

HR Coffee Time
Fay Wallis
Welcome to the HR Coffee Time podcast; a fortnightly podcast full of tips and ideas to help you have a successful and fulfilling HR career (without working yourself into the ground).
It can feel hard to put yourself and your own career first when you're so busy looking after everyone around you. It can leave you at risk of burning out, finding that you're not where you want to be in your career, or feeling unsure about what you want from your career anymore.
This podcast is here to help. Join career coach and founder of Bright Sky Career Coaching, Fay Wallis as she and her expert guests share advice on how to get what you want from your career.
If you enjoy the podcast, learn more at: https://www.brightskycareercoaching.co.uk/ or connect with Fay on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/faywallis/
It can feel hard to put yourself and your own career first when you're so busy looking after everyone around you. It can leave you at risk of burning out, finding that you're not where you want to be in your career, or feeling unsure about what you want from your career anymore.
This podcast is here to help. Join career coach and founder of Bright Sky Career Coaching, Fay Wallis as she and her expert guests share advice on how to get what you want from your career.
If you enjoy the podcast, learn more at: https://www.brightskycareercoaching.co.uk/ or connect with Fay on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/faywallis/
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 6, 2024 • 37min
140 | 5 brilliant resources to transform your workshops & training sessions
Have you ever been asked to design or deliver a workshop and found yourself worrying whether it will be as good as it could be? Whether you’re preparing your first training session or looking to enhance your facilitation skills, this episode of HR Coffee Time is packed with ideas and resources to help you create training and workshops that are impactful, engaging, and memorable.In this episode, host Fay Wallis reflects on her experience running the first in-person HR Planning Day and shares five brilliant resources that most inspired her when designing the event. You’ll discover practical insights and creative techniques to transform your workshops and training sessions, whether in-person or online.Chapters from This Episode[00:00] Introduction and Overview[03:27] Resource 1: Kirsty Lewis’ online masterclass on workshop design[11:45] Resource 2: The Two-Hour Workshop Blueprint book[22:07] Resource 3: The Flipchart Facebook group[23:37] Resource 4: Neuroscience for Learning and Development book[28:01] Resource 5: The Ten-Minute Trainer book[31:28] ConclusionUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay’s website: Bright Sky Career CoachingKirsty Lewis’ website: School of FacilitationThe Flipchart Facebook groupThe Essential HR Planner (hardback & digital versions available)Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 110: Why facilitation skills can help your HR career & how to develop them, with Kirsty LewisBook Recommendations From the Episode(Disclosure: book links are affiliate links, which means Fay will earn a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through them)The 2-Hour Workshop Blueprint: Design Fast. Deliver Strong. Without Stress, by Leanne HughesNeuroscience for Learning and Development: How to Apply Neuroscience and Psychology for Improved Learning and Training, by Stella CollinsThe Ten-Minute Trainer: 150 Ways to Teach it Quick and Make it Stick, by Sharon L. BowmanRate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn’t very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.Mentioned in this episode:Ready to learn more about Inspiring HR?Learn more about the Inspiring HR Leadership Programme, and sign up to join the next cohort, that starts on 10th September 2025.Inspiring HR

Nov 22, 2024 • 38min
139 | Creating an inclusive workplace: a focus on religion and Faith, with Binna Kandola
As organisations work to create more inclusive workplaces, some aspects of diversity receive more attention than others. Being able to express religious beliefs at work is an area that often remains unexplored despite its significance to many employees. In this episode of HR Coffee Time, host Fay Wallis is joined by Professor Binna Kandola, senior partner and co-founder of Pearn Kandola, to explore why religious expression matters to the people in your workplace and how organisations can better support this.Binna shares insights from his firm's comprehensive research into religion at work, including findings from their largest-ever survey response. He explains the various aspects of religious expression, discusses both challenges and positive developments in workplace inclusion, and offers practical guidance for HR professionals looking to create more inclusive environments.Chapters from This Episode[00:00] Introduction and Overview[02:02] Meet the Expert: Professor Binna Kandola[04:19] Defining Religious Expression at Work[10:03] Why Religious Expression Matters[18:36] Benefits to Organizations[21:01] Key Research Findings[26:49] Examples of Good Practice[31:23] Book Recommendation[33:28] Conclusion and ResourcesUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay’s website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Binna Kandola on LinkedInBinna’s website: Pearn KandolaPearn Kandola’s, “Religion at Work Report”Binna’s podcast, Making the World Fairer (on Apple Podcasts)Binna’s podcast, Making the World Fairer (on Spotify)Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesCreate an Equitable, Diverse & Inclusive Workplace – Podcast Playlist (on the Bright Sky website)Create an Equitable, Diverse & Inclusive Workplace – Podcast Playlist (on Spotify)Book Recommendation From the Episode(Disclosure: book links are affiliate links which means Fay will earn a small commission from Amazon if you make a purchase through them)‘World Religions: The Great Faiths Explored and Explained’ by John BowkerLooking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn’t very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.Mentioned in this episode:Ready to learn more about Inspiring HR?Learn more about the Inspiring HR Leadership Programme, and sign up to join the next cohort, that starts on 10th September 2025.Inspiring HR

Nov 8, 2024 • 27min
138 | Can’t find time for strategic work in HR? 5 tips to help
When you're in a busy HR or People role, finding time for strategic work can feel incredibly challenging. There are always urgent issues that need your attention and endless tasks on your to-do list. However, strategic work often has the greatest impact - helping you craft an organisation where people are proud to work, can thrive, and are empowered to drive the organisation forward.In this episode of HR Coffee Time, host Fay Wallis shares five practical tips to help you carve out time for strategic work, even when you're incredibly busy. These tips will help you overcome common barriers and create the space needed to focus on work that drives meaningful organisational change.Key Points from This EpisodeIntroduction and welcomeTip 1: Build your confidence about being strategicTip 2: Schedule dedicated time for strategic workTip 3: Make the most of AI to free up timeTip 4: Remember that less is moreTip 5: Communicate your strategic priorities clearly Useful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay’s website: Bright Sky Career CoachingThe Essential HR PlannerelementsuiteAngela Moyle's eBook: AI for HRAngela' Moyle's eBook: HR's role in AI adoption Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesOperate Strategically or Create a Powerful HR/People Strategy PlaylistEpisode 102: Boosting Your Strategic Knowledge to Step Up in Your HR RoleEpisode 108: How to Create a Simple but Powerful One Page Strategy with Dr. Max MckeownEpisode 134: Creating an HR Strategy - How to Get Started When You're Feeling StuckEpisode 7: What to Do When You Don't Have Enough Hours in the DayEpisode 92: Time Management Tips to Stay on Top of Your Busy DayEpisode 58: How to Feel More Confident Using Data & Analytics in Your HR RoleBook Recommendations from the EpisodeGood Strategy, Bad Strategy: The difference and why it matters, by Richard RumeltThe One Thing, by Gary Keller Looking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn’t very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.Mentioned in this episode:Ready to learn more about Inspiring HR?Learn more about the Inspiring HR Leadership Programme, and sign up to join the next cohort, that starts on 10th September 2025.Inspiring HR

Oct 25, 2024 • 36min
137 | How to recognise and break free from the lies we tell ourselves at work, with Emma Djemil
Are there lies you're telling yourself at work that feel like cold, hard facts? Whether it's believing you don't deserve a promotion, thinking you're not qualified enough to apply for a different role, feeling guilty about taking time off because everyone "needs" you, prioritising colleagues above your own wellbeing, striving for unrealistic perfection, or feeling you need to be available 24/7 to be seen as an effective HR professional – these self-imposed beliefs can significantly impact your career progress and wellbeing.In this episode of HR Coffee Time, host Fay Wallis is joined by Emma Djemil to help you identify and challenge these unhelpful beliefs that might be holding you back in your HR career.Chapters from This Episode[00:00] Introduction and Overview[03:30] Meet Emma Djemil[05:46] Common Lies in HR: Availability Equals Value[08:29] Proving Your Worth in HR[12:43] Recognising and Challenging Self-Lies[17:11] Understanding Deep-Rooted Fears[17:46] Challenging the Fear of Unavailability[19:21] Recognising and Addressing Mistruths[21:20] Empowerment Through Self-Questioning[25:25] The Power of Internal Validation[29:26] Book Recommendation and Wrap Up[32:09] Final Thoughts and FarewellUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay’s website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Emma Djemil on LinkedInEmma’s HR ClubEmma’s annual event: The HR Big MeetOther Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesHR Coffee Time Podcast Playlist: Build Your ConfidenceBook Recommendation From the Episode‘Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway’ – Susan Jeffers‘The Fix: How to Overcome the Invisible Barriers That Are Holding Women Back at Work’ – Michelle P. KingAll the book recommendations that have been given on HR Coffee TimeLooking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn’t very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk.Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing upto receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.Mentioned in this episode:Ready to learn more about Inspiring HR?Learn more about the Inspiring HR Leadership Programme, and sign up to join the next cohort, that starts on 10th September 2025.Inspiring HR

Oct 11, 2024 • 34min
136 | How to shape a winning workplace culture when you work in HR, with Annabelle Lawson and Paula Brockwell
Shaping workplace culture is becoming an increasingly important part of HR's role, with many HR functions being renamed as "People and Culture" and culture-related responsibilities appearing in job titles. But how do you actually go about shaping culture, especially when you're already busy with your day-to-day work?In this special episode of HR Coffee Time, host Fay Wallis is joined by two guests: Annabelle Lawson, HR Manager at SPT Lab Tech, and Paula Brockwell, Founder and Chief Culture Shaper at the Employee Experience Project. Together, they explore practical strategies for defining, shaping, and embedding a winning workplace culture.This episode is packed with actionable advice, from how to engage leadership in culture initiatives to how HR professionals can avoid becoming overwhelmed by the process. Whether you're just starting your culture journey or looking to refine your approach, this conversation is here to help.Chapters from This Episode[00:00] Introduction and Overview[01:33] Meet the Guests: Annabelle Lawson and Paula Brockwell[03:59] Annabelle Explains Her Culture Project[08:32] Culture is a Strategic Enabler of Business Growth[09:26] Using the Business Culture Canvas for Culture Conversations[12:46] Embedding New Culture and Measuring Progress[15:20] Timeframes for Seeing Cultural Changes[19:55] Avoiding Overwhelm When Working on Culture Initiatives[23:25] Starting a Culture Journey from Scratch[24:33] The Importance of CEO Engagement in Culture Initiatives[25:03] Book Recommendations[26:06] How to Connect with Annabelle and PaulaUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay’s website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Annabelle Lawson on LinkedInConnect with Paula Brockwell on LinkedInPaula’s website: The Employee Experience ProjectResearch and Resources MentionedDownload Paula’s free culture change resourcesAccess Paula’s Business Culture CanvasAccess Paula’s Culture Catalyst Scorecard Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 114: What workplace culture is, how to measure it, and a surprising way to improve it with Arend BoersemaEpisode 120: Crafting culture: unearthing and shaping the heart of your business with Louise KennedyBook Recommendation From the Episode‘Herd: How to Change Mass Behaviour by Harnessing Our True Nature’ byMark Earls ‘Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking’ by Susan CainLooking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn’t very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.Mentioned in this episode:Ready to learn more about Inspiring HR?Learn more about the Inspiring HR Leadership Programme, and sign up to join the next cohort, that starts on 10th September 2025.Inspiring HR

Sep 27, 2024 • 32min
135 | Why & how to support women experiencing the menopause at work, with Emma Thomas
Menopause is a topic that impacts everyone in the HR and People profession, whether personally or through supporting colleagues. In this episode of HR Coffee Time, host Fay Wallis is joined by Emma Thomas, founder of Managing the Menopause, to discuss the importance of understanding and supporting employees through menopause in the workplace.Emma shares valuable insights on perimenopause and menopause, common symptoms, the business case for supporting employees, legal considerations, and practical strategies for creating a supportive work environment. This episode is packed with data-driven information and actionable advice for HR professionals looking to update policies, improve employee wellbeing, or build a stronger business case for menopause support.Chapters from This Episode[00:00] Introduction and Overview[00:53] Meet Emma Thomas: Menopause Expert[04:15] Defining Perimenopause and Menopause[06:47] Common Symptoms of Perimenopause[09:32] Impact of Menopause Symptoms at Work[11:35] Research and Business Case for Menopause Support[20:11] Practical Support for Menopause in the Workplace[25:03] Book Recommendation: "Revolting Women" by Dr. Lucy Ryan[26:06] How to Connect With Emma ThomasUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay’s website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Emma Thomas on LinkedInEmma’s website: Managing the MenopauseEmma’s podcast: Middling AlongResearch and Resources MentionedCIPD 2023 Menopause at Work surveyCIPD: Menopause at work – guide for people managersDeloitte Women at Work 2024 reportBSI guide on menstruation and menopause in the workplaceACAS: Menopause at workCycle of Change: Animation explaining the menopauseOther Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 42: Diversity and Inclusion at Work, Seven Mistakes to Avoid and what to do instead with Dr. Jonathan Ashong-LampteyBook Recommendation From the Episode‘Revolting Women: Why Midlife Women Are Walking Out and What to Do About It’ by Dr. Lucy RyanLooking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn’t very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk.Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.Mentioned in this episode:Ready to learn more about Inspiring HR?Learn more about the Inspiring HR Leadership Programme, and sign up to join the next cohort, that starts on 10th September 2025.Inspiring HR

Sep 13, 2024 • 19min
134 | Creating an HR strategy: how to get started when you’re feeling stuck
If you need to create an HR or People strategy but are feeling completely stuck, this episode of HR Coffee Time is here to help. Host Fay Wallis, a career and leadership coach for HR and People professionals, shares practical advice on how to feel more confident about creating the strategy, where to start and resources to help spark your ideas.Key Points from This Episode[00:00] Episode introduction[00:32] There is a podcast playlist of strategy episodes for you[02:46] You already are strategic (even if you think you aren’t)[04:31] Insight from the book, ‘Good Strategy/Bad Strategy’[05:29] The importance of aligning HR strategy with the overarching organisational strategy[07:28] Resources from The Essential HR Planner to help[13:41] Recap and final thoughtsUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay’s website: Bright Sky Career Coaching Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesOperate Strategically or Create a Powerful HR/People Strategy PlaylistBook Recommendations from the EpisodeThe Strategy Book: How to think and act strategically to deliver outstanding results, by Max MckeownGood Strategy, Bad Strategy: The difference and why it matters, by Richard RumeltLooking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn’t very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.Mentioned in this episode:Ready to learn more about Inspiring HR?Learn more about the Inspiring HR Leadership Programme, and sign up to join the next cohort, that starts on 10th September 2025.Inspiring HR

Aug 30, 2024 • 32min
133 | How to Deliver Brilliant Presentations That Win Over Hearts and Minds, with Emma Serlin
Want to know the secret to delivering presentations that truly captivate your audience? In this episode of HR Coffee Time, we explore how to craft and deliver presentations that resonate deeply and win over both hearts and minds.Host Fay Wallis is joined by Emma Serlin, founder of London Speech Workshop, who shares her unique "Meal Plan" framework for creating impactful presentations. Whether you're aiming to boost your influence, establish credibility, or simply gain more confidence when presenting, this episode is packed with practical insights to elevate your presentation skills.Chapters from This Episode[00:00] Introduction and overview[01:11] Meet the expert: Emma Serlin[04:26] The Meal Plan framework: Protein, Vegetables, and Spice[05:38] Deep dive into the protein component[09:07] Crafting impactful presentations: The importance of three key takeaways[11:31] Exploring the ‘vegetables’ component[16:57] Adding ‘spice’ to make your presentation memorable[19:46] The Dinner Party Planner[23:50] Book recommendation[25:48] How to contact Emma and London Speech Workshop[27:23] ConclusionUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay’s website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Emma Serlin on LinkedInEmma’s website: London Speech WorkshopLondon Speech Workshop on InstagramLondon Speech Workshop on YouTubeOther Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 36: Four simple but powerful techniques to banish imposter syndrome, with Joanna LottEpisode 73: 5 ways to feel more confident in your next interview, meeting, or presentationEpisode 74: How to get better at presenting and feel more confident about itBook Recommendations From the EpisodeThe Connection Book: 50 Ways to Communicate More Effectively, by Emma SerlinThe Communication Equation: A How to Guide for Outstanding Communication, by Emma SerlinNonviolent Communication: A Language of Life, by Marshall B. RosenbergLooking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts (because it isn’t very intuitive). If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.Mentioned in this episode:Ready to learn more about Inspiring HR?Learn more about the Inspiring HR Leadership Programme, and sign up to join the next cohort, that starts on 10th September 2025.Inspiring HR

Aug 16, 2024 • 40min
132 | Strategic Workforce Planning – Why It’s Important and How to Improve Your Skills, With Jen Allen Jardine
Whether you’d like to learn more about how to use Strategic Workforce Planning in your current role or considering whether specialising in Strategic Workforce Planning could be the perfect career option for you, this episode of HR Coffee Time is here to help.Host Fay Wallis is joined by Jen Allen Jardine, a Strategic Workforce Planning (SWP) expert, who explains what SWP is, why it’s important, how it fits into HR, the partnership between SWP and HR, and the misconceptions about it. She also provides valuable advice for anyone looking to specialise in SWP, including practical tips and book recommendations.Chapters from This Episode[00:00] Introduction and overview[02:17] Meet the expert: Jen Allen Jardine[03:09] Defining Strategic Workforce Planning[04:13] Strategic Workforce Planning in large vs small organisations[04:55] The role of HR in Strategic Workforce Planning[11:03] Developing skills for Strategic Workforce Planning[17:18] Misconceptions about Strategic Workforce Planning[23:02] Book recommendations[34:29] How to contact Jen[35:50] ConclusionUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay’s website: Bright Sky Career CoachingConnect with Jen Allen Jardine on LinkedIn Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesHR Coffee Time podcast playlist: Clarify Your Career Goals & Explore HR Career OptionsEpisode 58: How to feel more confident using data & analytics in your HR roleEpisode 119: How using Agile can drive positive change & prove HR’s value, with Kate Maddison-Geenwell Book Recommendations From the EpisodeFactfulness: Ten Reasons We’re Wrong About The World – And Why Things Are Better Than You Think, by Hans Rosling , Ola Rosling and Anna RoslingFreakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything, by Steven D. Levitt & Stephen J. DubnerRadical Uncertainty: Decision-making for an unknowable future, by John Kay and Mervyn King Looking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website. Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts. If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.Mentioned in this episode:Ready to learn more about Inspiring HR?Learn more about the Inspiring HR Leadership Programme, and sign up to join the next cohort, that starts on 10th September 2025.Inspiring HR

Aug 2, 2024 • 23min
131 | Coaching Demystified: What to Expect and Tips for a Successful Session
Thinking about booking a coaching session but not sure what to expect? Or maybe you've already arranged some coaching sessions and want to make sure you get the most out of them. This episode of HR Coffee Time is here to help. Host Fay Wallis, a career and leadership coach for HR and People professionals, shares practical advice on how to prepare for your coaching sessions and make them as effective as possible.Key Points From This Episode[00:00] Episode introduction[00:23] The value of coaching[01:38] You’re in the driving seat when it comes to coaching[02:21] Examples of common coaching topics[04:29] Questions to help you choose a focus, area or topic for your session[05:51] Coaching is usually about asking questions, rather than giving advice[06:39] Advice is given for practical career topics e.g. CV, LinkedIn and interviews[09:17] Practical tips to get the most out of your session[09:13] Choose a quiet space where you won’t be disturbed[10:09] Minimise distractions[10:21] Have some buffer time before the start of your session[10:40] Techniques to help you transition from your previous task into your session[11:32] Buffer time at the end of your session is helpful[12:12] Have a notebook and pen ready for your session[14:06] Let your coach know if you’d like the session recorded[14:26] Have a drink with you in case you get thirsty[14:51] If you’ll be discussing an emotional topic, have some tissues to hand[15:09] Be open-minded and provide feedback[16:46] Jot down your reflections in between sessions[17:21] Questions to help you reflect before starting your next session[17:56] Always ask your coach questions if you have any[18:19] Episode conclusionUseful LinksConnect with Fay on LinkedInFay’s website: Bright Sky Career CoachingHeadspace’s one-minute meditation YouTube video Other Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEpisode 130: Build managers’ confidence and skills with ‘The Coaching Two-Step’, with Jude SclaterEpisode 53: Why coaching skills can help your career (& how to develop them), with Charlie WarshawskiEpisode 125: Create your perfect professional development plan in 8 simple stepsLooking For the Transcript?You can find the transcript on this page of the Bright Sky Career Coaching website.Rate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of HR Coffee Time helpful, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This video shows you how to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts. If you're kind enough to leave a review, let Fay know so she can say thank you. You reach her at: fay@brightskycareercoaching.co.uk. Enjoyed This Episode? Don't Miss the Next One!Be notified each time a new episode of HR Coffee Time is released and get access to other free career tips, tools and resources by signing up to receive the free weekly HR Coffee Time email.Mentioned in this episode:Ready to learn more about Inspiring HR?Learn more about the Inspiring HR Leadership Programme, and sign up to join the next cohort, that starts on 10th September 2025.Inspiring HR