Working On It

Welcome to another episode of "Working On It: The Modern Workplace Handbook"!

Today, hosts Lauren Spearman and Molly Johnson-Jones dive into the topic of "Getting Noticed." They will discuss the importance of being recognised in the workplace, strategies for increasing visibility, and the impact of remote or hybrid work environments.

From practical tips to insightful discussions, this episode promises to provide valuable guidance for individuals looking to enhance their career and work-life balance. T

une in as Lauren, a Salary Transparency Advocate, and Creative Director, and Molly, CEO and Co-Founder of Flexa Careers, share their expert insights and inspiring stories on navigating today's evolving work environment.

00:00 Being visible at work really matters now. Whether you're in the office or working remotely, people trust and recognise you more when they can see you. It's the same online too—if you're active and share your achievements, you'll get noticed. Just remember, people tend to assume you're not working as hard if they don't see what you're doing.

05:46 Managers, don't just listen to the loudest!

09:37 Building strong friendships at work is super valuable.

12:24 Managers should have their team's back and make sure they get noticed, especially in big organisations where it's easy to get lost. It's all about giving credit where it's due and making sure everyone gets their moment to shine.

14:33 Finding value in sharing info across teams.

16:49 Get comfortable speaking in public for success.

19:46 Networking involves going to events and building an online presence.

23:55 Popping into the office now and then can help you build good relationships. It's a good way to get noticed and be top of mind when it comes to promotions or exciting opportunities.

28:13 It's totally cool to just be happy and chill without constantly seeking approval. Women have a hard time saying no and end up saying yes to everything.

31:23 Good leaders give credit and lead by example.

35:21 Before you try to get noticed, consider how others see you.

37:17 Think about your value and get feedback.

39:23 Work isn't just about doing your tasks. It's also about managing relationships, using soft skills, and putting yourself out there for recognition.

42:36 Hit us up on Instagram or email. Share your story!

Lauren Spearman brings a wealth of experience from her career in advertising, social media, and brand strategy to her current role advocating for salary transparency and flexible working conditions. Her journey, marked by her advocacy on TikTok against unfair hiring practices, has made her a champion for creating better work environments. Lauren’s unique perspective as a freelancer, balancing work with personal commitments, adds a rich, authentic layer to every discussion.

https://www.tiktok.com/@spearmanlauren

https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenspearman/

Molly Johnson-Jones, at the helm of Flexa Careers, is transforming how companies and individuals approach flexible working. With a platform that empowers millions to find roles that fit their desired working environments, Molly’s insights on the future of work, DEI, and employer branding are indispensable for anyone looking to navigate or shape the modern workplace. Her frequent speaking engagements on these topics bring cutting-edge perspectives and actionable advice to the podcast.

https://www.tiktok.com/@mollyjohnsonjones

https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-johnson-jones/

Sign up to receive the latest updates, episodes and more delivered right to your inbox at workingonit.show

Copyright 2026 Fairey Tale Productions

Mentioned in this episode:

Feeling Stuck in Your Career? The Hustle Factory Can Help

Struggling to make your next career move? You're not alone. The Hustle Factory offers a unique blend of self-paced courses and one-on-one career coaching to help you navigate job transitions with confidence. Whether you're actively job hunting or planning your next step, their programs provide expert guidance and a supportive community to make the process less overwhelming. Mention this podcast to get 10% off your program and start your journey today!

🎵 Discover All About the Music with composer Neil Brand!

Discover new music and rediscover old favourites as Neil and his famous guests — including Mark Kermode, Annika Rice, Bruno Tonioli, and Keith Primer Jones — explore the songs that have shaped their lives. With Neil at the piano, each episode uncovers what makes this music so powerful, personal, and unforgettable.

AATM

Welcome to Working On It: The Modern Workplace Handbook!

In today's episode, hosts Lauren Spearman and Molly Johnson-Jones dive into the complex world of pay rises and employee compensation. They share personal experiences, expert insights, and actionable tips on how to navigate the delicate balance of asking for a pay raise, understanding individual values in the workplace, and exploring alternative forms of compensation.

From negotiating strategies to the concept of "work love languages," this episode delves into the modern realities of seeking fair compensation and recognition at work.

Join us as we unravel the intricacies of pay rises and equip you with the tools to thrive in today's evolving work environment.

00:00 Juggling personal needs and business profits with inflation.

04:12 Dealing with staff turnover, start-up benefits, and pay tweaks.

09:06 Work situations are frustrating, need proactive measures.

10:52 Ask for a raise with proof of performance.

14:09 Figuring out your worth by networking with folks.

19:34 Approach with positivity, exceed targets, and contribute positively. Avoid negativity.

23:09 Asking for a raise? Have a performance review.

24:33 Plan pay raises carefully to avoid budget problems.

28:30 Economic downturn means pay freeze makes sense.

30:30 Dealing with work uncertainty and feeling undervalued.

34:47 Wanting recognition, rewards, and professional growth is key. Getting acknowledged, receiving bonuses, and feeling valued matter more than a tiny salary difference.

37:15 Check in after 6 months, get feedback, and consider job change.

40:38 Handle conversation well, avoid ultimatums, and get feedback. Prepare benchmarks, and you're good to go.

Lauren Spearman brings a wealth of experience from her career in advertising, social media, and brand strategy, to her current role advocating for salary transparency and flexible working conditions. Her journey, marked by her advocacy on TikTok against unfair hiring practices, has made her a champion for creating better work environments. Lauren’s unique perspective as a freelancer, balancing work with personal commitments, adds a rich, authentic layer to every discussion.

https://www.tiktok.com/@spearmanlauren

https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenspearman/

Molly Johnson-Jones, at the helm of Flexa Careers, is transforming how companies and individuals approach flexible working. With a platform that empowers millions to find roles that fit their desired working environments, Molly’s insights on the future of work, DEI, and employer branding are indispensable for anyone looking to navigate or shape the modern workplace. Her frequent speaking engagements on these topics bring cutting-edge perspectives and actionable advice to the podcast.

https://www.tiktok.com/@mollyjohnsonjones

https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-johnson-jones/

Sign up to receive the latest updates, episodes and more delivered right to your inbox at workingonit.show

Copyright 2026 Fairey Tale Productions

Mentioned in this episode:

🎵 Discover All About the Music with composer Neil Brand!

Discover new music and rediscover old favourites as Neil and his famous guests — including Mark Kermode, Annika Rice, Bruno Tonioli, and Keith Primer Jones — explore the songs that have shaped their lives. With Neil at the piano, each episode uncovers what makes this music so powerful, personal, and unforgettable.

AATM

Feeling Stuck in Your Career? The Hustle Factory Can Help

Struggling to make your next career move? You're not alone. The Hustle Factory offers a unique blend of self-paced courses and one-on-one career coaching to help you navigate job transitions with confidence. Whether you're actively job hunting or planning your next step, their programs provide expert guidance and a supportive community to make the process less overwhelming. Mention this podcast to get 10% off your program and start your journey today!

Hey there! Welcome to "Working On It: The Modern Workplace Handbook," your one-stop-shop for all things related to the wild world of work. We're Lauren Spearman and Molly Johnson-Jones, your hosts who have been around the career block a few times, having navigated everything from advertising and social media to advocating for better work conditions and flexible employment.

Each week, we dish out the latest insights, tips, and real talk about crafting a killer CV, dealing with office drama, and understanding your workplace rights. So, whether you're climbing the career ladder, managing a team, or on the hunt for a new gig, we've got the down-low to help you succeed in today's work landscape.

Join us and master the future of work, one episode at a time on "Working On It: Let's dive in and level up your work life together!

00:00 People change careers because they're not sure, they're figuring themselves out, and they want a better work-life balance.

03:20 Sure, transferable skills can help you switch careers, but don't expect to jump into any job just because of them. It's all about managing expectations.

08:49 Yeah, balancing work and parenting is tough. Some jobs just don't work with being parents, but companies can do more to help out. It sucks when good people have to leave because of a lack of flexibility.

12:03 Meet people at events, try startups. Broaden horizons.

14:45 Actions speak louder than words when job hunting.

16:43 Don't just blast out job applications. Engage! Stand out with follow-ups and engagement.

21:28 Making a career change? Prep and flexibility matter. Feeling ready is rare, but savings or a part-time gig can help. If you're lucky, just go for it without overthinking. Career ideas stick around.

23:53 Make sure to fill skill gaps, avoid mass applying! And watch out for age bias!

25:38 Wanting to use past experience in a new role can be frustrating when you're still learning the ropes.

30:30 Approach your career and finances with objectivity.

32:07 Show you're ready, don't wait for promotion.

35:16 Take the leap and hit us up on Instagram for a chat!

Lauren Spearman brings a wealth of experience from her career in advertising, social media, and brand strategy, to her current role advocating for salary transparency and flexible working conditions. Her journey, marked by her advocacy on TikTok against unfair hiring practices, has made her a champion for creating better work environments. Lauren’s unique perspective as a freelancer, balancing work with personal commitments, adds a rich, authentic layer to every discussion.

https://www.tiktok.com/@spearmanlauren

https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenspearman/

Molly Johnson-Jones, at the helm of Flexa Careers, is transforming how companies and individuals approach flexible working. With a platform that empowers millions to find roles that fit their desired working environments, Molly’s insights on the future of work, DEI, and employer branding are indispensable for anyone looking to navigate or shape the modern workplace. Her frequent speaking engagements on these topics bring cutting-edge perspectives and actionable advice to the podcast.

https://www.tiktok.com/@mollyjohnsonjones

https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-johnson-jones/

Sign up to receive the latest updates, episodes and more delivered right to your inbox at workingonit.show

Copyright 2026 Fairey Tale Productions

Mentioned in this episode:

🎵 Discover All About the Music with composer Neil Brand!

Discover new music and rediscover old favourites as Neil and his famous guests — including Mark Kermode, Annika Rice, Bruno Tonioli, and Keith Primer Jones — explore the songs that have shaped their lives. With Neil at the piano, each episode uncovers what makes this music so powerful, personal, and unforgettable.

AATM

Feeling Stuck in Your Career? The Hustle Factory Can Help

Struggling to make your next career move? You're not alone. The Hustle Factory offers a unique blend of self-paced courses and one-on-one career coaching to help you navigate job transitions with confidence. Whether you're actively job hunting or planning your next step, their programs provide expert guidance and a supportive community to make the process less overwhelming. Mention this podcast to get 10% off your program and start your journey today!

Hey there, and welcome to Working On It: The Modern Workplace Handbook! I'm Lauren Spearman, and I'm here with Molly Johnson-Jones.

In today's episode, "Conflict," we're diving into the nitty-gritty of handling disagreements in the workplace. We'll be sharing our real-life experiences and giving you practical tips on managing conflicts, embracing diverse opinions, and creating a fab work environment.

If you're all about mastering the future of work, join us on Working On It for some awesome insights.

00:00 Work conflicts happen due to personality clashes, competitiveness, and communication issues.

06:28 Being open, finding solutions in conflicts, communication.

08:24 Rocked a bright yellow blazer on BBC!

10:16 Work gripe taught me about personal pettiness.

14:23 Less apologising, more gratitude at work now!

18:07 Unfair treatment at work led to me quitting.

21:24 Repeating behaviour to undermine is workplace bullying.

23:47 Figure out what you want, deal with conflict.

26:58 Colleague rocks at making ideas sound sharp.

30:53 Navigating conflict as a leader and personally.

33:54 Handle team conflict directly through mediation or facilitation.

37:33 Adapting and giving helpful feedback in interactions.

39:38 Differentiating between work and personal conflicts.

Lauren Spearman brings a wealth of experience from her career in advertising, social media, and brand strategy, to her current role advocating for salary transparency and flexible working conditions. Her journey, marked by her advocacy on TikTok against unfair hiring practices, has made her a champion for creating better work environments. Lauren’s unique perspective as a freelancer, balancing work with personal commitments, adds a rich, authentic layer to every discussion.

https://www.tiktok.com/@spearmanlauren

https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenspearman/

Molly Johnson-Jones, at the helm of Flexa Careers, is transforming how companies and individuals approach flexible working. With a platform that empowers millions to find roles that fit their desired working environments, Molly’s insights on the future of work, DEI, and employer branding are indispensable for anyone looking to navigate or shape the modern workplace. Her frequent speaking engagements on these topics bring cutting-edge perspectives and actionable advice to the podcast.

https://www.tiktok.com/@mollyjohnsonjones

https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-johnson-jones/

Sign up to receive the latest updates, episodes and more delivered right to your inbox at workingonit.show

Copyright 2026 Fairey Tale Productions

Mentioned in this episode:

🎵 Discover All About the Music with composer Neil Brand!

Discover new music and rediscover old favourites as Neil and his famous guests — including Mark Kermode, Annika Rice, Bruno Tonioli, and Keith Primer Jones — explore the songs that have shaped their lives. With Neil at the piano, each episode uncovers what makes this music so powerful, personal, and unforgettable.

AATM

Feeling Stuck in Your Career? The Hustle Factory Can Help

Struggling to make your next career move? You're not alone. The Hustle Factory offers a unique blend of self-paced courses and one-on-one career coaching to help you navigate job transitions with confidence. Whether you're actively job hunting or planning your next step, their programs provide expert guidance and a supportive community to make the process less overwhelming. Mention this podcast to get 10% off your program and start your journey today!

Hey there! In this episode of Working On It, Lauren and Molly tackle the tough topic of getting fired. They’re sharing personal stories, giving advice, and digging into the nitty-gritty of what happens when you find yourself in this situation.

From manager-manager dynamics to legal rights and handling the aftermath, they've got you covered. Whether you're dealing with a sticky work situation or just want to level up your career game, this episode is for you.

It's time to take charge of your work life with Working On It!

00:00 Unfair dismissal rules and discrimination examples explained. Covers cases involving minorities, neurodivergent individuals, and disabilities within and after 2 years of employment.

06:08 Managers struggle with lack of training, avoiding tough talks with their team.

08:56 Identifying and dealing with toxic behaviour in leadership.

10:09 It's hard to know when to bail from a tough job.

13:57 Company got bought, new role, flexible hours.

18:26 Get a free chat with a lawyer.

22:39 If it feels risky, just leave. Don't sign anything.

25:45 Make sure your managers are trained well!

27:48 Stay in control, get good references, and empower yourself.

31:11 Employee annoyed by lack of HR communication.

35:42 Getting let go: role gone, not wanted. The economic slump is causing loads of layoffs. Entire departments are getting cut due to cutbacks.

37:13 When companies do mass redundancies, they often use it as a chance to get rid of poor performers and start fresh. Legally, it's easier than firing, but just changing a job title might not be enough to avoid legal issues from the employee who got let go.

39:19 Learn from failures, own up, and keep it brief in interviews.

Lauren Spearman brings a wealth of experience from her career in advertising, social media, and brand strategy, to her current role advocating for salary transparency and flexible working conditions. Her journey, marked by her advocacy on TikTok against unfair hiring practices, has made her a champion for creating better work environments. Lauren’s unique perspective as a freelancer, balancing work with personal commitments, adds a rich, authentic layer to every discussion.

https://www.tiktok.com/@spearmanlauren

https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenspearman/

Molly Johnson-Jones, at the helm of Flexa Careers, is transforming how companies and individuals approach flexible working. With a platform that empowers millions to find roles that fit their desired working environments, Molly’s insights on the future of work, DEI, and employer branding are indispensable for anyone looking to navigate or shape the modern workplace. Her frequent speaking engagements on these topics bring cutting-edge perspectives and actionable advice to the podcast.

https://www.tiktok.com/@mollyjohnsonjones

https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-johnson-jones/

Sign up to receive the latest updates, episodes and more delivered right to your inbox at workingonit.show

Copyright 2026 Fairey Tale Productions

Mentioned in this episode:

🎵 Discover All About the Music with composer Neil Brand!

Discover new music and rediscover old favourites as Neil and his famous guests — including Mark Kermode, Annika Rice, Bruno Tonioli, and Keith Primer Jones — explore the songs that have shaped their lives. With Neil at the piano, each episode uncovers what makes this music so powerful, personal, and unforgettable.

AATM

Feeling Stuck in Your Career? The Hustle Factory Can Help

Struggling to make your next career move? You're not alone. The Hustle Factory offers a unique blend of self-paced courses and one-on-one career coaching to help you navigate job transitions with confidence. Whether you're actively job hunting or planning your next step, their programs provide expert guidance and a supportive community to make the process less overwhelming. Mention this podcast to get 10% off your program and start your journey today!

Hey there, and welcome to "Working On It: The Modern Workplace Handbook!" I'm excited to dive into today's episode with Lauren Spearman and Molly Johnson-Jones as they tackle the topic of office romances. Get ready for some juicy personal stories, expert advice, and practical tips for navigating the sometimes tricky world of workplace relationships. So, grab a coffee and get cosy as we delve into the ins and outs of office romances with Lauren and Molly!

00:00 Office return expected to improve sex lives.

04:05 Work relationships can affect career choices. Companies are making policies to address this.

07:13 Workplace flings and long-term relationships still happen.

12:36 Office party with drinks leads to chaos!

15:03 Feeling uncomfortable with power dynamics at work.

17:52 As companies grow, they need flexible, behaviour-focused guidelines.

21:54 Most people can handle work, but personal stuff gets in the way.

23:11 Virtual beach goof leads to serious trouble.

26:33 Return to the office may lead to harassment.

Lauren Spearman brings a wealth of experience from her career in advertising, social media, and brand strategy, to her current role advocating for salary transparency and flexible working conditions. Her journey, marked by her advocacy on TikTok against unfair hiring practices, has made her a champion for creating better work environments. Lauren’s unique perspective as a freelancer, balancing work with personal commitments, adds a rich, authentic layer to every discussion.

https://www.tiktok.com/@spearmanlauren

https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenspearman/

Molly Johnson-Jones, at the helm of Flexa Careers, is transforming how companies and individuals approach flexible working. With a platform that empowers millions to find roles that fit their desired working environments, Molly’s insights on the future of work, DEI, and employer branding are indispensable for anyone looking to navigate or shape the modern workplace. Her frequent speaking engagements on these topics bring cutting-edge perspectives and actionable advice to the podcast.

https://www.tiktok.com/@mollyjohnsonjones

https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-johnson-jones/

Sign up to receive the latest updates, episodes and more delivered right to your inbox at workingonit.show

Copyright 2026 Fairey Tale Productions

Mentioned in this episode:

Feeling Stuck in Your Career? The Hustle Factory Can Help

Struggling to make your next career move? You're not alone. The Hustle Factory offers a unique blend of self-paced courses and one-on-one career coaching to help you navigate job transitions with confidence. Whether you're actively job hunting or planning your next step, their programs provide expert guidance and a supportive community to make the process less overwhelming. Mention this podcast to get 10% off your program and start your journey today!

🎵 Discover All About the Music with composer Neil Brand!

Discover new music and rediscover old favourites as Neil and his famous guests — including Mark Kermode, Annika Rice, Bruno Tonioli, and Keith Primer Jones — explore the songs that have shaped their lives. With Neil at the piano, each episode uncovers what makes this music so powerful, personal, and unforgettable.

AATM

Welcome to the debut episode of "Working On It: The Modern Workplace Handbook"! In this episode, hosts Lauren Spearman and Molly Johnson-Jones unveil their mission to guide you through the complexities of today's work environment.

Lauren, a seasoned Salary Transparency Advocate and Creative Director, shares her insights from advertising to freelance life, advocating for better work conditions and salary transparency.

Meanwhile, Molly, CEO and Co-Founder of Flexa Careers, offers expertise in flexible working and employer branding, empowering individuals and companies to thrive in the modern work landscape. Join us for actionable tips, expert insights, and inspiring stories on crafting standout CVs, managing office dynamics, and understanding workplace rights. Whether you're an employee, manager, or job seeker, this podcast provides valuable guidance to enhance your career and work-life balance.

Tune in and master the future of work with Lauren and Molly on "Working On It"!

Lauren Spearman brings a wealth of experience from her career in advertising, social media, and brand strategy, to her current role advocating for salary transparency and flexible working conditions. Her journey, marked by her advocacy on TikTok against unfair hiring practices, has made her a champion for creating better work environments. Lauren’s unique perspective as a freelancer, balancing work with personal commitments, adds a rich, authentic layer to every discussion.

https://www.tiktok.com/@spearmanlauren

https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenspearman/

Molly Johnson-Jones, at the helm of Flexa Careers, is transforming how companies and individuals approach flexible working. With a platform that empowers millions to find roles that fit their desired working environments, Molly’s insights on the future of work, DEI, and employer branding are indispensable for anyone looking to navigate or shape the modern workplace. Her frequent speaking engagements on these topics bring cutting-edge perspectives and actionable advice to the podcast.

https://www.tiktok.com/@mollyjohnsonjone

https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-johnson-jones/

Sign up to receive the latest updates, episodes and more delivered right to your inbox at workingonit.show