The HR Dept Hertford & Hatfield

08/09/2024

Have you heard 'The Buzz?

Back by popular demand 'Hertford Buzz' launching at the Hertford Club, Bull Plain, SG14 1DT on Friday 27 September 2024 from 10am to 12pm.

Meetings will be hosted by Annette Tyler & Sandra Feuell and we look forward to welcoming you at the same time, same place, every fourth Friday of the month.

No membership fees or professional lockout only £10 to drop-in.
Note that pre-booking is required via the web app here: https://app.business-buzz.org/account/login?returnUrl=/Hertford

Come along and meet your local, vibrant business community, please remember to bring lots of business cards.

24/06/2024

As the election campaign hots up, the five leading parties have now released their manifestos.

Regardless of who wins the election, there will be an impact on employment law. We've read through the manifestos to decipher each of their views and the impact this could have on SMEs.

To find out what each party is saying about employment law, read our latest blog here: https://www.hrdept.co.uk/hertford-and-hatfield/blog/what-do-the-top-five-manifestos-say-about-employment-law/

We have also created an election special hub as part of our People Matter newsletter which you can sign up to here: https://www.hrdept.co.uk/hertford-and-hatfield/newsletter/

24/05/2024

It is a huge fear for SME owners and managers that they invest lots of time and money into the recruitment process, only to find out down the line that they have made a bad hire. While this has long been a danger, the rise of AI since 2023 has brought a whole new level of complexity; with candidate use of AI in CVs, covering letters and other parts of the application process. One candidate even got busted for using AI live in a video interview to help them answer the questions!

For employers, the big problem with the use of AI by candidates is that it may misrepresent their skillset. It leads you to think they will be perfect when, in fact, there were stronger candidates available. In May's edition of , we discuss this case in full.

We also discuss the new 'QuitTok' trend, being more productive, ending "sick note culture", and much more...

To read these articles in full, and find out the latest from the world of HR, check out our newsletter here: https://www.hrdept.co.uk/hertford-and-hatfield/newsletter/

07/05/2024

Most of the time, starting a family or having another child is a joyous occasion for the parents-to-be, full of optimism but with plenty of change ahead. There’ll be highs and lows.

Academic research suggests that 80% of mothers do not develop mental health issues associated with pregnancy, but for the 20% that do it can be a difficult and upsetting time.

Maternal mental health issues will not usually be caused by work but it may exacerbate it – a difficult pregnancy or birth, poorly baby or a non-sleeper are more likely to be the root cause. However, whether you are motivated by your duty of care, the business case or both, there are things you can do to help as an employer.

To learn more about managing maternal mental health, read our latest blog: https://www.hrdept.co.uk/hertford-and-hatfield/blog/maternal-mental-health-how-should-you-manage-it/

Most of the time, starting a family or having another child is a joyous occasion for the parents-to-be, full of optimism but with plenty of change ahead. There’ll be highs and lows. Academic research suggests that 80% of mothers do not develop mental health issues associated with pregnancy, but fo...

02/05/2024

The HR Dept National Conference in Leamington Spa kicked off its first day yesterday and what a day it was.

Fantastic guest speaker Sally Gunnell gave an inspiring, motivational talk on mindset. Lots of tools to ensure you keep a healthy mind, body and soul whilst running your business.

Thanks to all the licensees who shared their business experiences it was great to catch up with everyone. Also managed to fit in a quick walk and get some fresh air in the beautiful countryside of this amazing hotel The Woodland Grange with Sally Bennett.

Congratulations to all the award winners what a fabulous evening. Looking forward to another day of learning and development.

09/02/2024

How do you look after your wellbeing?

I was asked this question this week and it got me thinking about those everyday things that we can all do to support our own mental health.

There are some great resources available, which can help to set us on the right track, please take a look at some of the ideas given here: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/caring-for-your-mental-health

What do you do to care for your mental health?

Mental health includes emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, act, make choices, and relate to others.

07/02/2024

Do you take the time to listen to your staff.

Being a good listener to your employees is not some empty gesture; there will be tangible benefits to you as an employer.

Generating ideas and improving workplace morale are strong examples of key benefits, but there are plenty more to note.

We have a variety of training solutions to help you or your line managers to upskill, from in-person workshops to eLearning courses. If you would like to find out more, then please get in touch.

Read our latest blog to learn more: https://www.hrdept.co.uk/hertford-and-hatfield/blog/five-benefits-of-taking-the-time-to-listen-to-your-staff/

02/02/2024

Is it time to update your policies?

Employment law is always evolving, improving protections for businesses and the people who work within them. Keeping on top of these changes and maintaining up-to-date HR admin can sometimes be a time-consuming task. To help, we have created a fact sheet for employers on key legislative changes to keep in mind.

All employers are obligated to stay on top of their employment legislation, not doing so could result in costly and damaging employment tribunals or fines of up to £20,000 per employee. Download our factsheet here to see the latest changes you should be aware of; https://www.hrdept.co.uk/hertford-and-hatfield/legislation/

26/01/2024

The HR Dept specialise in preventing people problems and supports SME businesses with all their HR needs.

We have produced an online HR Audit which will help to provide an insight into how your HR is performing in your business. Please click on the link here if you wish to find out more: https://www.hrdept.uk/yourhraudit

It should only take a few minutes of your time and your free online HR Company Assessment Report will be generated at the end.

HR is one of those areas in your business that isn't a problem until it is. But when those problems do creep in, (and it's inevitable the bigger a company gets), they can be expensive, time-heavy and stressful. Evaluate your readiness to tackle all matters HR with our fast and free assessment!

24/01/2024

At this time of year, even if your team work a nine to five, some or all of them may find themselves commuting in the dark. If you are in the hospitality trade, or another industry which keeps less regular hours, you may have employees who must commute in the dark at all times of year.

It can be an uncomfortable experience for anyone, especially if the streets are empty or they have to travel through a rough neighbourhood. Sadly, high profile attacks have shown that women are particularly at risk.

Whilst in most cases, you have no legal responsibility for employee safety during commutes, there are a number of actions you can take to improve safety.

Read our full blog to learn more: https://www.hrdept.co.uk/hertford-and-hatfield/blog/are-you-responsible-for-your-employees-safety-during-their-commute-to-work/

At this time of year, even if your team work a nine to five, some or all of them may find themselves commuting in the dark. If you are in the hospitality trade, or another industry which keeps less regular hours, you may have employees who must commute in the dark at all times of …

20/01/2024

A business owner has recently had to sell their company, and make six staff members redundant as a result of a newly-employed accounts assistant stealing £35,000 from their business. Situations like this provide an important reminder to conduct thorough background checks to all potential candidates during your recruitment process. In December's edition of , we discuss this case in full.

We also discuss three unusual tribunal cases from the past year, va**ng at work policies, staff monitoring, and much more...

To read these articles in full, and find out the latest from the world of HR, check out our newsletter here: https://www.hrdept.co.uk/hertford-and-hatfield/newsletter/

**ngatwork

11/01/2024

*****COMMERCIAL INSURANCE ACCOUNT HANDLER POSITION**********

I am currently working with a well-established Insurance Broker in Hatfield who is looking to employ an experienced Commercial Insurance Account Handler to join their friendly team. They cover all aspects of commercial insurance across a wide range of industries from pharmaceutical to aviation to construction

Previous experience of preparing insurance quotations, offering renewal and dealing with adjustments would be preferrable as well as a working knowledge of the Acturis system. The role will be working as part of a small, close knit team and there is a real chance to learn and progress. Upon successful completion of training/probational period, hybrid working will be considered (to a maximum of 2 days a week working from home).

The starting salary will be from £25k p.a. depending on insurance experience. They are located within a fantastic office space which offers some excellent facilities just 500 yards from Hatfield train station as well as having free parking on site. The office hours are 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday. All training will be provided on the job.

If you or anyone you know is interested in this role then please send CV’s to the HR Dept Hertford & Hatfield [email protected]