The Perception Podcast

How to Thrive in the Workplace with Hayley Johnson


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Hello and welcome to another episode of the Perception Podcast with me, your host Caroline Partridge. Today I talk to the inspirational Hayley Johnson who is an experienced employment lawyer and Senior Associate at Morton Fraser in Edinburgh. In this episode, Hayley recounts the tragedy that drove her decision to embark on a career in law and exposes the early shocking discrimination that she herself faced having an accent and background that didn't fit the perceived notion of a law student. We discuss how employer assumptions can lead to discrimination and what elements are integral to a rewarding and happy employment relationship.
Please join me as we look at our work life through a different lens.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • People look at where you are from, the way you speak, and your appearance and often make assumptions about your ability to learn, etc.
  • Ask your employer what you need to do a good job and be able to take care of your family responsibilities too.
  • Employees need to be balanced too and willingly provide the type of cover the business needs.
  • Employees only raise an official grievance when they feel they have no other choice.
  • It is better for businesses to have more diversity and flexibility.
  • Treat your employment relationship like a personal one, be honest, and don’t be afraid to speak up.
  • Embrace the unknown. Don’t be afraid to apply for a job even if you do meet the entire list of requirements.

BEST MOMENTS
‘We shouldn't be afraid to ask for what we want.’
‘It works both ways.’
‘Nobody sets out to do a bad job… it’s not motivating for them.’
‘These blanket policies that lots of lots of employers have really don't serve.’

ABOUT THE GUEST
Bio
Hayley Johnson is a Senior Associate in Morton Fraser's highly regarded Employment Team. She is an experienced employment lawyer who has an established reputation throughout the UK for advising employees facing discrimination or workplace disputes and negotiating senior executive departures. Described by a previous client as a "strong, savvy, intelligent Pitbull" Hayley is known for her straight-talking approach and for fighting hard to obtain the best possible results for her clients.
Socials
Firm website and LinkedIn below - I am active on LinkedIn.
Hayley Johnson | Morton Fraser Lawyers | Edinburgh and Glasgow (morton-fraser.com)
Hayley Johnson | LinkedIn

ABOUT THE HOST
Bio
Caroline Partridge is a unique and creative individual. She is an actress, puppeteer, educator, and artist with funny bones. She loves a story and is an expert at conveying wit and wisdom with warmth, understanding, and empathy.

CONTACT METHOD
FACEBOOK - https://www.facebook.com/caropartridge
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-partridge-03131520
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/partridge_caroline

PODCAST DESCRIPTION
This is a podcast series about discovery, understanding, revelation, and stories.
How we perceive the world is rooted in everything that has influenced us throughout our lives, emotionally and psychologically. We become the sum of our parts and each of us has our own unique view of the world. 'Vision' truly is an act of interpretation.
In this podcast series through fascinating conversations, I set about trying to understand how we form our perceptions, view different perspectives, and examine how perception has influenced, inspired, or hindered the lives of each of my unique guests. 

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The Perception PodcastBy Caroline Partridge