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The battle to attract and retain high-quality early talent has never been more challenging. With 95% of organizations acknowledging that early career candidates quickly move on when expectations aren't met, understanding what truly drives these professionals has become crucial for business success.

Dr. Amanda Potter, the Chief Psychology Officer sits down with Angela Malik to discuss groundbreaking research that challenges common assumptions about what early career talent wants from employers. Their conversation reveals surprising disconnects between organizational perceptions and reality—like the fact that while companies believe early talent demands remote work, 74% are actually willing to consider office-based roles when properly engaged.

The discussion dives deep into neuroscience, exploring how the still-developing prefrontal cortex of young professionals impacts their decision-making. This physiological reality helps explain why some accept job offers only to withdraw when better opportunities arise—it's not about negotiating tactics but about impulsivity and emotional responses to uncertainty.

Perhaps most compelling is the research on what truly matters to early talent: purpose alignment, authentic sustainability commitments, and meaningful development opportunities. With 88% researching an organization's diversity initiatives before applying, this generation votes with their applications, gravitating toward companies that demonstrate genuine social responsibility.

The conversation also tackles the critical gap in line management training, with data showing 82% of new managers receive zero formal training despite being the primary connection between early talent and the organization. This deficiency directly impacts retention, as the research confirms: "You don't quit a job, you quit a boss."

Whether you're struggling with early talent recruitment, facing retention challenges, or simply wanting to better understand the expectations of the next generation of professionals, this episode provides evidence-based strategies that go beyond assumptions and address what young talent actually wants. Listen for practical recommendations that can transform your approach to early career talent management.

Episodes are available here https://www.thecpo.co.uk/

To follow Zircon on LinkedIn and to be first to hear about podcasts, publications and news, please like and follow us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zircon-consulting-ltd/

To access the research white papers mentioned in this and other podcasts, please go to: https://zircon-mc.co.uk/zircon-white-papers.php

For more information about the BeTalent suite of tools and platform please contact: [email protected]

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In this episode, Rev. Mike Wright from Network Rail joins award-winning Business Psychologist Amanda Potter and co-host Caitlin Cooper to explore what makes high-performing teams thrive. We dive into Project Speed, a post-pandemic initiative that boosted efficiency and reduced costs, saving £1.5 billion! We also examine how cognitive diversity enhances problem-solving when the need to balance essential yet competing priorities is crucial to success.

Additionally, we highlight the vital role of psychological safety—creating an environment where people feel safe to speak up leads to greater innovation and stronger results. 

Discover how our work together helps to drive continuous engagement and open dialogue at Network Rail as we continue to define the factors that inhibit and enable high performance.

Join us as we unpack these key themes and the power of teamwork in driving organisational success. Listen, reflect, and subscribe!

(Sound effects provided by Freesound & BBC Sound Effects Library)

Episodes are available here https://www.thecpo.co.uk/

To follow Zircon on LinkedIn and to be first to hear about podcasts, publications and news, please like and follow us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zircon-consulting-ltd/

To access the research white papers mentioned in this and other podcasts, please go to: https://zircon-mc.co.uk/zircon-white-papers.php

For more information about the BeTalent suite of tools and platform please contact: [email protected]

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What if your brain's craving for predictability is the real reason behind your stress? In our latest episode, we explore the complex emotions tied to change fatigue in our fast-paced world driven by relentless technological advancements. With AI reshaping the landscape and social media perpetually altering trends, the pressure to adapt can seem insurmountable. We unravel the psychological and physiological impacts of this constant flux, touching on how our intrinsic desire for stability clashes with the modern necessity for change, leading to a pervasive sense of exhaustion.

Join us as we navigate the nuances of change fatigue within organizations and the personal sphere, with insights rooted in Brené Brown's research on resilience and psychological safety. Through a compelling case study, we highlight how effective communication can transform resistance into acceptance, creating environments that foster adaptability and decision-making. We also delve into the neuroscience behind stress, revealing the taxing effects of continuous demands on the prefrontal cortex and the stress-induced grip of the amygdala.

But it’s not all doom and gloom—our discussion offers practical strategies for coping, inspired by tales of personal resilience and Robert Sapolsky's insights into stress. Hear how mindfulness and self-care can counteract the wear of change fatigue, bringing balance and compassion into our lives. Special thanks to our interns Izzy Jones, Emiolaey, and Gracie Weston, whose valuable research contributions enriched this episode. We hope you find the insights as enlightening as we did, and look forward to your thoughts on managing change in today's ever-evolving landscape.

Episodes are available here https://www.thecpo.co.uk/

To follow Zircon on LinkedIn and to be first to hear about podcasts, publications and news, please like and follow us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zircon-consulting-ltd/

To access the research white papers mentioned in this and other podcasts, please go to: https://zircon-mc.co.uk/zircon-white-papers.php

For more information about the BeTalent suite of tools and platform please contact: [email protected]

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Dr. Amanda Potter, Chartered Psychologist and CEO of Zircon BeTalent, and Jig Ramji, an experienced Chief Talent Officer, join us for a compelling discussion on the transformative power of big data in talent management. Listen as we unpack the parallels between sports analytics and organizational performance, revealing why data integration is as crucial to talent strategy as it is to financial success. Jig challenges the conventional belief that more data is inherently better, illustrating the importance of data variety and context in unlocking meaningful insights. 

Discover the complexities of implementing talent and leadership models within organizations as we examine the pitfalls of relying too heavily on standardized approaches. We emphasize the necessity of cognitive and cultural diversity and the importance of gathering diverse data points throughout the employee lifecycle. This approach ensures a clear understanding of organizational capabilities while maintaining agility to align with strategic goals. Our discussion underscores the value of a balanced framework, offering guidance and clarity for all stakeholders.

Explore the evolving tech industry landscape and the challenges of overcoming personal biases in interpreting financial and people data. We highlight the need for thoughtful talent models and objective assessments to mitigate bias and enhance workforce engagement. As Amanda and Jig delve into the concept of unconscious bias, they advocate for individual accountability in recognizing and managing biases. The conversation concludes with a focus on the importance of data discipline, emphasizing the transformative potential of rigorous data analysis while cautioning against over-reliance on psychometrics. Join us for a journey through the strategies that can drive significant change and performance improvements in organizations.

The conversation highlights the significance of cohesive data frameworks while addressing the challenges of bias and complacency in decision-making.

• Emphasising the need for robust data use in talent strategies
• Defining big data and its implications for organisations
• Balancing internal and external data perspectives
• Addressing the risk of over-relying on off-the-shelf talent models
• The importance of data discipline in collecting actionable insights
• Challenging complacency amidst continuous organisational growth
• Discussing biases in the interpretation of psychometric data
• Advocating for curiosity and humility in leadership practices
• Urging talent professionals to act as catalysts for change

Episodes are available here https://www.thecpo.co.uk/

To follow Zircon on LinkedIn and to be first to hear about podcasts, publications and news, please like and follow us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zircon-consulting-ltd/

To access the research white papers mentioned in this and other podcasts, please go to: https://zircon-mc.co.uk/zircon-white-papers.php

For more information about the BeTalent suite of tools and platform please contact: [email protected]

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What if one small change could transform not only your life but also contribute positively to the world? Join us as Lou Kiwanuka shares her inspiring journey of embracing sustainable change, one step at a time. Starting with a personal commitment to make one change per month since January 2020, Lou's approach has led to profound personal growth and a shift from simply reducing negative impacts to actively pursuing positive contributions. Through her experiences, Lou illustrates how these incremental adjustments can create a ripple effect, ultimately fostering a more connected and meaningful existence.

Explore the power of the One Change strategy as it transcends personal boundaries and ignites innovation within the professional realm. Originating from a need to transform the events industry, this strategy encourages both individuals and organizations to adopt a single change each month, promoting values like accessibility, kindness, and mindful living. 

With insights from Angela Malik and Dr. Amanda Potter, we delve into the psychological aspects that make small, sustainable habits effective, and how they can shift focus from material wants to meaningful connections and experiences.

From the art of embracing simplicity to the science of habit formation, this episode is packed with practical tools and strategies. Learn about the "99 things" list and the "wheel of privilege" as methods to prioritize goals and broaden the concept of sustainability to include societal elements. As we gear up for 2025 with renewed energy and commitment to change, we invite you to consider how these transformative ideas can enhance your own life and the world around you. Engage with us and share your experiences as we collectively embark on this journey of resilience and positive impact.

Episodes are available here https://www.thecpo.co.uk/

To follow Zircon on LinkedIn and to be first to hear about podcasts, publications and news, please like and follow us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zircon-consulting-ltd/

To access the research white papers mentioned in this and other podcasts, please go to: https://zircon-mc.co.uk/zircon-white-papers.php

For more information about the BeTalent suite of tools and platform please contact: [email protected]

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Unlock the secrets to creating a truly inclusive workplace with insights from Laura McLean, an HR and Talent leader at Santander. Tune in to discover how you can foster an environment where trust and innovation flourish, and employees feel empowered to bring their full selves to work. Laura, alongside Dr Amanda Potter, Chartered Psychologist and CEO of Zircon BeTalent, dissects the core elements of psychological safety, demonstrating their pivotal role in leadership development and the evolving landscape of today's workforce. 

You'll learn about the transformative power of small, intentional changes that can yield significant improvements in organizational culture. Just like compound interest, these adjustments magnify over time, leading to better customer experiences and fostering innovation. We'll explore the internal climates that shape customer service and discuss strategies for embedding psychological safety at both micro and macro levels. A key focus is on recognising and addressing unconscious biases, promoting true cognitive and neurodiversity within the workplace.

Even well-intentioned leaders can inadvertently create toxic environments. Our conversation highlights the importance of authenticity, candid communication, and the balancing act between professional focus and personal connection. We'll share personal anecdotes to illustrate how perceptions can be influenced by external appearances and how a supportive environment encourages productivity under pressure. Whether you're an HR leader, psychologist, or simply someone looking to enhance workplace culture, this episode provides practical advice on raising awareness and integrating small practices that build psychological safety across all levels of an organisation.

Episodes are available here https://www.thecpo.co.uk/

To follow Zircon on LinkedIn and to be first to hear about podcasts, publications and news, please like and follow us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zircon-consulting-ltd/

To access the research white papers mentioned in this and other podcasts, please go to: https://zircon-mc.co.uk/zircon-white-papers.php

For more information about the BeTalent suite of tools and platform please contact: [email protected]

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Unlock the secrets to optimal sleep with Dr. Amanda Potter, a distinguished Psychologist and CEO of Zircon BeTalent, as she guides us through the intricate dance of our nightly rest. Discover how seven to nine hours of uninterrupted sleep can revolutionize your emotional well-being and sharpen your cognitive edge, enhancing creativity, problem-solving, and memory retention. Dr. Potter also sheds light on the substantial economic toll of sleep-related fatigue, underscoring the importance of regular sleep patterns and the power daylight holds over our natural rhythms.

Journey through the enigmatic stages of REM and non-REM sleep, where dreams intertwine with memory consolidation and learning is fortified. You'll find out how neurotransmitters like GABA, alongside melatonin and adenosine, orchestrate this nightly symphony. Dr. Potter emphasizes how morning light resets our biological clocks, and why feelings of contentment can be a catalyst for better sleep. Our conversation also covers the profound effects of outdoor activities and exercise on reducing cortisol levels and naturally boosting melatonin.

Arm yourself with practical strategies to master sleep hygiene and establish empowering routines. Learn how caffeine affects your alertness and sleep patterns, and grasp the importance of consistent sleep and wake times. We explore the benefits of using dim, yellow lights in the evening while embracing natural sunlight in the morning. Discover tips for maintaining an ideal bedroom environment, timing meals and naps wisely, and using breathing techniques to ease into relaxation, equipping you to reclaim your nights and boost your overall well-being.

Episodes are available here https://www.thecpo.co.uk/

To follow Zircon on LinkedIn and to be first to hear about podcasts, publications and news, please like and follow us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zircon-consulting-ltd/

To access the research white papers mentioned in this and other podcasts, please go to: https://zircon-mc.co.uk/zircon-white-papers.php

For more information about the BeTalent suite of tools and platform please contact: [email protected]

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Unlock the secrets of psychological assessments with our esteemed guest, Ben Williams from Sten10, as he joins Dr Amanda Potter, CEO of Zircon, for an in-depth discussion on the tools that shape development and recruitment. Discover why validity and reliability are not just buzzwords but essential elements that ensure these assessments accurately measure what they're supposed to. Together, we unravel the intricacies of state versus trait-based assessments, such as resilience and emotional intelligence, and debate the delicate balancing act between inclusivity and fairness in assessment design.

Journey with us as we dissect the methodologies behind personality assessments, from the often-debated graphology to the impact of gamified assessments on candidate experience. Learn how to navigate the tension between questionnaire length and psychometric robustness without compromising the candidate's perception of fairness. We also explore the challenges neurodiverse candidates face with situational judgment tests and the importance of utilizing normative approaches to make assessments more inclusive.

Finally, brace yourself for a deep dive into the intersection of innovation, ethics, and technology in psychological assessments. Witness the ongoing debate over the use of AI in personality assessments and the ethical considerations surrounding social media data in recruitment. This episode is a testament to the transformative power of psychological assessments, underpinned by scientific rigor and cultural sensitivity, as they continue to evolve in our rapidly changing world.

Episodes are available here https://www.thecpo.co.uk/

To follow Zircon on LinkedIn and to be first to hear about podcasts, publications and news, please like and follow us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zircon-consulting-ltd/

To access the research white papers mentioned in this and other podcasts, please go to: https://zircon-mc.co.uk/zircon-white-papers.php

For more information about the BeTalent suite of tools and platform please contact: [email protected]

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Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Amanda Potter, Chartered Psychologist and CEO of Zircon, as we navigate the complexities of the entrepreneurial mindset. Ever wondered what differentiates a freelancer from a true entrepreneur? Discover how visionaries like Simon Rogerson from Octopus Energy harness their relentless energy and forward-thinking approach to fill market gaps with scalable business ideas. We'll also confront the challenges women face in entrepreneurship, examining why only a third of global businesses are women-owned and exploring solutions to bridge this leadership gap.

What drives an entrepreneur to move toward opportunities rather than flee from less favourable situations? The answer lies in a proactive mindset. Drawing from personal experiences and observations, we shed light on how upbringing can shape entrepreneurial tendencies. We distinguish freelancers from entrepreneurs in terms of opportunity identification and venture creation and delve into intrapreneurship—where innovation thrives within established companies. The conversation does not shy away from the real-world hurdles faced by psychologists entering the consulting field, emphasizing the need for psychological safety to foster innovation.

Unleash your entrepreneurial spirit by exploring the intersection of personality traits and successful business practices. Inspired by an interview with Simon Rogerson, we discuss how traits like curiosity, learning agility, and the ability to embrace failure are vital for success. Whether the entrepreneurial mindset is a state or a trait is a question worth pondering, as we explore how passion and risk-taking, are crucial elements of entrepreneurship. The thrill of bringing ideas to life, making a global impact, and stepping into discomfort to foster growth is at the heart of our discussion, offering insights into how you can transform your business and life.

Episodes are available here https://www.thecpo.co.uk/

To follow Zircon on LinkedIn and to be first to hear about podcasts, publications and news, please like and follow us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zircon-consulting-ltd/

To access the research white papers mentioned in this and other podcasts, please go to: https://zircon-mc.co.uk/zircon-white-papers.php

For more information about the BeTalent suite of tools and platform please contact: [email protected]

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Unlock the hidden strengths of introversion in the workplace! Join us as Amanda Potter, CEO of Zircon, breaks down the often misunderstood traits of introverts and extroverts, backed by insights from Jung, Eysenck, and psychological models like the Big Five and MBTI. We'll dissect how biased language can shape our views and why emotional intelligence is crucial, not just for professionals but for everyone aiming to create more inclusive environments.

Ever wondered why extroverts seem to dominate organizational cultures? Amanda and I shed light on the importance of fostering psychological safety and inclusive communication to ensure that quieter voices are heard. Contrary to popular belief, introverts bring invaluable observational skills and concise contributions that can transform team dynamics. Don't miss our discussion on the myths surrounding extroverts in sales roles and how a balanced approach can yield more effective and diverse teams.

Curious about the neuroscience behind introversion and extroversion? This episode dives into how different environments and social settings impact each personality type, from dopamine responses to overstimulation. We also challenge the stereotypes around introverts and extroverts in sales and management roles, highlighting real-life examples and the significance of self-awareness and emotional intelligence in leadership. Whether you're an introvert, extrovert, or somewhere in between, this episode offers a deeper understanding of how to harness your unique strengths in the workplace. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that champions the value of diverse personality traits.

Episodes are available here https://www.thecpo.co.uk/

To follow Zircon on LinkedIn and to be first to hear about podcasts, publications and news, please like and follow us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zircon-consulting-ltd/

To access the research white papers mentioned in this and other podcasts, please go to: https://zircon-mc.co.uk/zircon-white-papers.php

For more information about the BeTalent suite of tools and platform please contact: [email protected]