I love a challenge. So, when I saw Steve Browne’s tweet, calling on #HR bloggers to participate in #HRMixTape2019, I was intrigued. The more I read about the challenge, first started by Mark Hendy in 2017, I decided I had to participate. Here are three reasons why:
- I quote songs all the time. I find myself quoting song lyrics or famous movie lines when I facilitate training. These telegraphic examples from pop culture are a great way to connect with others.
- Who doesn’t love a mixed tape? I’m an 80’s girl. A mixed tape is a fun way to share a bit of your personality, philosophy and good humour.
- I realized I might be in the #HR blog club. I’m shy to acknowledge this because I’m not an HR professional. I’m a conversation coach and trainer who specializes in converting “cranky” communicators into self-aware conversationalists. For the past year, I have written several blog posts for HR publications and associations. Looking back on the numerous topics I have written about, I suspect I have achieved at least honourary #HR blog club status.
So, here is my #HRMixTape2019:
When You Say Nothing At All – Alison Krauss
Some leaders think it’s better to say nothing than to make a mistake when talking with their staff. Let’s be honest, more often than not this is an excuse to avoid an awkward conversation. Putting off an important chat just makes things worse for everyone.
Talk to Me – Stevie Nicks
Leaders can be reluctant to take advice from HR professionals – even when the solution seems obvious. I have a lot of respect for HR folks who give their best advice and wait for their colleagues or executive leadership to follow through on what needs to be done.
Not Ready to Make Nice – Dixie Chicks
Employees are not superhuman. Being on the receiving end of an “uncivil” conversation can be very difficult to get over. As adults, we are taught to ‘get it go’ when someone is rude to us at work or at home. But, science has clearly shown the brain can’t distinguish between physical and social plain.
Someone Like You – Van Morrison
Compliments should not be rationed out like sugar during wartime. Communication is a two way street. Leaders will get back what they give out. Given what we know about the importance of creating a psychologically safe workplace, offering meaningful feedback (including compliments) to staff and colleagues is a cost of doing business that should not be optional.
Auld Lang Syne – Dougie MacLean
I hope HR professionals remember the wonderful moments they have truly helped someone in need. Some of best work HR (and communications) people accomplish happens off the grid behind closed doors. Try to hang on to these memories when you need a boost.