I Hate It Here

S6 E2: How to Shift HR Toward More Connection & Curiosity with Demario Bell

Oct 28, 2024

Demario Bell, a senior community manager at CultureAmp and a passionate community builder, shares his insights on transforming HR through connection and curiosity. He emphasizes the need for authenticity and empathy in leadership roles, encouraging a culture of asking 'why' to foster inclusivity. Demario discusses his journey from unconventional beginnings to shaping HR practices and highlights the essential role of relationships in creating a vibrant workplace culture. His call to action is clear: put humanity back at the heart of HR.

53:22

Episode guests

Demario Bell

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Authenticity in HR fosters trust and open dialogue, essential for addressing employee challenges and enhancing workplace relationships.

Building meaningful connections and communities within HR promotes individual growth, collaboration, and an inclusive culture that benefits all employees.

Deep dives

The Role of Authenticity in HR

Authenticity is essential for HR professionals, as it fosters real conversations about the challenges faced by employees. It allows HR practitioners to navigate the often complex legal aspects while addressing the human side of the workplace. Practicing authenticity leads to deeper connections between HR and employees, ensuring that everyone involved is heard and respected. An honest approach generates trust, encouraging open dialogue about performance evaluations, promotions, and other crucial HR processes.

Intro

3min

Reconnecting with Authenticity in HR

21min

Connecting Humanity and HR: A Journey Beyond Tradition

5min

The Power of Connection in HR

11min

Curiosity and Connection in HR

7min

Building a Future of Work Through Connection and Authenticity

3min

Finding Meaning and Joy in the Workplace

2min

What does it really take to make HR more human?

Today, we’re exploring that question by diving into the concept of the zone of genius—that flow state where you’re most creative and impactful.

Joining me is Demario, a powerhouse connector, community builder, and unofficial HR bestie.

We talk about everything from leading with authenticity to why curiosity is the key to shaking up HR (yes, we need more people asking “why”!).

Demario opens up about his journey in building inclusive spaces, fostering a genuine culture, and why the future of HR is all about connection.

Whether it’s building strong relationships with your team, manager, or broader community, Demario shows us how human connection is at the core of it all.

Now, Working Not Working is helping to keep that talent with NTRNL— the new platform that unlocks employee passions and ignites productivity. So you can see your people as they see themselves: as humans, not headcount. Visit seeyourpeople.com to learn more or book a demo.

00:04:14 - Something That HR Folks Should Rethink

00:06:23 - How Demario Became a Connector of People and What That Means

00:15:20 - How to Connect People From Different Backgrounds and Walks of Life

00:22:40 - Building an HR Community Without an HR Background

00:32:56 - Bridging the Gap Between Conceptual HR Ideas and Directly Practicing in the Field

00:41:55 - How Leading an HR Community for the First Time Influenced Demario’s Perspective

00:46:16 - Demario’s Culture First Community

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/demario-bell-7a510994/

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