a significant difference to both health outcomes and workplace performance.

For HR professionals, managers and business leaders, this episode provides practical guidance on recognising warning signs, creating supportive workplace environments and helping employees access the right support before problems escalate.

Dr Khan's key messages
Men's health challenges are more common than many people realise.
Regular health checks, healthy lifestyles and early intervention matter.
Good health, wellbeing and work are interconnected — supporting the whole person leads to better outcomes at work and at home.

A reminder for listeners
If something doesn't feel right, don't wait.

Whether you're concerned about your physical health, mental wellbeing, stress levels or burnout, seeking support early is one of the most important steps you can take.

🎧 Listen now and share with managers, HR professionals, business leaders, colleagues, friends and family.
📩 Questions or topics for future episodes?
Email: [email protected]

#MensHealth #MensHealthWeek #MentalHealthAtWork #WorkplaceWellbeing #OccupationalHealth #EmployeeWellbeing #MentalHealth #Burnout #StressManagement #HR #PeopleManagement #Leadership #PsychologicalSafety #ProstateCancerAwareness #WorkplaceHealth #HRVoicesShow More

Episode 77: Psychological Health at Work – Managing Mental Health, Stress and Remote Working

Episode 77: Psychological Health at Work – Managing Mental Health, ...

Episode 77: Psychological Health at Work – Managing Mental Health, Stress and Remote Working

Host: Mary Asante
Guest: Magnus Kauders, Occupational Health Assessments

In this episode of HR Voices, Mary Asante is joined ...by Magnus Kauders from Occupational Health Assessments for an important conversation about psychological health in the workplace, mental wellbeing, and the growing challenges facing employers, HR professionals and independent consultants.

Mary and Magnus explore the difference between mental health and psychological ill health, the role of occupational health, and why proactive support and early intervention matter more than ever in today’s hybrid and remote working environments.

The conversation also highlights the increasing emotional pressures faced by employees, managers and HR professionals, and why creating psychologically safe workplace cultures is essential for both wellbeing and business performance.

In this episode, we discuss:

Mental health vs psychological ill health
Stress, anxiety and depression in the workplace
When employers should involve occupational health
The role of HR professionals and line managers
Psychological safety at work
Mental health first aid and employee support
Stress risk assessments and employer responsibilities
The impact of remote and hybrid working on wellbeing
Recognising early signs of psychological distress
Why prevention and early intervention matter
Supporting employees before issues escalate
Isolation and loneliness in remote working
The importance of workplace culture and human connection

Resources mentioned:

HSE stress risk assessment guidance
Working Minds campaign resources
Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs)
Mental Health First Aid training

Key message

Psychological health at work is everyone’s responsibility.

Creating supportive workplace cultures, checking in regularly, and addressing concerns early can make a significant difference to employee wellbeing, performance and long-term business health.

Key takeaway from Magnus

If your intuition tells you something is not right with someone, it is always better to ask:
“Are you okay?”

Small conversations and human connection can prevent much bigger problems later.

🎧 Listen now and share with HR professionals, managers, business leaders and anyone supporting people at work.

📩 Questions or topics for future episodes?
Email: [email protected]Show More

Episode 76: Financial Wellbeing at Work – Supporting Employees Through Financial Stress

Episode 76: Financial Wellbeing at Work – Supporting Employees Through ...

Episode 76: Financial Wellbeing at Work – Supporting Employees Through Financial Stress

Host: Mary Asante
Guest: Charlie Goodman, Good Money Guidance Ltd

In this episode of HR Voices, Mary Asante is joined by ...financial wellbeing specialist Charlie Goodman to discuss one of the biggest workplace challenges facing employees and employers today - financial wellbeing.

With rising living costs, financial stress and increasing pressure on household budgets, financial wellbeing has become a major issue for HR professionals, business leaders and SME employers.

Mary and Charlie explore how financial stress impacts employee wellbeing, mental health, productivity and workplace performance, and what organisations can realistically do to support their people.

In this episode, we discuss:

Financial wellbeing and employee mental health
The impact of the cost of living crisis on employees
Why higher earners can still struggle financially
Financial stress in the workplace
How HR professionals and employers can support employee wellbeing
Workplace pensions and employee benefits
The importance of financial education and communication
Budgeting tools and financial wellbeing technology
Why employees often struggle to take financial action
The difference between information and behaviour change
Creating realistic financial wellbeing strategies for SMEs

Resources mentioned:

MoneyHelper
Money Saving Expert (Martin Lewis)
Pension Awareness Week
Workplace pension provider wellbeing resources

Key message

Financial wellbeing is not just about salary.

It is about helping employees build confidence, understanding and healthier financial habits through practical support, communication and accessible resources.

Charlie’s top tips:

Help employees understand the benefits and support already available
Keep financial wellbeing support practical and realistic
Make it easy for employees to access trusted information and tools

🎧 Listen now and share with HR professionals, business leaders and anyone supporting workplace wellbeing.

📩 Questions or future topic suggestions?
Email: [email protected]Show More

Episode 75: You’re Closer Than You Think – Mental Wealth, Drift and Support

Host: Mary Asante Guest: Mike Pagan In this powerful Mental Health ...

Episode 74: What HR Consultants Are Asking Right Now (and What It Means for Your Business)

What are HR consultants really struggling with right now — and what ...

What are HR consultants really struggling with right now — and what does it mean for how you grow your business?

Host: Mary Asante
In this solo episode of HR Voices, Mary ...Asante steps into the role of community voice and thought leader, sharing the most common questions she’s hearing from HR consultants right now — and, more importantly, what sits beneath them.
From winning consistent work to pricing with confidence, this episode goes beyond surface-level advice and explores the patterns, challenges, and mindset shifts shaping the HR consultancy landscape today.

In this episode, we explore:
Why visibility alone isn’t enough to win work
The real reason LinkedIn may not be working for you
Moving from hourly pricing to value-based thinking
When (and how) retainers can support sustainable growth
The importance of clarity in positioning and niche
How to stand out in a crowded HR consultancy market
Managing client expectations and avoiding constant reactivity
Setting boundaries to protect your time, energy, and business

Why this matters
Many HR consultants are busy, but not always building sustainably.
This episode highlights the key shifts needed to move from:
reactive to intentional
visible to valuable
busy to strategic
…and ultimately build a consultancy that is both profitable and sustainable.

Key takeaways
Be intentional, not just active — especially when it comes to visibility and networking
Focus on value, not just delivery — in both pricing and positioning
Protect your time and energy — boundaries are essential for long-term success

A note from Mary
“This episode is based on real conversations across the HRi community. If you’ve been asking yourself similar questions, you’re not alone.”

Get involved
Have a question, challenge, or topic you’d like us to explore?
📧 Email: [email protected]

About HR Voices
HR Voices is brought to you by HR Independents (HRi) — the UK’s professional body supporting independent HR and People professionals.
If you found this episode helpful, please share it with your network and help more HR consultants build stronger, more sustainable businesses.Show More

Episode 73: How to Use LinkedIn to Grow Your Consultancy Business

Host: Mary Asante Guest: Meg Hutson, Marketing Mentor How can LinkedIn ...

Episode 72: Employment Rights in 2025 – What Employers Need to Know

What do the latest employment law changes really mean for your ...

Episode 71: Reflections on Episodes 65–70: Leadership, Consultancy and Building Trust

Reflections on Episodes 65–70: Leadership, Consultancy and Building ...

Reflections on Episodes 65–70: Leadership, Consultancy and Building Trust
🎙 Host: Mary Asante | HR Independents

Episode Overview
In this recap episode of HR Voices, Mary reflects on the key themes and insights ...from Episodes 65–70.

Across these conversations, we revisited some of the most impactful HR Voices episodes, explored leadership through compassionate curiosity, learned from award-winning independent HR consultants, and discussed how podcasting can support business growth and professional visibility.

This episode connects the insights from those discussions and highlights what they tell us about the future of HR leadership, consultancy, and professional influence.

Episodes Featured
Episode 65: Our Top 10 Episodes of All Time – Part 1
Episode 66: Our Top 10 Episodes of All Time – Part 2
Episode 67: The Importance of Compassionate Curiosity as an Essential Leadership Skill (with Andy Green)
Episode 68: What Award-Winning HR Indies Do Differently – Part 1 (Kate Marston & Dylan Roberts)
Episode 69: What Award-Winning HR Indies Do Differently – Part 2 (Adam Pickford & Sophie Dodgson)
Episode 70: How to Use Podcasting to Grow Your HR Consultancy Business (with Gary Jones)

Key Themes from These Conversations
Designing the Future of Work
Flexible working and evolving workplace expectations continue to shape how organisations attract and retain talent.
Leadership Through Curiosity and Connection
Compassionate curiosity helps leaders build trust, strengthen psychological safety, and support more meaningful conversations at work.
Building a Successful HR Consultancy
Award-winning HR consultants emphasise clarity of value, strong client relationships, and continuous professional development.
Visibility and Influence Through Podcasting
Podcasting provides a powerful way to build trust, share expertise, and connect with professional communities.

Key Takeaway
Across these episodes, one theme consistently emerges:
the future of HR is not only about expertise, but also about authenticity, connection, and the ability to build trust.

🎧 If you’ve missed any of the episodes discussed in this recap, we encourage you to go back and listen to the full conversations.

📩 Interested in joining HR Voices as a guest?
Contact: [email protected]Show More

Episode 70: Podcasting as a Growth Tool for HR Consultants

Using Podcasting to Grow Your Business (with Gary Jones, Grow Radio) ...

Using Podcasting to Grow Your Business (with Gary Jones, Grow Radio)

🎙️ Host: Mary Asante
👤 Guest: Gary Jones (Grow Radio) – HR Voices podcast editor & podcasting specialist

Episode Overview

In this behind-the-scenes ...episode, Mary is joined by Gary Jones from Grow Radio — the person who helps edit HR Voices and keeps episodes polished and on schedule.

Together they explore how podcasting can be used as a practical business tool for HR consultants, SMEs, and service-based business owners — not just as “another marketing task,” but as content that can sit at the centre of your brand, visibility, and client engagement.

What You’ll Learn
• What podcasting really means today (and how it has evolved beyond audio)
• The difference between a “true” podcast (audio-first) and podcast content that includes video and clips
• Why podcasting is a powerful tool when time is tight — and how to avoid it becoming “just another thing”
• How podcasting builds trust, authority, and visibility faster than most social media formats
• Whether you need guests (and why solo episodes can be just as effective)
• How to keep a consistent show and still “mix it up” with different episode formats
• Why listening is a crucial skill for hosts (and what most people miss when they focus on scripted questions)
• How podcasts strengthen client relationships and bring out the human side of your consultancy
• Where AI helps in podcast production — and where it can go too far

Key Takeaways
• Put the podcast at the centre of your marketing if you want it to last. If it sits “on top” of everything else, it’s the first thing that gets dropped when you’re busy.
• Podcasting gives you something social media can’t: sustained attention. Gary notes many listeners in the UK give around 20–25 minutes to a single episode — far more time than most social posts ever get.
• You don’t have to launch a podcast to benefit from podcasting. Being a guest is a lower-effort, high-impact way to increase reach and credibility.
• Your voice builds trust. Podcasting helps your audience experience you as a person — not just a brand or service offering.
• Repurposing is the real power move. A single episode can become video clips, a transcript, a blog, newsletter content, and multiple social posts.

Podcasts Formats Mentioned
• Guest interviews
• Solo episodes (especially useful as a backup or core format)
• Co-host conversations
• Panel discussions
• Recap episodes (a signature HR Voices format that helps listeners catch up quickly)

Gary’s Top 3 Tips
1. Listen actively – take notes and decide on one action you’ll take from what you heard
2. Be a guest before you launch – guesting is a high-value way to test podcasting without the workload
3. Invest in the idea, not the gear – you don’t need expensive equipment, but you do need a clear purpose and plan

Call to Action

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with your network and help more people discover HR Voices.

📩 Want to be a guest on HR Voices? Email: [email protected]

Thank you.Show More

Episode 69: What Award Winning HR Indies Do Differently- Part Two