Happier At Work®

Aoife O'Brien

Happier at Work® is a weekly business podcast for HR and business leaders who know that their people are their best asset, and who want to retain their top talent. Happier employees are more productive, more engaged, and stay in an organisation for longer. Through interesting guest interviews and solo episodes, host Aoife O’Brien covers four main themes: leadership equity; engagement and belonging; productivity and performance; and the future of work. What does being happier at work mean for you and your organisation? read less
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Episodes

226: The 3 C’s of Thriving Talent at Work with Aoife O’Brien
2d ago
226: The 3 C’s of Thriving Talent at Work with Aoife O’Brien
In the latest solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I talk about the 3 C’s, a highly requested topic by you for a long time. In this episode, I introduce my 3 C's of Thriving Talent framework, designed to foster more engagement, higher retention, greater happiness, and overall success within organisations. I discuss each of the 3 C’s in turn, focusing on the very essence of each in their own right, and how they are interdependent on each other. A positive culture and strong career development can't thrive without the right capabilities. Similarly, having the skills and tools without a supportive culture or clear career path doesn't lead to thriving talent.The main points throughout this podcast include:The foundation of an organisation: Culture.The importance of personal responsibility in managing your career.The value in equipping employees with the right skills and tools to strive.Emphasis on investing in continuous learning, mentoring and professional growth opportunities.Curious about where you or your organisation stands? I've developed an assessment to identify which areas require focus to create an environment of thriving talent. Click the link below to take the assessment.https://thrivingtalent.scoreapp.com Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn InstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterPrevious Episodes:Episode 184: A Framework for Building Happier Work Cultures with Aoife O’Brien
225: Enneagram Integration for Business Success with Ali Dunn
27-09-2024
225: Enneagram Integration for Business Success with Ali Dunn
Do you want to gain more insight into the enneagram and how it impacts your happiness at work? In this week's episode, I sat down with leadership and Enneagram coach, Ali Dunn, for a deep dive into self-awareness, team dynamics, and the quest for workplace happiness.Ali shares the importance of stepping outside our comfort zones for self-expression and growth.For Ali, true happiness in the workplace means being surrounded by people who share aligned values and a common purpose, along with the freedom to explore new ideas.We discussed how different Enneagram types influence team dynamics and conflict resolution. Ali emphasises that self-awareness and understanding others' motivations are crucial for effective teamwork.We also talked about the specific motivations and core fears associated with each type, from originality and understanding to security and control.The main points:The balance between striving for excellence and embracing imperfections.Understand how knowing your own and others' Enneagram types can foster better collaboration and conflict resolution.Continuous learning and self-awareness are vital in achieving both personal and professional growth.The importance of personal insights and strengths in coaching and business success.Tune in to uncover how Enneagram avoidant traits might relate to psychological attachment styles and how family dynamics shape our behaviors.Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with AliLinkedInWebsiteInstagramConnect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn YouTubePrevious Episodes:Episode 58: Happier at Work Disc Behavioural Assessment and Life Harmony with with Nausheen SaumtallyEpisode 215: How can you navigate different personality types at work with Rona Gallagher
224: Understanding Emotional Intelligence at Work with Kinga Mnich
20-09-2024
224: Understanding Emotional Intelligence at Work with Kinga Mnich
What role do emotions play in workplace dynamics?In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I had an enlightening conversation with Kinga Mnich, a social psychologist specialising in emotions and identity within organisational settings. Kinga, who holds a PhD in this field, shared her profound insights into how emotions shape identities and influence decision-making in the workplace.Kinga delved into the historical perspective of emotions being seen as distractions in professional settings and highlighted the importance of emotional intelligence. She emphasised that understanding the cultural and organisational impact on emotions can lead to better communication and a more integrated work environment. Kinga also discussed the role of hormones in decision-making and the gender differences in handling emotions at work.The main points:The importance of creating an inclusive and supportive environment for emotional expression at work.The unique emotional cultures and rules in different organisations.Personal background influences on emotional expression and understanding.The importance of recognising emotional diversity to reduce miscommunications.Factors influencing emotional expression such as cultural background, family dynamics, and personality.Tune in to deepen your understanding of emotions' critical role in enhancing workplace dynamics and fostering a thriving organisational culture.Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with KingaLinkedInWebsitePinterestThreadsYoutubeConnect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn YouTubePrevious Episodes:Episode 174: The Role of Emotions in Workplace Dynamics with Dr. Lola GershfeldEpisode 141: Take Radical Responsibility of your Career with Carla MillerMentioned in this episode:Podcast Live RecordingRegister to get your tickets for the LIVE podcast recording: https://livepodcastrecording.scoreapp.comPodcast Live Recording
223: Imposter Syndrome: The Invisible Barrier to Workplace Success
13-09-2024
223: Imposter Syndrome: The Invisible Barrier to Workplace Success
In this week's solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I delve into a topic that is close to  my heart - imposter syndrome. This complex idea has been highly requested by you, the listener, and this episode will shed light on its impact in the workplace and beyond.I revisit my renowned 3C framework, focusing particularly on the "career" pillar - emphasising the crucial role of confidence in professional growth. I share valuable insights on the "know, show, grow" approach and how confidence plays a pivotal role within it.The episode unveils the 5 different imposter identities: the overachiever, the comparer, the success-fearer, the procrastinator, and the people pleaser. I discuss each type in detail, offering relatable examples and potential impacts on individual performance and organisational productivity.Take the assessment: https://imposteridentity.scoreapp.com I also highlight the influence of imposter syndrome on teams and organisations, addressing the broader implications and the potential for burnout and decreased productivity. I encourage leaders to consider the impact on their teams and explore the associated leader assessment tool I talk about in the episode.The main points throughout this podcast include:The influence of imposter syndrome on teams and organisations.Its impact in the workplace and beyond.The crucial role of confidence in professional growth.The "know, show, grow" approach and how confidence plays a pivotal role within it.The 5 different imposter identities: the overachiever, the comparer, the success bearer, the procrastinator, and the people pleaser.Take the assessment: https://imposteridentity.scoreapp.com I will be dedicating another episode to the 3C's of thriving talent within the thriving talent framework - career, culture, and capabilities. So make sure to stay tuned for that!Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn InstagramYouTubePrevious Episodes:Episode 131: How Much Imposter Syndrome Costs You with Aoife O’BrienEpisode 77: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Igniting Empowerment with Aoife O’BrienMentioned in this episode:Podcast Live RecordingRegister to get your tickets for the LIVE podcast recording: https://livepodcastrecording.scoreapp.comPodcast Live Recording
222: How to Build Authentic Connections and Personal Branding with Alyssa Jaffer
06-09-2024
222: How to Build Authentic Connections and Personal Branding with Alyssa Jaffer
Do you want to redefine success and build genuine connections at work?In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I had the pleasure of hosting Alyssa Jaffer, a senior global communications manager at Deliveroo. Alyssa shared invaluable insights into personal branding, finding motivation at work, and the transformative power of meaningful connections.Alyssa discusses the importance of collecting data and using it to inform future actions in personal branding. Together we emphasise the opportunity to control your personal brand on platforms like LinkedIn and provide action points for individuals to consider what they're interested in and what they care about. We discuss the significance of genuine, 1-on-1 connections and the value of serving others.Throughout the episode, we encourage creative thinking, consistency, and the unexpected opportunities that can arise from putting yourself out there. We highlight the importance of aligning one's online and offline identities to maintain an authentic personal brand, and the need to redefine success on one's own terms. Alyssa's journey from investigative journalist to marketing and communications professional is a testament to the power of mindset shifts and taking control of your self-worth and achievements.The main points throughout this podcast include:What success actually means.The importance of collecting data and using it to inform future actions in personal branding.The significance of genuine, 1-on-1 connections and the value of serving others.The power of mindset shifts and taking control of your self-worth and achievements.Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Alyssa LinkedInInstagramTwitterConnect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn YouTubePrevious Episodes:Episode 177: Leveraging Transferable Skills for Career Success with Janine EsbranEpisode 202: Leveraging Strengths and Setting Boundaries with Lucy GernonMentioned in this episode:Podcast Live RecordingRegister to get your tickets for the LIVE podcast recording: https://livepodcastrecording.scoreapp.comPodcast Live Recording
221: Overcoming Language Barriers and Embracing Authenticity with Marta Smullen
30-08-2024
221: Overcoming Language Barriers and Embracing Authenticity with Marta Smullen
Do you want to conquer your fear of failure and embrace new challenges in the workplace? In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I had an inspiring conversation with Marta Smullen, a finance professional and host of the "Invisible TO Visible" podcast. Marta shares her journey of personal and professional growth as an Irish resident originally from Poland, offering a refreshing perspective on overcoming embarrassment, imposter syndrome, and bias in the workplace. She emphasises the importance of authenticity, self-acceptance, and finding one's "why" in the pursuit of career success, urging listeners to step outside their comfort zones and embrace their true selves.Marta's insights and experiences will challenge you to reframe your mindset and approach to career growth, ultimately leading to a happier and more fulfilling work life. This episode will help you gain valuable perspectives on navigating challenges, overcoming biases, and unlocking your full potential in the workplace.The main points throughout this podcast include:Embracing authenticity and self-acceptance in professional development.The importance of having a clear "why" in pursuing education and career success.Overcoming imposter syndrome and fear of failure by understanding personal motivators.Fostering workplace cultures where individual differences are celebrated and diversity thrives. Recognising the transformative power of embracing new challenges and opportunities at work.Connect with Marta LinkedInInstagramConnect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn YouTubePrevious Episodes:https://happieratwork.ie/62-finding-strength-in-vulnerability-with-paul-walker/Simon Stapleton on Authenticity at Work (YouTube) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iYjzjjW-yM0Mentioned in this episode:Podcast Live RecordingRegister to get your tickets for the LIVE podcast recording: https://livepodcastrecording.scoreapp.comPodcast Live Recording
220: The Four Tendencies: A framework by Gretchen Rubin
23-08-2024
220: The Four Tendencies: A framework by Gretchen Rubin
In today's solo episode, I delved into the intriguing concept of the Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin. I share my own personal experience of discovering "The Happiness Project" at Powell's Bookstore in Portland, Oregon, which sparked my journey into personal development. This led me to explore Rubin's work and, in particular, "The Four Tendencies."I discussed the four tendencies: the Obliger, the Upholder, the Questioner, and the Rebel, and how they respond to both internal and external expectations. Understanding these tendencies can shed light on how we meet expectations and interact within our work environments.Knowing your tendency can provide valuable insights into how you approach tasks, goals, and accountability at work. Are you the Obliger, thriving on external accountability but struggling to meet your internal expectations? Are you the Upholder, readily meeting both inner and outer expectations? Perhaps you resonate with the Questioner, challenging external expectations to transform them into internal motivations. Or maybe you identify with the Rebel, navigating a unique approach to expectations by finding identity in personal choices.The main points throughout this podcast include:The four tendencies: the Obliger, the Upholder, the Questioner, and the Rebel.How the four tendencies respond to both internal and external expectationsHow we meet expectations and interact within our work environments.The importance of personal development for success.This framework can profoundly impact teamwork, productivity, and overall workplace happiness. I encourage you to reflect on the tendencies and share your thoughts. Which tendency resonates with you, and how can understanding it empower you to achieve your professional goals?Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn InstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterPrevious Episodes:https://happieratwork.ie/85-why-delivering-effective-and-constructive-feedback-at-work-is-so-vital-with-aoife-obrien/https://happieratwork.ie/209-cultivating-self-awareness-at-work-with-nia-thomas/Mentioned in this episode:Podcast Live RecordingRegister to get your tickets for the LIVE podcast recording: https://livepodcastrecording.scoreapp.comPodcast Live Recording
Bonus Episode: How to Encourage Women Leaders to Speak Up
19-08-2024
Bonus Episode: How to Encourage Women Leaders to Speak Up
This is a synopsis of the key points from my conversation with Carla Miller.The main points throughout this podcast include:The impact of gender bias on confidence.Strategies for managing interruptions and finding opportunities to speak up.The importance of integrating body language tools and the "cloak of authority" to feel more in control in challenging situations.The significance of delivering feedback upwards in a diplomatic and solution-focused manner.The importance of body language and ending contributions with confidence.Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Carla:LinkedInWebsiteInstagramConnect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn InstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterPrevious Episodes:https://happieratwork.ie/take-radical-responsibility-of-your-career-with-carla-miller/https://happieratwork.ie/213-how-can-women-find-fulfillment-and-success-at-work-with-rebecca-muriuki/https://happieratwork.ie/210-how-can-you-lead-with-empathy-and-work-to-your-strengths-with-jacqui-jagger/https://happieratwork.ie/200-reskilling-diversity-and-building-a-happier-workplace-with-bhushan-sethi/https://happieratwork.ie/207-gender-equality-and-inclusive-leadership-with-robert-baker/Mentioned in this episode:Podcast Live RecordingRegister to get your tickets for the LIVE podcast recording: https://livepodcastrecording.scoreapp.comPodcast Live RecordingPodcast Live RecordingRegister to get your tickets for the LIVE podcast recording: https://livepodcastrecording.scoreapp.comPodcast Live Recording
219: How to Encourage Women Leaders to Speak Up with Carla Miller
16-08-2024
219: How to Encourage Women Leaders to Speak Up with Carla Miller
In this week's episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I was thrilled to be joined by renowned women's leadership coach, Carla Miller. Carla shared invaluable insights and practical strategies for women leaders facing challenges in the workplace, drawing from her own experiences and her mission to empower women to speak up and influence effectively in boardrooms.Carla emphasised the impact of gender bias on confidence, highlighting the effects of imposter syndrome and the lack of self-belief on women's ability to contribute in high-stakes environments. She encouraged a shift in mindset, urging individuals to focus on their strengths and contributions before speaking in challenging meetings.One of the key issues Carla discussed was the challenge of being interrupted in meetings, particularly for women. She provided strategies for managing interruptions and finding opportunities to speak up, including utilising allies and the powerful strategy of amplification.Carla also emphasised the importance of integrating body language tools and the "cloak of authority" to feel more in control in challenging situations. She delved into the use of questions and provoking questions as powerful communication tools, and the significance of delivering feedback upwards in a diplomatic and solution-focused manner.Furthermore, Carla addressed the use of language qualifiers in communication and provided actionable advice on how women can communicate more effectively, highlighting the importance of body language and ending contributions with confidence.The main points throughout this podcast include:The impact of gender bias on confidence.Strategies for managing interruptions and finding opportunities to speak up.The importance of integrating body language tools and the "cloak of authority" to feel more in control in challenging situations.The significance of delivering feedback upwards in a diplomatic and solution-focused manner.The importance of body language and ending contributions with confidence.Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Carla:LinkedInWebsiteInstagramConnect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn YouTubePrevious Episodes:https://happieratwork.ie/take-radical-responsibility-of-your-career-with-carla-miller/https://happieratwork.ie/213-how-can-women-find-fulfillment-and-success-at-work-with-rebecca-muriuki/https://happieratwork.ie/210-how-can-you-lead-with-empathy-and-work-to-your-strengths-with-jacqui-jagger/202:...
218: How Can You Improve Happiness and Trust at Work with Matt Phelan
09-08-2024
218: How Can You Improve Happiness and Trust at Work with Matt Phelan
In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I had the pleasure of hosting Matt Phelan, co-founder of the Happiness Index, as he shared insightful perspectives on workplace happiness, authenticity, and growth.We explored the correlation between employee and customer happiness, and the top drivers of happiness, including safety, relationships, freedom, and acknowledgment. Matt's expertise in data and workplace culture led to the creation of the Happiness Index, which offers valuable insights into understanding and improving organisational culture.The episode also delved into the importance of open conversations about career progression and the significance of adapting to individual needs within a team. Matt’s passion for creating a work environment where everyone can thrive without external pressures provides a fresh perspective on workplace happiness.The main points throughout this podcast include:The challenge of addressing the happiness index in workplacesThe impact of embracing authenticity and vulnerability The value of understanding emotional data points to improve organisational culture.The correlation between employee and customer happinessThe importance of open conversations about career progression and the significance of adapting to individual needs within a teamDo you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Matt:TwitterLinkedInWebsiteConnect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn InstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterPrevious Episodes:https://happieratwork.ie/214-how-can-we-nurture-in-person-connection-at-work/https://happieratwork.ie/210-how-can-you-lead-with-empathy-and-work-to-your-strengths-with-jacqui-jagger/https://happieratwork.ie/200-reskilling-diversity-and-building-a-happier-workplace-with-bhushan-sethi/https://happieratwork.ie/199-reflecting-on-happiness-at-work-with-aoife-obrien/Mentioned in this episode:Podcast Live RecordingRegister to get your tickets for the LIVE podcast recording: https://livepodcastrecording.scoreapp.comPodcast Live Recording
217: How Can We Identify and Overcome Self-Sabotage Behaviours at Work?
02-08-2024
217: How Can We Identify and Overcome Self-Sabotage Behaviours at Work?
In this week's solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I delved into the various ways we tend to hinder our own success. I shared personal examples and insights on how we can identify and overcome these obstacles that hold us back in our careers.I pointed out several mindsets and behaviors that can block our progress, such as playing the victim, fearing judgment or failure, people-pleasing, feeling superior, being on a power trip, adopting a scarcity mindset, falling into complacency, and embracing a martyr complex. These are hurdles we might not often recognise within ourselves, but it's important to bring awareness to these patterns.One poignant example I shared was about encountering someone with a strong sense of entitlement. I explained how this individual expected special treatment and seemed to believe that others should cater to his needs without reciprocation. This powerful real-life example highlighted the negative impacts of entitlement on relationships and success.I also emphasised the importance of humility and recommended the book "The Go-Giver," which illustrates the transformative power of focusing on helping others without expecting anything in return.The main points throughout this podcast include:The various ways we tend to hinder our own success.How we can identify and overcome the obstacles that hold us back in our careers.The negative impacts of entitlement on relationships and success.The importance of humility.Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn InstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterPrevious Episodes:https://happieratwork.ie/85-why-delivering-effective-and-constructive-feedback-at-work-is-so-vital-with-aoife-obrien/https://happieratwork.ie/209-cultivating-self-awareness-at-work-with-nia-thomas/https://happieratwork.ie/178-fulfilling-your-potential-and-finding-joy-in-your-work-with-soma-ghosh/https://happieratwork.ie/177-leveraging-transferable-skills-for-career-success-with-janine-esbrand/https://happieratwork.ie/171-how-to-strategically-navigate-your-career-with-harsha-boralessa/ Mentioned in this episode:Podcast Live RecordingRegister to get your tickets for the LIVE podcast recording: https://livepodcastrecording.scoreapp.com
216: How to achieve Pay Transparency with Virgile Raingeard
26-07-2024
216: How to achieve Pay Transparency with Virgile Raingeard
In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I had the honor of hosting Virgile Raingeard, the CEO and co-founder of Figures, a conversation management platform. Virgile's extensive experience in HR, coupled with his dedication to creating fair and transparent compensation processes, provided valuable insights into the future of fair pay in the workplace.Virgile emphasised the importance of basing compensation on actual performance rather than past seniority, disrupting traditional compensation structures. We stressed the crucial role of transparency in compensation, predicting a future where lack of salary transparency will seem archaic and unacceptable.The discussion shed light on the impact of transparency on closing the gender pay gap and the legislative changes targeting pay inequities in different countries. We also explored the challenge of fairly compensating employees with unique skills and the role of collective profit-sharing schemes in balancing individual pay differences.The main points throughout this podcast include:The importance of basing compensation on actual performance rather than past seniority, disrupting traditional compensation structures.The crucial role of transparency in compensation.The impact of transparency on closing the gender pay gap.The challenge of fairly compensating employees with unique skills.Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Virgile:LinkedInWebsiteTwitterYoutubeConnect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn InstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterMentioned in this episode:Podcast Live RecordingRegister to get your tickets for the LIVE podcast recording: https://livepodcastrecording.scoreapp.comPodcast Live Recording
215: How Can You Navigate Different Personality Types At Work with Ronan Gallagher
19-07-2024
215: How Can You Navigate Different Personality Types At Work with Ronan Gallagher
In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I had an insightful conversation with Ronan Gallagher, a seasoned lawyer turned people trainer, and author. Ronan shared different perspectives on personality types, emotional intelligence, and their impact on workplace dynamics. Ronan discussed the challenges of applying a single right way approach to dealing with people, emphasising that individuals are complex and not black and white. He shed light on the "performer" and "boss" personality types, exploring the impact of childhood experiences on these traits.We also talked about Enneagram personality types, and Ronan emphasised the importance of understanding oneself and recognising clashes between different types in a team setting. Ronan's insights highlighted how raising awareness and understanding of these styles can help resolve conflicts and improve team dynamics.Ronan delved into the subconscious mind's influence on behavior, revealing that our personalities are mostly formed in the first seven years of life. He emphasised the impact of subconscious programming on behaviors and beliefs, underlining the need for empathy and understanding in the workplace.The main points throughout this podcast include:The challenges of applying a single right way approach to dealing with people.The importance of understanding oneself and recognising clashes between different types in a team setting.The impact of subconscious programming on behaviors and beliefs, and the need for empathy and understanding in the workplace.The challenges of leaving established careers for more fulfilling work and the impact of subconscious triggers on interactions with others.The importance of recognising and processing feelings of shame about one's personality type as a natural part of growth.Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Ronan:InstagramLinkedInWebsiteConnect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn InstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterMentioned in this episode:Podcast Live RecordingRegister to get your tickets for the LIVE podcast recording: https://livepodcastrecording.scoreapp.comPodcast Live Recording