Shows
Work WondersUsing HR Technology to Improve Employee EngagementSend us a textIn our final episode of our "engagement and retention" series, we also take a look at HR technology and how the right HR tech can enhance employee engagement and retention, or in some cases, hinder these efforts.Technology is rapidly transforming the way we manage people, from performance reviews to employee feedback. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right tools? And how can you ensure that technology is actually helping to build stronger relationships, rather than replacing them? We explore:how technology c...
2024-12-2214 minWork WondersGuest Interview: Divinia Eather from Eather GroupSend us a textIt’s interview time again!In this episode, we spoke with Divinia Eather from Eather Group and it was a great discussion.Eather Group is a family business that has been innovating cost-effective, sustainable solutions to traditional construction issues for 14 years in Western Sydney. Divinia tells us about how their small business has grown from 2 trucks and just the business owner to today having a fleet of 20 trucks and more than 40 employees.They have a strong committment to diversity, equity and inclusion and Divinia shares how...
2024-12-0826 minWork WondersThe role of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in creating an engaged workplaceSend us a textContinuing this season's theme of engagement and retention, in today's episode we explore Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and how it's essential for building an engaged, inclusive environment that not only makes employees feel valued but also improves retention.DEI isn’t just about compliance—it’s about creating a culture where everyone can thrive. Research shows that companies with strong DEI initiatives have higher retention rates and more engaged employees. We discuss:what is DEI why DEI matters how it links to employee engagement and loyaltypractical strategies for foste...
2024-12-0114 minWork WondersCareer Growth - Investing in Employee Growth for Long-Term RetentionSend us a textIn this episode we explore the link between offering career growth and development opportunities to your employees and long-term retention.Employees today expect more than just a paycheck—they’re looking for growth opportunities, new challenges, and the chance to advance in their careers. In fact, studies show that lack of career development is one of the top reasons people leave their jobs. So we will equip you with the tools to create these opportunities, even if you are a small business or have limited resources.You can f...
2024-11-2415 minWork WondersThe link between Mental Health, Wellbeing, and Employee LoyaltySend us a textIn this episode, we discuss employee wellbeing and how it’s linked to mental health and employee loyalty. We explore the types of wellbeing initiatives companies are adopting, and how these efforts are directly influencing employee loyalty. In today’s competitive job market, loyalty is a two-way street, and investing in well-being can make all the difference in retaining your top talent so we also offer practical strategies for you to enhance or introduce wellbeing programs in your business. You can find the show notes for this episode here
2024-11-1722 minWork WondersHow Hybrid and Remote Work Models are changing Engagement and Retention StrategiesSend us a textIn this episode we discuss a topic that’s more relevant than ever—how hybrid and remote work models are reshaping engagement and retention strategies. With more companies embracing flexible work models, it’s crucial to understand how these changes are impacting employee engagement and how we can retain top talent in a virtual or hybrid world.The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of remote and hybrid work, and with this shift comes new challenges—and opportunities—for organizations to engage and retain their workforce. We explore:the impact of t...
2024-11-1015 minWork WondersBuilding a Culture of Recognition and the impact on engagementSend us a textIn today's episode we’re exploring a crucial aspect of workplace culture—building a culture of recognition. Recognition is more than just a pat on the back—it’s a key driver of employee satisfaction and engagement. Whether you’re a leader, an HR professional, or someone passionate about creating a positive workplace, this episode is packed with insights to help you understand the power of recognition.We’ll cover:benefits of recognitionhow it impacts employee morale and retentionexplore different types of recognition programsoffer tips on how to integrate rec...
2024-11-0315 minWork WondersGuest Interview: Dr Belinda Chapman, Co-Founder of Quantal BioscienceSend us a textIt’s interview time again!In this episode, we spoke with Dr Belinda Chapman, Co-Founder and CEO of Quantal Bioscience and it was a great discussion. Quantal Bioscience is a private research laboratory focussed on doing good big things with tiny microbes, across the food, agriculture and education sectors. Belinda herself has more than 25 years’ experience as a research microbiologist, and has led, managed, developed and inspired small teams of 5-20 research scientists for most of the past 20 years, and in a range of workplaces, from state and federal gove...
2024-10-2723 minWork WondersLeadership’s Role in Retention - how it can either foster or hinder employee retentionSend us a textIn this episode we explore how leadership influences employee retention. We discuss why retaining talent is so important, the role leaders play, and how different leadership styles can either keep your employees happy or push them away.We'll be breaking this down into three main sections: why retention mattershow leadership affects retention, and how each leadership style is differentshare strategies to help you keep your top talent engaged and committedYou can find the show notes for this episode here Would you like to submit a question t...
2024-10-2024 minWork WondersThe Science of Engagement - Understanding what truly drives employee engagementSend us a textWelcome back to the Work Wonders Podcast! We are trying something new...in this season we will focus on engagement and retention and go into this topic in depth.In today's episode, we're exploring a topic that's crucial for every organisation—employee engagement. We’ll unpack what it is, why it’s so important, and how you can foster it in your workplace.We breaking this down into three main sections:defining employee engagementunderstanding its impact and exploring actionable strategies to boost itYou can find the...
2024-10-1415 minWork WondersSNEAK PEEK! Season 6 coming soonSend us a textSeason 6 begins in just 3 weeks!Angela & Susan take a quick look at what we have in store for you.We're back after the Public Holiday on Monday 14 October 2024 - with more special guests and hot topics, including your questions.You won't want to miss it!You can find the show notes for this episode here Would you like to submit a question to the show? Let us know on our website or via LinkedIn.Brought to you by Aster HR, the...
2024-09-2202 minWork WondersS5 Ep 12: HR mistakes you can make without even knowing itSend us a textIn our final episode of the season, we again explore some HR mistakes you could be making...without even knowing it! We discuss 5 recruitment themed things and we'll tell you how you can avoid it going too far.Overlooking internal talentNot asking the right interview questions Not being aware of bias (both ways)Not planning the onboarding processNot being specific about expectations You don't know what you don't know...so we're here to help discuss these with you so your business isn't at risk of not being compliant.
2024-06-0222 minWork WondersGuest Interview - Martin Wren, CEO of NOVA EmploymentSend us a textIt’s interview time again! In this episode, we spoke with Martin Wren, CEO of Nova Employment and it was a great discussion. You will not be able to walk away from this episode without feeling inspired!Nova Employment is a Sydney based disability employment service. They've supported the vocational aspirations of young people with disability for well over 30 years. Martin opens up about his own personal experience, and gives great examples of what NOVA have done to support their clients and employers that they've worked with....
2024-05-2634 minWork WondersS5 Ep 10: How to avoid an unfair dismissal claimSend us a textIn this episode, we delve into the complex world of unfair dismissal, a critical issue that we hear many business owners and managers think about, even worry about. We explains what constitutes unfair dismissal, the legal framework surrounding it, and the rights of both employees and employers. Importantly we tell you just what we do with our clients to avoid unfair dismissal claims. Tune in to learn about the steps to take if you find yourself in this situation and what help to seek. You can...
2024-05-1929 minWork WondersS5 Ep 9: When restructuring is neededSend us a textHave you ever faced the daunting task of navigating a business's restructuring or pondered the right way to handle potential redundancies? In this episode, we dig into the complexities of reshaping a company. We're not just talking about the why, but the how—offering strategic insights on realigning roles and departments. From retraining to transferring staff, we dissect the sensitive process of restructuring with a focus on maintaining operations.We then unpack the crucial notion that it's the role that becomes redundant, not the person, and the importance of a t...
2024-05-1220 minWork WondersS5 Ep 8: Special Guest - Lisa La MaitreSend us a textIn this episode we spoke with Lisa LaMaitre. She has developed, owned, and operated four businesses in four different industries, in the Canberra region, over the last 31 years. Listen in as Lisa shares with us her journey and what she's learnt over that time in people management. Lisa is a Business Connect Business Advisor with Enterprise Plus.To access FREE support in your business through the Business Connect program, you can book a time with Lisa hereYou can find the sh...
2024-05-0525 minWork WondersS5 Ep 7: How to engage a consultantSend us a textSomething a little different this episode!There could be many reasons you engage an external consultant for your business - think of an Accountant, a Lawyer, Business Coach, Web Developer, SEO expert or even a HR Consultant like us at Aster HR.There is a definate business strategy behind paying someone external to your business, as opposed to hiring an employee with this specialist skill.In this episode we take you through some of the decisions you need to make in order to choose the right fit...
2024-04-2815 minWork WondersS5 Ep 6: Trust is keySend us a textIn this episode, we dive into the critical topic of trust in the workplace. We explore what trust is, why it's essential, how to create and rebuild it when needed.Trust is the belief that colleagues will act with integrity and competence, doing what they say they will do. Creating a high-trust environment involves collaboration, effective communication, and psychological safety where employees feel safe to speak up.You can find the show notes for this episode here Would you like to submit a question to...
2024-04-2115 minWork WondersS5 Ep 5: Special Guest - Sheila CabacunganSend us a textIn this episode we spoke with Sheila Cabacungan, founder of The Wealth Forum and Co-Founder of Mentor to Mentor Connect & Learn.We plan a lot of things in business, we plan our finances, our goals, even our holidays…but as a business owner, have you set a plan for the end of your business or the end point for yourself in your business?This was such a great conversation that gave some many nuggets of gold as the conversation unfolded, that even our guest walked away with some light bu...
2024-04-1428 minWork WondersS5 Ep 4: Volunteers are part of the team tooSend us a textIn this episode we discuss and compare the differences (and similarities) between paid employees and volunteers. We discover there is a lot the same, especially in the areas like:Recruitment & Iinduction Accountability/performance Work Health & Safety (including psychosocial safety) By treating volunteers with the same level of professionalism and support as employees, organisations can cultivate a culture of inclusivity, collaboration, and mutual respect.You can find the show notes for this episode here Would you like to submit a question to the sh...
2024-04-0717 minWork WondersS5 Ep 3: Special Guest - Bill CarsonSend us a textIn this episode we met Bill Carson, founder of Inspire Learning. We had a great conversation where we discussed:* The difference between empathy & sympathy * Is the term ‘mental health’ good or bad?* Practical ways to be empathetic as a manager* And the new legislation around psychological safetyYou can follow Inspire Learning on: Facebook TwitterLinkedInBill is giving Work Wonders listeners the first 2 chapters of his book "Safe Conversations for Work and Life" for FREE! Click on the link to o...
2024-03-2431 minWork WondersS5 Ep 2: What you need to know about the 'Closing Loopholes' BillSend us a textThe Closing Loopholes Bill is another change in employment legislation in Australia. In this episode, we discuss what you need to know.* What has changed* What exceptions apply* What this means for your businessYou can find the show notes for this episode here Would you like to submit a question to the show? Let us know on our website or via LinkedIn.Brought to you by Aster HR, the Work Wonders Podcast is hosted by Angela Gauci & Susan Rochester and i...
2024-03-1721 minWork WondersS5 Ep 1: Your HR questions answeredSend us a textWelcome to Season 5!We started this podcast to answer your questions about managing people. And since we've begun, we have received some interesting questions. We're using the very first episode of our new season to give you some answers.Here's what you have asked:I know what hourly rate to pay my employee, but what else should I be paying them (if anything)?Can I pay higher than the award rate?Do I need an employee handbook?What questions can I ask to get the most out of...
2024-03-1023 minWork WondersBONUS: What's coming up in Season 5?Send us a textSeason 5 begins in just 2 weeks!Angela & Susan take a quick look at what we have in store for you.We're back on Monday 11 March 2024 - with more special guests and hot topics, including your questions.You won't want to miss it!About this podcastThe Work Wonder podcast is brought to you by Aster HR.We focus on keeping it simple so we can give you practical answers to all the things you're wondering about. We also...
2024-02-2602 minWork WondersS4 Ep12: Reflecting on 2023 and looking ahead to 2024 HR trendsSend us a textAs the year is almost at an end and a new one about to begin...do you take this time to review what you have achieved in your business this year? And make plans for next year?In this episode of the podcast, we did just that. We reflect on what we have achieved and also talk about the trends coming in to 2024.Merry Christmas from Angela and Susan at the Work Wonders podcast.We will back with season 5 in 2024!You can find the show...
2023-12-1020 min