In this episode, Jivan delves into the complex world of tariffs and their far-reaching impacts on businesses, HR practices, and everyday people. Through the lens of John Taylor, a third-generation owner of a UK manufacturing company, the episode explores how recent tariff spikes have affected costs, workforce morale, and local economies. Jivan also discusses the role of HR in navigating these challenges, highlighting strategies for workforce planning, employee well-being, and talent retention.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Tariffs are taxes imposed by governments on imported goods to protect local industries. While they may seem beneficial in theory, they often lead to increased costs for businesses and consumers, ultimately slowing down economic growth.

• The introduction of tariffs can significantly affect businesses like John Taylor's manufacturing company, leading to increased costs, reduced orders, layoffs, and a decline in employee morale. This creates a ripple effect that impacts local economies and consumer confidence.

• HR plays a critical role during times of economic uncertainty caused by tariffs. Effective communication, redundancy consultations, and support for affected employees are essential. HR should also advocate for flexible working arrangements and scenario planning to mitigate the impact of tariffs.

• HR professionals should implement strategies such as workforce planning, wellbeing initiatives, and talent retention efforts to support employees during challenging times. This includes financial literacy sessions and internal mobility pathways to keep talent engaged.

• HR should be involved in policy discussions to highlight how tariffs affect people, not just the bottom line. By ensuring HR is part of strategic conversations, organisations can better prepare for the implications of tariffs on their workforce and overall business health.

BEST MOMENTS

"Tariffs do tend to backfire. They can actually increase domestic production by about 15% to 25%, but they can also suppress overall GDP growth by 0.4% to 1.2%."

"Tariffs isn't just a tax, it's actually a trigger."

"The local pain that he's experiencing around his costs has global echoes because he's had to lay off, sadly, 30% of his factory staff."

"If you think about the skills that are going to have to be employed in order to do those jobs, the jobs are going to end up costing businesses more."

"You can never communicate enough in a situation like this."

HOST BIO

Jivan Dempsey has first hand experience of workplace toxicity and bad boss behaviour. Triggered by the #MeToo movement she was compelled to talk about her experiences in her early career, groomed and assaulted by a boss at work, his subsequent aggression and bullying behaviour which impacted her work performance, mental health and eventually cost her a job she'd loved.

Listeners are drawn to her raw honesty and insightful reflections on change and resilience. Her book, "The HR Change Manager's Handbook" and collaboration on "Can't Break Me," attest to her change and transformation expertise and dedication to empowering others - from someone who's been in the trenches and emerged stronger.

As a seasoned HR professional, consultant, psychologist and speaker, she offers bespoke consultancy and programmes to help companies navigate HR transformation that delivers a better employee experience and cultural shifts to create healthier, happier, and more inclusive workplaces for all.

Please connect with her on Linked In:

Jivan Dempsey FCIPD GMBPsS | LinkedIn

Or send her an email at:

jivan@fiverivers-consulting.com

www.fiverivers-consulting.com

HR Change Manager’s Handbook: The 3 Step Guide To Managing HR Transformation: https://amzn.eu/d/drvToPv

Are you working in a toxic environment? Take our free quiz to find out

https://bit.ly/3BPZXSR

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode, Jivan engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Jeremy Campbell, CEO of Black Isle Group and creator of Nudge AI. They delve into the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on workplace dynamics, particularly in the realms of human resources (HR) and learning and development (L&D). Jeremy shares insights on how AI can enhance productivity, streamline HR processes, and facilitate behavioural change through innovative tools like Nudge AI.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• AI is not about replacing humans but rather about enhancing human capabilities. It allows individuals to evolve alongside technology, focusing on critical thinking and leadership while automating routine tasks.

• Effective learning and development require small, incremental actions. Tools like Nudge AI help embed learning by providing real-time support and practice opportunities, making it easier for individuals to apply what they've learned in real-world scenarios.

• AI can significantly streamline HR processes, from automating administrative tasks to enhancing recruitment and engagement strategies. However, the human element remains crucial, as AI cannot replicate the nuances of interpersonal communication and decision-making.

• Organisations must embrace AI to stay competitive. Those who resist or fail to integrate AI into their strategies risk being left behind as the technology continues to advance and reshape industries.

• To effectively leverage AI, individuals and organisations should invest in training and resources that enhance understanding and confidence in using AI tools. Practical applications and hands-on experience are essential for maximising the benefits of AI in the workplace.

BEST MOMENTS

"AI isn't about robots taking over. It's about humans evolving alongside tech, upskilling, experimenting, and leaning into what we do best."

"The whole principle of Nudge is really facing the problem that most learning development has, which is that we forget 75% of what we learn within seven days."

"AI doesn't know what it's saying. It's an algorithm, basically searching information and producing it for us."

"If you think about the legal profession, anything that's really content heavy but can easily be searched, I think those industries are going to be hit by AI."

"You either embrace it, get involved, understand it, and understand the nuance of it, or you risk being left behind."

HOST BIO

Jivan Dempsey has first hand experience of workplace toxicity and bad boss behaviour. Triggered by the #MeToo movement she was compelled to talk about her experiences in her early career, groomed and assaulted by a boss at work, his subsequent aggression and bullying behaviour which impacted her work performance, mental health and eventually cost her a job she'd loved.

Listeners are drawn to her raw honesty and insightful reflections on change and resilience. Her book, "The HR Change Manager's Handbook" and collaboration on "Can't Break Me," attest to her change and transformation expertise and dedication to empowering others - from someone who's been in the trenches and emerged stronger.

As a seasoned HR professional, consultant, psychologist and speaker, she offers bespoke consultancy and programmes to help companies navigate HR transformation that delivers a better employee experience and cultural shifts to create healthier, happier, and more inclusive workplaces for all.

Please connect with her on Linked In:

Jivan Dempsey FCIPD GMBPsS | LinkedIn

Or send her an email at:

jivan@fiverivers-consulting.com

www.fiverivers-consulting.com

HR Change Manager’s Handbook: The 3 Step Guide To Managing HR Transformation: https://amzn.eu/d/drvToPv

Are you working in a toxic environment? Take our free quiz to find out

https://bit.ly/3BPZXSR

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/