Helen McGuire

One of our big realisations on our journey to help organisations foster a high trust culture, is that DEI plays a BIG role here. We all know that a diverse and inclusive environment, particularly with strong female representation, encourages / fosters: 1. More creative solutions and innovative approaches in problem-solving. 2. A collaborative and supportive workplace where all voices are heard, and everyone can thrive. 3. Enhanced Business Performance, because such teams tend to outperform others in terms of profitability, decision-making, and overall business growth. That is why we Influence Solutions invest a lot of time and effort to: 1. Support organisations like AWARE that are doing fabulous inclusive policy advocacy work, amongst other laudable initiatives. 2. Run specialized training programs aimed at developing leadership skills in women, ensuring they are well-equipped to take on key roles in their organizations. 3. Creating Safe and Supportive Spaces by ensuring our training and organizational culture-building efforts emphasize psychological safety, encouraging women to express themselves freely, build confidence, and overcome workplace challenges. This is us at the @AWARE Ball 2024... and in case you are wondering why the Matrix feel... methinks some of us OD-ed on the Blue Pill. #JustSaying

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This is a personal one for me! 🙈 "Returning to work after maternity leave can feel like a huge transition, but with the right support, it’s possible to find balance." In our latest Life@FT Blog, I share how flexible working and supportive policies have helped me juggle career and family life. Check it out here:

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🌱 Upskilling the Younger Generation: A Game-changer for Corporate Social Responsibility 📈 Amelia Loveday, Head of Partnerships at hundo Discusses how investing in future talent addresses all 5 key CSR components: 🌍 Environmental responsibility 🤝 Social equity 💼 Economic growth 🧭 Ethical leadership 🔗 Stakeholder engagement Discover practical steps to embed upskilling in your CSR strategy. It's not just good business—it's building a sustainable, innovative future. 🚀 https://lnkd.in/e6CFwMgT #CSR #Upskilling #FutureOfWork

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I spoke to Stacey Dooley about motherhood and Parenting Out Loud. Stacey shared some interesting stories about going back to work, filming documentaries around the world and taking her new baby with her. During our chat at CIPD’s Festival of Work, we spoke about the importance of workplaces offering flexibility to new parents. And the need for workplaces to put in place parental leave policies that support both parents as they start this new beautiful but also challenging chapter in life. Our Parenting Out Loud culture change programme supports organisations to build workplace cultures where dads can be loud and proud about their parenting responsibilities at work. This is important for gender equity, mental health, outcomes for our children and retaining and recruiting talented staff. Find out more about the Parenting Out Loud culture change programme here: www.parentingoutloud.com #ParentingOutLoud #EqualParenting #WorkingDads #GenderEquality

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Being BRIEF is tough. It's much harder to get to the point succinctly than to use all the words to describe a change or an org's strategy. It takes thought, teamwork, and many, many iterations. My team and I are just coming off a big body of work where we had to do just this. I'll keep these tips below for next time! #internalcomms

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I'm so excited to be sharing Kaluza's first Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Report. Writing this report was oddly cathartic. It's the first full report we've published at Kaluza and it was great to work closely with Kaija Barnes, Joanna Ballaster and Laura Peakall - as well as our DE&I communities - on pulling together our progress over the last year, updates from our communities, our DE&I data (including our gender and ethnicity pay gaps), and our priorities for the next 12 months, in one easy-to-read report. Importantly, this report is about transparency and honesty. Yes, we're doing well in some areas (since we've published this report we've even won Employer of the Year at the Women in Green Business Awards!) but we're also falling short in others. We're not shying away from where our gaps are and how we're going to improve them - and I think that's what made the writing process so much easier. I'd encourage all companies to publish a yearly DE&I report to help track progress, hold yourselves accountable, and importantly engage your community. It takes all of us to build an inclusive and diverse culture. Find the report here: https://lnkd.in/eP2QxYmv

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Executive Search is an overpriced cartel of people trawling their same old black book. That was my view a few years ago. We were strengthening the executive team and using our own network to find people (the irony!) A board member strongly encouraged me to consider an alternative approach, using an exec search firm. "Adrian you d**k, we're going to find you in a puddle in the corner if you insist on continuing like this, do yourself a favour and get a grown-up to help you" I was a convert. Our chosen firm quickly demonstrated superb... 1. Insight into our culture 2. Understanding of what we needed to move the organisation up a gear 3. Expertise in finding + attracting candidates that created real impact That said, technology only played a tiny part in the process. It was pretty obvious that this was a somewhat hand-cranked process with huge possibilities for efficiency and better outcomes. Now that I'm building an AI tool for Executive Search firms (Kaiya), I try to enable these things by: -Freeing up time to focus on relationships -Making sure Kaiya can find key industry information quickly -Ensuring Kaiya can search LinkedIn and Invenias 100x better than a human These things (I hope) will enable Executive Search Firms to continue blowing people away. What I don't understand, however, is why Executive Search is so unloved by technology vendors?

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💡Talent acquisition must embrace a human-centered approach 👥 whilst also leveraging social and technological advancements to connect meaningfully with candidates across multiple spaces 🌐. Take a few minutes to read this article from the brilliant Luke Grosch at Gaia (formerly Socially Recruited) as Luke explains more. #TalentAcquisition #HumanCentered #FutureOfWork #RecruitmentInnovation #TalentStrategy #HiringTrends #ConnectingPeople #HRTech #EmpathyInRecruitment

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I recently listened to Graeme Hill's insightful talk on how having less can actually boost our happiness. He argues that simplifying our lives is key and shares three rules to help us edit our belongings. First, focus on what we truly need and find joy in those essentials. Second, create multifunctional spaces that make our items more versatile. Finally, embrace living with less for greater freedom and satisfaction. His perspective really got me reflecting on how our environment shapes our happiness! https://lnkd.in/eW3dk72F #LessIsMore #HappinessThroughSimplicity #GrahamHill #Minimalism #JoyInEssentials #MultifunctionalSpaces #DeclutterYourLife #LiveWithLess #FreedomInSimplicity #MindfulLiving

This month's wellness theme at TechChange is *Find Your Spark*, inspired by my colleague Hailey N. and a recent conversation we had around the impact of finding sources of joy (a spark) not only at work but also outside of work, and how doing so can positively influence how we show up at work and in life! Sharing here in case you'd like to join us! Challenge Overview: Discover or reignite a spark in both your work and life outside of work. Embrace moments or activities that bring you joy. Challenge Details: Weekly Themes: Week 1: Work Spark - Set a goal to make progress on a project or task that excites you. Week 2: Life Spark - Take time for an old or explore a new hobby or activity outside of work. Week 3: Gratitude Spark - Write down three things you're grateful for each day. Week 4: Spark Reflection - Reflect on how finding your spark has impacted you! Benefits: Boost your mood, motivation, and creativity. Enhance your sense of fulfillment and well-being. Share Your Journey: If you'd like, share your experiences with us as you move through this challenge. We'd love to hear about what has been bringing you joy at work and in your life! Resources/Ideas: Work Spark: Talk to your manager about projects that you are passionate about. Life Spark: Explore local classes or online resources for new hobbies. Gratitude Spark: Use a gratitude journal or app to track daily moments of gratitude.

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I’ve been thinking (yes dangerous I know) about how we engage with social media, particularly when confronted with extreme viewpoints. Platforms like X were once spaces for challenging ideas and holding people to account. But lately, it feels like many of us in the UK have simply stopped engaging when faced with certain types of content—especially right-wing propaganda that thrives on outrage and polarisation. Take recent posts like Elon Musk’s comments on Tommy Robinson, for example. Where once there might have been robust debate, now the responses are often left to the echo chamber. The energy to argue, to correct, or even to engage feels like it’s evaporating. We’re seeing a quiet exodus to alternative platforms like Bluesky, where the conversations feel more constructive and less performative. This shift raises an important question: What happens when the moderating influence of debate disappears? Are we giving up too soon? Or does social need to become siloed now just like old school media is with the Telegraph and Guardian speaking to its own bubbles?

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Am I invisible? Why can't I see anyone who looks like me? I keep shouting at models on the telly. “She doesn’t need to advertise anti-wrinkle cream – she’s TWENTY. She doesn’t HAVE wrinkles.” N.B. Dying a twenty-something’s hair grey and then putting her in an anti-wrinkle cream ad doesn’t fool anyone. Being older is a gift. For starters, I’m still here on Planet Earth. That’s a big deal. I’ve lived here for quite a while now. I’ve learned lessons, made mistakes. I’ve suffered. I’m strong. I recently refreshed a communications asset we'd been using for a while, ditching all the brand-aligned anonymous teens smiling into their phone screens, and replacing them with our own people. Real people. People that look like us - because they ARE us. Don’t be fooled by my crow’s feet. They’re a badge of honour. Age is to be celebrated, not hidden. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- You might be ironing, walking the dog, taking an exam, leading a team, or rocking out to thousands of fans (I wish). Whatever you’re doing, it’s my belief that we are all extraordinary. 🌻 Communicate with impact 🌟 Let your content shine ⚖️ Balance your time and energy 🦋 Trust, collaborate, give, thrive #worklifebalance #storytelling #culture #communication #employeeengagement #support #age

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Are you using Whatsapp for your internal comms? I'd love to hear how it's working for your brand if so. And if you're looking to learn lots more about the potential and challenges of using Whatsapp for #IC, join Jessica Roberts for this Comms Creatives masterclass to learn: - What’s the business case for WhatsApp and do you need it? - Where could it sit in your channel mix? - What Data Protection requirements should you consider? - An overview of the functions that are useful for internal communicators - Case studies from organisations already using it Hope to see some of you #internalcomms pros there :-) Book here: https://lnkd.in/eNUGjcHy

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How many times have you been asked what you do and you struggle to articulate it in a way that tells your story well and also, people understand how you can help them? I know through going to 100’s of networking events, so many great people struggle with this. Including myself. Why is that an issue? When it comes to business and getting more clients - it’s not good enough to be the best at what you do if a) no one knows nor understands how you can help them b) you can’t articulate what you do Whether you want to elevate your brand and get some high levels media coverage or you just want to build your competence and confidence in speaking to your peers and future clients, this could be the perfect opportunity for you. Check out the amazing Media Training Day below that is already positively impacting some seriously capable people in their businesses. Contact Mirela Sula or Andrea McLean to secure your seat. And be quick as there are only 3 spots left 🎥

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Struggling with conversations? Small talk changed everything for me, in a big way.   Even a few years ago, I was awful at small talk. I would prefer awkward silence over an engaging conversation. but for anyone, making conversation is essential. In this “learn from my life mistakes” story, and I really needed to learn the small talk skill fast.    So, why is small talk such a big deal? Small talk is like an appetizer for long-lasting, meaningful relationships.. It may seem trivial, but small talk has opened doors that even the world’s loudest megaphone couldn’t open.   My mentor had a game-changing idea for mastering small talk: “If you cannot small talk, ask small questions.”   It turns out there’s as much art as science behind engaging small talk. Asking questions shows curiosity and genuine interest. And guess what people love talking about the most? Themselves and their work.   I decided to put this advice into practice.   - “This is a very interesting project. How did you come up with the brilliant idea?” - “What’s your view on this news?” - “Where are you going for your next vacation?” - “How are you doing today?”   It worked like magic! People became very responsive. They smiled and talked about their work, passions, and opinions. Suddenly, awkward silences were replaced by words and laughters.   The best part? I didn’t have to do much—I just asked one simple question. That’s it!   So, if you ever feel an awkward silence creeping in, whether in a meeting or on a date, remember that small talk, by asking a small question, has big potential.

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Today is International Men’s Day. A day that often passes without recognition, overshadowed by societal expectations and debates about masculinity. But today, I want to shine a light on men who strive to be authentic, compassionate role models and valuable community members. To the men who are tolerant, lead, protect, provide, support, partner, and uplift others — you are seen and appreciated. 🎉 🎉 However, society’s ideals of masculinity often place a heavy burden on men, sidelining critical aspects like emotional well-being, anxiety, and coping. Mental health is for everyone. Yet, men frequently lack safe spaces for emotional expression or avenues to seek help, a gap that has serious consequences. According to the WHO, suicide rates among men are 2.6 times higher than those of women As we celebrate the men we love and admire, let’s also commit to creating environments where they feel safe to share their struggles and find support. Together, we can ease the tension caused by the pressure to meet societal expectations and make mental health a priority for all. We need to normalize conversations around men's mental health. #MentalHealth #Movember WHO resource: 👉 https://lnkd.in/d--KHKsD

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"Fair Shake"  is a newly-released book that is shaking things up in the world of #genderequity with important lessons for leaders. Read the messages that experts Naomi Cahn, June Carbone and #NancyLevit have for business. #careers #women #management #womeninbusiness

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On mental health awareness week, I’m reflecting on, and talking openly to as many colleagues, clients and friends about the impact perimenopause and menopause is having on my mental health at times - and how this might play out at work. It’s important to be honest, vulnerable and raise awareness. I never knew and was never prepared for what going through a slightly earlier menopause might bring in terms of all its weird and far from wonderful symptoms. We must help prepare young women for what’s coming so it’s not such a shock! Some days I’m firing on all cylinders and feeling like Happiness Helen - the person that can light up a room and bring her brilliant best version of herself to any situation or task! Some days I’m like I’ve been taken over by aliens or some evil force and drive the people around be crazy! I laugh at my self and some of the crazy things I say, do and think! Some days I feel like I’ve lost my brain and feel mentally paralysed - to the extent I can’t complete even the most simplest of tasks. Some days I want to hide away and reappear when it’s all over! Talking about it, laughing about my multiple “menopausal” personalities and reassuring others not to take any weird behaviours personally - is so important, and I need to do it more. Who knew this stage of life would bring such mental health challenges! (Let’s not even go there about the physical ones ha ha!!) I’m getting things back under control and pleased to say the end is getting closer. I’m looking forward to kick starting my mid-life crisis very soon - sports cars, jumping out of planes, even more thrill rides (and Peloton ones!) Laughter is my tonic - what’s yours? Let’s be kind and considerate to all us women going through an unavoidable phase in our lives 🙌🙌❤️ #menopauseawareness #mentalhealthawareness #itsoknottobeok #laughterismytonic #menopauseatwork #breakthestigma #goodtotalk #imnotanalien

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Have you considered how you might approach working differently? Could you do a side hustle along your main role? Do you know someone in your corporate / organisation who might be thinking of taking the leap? The future of work is a fascinating space and as the boundaries between our personal and professional lives blur, more employees are pursuing entrpreneurial pusuits. I think it's a win-win for all for a range of reasons I'll be chatting with Luke Cook of Cuppa next week, naturally over ☕ . Whether you're an employee considering a side hustle, or a leader wondering how to navigate this trend within your organisation, this conversation is for you! Side Hustle: Embracing Employee Ventures Outside of Work Mums & Co #mumbition #sidehustle #innovation #skills #entrepreneur #passionprojects #startup #corporateworklife

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