News: Half of pubic sector workers got zilch in April pay settlement
Over half of public sector workers received zero pay increases in April 2012 pay settlements, according to XpertHR data covering 29 reviews. This contrasts sharply with the private sector, where only 15.1% of deals resulted in no wage rises, with median pay awards reaching 2.5%.
Blog: Three steps to help you improve your work-life balance
Achieve better work-life balance by defining what balance means for you, taking immediate action on one priority area, and regularly reviewing your plan. These three steps help you manage time effectively and build sustainable habits without overwhelming yourself.
Blog: Are you serious about adopting a 70:20:10 development model?
The 70:20:10 development model allocates 70% of learning to on-the-job experience, 20% to coaching and mentoring, and 10% to formal training. However, many organizations enthusiastically adopt this framework without implementing the practical support structures needed for success, such as embedding learning into performance management and creating genuine action learning opportunities.
So you want to be…head of learning and development?
Head of L&D roles are rare and highly specialized positions, typically found in banking and professional services. Unlike the common misconception, these leaders focus on developing strategic learning initiatives rather than delivering training directly, and require significant senior development experience within a specific industry.
Talent Spot: Stephanie Murphy, Interim HR manager
Stephanie Murphy discovered her passion for HR after years exploring different careers, from working with animals to airline cabin crew. Starting as a commercial assistant at Serco 12 years ago, she pursued Open University qualifications and eventually became an HR manager, completing her MBA in 2011.
News: Workplace disenchantment hits “crisis” levels
Workplace disenchantment has reached crisis levels as employers struggle with below-inflation wage increases. A CIPD survey found 51% of employers cannot predict salary increases this year, while those offering raises average just 2.6%—below the 3% inflation rate. HR professionals must focus on employee engagement and financial support beyond pay to retain talent.
News: Govt regional pay plans risk breach with Whitehall
Government plans to introduce regional pay rates for civil servants risk escalating tensions with unions, which argue the move would freeze wages for public sector workers outside London and the south east while damaging local economies.
In a Nutshell: Five tips when rolling out HR software
Learn five essential tips for successfully rolling out HR software: keep implementations simple, thoroughly test across devices, provide ongoing training and support, regularly review and gather user feedback, and use the transition as an opportunity to reset performance management goals.
Blog: Does social learning really work?
Research shows people often avoid seeking help from colleagues due to fear of losing face, despite internal knowledge sources being more valuable than external ones. Building social relationships and informal networks within organizations can lower this perceived cost and encourage employees to tap into their organization’s rich internal expertise.
Blog: Charity partnerships – Benefitting from philanthropy
Charity partnerships offer businesses mutual benefits beyond traditional donations, including employee engagement, teambuilding, community reputation building, and specialist support on workplace health issues. Strategic CSR initiatives can improve staff performance, retention, and organizational values alignment.
Talking Point: Recruitment – The only way is digital?
Digital recruitment technologies like video, social media, and mobile platforms are transforming how companies attract talent. These tools enable HR professionals to move beyond posting jobs to building employer brands and engaging potential candidates more effectively across multiple channels.
How would global experience help my career?
Global experience enhances HR careers by developing cross-cultural competencies and international expertise increasingly required by employers. International exposure strengthens your marketability, broadens professional knowledge across different HR legislation and practices, and demonstrates adaptability in diverse workplaces.
A typical HRD: Part 2 – The third sector
The third sector’s HR landscape has evolved significantly, with HR directors now expected to be commercially savvy business leaders who drive organizational growth, rather than administrative traditionalists. Economic pressures have transformed charity roles into demanding positions where HR professionals can make substantial impact by combining business acumen with genuine commitment to organizational values.
News: Union requests clarification on whether HP to cut 30,000 jobs
The Public and Commercial Services Union has demanded urgent discussions with HP over reported plans to cut 30,000 jobs globally, seeking clarity on the impact to UK members. The union opposes the redundancies and vows to resist compulsory layoffs.
News: Stringfellows’ dancer goes back to tribunal
A judge has ruled that Nadine Quashie, a topless dancer at London’s Stringfellows club, was an employee rather than self-employed, overturning a previous tribunal decision. The case will now return to employment tribunal to address Stringfellows’ cross-appeal regarding alleged false tax and benefit claims.
News: Cable blasts Beecroft Report as “complete nonsense”
Business Secretary Vince Cable has condemned the Beecroft Report’s employment reform proposals as “complete nonsense,” arguing that no-fault dismissal and weakened worker protections would create fear rather than boost hiring and economic growth.
News: Major UK employers sign up to CIPD youth work experience campaign
Leading UK employers including Marks & Spencer, Nestle, and Deloitte have joined the CIPD’s “Learning to Work” campaign to provide young people with work experience and improve employability. The initiative aims to tackle structural youth unemployment by strengthening engagement between employers and schools, and expanding access to vocational training and mentoring programs.
Blog: 10 recommendations for boosting employee engagement
Discover 10 practical recommendations for boosting employee engagement in your organization. This guide clarifies what employee engagement really is—a daily commitment and cultural mindset, not just a survey or HR initiative—and provides actionable strategies for sustainable improvement.
Video Interview: Bright Purple Academy aims to inspire next generation business talent
Bright Purple Academy, a training scheme launched by top Scottish recruitment company Bright Purple, inspires next-generation business talent through apprenticeships, mentorship, and real-world experience. The program provides young people with valuable skills and career opportunities while addressing the shortage of leadership talent in business.
Blog: Social media – Opportunity or danger?
Social media presents both opportunities and challenges for HR and organizations. While some companies successfully use social platforms externally to boost customer engagement and loyalty, many struggle to embrace the same strategies internally with employees, often restricting access instead of fostering digital collaboration.
