Work Wonders

Send a text

In this episode we met Bill Carson, founder of Inspire Learning.

We had a great conversation where we discussed:
* The difference between empathy & sympathy
* Is the term ‘mental health’ good or bad?
* Practical ways to be empathetic as a manager
* And the new legislation around psychological safety

You can follow Inspire Learning on:
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn

Bill is giving Work Wonders listeners the first 2 chapters of his book "Safe Conversations for Work and Life" for FREE! Click on the link to our show notes to download. 

You can find the show notes for this episode here

Would you like to submit a question to the show? Let us know on our website or via LinkedIn.

Brought to you by Aster HR, the Work Wonders Podcast is hosted by Angela Gauci & Susan Rochester and is recorded at Launch Pad at Western Sydney University.

All information or advice included in this podcast is general, has been developed as a starting point for your business, and should be tailored to your specific requirements. It should not be considered legal advice. We have made every attempt to ensure the accuracy and currency of this information at the time of recording. However, references to things like employment laws are subject to change. For specific advice relating to your business, please get in touch with us.

Send a text

The Closing Loopholes Bill is another change in employment legislation in Australia. 

In this episode, we discuss what you need to know.

* What has changed
* What exceptions apply
* What this means for your business

You can find the show notes for this episode here

Would you like to submit a question to the show? Let us know on our website or via LinkedIn.

Brought to you by Aster HR, the Work Wonders Podcast is hosted by Angela Gauci & Susan Rochester and is recorded at Launch Pad at Western Sydney University.

All information or advice included in this podcast is general, has been developed as a starting point for your business, and should be tailored to your specific requirements. It should not be considered legal advice. We have made every attempt to ensure the accuracy and currency of this information at the time of recording. However, references to things like employment laws are subject to change. For specific advice relating to your business, please get in touch with us.

Send a text

Welcome to Season 5!

We started this podcast to answer your questions about managing people. And since we've begun, we have received some interesting questions. We're using the very first episode of our new season to give you some answers.

Here's what you have asked:

1. I know what hourly rate to pay my employee, but what else should I be paying them (if anything)?
2. Can I pay higher than the award rate?
3. Do I need an employee handbook?
4. What questions can I ask to get the most out of job interviews?
5. My business partner and disagreed when interviewing for new employees recently. What should we do?
6. There is so much to HR. How do I know I am doing all the right things?

You can find the show notes for this episode here

Would you like to submit a question to the show? Let us know on our website or via LinkedIn.

Brought to you by Aster HR, the Work Wonders Podcast is hosted by Angela Gauci & Susan Rochester and is recorded at Launch Pad at Western Sydney University.

All information or advice included in this podcast is general, has been developed as a starting point for your business, and should be tailored to your specific requirements. It should not be considered legal advice. We have made every attempt to ensure the accuracy and currency of this information at the time of recording. However, references to things like employment laws are subject to change. For specific advice relating to your business, please get in touch with us.

Send a text

Season 5 begins in just 2 weeks!

Angela & Susan take a quick look at what we have in store for you.

We're back on Monday 11 March 2024 - with more special guests and hot topics, including your questions.

You won't want to miss it!

About this podcast

The Work Wonder podcast is brought to you by Aster HR.

We focus on keeping it simple so we can give you practical answers to all the things you're wondering about. We also bring you guests regularly to give you a wider perspective on all things, HR and business, we're here to help you grow your business. 

We know your time is valuable. So our episodes are short and sharp and full of practical tips that you can use today. 

We know that people in your business are your greatest resource and looking after them will look after your business. 

We'll bring you up-to-date information on legal updates, and best practices, and provide you with guidance to recruit, engage, and retain a great team of staff in your small business. 

About your hosts

Angela Gauci and Susan Rochester from Aster HR are your hosts.

Angela's HR career has spanned across many industries and types of organizations from small to medium size. Like Susan, Angela's expertise covers all the areas of the employment relationship and she too has qualifications in business, HR and Accounting.

Susan has qualifications in business and HR and takes great pleasure in being able to take the pain out of managing people. She's worked with a variety of small to medium businesses and knows how and where to find simple answers to complex problems.
 
Both have a strong belief that good HR management can benefit any business, no matter the size. With 40 years combined experience, Angela & Susan can guide you with simple and effective tools and coaching to help make people management much more managable.

Get ready for more great content in Season 5!

You can find the show notes for this episode here

Would you like to submit a question to the show? Let us know on our website or via LinkedIn.

Brought to you by Aster HR, the Work Wonders Podcast is hosted by Angela Gauci & Susan Rochester and is recorded at Launch Pad at Western Sydney University.

All information or advice included in this podcast is general, has been developed as a starting point for your business, and should be tailored to your specific requirements. It should not be considered legal advice. We have made every attempt to ensure the accuracy and currency of this information at the time of recording. However, references to things like employment laws are subject to change. For specific advice relating to your business, please get in touch with us.

Send a text

As the year is almost at an end and a new one about to begin...do you take this time to review what you have achieved in your business this year? And make plans for next year?

In this episode of the podcast, we did just that. We reflect on what we have achieved and also talk about the trends coming in to 2024.

Merry Christmas from Angela and Susan at the Work Wonders podcast.

We will back with season 5 in 2024!

You can find the show notes for this episode here

Would you like to submit a question to the show? Let us know on our website or via LinkedIn.

Brought to you by Aster HR, the Work Wonders Podcast is hosted by Angela Gauci & Susan Rochester and is recorded at Launch Pad at Western Sydney University.

All information or advice included in this podcast is general, has been developed as a starting point for your business, and should be tailored to your specific requirements. It should not be considered legal advice. We have made every attempt to ensure the accuracy and currency of this information at the time of recording. However, references to things like employment laws are subject to change. For specific advice relating to your business, please get in touch with us.

Send a text

Ever wondered if a simple shift in understanding could revolutionize your workplace? Well, wonder no more! Join us on this episode of the Work Wonders podcast, where hosts Angela and Susan unravel the mysteries of leadership and management, transforming your professional playbook.

In the Spotlight: Manager vs. Leader
Angela and Susan don't just talk the talk; they walk you through the roles. With some role-playing fun, they dissect the manager's reliance on expertise and one-way communication, contrasting it with a leader's knack for open dialogue and team inspiration. It's not just theory; it's a live demonstration of workplace dynamics.

Myth-Busting Leadership: A Managerial Showcase
Ready to challenge what you thought you knew? We aim our crosshairs at common misconceptions, revealing how managers and leaders bring distinct flavours to the workplace. Managers, the unsung heroes of operations, wield their expertise, while leaders craft a symphony of open communication that propels teams to excellence.

Peeling Back the Layers: Traits of Mastery
What makes a manager truly competent, and what sets an inspiring leader apart? Angela and Susan delve into the unique characteristics, highlighting the art of emotional intelligence and the transformative power of cultivating a safe work environment. It's a roadmap to honing your own leadership style.

Your Reflective Moment: Crafting a Well-Rounded Approach
Ready for a personal touch? We invite you to reflect on your own style and consider a remix. Angela and Susan suggest infusing a bit of leader or manager finesse into your approach, creating a harmony that resonates throughout your professional journey.

A Treasure Trove for Workplace Champions
This episode isn't just another chat; it's a treasure trove of practical wisdom. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding leader, the insights packed here are invaluable. Don't miss your chance to elevate your management and leadership game. Tune in and embark on your journey to workplace excellence!

You can find the show notes for this episode here

Would you like to submit a question to the show? Let us know on our website or via LinkedIn.

Brought to you by Aster HR, the Work Wonders Podcast is hosted by Angela Gauci & Susan Rochester and is recorded at Launch Pad at Western Sydney University.

All information or advice included in this podcast is general, has been developed as a starting point for your business, and should be tailored to your specific requirements. It should not be considered legal advice. We have made every attempt to ensure the accuracy and currency of this information at the time of recording. However, references to things like employment laws are subject to change. For specific advice relating to your business, please get in touch with us.

Send a text

Imagine a workplace where everyone feels safe, where the lines of communication are wide open and the structure is crystal clear. It's when psychosocial safety is prioritized. In this discussion, we break down the complexities of psychosocial safety, a fundamental concept in Australian workplace law, pivotal to every business. Unveiling the potential hazards such as high job demands, lack of support and unclear roles, we reveal how these can lead to physical or psychological harm if not addressed effectively. 

How do you manage psychosocial hazards once they've been identified? You might be surprised to discover how these hazards can interact and amplify risks. 

You can find the show notes for this episode here

Would you like to submit a question to the show? Let us know on our website or via LinkedIn.

Brought to you by Aster HR, the Work Wonders Podcast is hosted by Angela Gauci & Susan Rochester and is recorded at Launch Pad at Western Sydney University.

All information or advice included in this podcast is general, has been developed as a starting point for your business, and should be tailored to your specific requirements. It should not be considered legal advice. We have made every attempt to ensure the accuracy and currency of this information at the time of recording. However, references to things like employment laws are subject to change. For specific advice relating to your business, please get in touch with us.

Send a text

The Secure Jobs Better Pay legislation is the biggest change in employment legislation in Australia in over a decade. 

There is a lot involved, but in this episode we break it down to what you need to be prepared for next.  

Specifically we explore new limitations being brought in around Fixed Term Contracts from 6 Dec 2023. We discuss:
* What a Fixed Term Contract is
* What had changed
* What exceptions apply
* What this means for your business

You can find the show notes for this episode here

Would you like to submit a question to the show? Let us know on our website or via LinkedIn.

Brought to you by Aster HR, the Work Wonders Podcast is hosted by Angela Gauci & Susan Rochester and is recorded at Launch Pad at Western Sydney University.

All information or advice included in this podcast is general, has been developed as a starting point for your business, and should be tailored to your specific requirements. It should not be considered legal advice. We have made every attempt to ensure the accuracy and currency of this information at the time of recording. However, references to things like employment laws are subject to change. For specific advice relating to your business, please get in touch with us.

Send a text

Have you heard the talk about going back to the office now? Have you heard stories of how many offices are vacant whilst we've become comfortable working remotely?

In this episode we discuss the question - do we need to go back to the office? and..why?

We give you practical tips to help negotiate this with your team if you plan to return back to the office full-time or engaging new staff who may have ane expectation of flexability to work remotely.

(00:06) The Future of Work
Employers' evolving attitudes towards remote work and the return to the office, from safety and productivity to acceptance and a shift towards a hybrid model.

(11:51) Managing People in a Hybrid Workplace
Managing a hybrid workplace requires teaching employees to switch off, ensuring safety and confidentiality, and focusing on outcomes and trust.

(19:00) Benefits of in-Person Office Interaction
In-person interactions, communication, and a welcoming environment are important for a successful transition back to the office.

You can find the show notes for this episode here

Would you like to submit a question to the show? Let us know on our website or via LinkedIn.

Brought to you by Aster HR, the Work Wonders Podcast is hosted by Angela Gauci & Susan Rochester and is recorded at Launch Pad at Western Sydney University.

All information or advice included in this podcast is general, has been developed as a starting point for your business, and should be tailored to your specific requirements. It should not be considered legal advice. We have made every attempt to ensure the accuracy and currency of this information at the time of recording. However, references to things like employment laws are subject to change. For specific advice relating to your business, please get in touch with us.

Send a text

In this episode we met James Parnwell, Director of The Online Co and host of the 'Digital Marketing That Puts People First' podcast.

We had a great conversation where we discussed:
* Using values in your business for more than your website!
* Managing a remote workforce
* Benefits of a healthy culture for more than just your team
* And employing family members.

Check them out on Facebook or LinkedIn or listen to James' podcast here.

The Online Co are giving Work Wonders listeners a free 30 minute session to discuss digital marketing for your business. Simply fill out the 3-question "Health Check" on their website.

You can find the show notes for this episode here

Would you like to submit a question to the show? Let us know on our website or via LinkedIn.

Brought to you by Aster HR, the Work Wonders Podcast is hosted by Angela Gauci & Susan Rochester and is recorded at Launch Pad at Western Sydney University.

All information or advice included in this podcast is general, has been developed as a starting point for your business, and should be tailored to your specific requirements. It should not be considered legal advice. We have made every attempt to ensure the accuracy and currency of this information at the time of recording. However, references to things like employment laws are subject to change. For specific advice relating to your business, please get in touch with us.