What shaped how you work – and is it time to update it?

We all bring a work origin story into the workplace — shaped by technology, leadership, and the world we grew up in. This article explores how those stories influence behaviour, why generational tension isn’t about attitude, and whether it’s time to let go of narratives that no longer serve us.

What my CliftonStrengths report taught me about how I work – and why it matters

I first completed my CliftonStrengths assessment back in 2019 as part of a leadership masterclass through Business Chicks. Coming from a HR and recruitment background I was more than familiar with the range of personality / aptitude / capability tools out there. But this? This was different. What I didn’t expect was how accurately the […]

Why employee engagement is a business strategy, not an HR initiative

Alright, let’s talk about employee engagement. Not the tick a box kind. Not the annual “how are you feeling?” survey that gets talked about for a few weeks and no clear next step. I’m talking about engagement that actually moves the dial on retention, performance and profit. Because the culture we create really does matter. […]

The Enshitification of Recruitment

Recruitment has been cheapened by shortcuts, hype language, and a loss of craft. Let’s call it what it is. Recruitment has been quietly enshitified. Not everywhere. Not by everyone. But often enough that candidates feel it, hiring managers are frustrated, and businesses are paying for it in ways they don’t always connect back to recruitment. […]

2026 Is Calling: The In’s and Out’s of Intentional Workplaces

Every year comes with its own noise.New trends. New language. New promises about what work should look like next. 2026 doesn’t need more of that. What it does need is honesty about what’s actually working – and what isn’t. Across the conversations we’re having with business owners, leaders, local governments and NFPs’ & their boards, […]

Still Blaming the Skills Shortage?

Still blaming the skills shortage? Sure, it’s a factor. A big one. But so many elements play into why businesses struggle — particularly SMEs — and the skills shortage is just one piece of that puzzle. The very real and stark reality is, if I waved my magic wand and solved the skills shortage tomorrow, […]

You’re Paying for the Job, Not the Person

Let’s get one thing straight — you’re paying for the job, not the person. If you’ve ever caught yourself thinking, “They’re not really worth that much,” it’s time for a rethink. Because if someone isn’t worth the going rate for the role, then they probably shouldn’t be in the role. Simple as that. Every job has a […]

Think burnout is just for the high flyers? Think again

When we hear the word burnout, most people picture the corporate high-flyer. Long hours. Suitcases rolling through airports. A diary crammed tighter than my pants on Christmas Day. But here’s the thing: burnout doesn’t discriminate. It’s not just for CEOs and executives. It shows up in teachers, tradies, not-for-profit staff, hospitality workers — anywhere people […]