How bespoke consultancies are changing the game for CPCOs and CHROs

While big-name firms dominate the transformation marketplace, with their vast resources and global reach, organisations are increasingly recognising the unique benefits of working with bespoke consultancy firms. These specialist firms offer a level of:

The difference lies not just in the approach but in the outcome — solutions and approaches are tailored to the way the teams work and the pace of the organisation, cultivating stronger relationships for effective teamwork, and an overall transition that puts the people first, using the new technology as an enabler. 

These are challenging times for HR and People & Culture teams. Now more than ever it’s time to take action to modernise, supported by an appropriate bespoke partner. One that really gets HR.

⁉️ Is now the time to choose personalisation, over scale? 

A personalised partnership

One of the primary benefits of working with a bespoke HR consultancy is the personal touch they bring to each project. Unlike large consultancies that often apply a one-size-fits-all approach, bespoke firms take the time to understand the unique needs, culture, and goals of each client.

➡️ They prioritise custom HR solutions over generic methodologies, ensuring that the technology, tool or process aligns seamlessly with the company’s specific HR requirements.

➡️ A smaller consultancy invests in building a deep understanding of a client’s HR function and connections across the organisation. This allows them to provide highly tailored recommendations. They don’t push pre-packaged solutions or rigid frameworks, but instead craft strategies that address the intricacies of the organisation. 

This approach leads to better adoption rates as change is rolled-out, less resistance from employees, and a more effective transformation process that aims for right-first-time.

Conscientious and hands-on

Bespoke consultancy firms are often founded and led by industry experts who are deeply passionate about their work. They have done these roles, used this tech, and been part of the change when working on the other side, in organisations. Bringing that lived-experience into the bespoke consultancy firm. 

➡️ They don’t merely act as advisors from a distance but immerse themselves in the HR project, working closely with teams at every level. 

➡️ Their hands-on involvement ensures that implementation is smoother, challenges are proactively addressed, and any potential roadblocks are quickly mitigated.

➡️ When done right, they feel as though they are part of the organisation, offering constructive challenge from a conscientious perspective. 

In contrast, other consultancies may deploy a revolving door of consultants who are less invested in the long-term success of the client. Simply put, they don’t care as much.

Clients often find themselves explaining their needs repeatedly to different team members, which can lead to frustrations. Bespoke firms, on the other hand, offer consistency and continuity, building strong relationships with their clients based on expertise, and taking full accountability for the outcomes.

Leading with emotional intelligence in change management

Technology transformations are not just about implementing new systems — they also require engaging the people affected by these changes. This is where bespoke consultancies truly shine. 

➡️ They lead with emotional intelligence, understanding that employees often feel apprehensive about new ways of working.  

➡️ They proactively focus on engaging communications, feeling the heart beat and rhythm of the organisation. With the counsel of open communication, active listening, and a supportive approach, they help organisations navigate resistance and foster a positive attitude toward change.

➡️ They avoid rigid processes that neglect the human element. Recognising that a successful implementation depends on user buy-in. They take the time to engage with employees, provide hands-on training, and ensure that the change and the reasons for the change, are embraced rather than resisted.

Tailored for success: the growth of bespoke

Choosing a consultancy firm is about more than which one is already on your commercial framework: 

✅ It’s about finding a partner who understands your business. 

✅ Cares about your success.

✅ Leads with emotional intelligence. 

The HR Fixers’ difference 

At The HR Fixers, we offer an unmatched level of personal attention, conscientious service, and emotionally intelligent leadership. For organisations seeking a bespoke, more human-centered approach to HR transformation, partnering with us is the smart choice.

Ready to build a stronger HR function? 

If you’re looking for a partner who can help you navigate the change and transformation needed to modernise your HR function, The HR Fixers is here for you. Let’s build the future of HR together.

Contact us today to get started! 

#SmallButMighty #BespokeIsBest #EmotionalIntelligence #HRChange 

As a Chief People and Culture Officer (CPCO) or Chief HR Officer (CHRO), you’ve navigated the initial phase of understanding the case for change to HR’s processes, tech and data that your people use. Now it’s time to build that future.  

Building future-ready HR 

HR transformation doesn’t stop at strategy — it’s about turning vision into action. After defining the roadmap with Navigate, the next step is to bring that transformation to life. That’s where Build comes in. 

The HR Fixers’  Build service is designed to help organisations implement their HR strategy with precision, ensuring that technology, processes, data and people are aligned for long-term success.  

Why Build?

Many HR transformation projects struggle in execution. Whether it’s a lack of internal expertise, unclear responsibilities, or resistance to change, businesses often find themselves stuck between strategy and implementation. 

With Build, we bridge that gap.  

We work as an extension of your HR team, rolling up our sleeves to manage the end-to-end delivery of your HR transformation — so that your vision becomes a reality.

Whilst you focus on ‘running‘ the function, we support the parallel ‘change‘ activity. To help you move forward, together we simply take one step after another, along the roadmap of change. After all, the organisation can’t stop whilst HR builds the future – they have to be done in parallel. That’s the gap we bridge.

What does Build include?  

The Build phase is the chunky bit of the programme — it’s where design becomes reality. Here our expertise shines. We manage the transformation and guide teams through the detail or where they lack confidence.

  1. Programme oversight and strategic advisory: we manage the transformation process, ensuring all moving parts align with your strategic goals. 
  1. Process alignment and business readiness: we work with your teams to map out optimised HR workflows, ensuring your people and operations are prepared for change. 
  1. System implementation support: from guiding HRIS configurations to liaising with technology partners, we ensure a smooth and effective system rollout. 
  1. Data readiness and cleansing: ensuring your HR data is clean, accurate, and ready for migration is crucial for a smooth transition.
  1. Testing readiness: from developing test scripts, to running sessions with end-users to test the new processes and the system. We support you every step of the way, as your people try out the new ways of working for the first time.  
  1. Change, training and adoption: we develop and execute change management plans to ensure employees embrace new ways of working and they stick! Through engaging communications about the ‘why‘ and the ‘what‘, and effective training sessions using innovative tools to keep it interesting, we help end-user understand the impact of this change and embrace it.

Beyond implementation: A strong foundation for growth 

A successful HR transformation isn’t just about going live — it’s about embedding new ways of working that add long-term value. Our Build approach ensures that systems are fully adopted, processes are optimised, data is used with confidence to drive insightful decisions, and the HR team has solid foundations on which to build the future.

The HR Fixers’ difference 

Unlike traditional consultancies that leave after implementation, we continue to support you to make sure it works. Our hands-on approach ensures that technology is not just implemented but optimised and fully leveraged to meet your business needs.  This is where ‘run‘ and ‘change‘ meet, so that this new way of working is absorbed into the day-to-day running of the function.

Ready to build a stronger HR function? 

If you’re looking for a partner who can turn HR strategy into real, lasting impact, The HR Fixers’ Build service is here to help. 

Let’s build the future of HR together. Contact us today to get started!

⭐ Celebrating Disability Pride Month ⭐

We all know that listening is the key to understanding the unique needs of everyone, especially our colleagues with disabilities. But how do we make sure we’re not just hearing, but truly supporting our colleagues with disabilities?

Here are some of the ways that we can make a difference:

1. Create open channels for feedback

Encourage regular check-ins and provide multiple avenues for feedback. Whether it’s through anonymous surveys, one-to-one meetings, or suggestion boxes, make it easy for everyone to voice their needs and concerns.

2. Foster an inclusive culture

Promote a culture where diversity is celebrated, and inclusion is the norm. Highlight stories of colleagues who are thriving and make it clear that everyone’s contributions are valued.

3. Provide adequate resources and tools

Ensure that your workplace is equipped with the necessary tools and resources. From assistive technology to ergonomic furniture, make sure everyone has what they need to succeed.

4. Offer training and education

Conduct regular training sessions to raise awareness about different disabilities and how to support all colleagues effectively. Knowledge is power, and understanding fosters empathy and respect.

5. Be proactive, not reactive

Don’t wait for someone to ask for help. Be proactive in identifying potential barriers and addressing them before they become issues.

Disability Pride Month is not just about celebrating the advancements that have been made in the world of work, but also acknowledging the work we still need to do. Ensuring equal access and support for everyone is an ongoing commitment.

Cheers to progress and to a brighter, more inclusive future!

Ever found yourself trying to pitch a bold new idea or a transformative change, only to be met with sceptical glances or hesitant nods? We’ve all been there. Change is hard, and convincing others that it’s worth the effort can feel like climbing Everest in flip-flops.

But we know there is a way to approach change with honesty and a clear vision, which can turn those doubtful looks into an enthusiastic team. Here are a few of our top tips:

1. Be transparent about challenges

People appreciate honesty; acknowledge the bumps in the road. Talk about the effort required and the potential hurdles. It show’s you’re realistic and trustworthy.

2. Highlight tangible benefits

Show them the light at the end of the tunnel. How will this change make their work easier, their results better, or their goals more attainable? Paint a picture of benefits that are practical and achievable.

3. Share success stories

Nothing convinces like real-world examples. Share stories of others who have made similar changes and seen great results. Case studies and testimonials are powerful tools.

4. Involve them in the process

People are more likely to buy into a change they helped create. Encourage feedback, involve them in planning, and make them feel like a crucial part of the journey.

5. Offer continuous support

Change doesn’t stop after the pitch. Be there to guide, support, and cheer them on. Regular check-ins and updates keep the momentum going and show that you’re committed for the long haul.

When people see that the change you’re proposing is both beneficial and achievable, they’re much more likely to get on board.

So, next time you’re pitching that big idea, keep it real, keep it honest, and paint a vision that’s as exciting as it is doable. Cheers to positive change and new possibilities!

#ChangeManagement #Leadership #Innovation

“We firmly believe that HR should be a strategic partner in achieving an organisation’s strategic goals. Embracing and encouraging data-driving decision making is a significant step in that direction.”

The ability to harness data and turn it into actionable insights is a game-changer. It’s not just about having the data; it’s about knowing how to use it to drive real impact on the organisation’s bottom line. At The HR Fixers, we’ve made it our mission to help organisations navigate this data-driven journey effectively. Here’s how we do it:

Understanding the Data Landscape: The first step in leveraging the power of analytics is understanding your data landscape. We work closely with our clients to identify what data is available, what’s meaningful, and how it can be used strategically.

Setting the Right Metrics: Data is only as valuable as the metrics you measure. We help organisations define and set the right Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that align with their business objectives.

Data Integration: Often, HR data is scattered across different systems. We assist in integrating these data sources, creating a unified and comprehensive view.

Advanced Analytics: Our expertise in advanced analytics allows us to uncover hidden patterns, trends, and correlations within the data that might have otherwise gone unnoticed.

Predictive Insights: We’re not just about historical data; we help organizations look ahead. Predictive analytics can provide valuable insights into future trends, enabling proactive decision-making.

Actionable Recommendations: Having data is one part, knowing what to do with it is another. We provide actionable recommendations and strategies based on data insights to drive real change.

Demonstrating Impact: Ultimately, it’s about demonstrating the impact of data-driven decisions. We help organizations measure the tangible results, whether it’s in talent acquisition, employee engagement, or workforce planning.

At The HR Fixers, we firmly believe that HR should be a strategic partner in achieving an organisation’s goals. Embracing and encouraging data-driven decision-making is a significant step in that direction. It’s about making HR a value driver. As you continue on your HR transformation journey, let’s remember that data isn’t just numbers and statistics; it’s the key to unlocking the full potential of your organisation.

In the current fast-paced and data-driven business environment, organisations are increasingly recognising the value of their data as a key strategic asset. From customer insights to operational efficiency, data plays a pivotal role in equipping people to make informed decisions. Among other hugely valuable sources of data, HR data stands out as a key enabler of strategic data-driven decision-making. Here are some of the reasons why high-quality HR data is so important:

  1. Workforce planning and talent management
    HR data provides valuable insights into the composition of your company’s workforce. This includes data on employee demographics, skills, experience, and performance. By collecting and analysing this data, your business can make informed decisions about talent acquisition and take active steps to retain and develop their top talent. Good quality HR data helps in identifying skill gaps, succession planning, and ensures that your company has the right talent in the right place to achieve your strategic objectives.
  2. Employee engagement and productivity
    Employee engagement is a key driver of productivity and organisational success. HR data can provide insights into employee satisfaction, feedback, and engagement levels. By tracking and analysing this data, companies can implement strategies to improve workplace culture, leading to higher employee satisfaction, increased productivity, and lower turnover rates.
  3. Performance management, learning & development
    Performance reviews, training programmes, and skills development are integral responsibilities of any HR team. HR data enables organisations to track individual and team performance over time. It helps in identifying high-performing employees, setting performance targets, and tailoring L&D initiatives to the specific needs of employees, helping you get the most out of your team.
  4. Equity, diversity & inclusion
    Creating genuinely inclusive workplaces helps organisations to attract top talent, encourage diversity of ideas, and create space in which everyone feels able to be fully themselves at work. HR data provides insights into the diversity of the workforce, helping you to set goals, track progress, and create a more inclusive place to work. This in return can directly correlate to revenue and overall business success because of the value that a diverse team brings.
  5. Cost management

Effective management of your people is vital for cost control. HR data can be used to track a wide range of people-related costs, from benefits to the cost of turnover alongside other factors that impact the bottom line. By active collecting and analysing this data companies can make informed decisions to optimise their workforce and reduce unnecessary expenses.

  1. Data-driven mindset
    Incorporating HR data into your business you can promote a data-driven culture beyond the HR space too. Data empowers decision-makers with accurate, up-to-date information, enabling them to make strategic choices that align with your business’ goals and objectives.

Ultimately, HR data is an invaluable asset that can directly impact your organisation’s success. Data supports workforce planning, talent management, compliance, employee engagement, diversity, inclusion, and pretty much every other HR discipline you can think of, all while contributing to a broader data-driven business culture. Companies that recognise the importance of HR data and integrate it into their data programmes are better equipped to make informed decisions and stay competitive in today’s dynamic business environment. So, if you’re looking to enhance your business’ decision-making, don’t underestimate the power of your HR data.

In today’s volatile economic climate, businesses face the daunting task of optimising their resources while ensuring their workforce remains productive and engaged. Human Resources (HR) is at the forefront of this challenge, playing a pivotal role in navigating the complexities of the modern workplace. This blog post aims to provide practical insights on optimising HR investment in difficult financial times, tailored for the UK market.

1. Data-Driven Decision Making

In times of financial uncertainty, data becomes a powerful tool for HR professionals. Utilise analytics to identify trends, employee performance patterns, and areas for improvement. By making decisions backed by data, you can allocate resources effectively, identifying areas where investment will yield the highest returns.


2. Embrace Technology

Leverage HR technology solutions to streamline processes. Automated tools for tasks such as payroll management, employee attendance tracking, and performance evaluations can significantly reduce operational costs. Additionally, invest in Learning Management Systems (LMS) for cost-effective employee training and upskilling.


3. Prioritise Employee Well-being

A content and healthy workforce is a productive one. Invest in wellness programs and mental health support services. By demonstrating a commitment to employee well-being, you foster a positive workplace culture, leading to increased job satisfaction and retention rates.


4. Flexible Work Arrangements

Explore flexible work arrangements such as remote work and compressed workweeks. Not only do these initiatives reduce overhead costs, but they also enhance employee work-life balance, boosting morale and productivity.


5. Talent Retention Strategies

During tough economic times, retaining top talent is crucial. Implement strategies like mentorship programs, career development opportunities, and recognition schemes. These initiatives not only boost morale but also enhance employee loyalty, reducing recruitment costs in the long run.


6. Employee Training and Development

Invest in employee training and development to enhance skills and knowledge internally. By cultivating talent from within, businesses reduce recruitment costs and build a loyal, skilled workforce capable of navigating challenging times.


7. Stay Compliant

HR professionals must stay updated with the UK’s employment laws and regulations. Non-compliance can lead to costly legal issues. Invest in HR staff training and legal consultancy to ensure your organisation adheres to all legal requirements.

8. Measure and Adapt

Regularly assess the effectiveness of your HR strategies. Key performance indicators (KPIs) can help measure the impact of your initiatives. If certain strategies aren’t yielding the expected results, be ready to adapt and refine your approach accordingly.


Conclusion

In conclusion, optimising HR investment in a challenging financial climate is about strategic thinking, adaptability, and a commitment to employee well-being. By leveraging data, embracing technology, prioritising well-being, and nurturing talent, businesses can weather the storm and emerge stronger on the other side. Stay proactive, stay agile, and remember, your employees are your most valuable asset—invest in them wisely.


By implementing these strategies, UK businesses can not only survive but thrive, even in the most difficult financial circumstances. Remember, the key lies in smart investments, a people-first approach, and a commitment to continuous improvement.