Find Grow Keep

Are you feeling the pressure of managing people, policies, and growth—but unsure what kind of HR support your business truly needs?   In this episode, we dive into one of the most common questions from growing small to medium businesses: When do I need ongoing HR support?   This episode is a must-listen if:  You’re starting to outgrow your DIY HR processes  You’re not sure when or how to invest in...

In this episode we explore the transformative potential of well-crafted policies and governance frameworks in small to medium-sized businesses. We are joined by Celeste Norman , founder of Rayne Legal , who brings a wealth of experience in the legal and compliance realms. Together, we debunk the myth of policies as mere formalities and reveal how they can be leveraged as strategic tools for sustai...

Is people management getting in the way of growing your business?  In this practical episode, we unpack the five clear signs that it's time to get HR support—before people problems turn into business blockers.  Whether you're navigating team turnover, inconsistent onboarding, or scaling into new markets, this episode will help you spot the red flags and understand what HR support can do...

If you’re running a professional services business and looking to scale beyond seven figures, this episode is packed with powerful insights to help you get there.   Karen is joined by Marco Formaggio , founder of Sweat2Scale, who shares practical strategies drawn from his own success building and selling a successful business, and now helping others do the same.  In today’s episode, you’ll discove...

As your business grows, your HR risks grow too — but that doesn’t mean things have to get complicated.  In this episode, Karen Kirton unpacks the most common HR pitfalls that sneak up on growing businesses and shares how to simplify compliance, protect your business, and build the foundations for a thriving team.  If you’ve ever felt unsure about employment contracts, modern award obligations, or...

In this episode (recorded as our first LinkedIn Live!), Karen Kirton shares five key people and culture trends currently shaping small to medium-sized businesses in Australia. Drawing from recent research, client insights, and real conversations at networking events, Karen explores:  Why employee engagement still tops the priority list – and practical ways to support wellbeing and career growth in...

In this episode, Karen is joined by Lucy McCarraher , founder of Book Magic AI and Rethink Press, and a mentor to thousands of business book authors. If you’ve ever considered writing a book but felt overwhelmed by the process, this conversation will show you how it can be one of the most powerful tools for business growth, recruitment, and brand authority.  In today’s episode, you will learn:  Wh...

In this episode, Karen Kirton explores the importance of aligning your company's purpose with its strategic goals to drive growth and ensure sustainability.   Whether you're a small business owner or at the head of a larger enterprise, understanding and articulating your company's purpose is more than a task—it's a strategic advantage.  What you'll gain from this episode: ...

In this episode, Karen dives into the impact of artificial intelligence on small and medium-sized businesses though a discussion with AI expert Janey Treleaven . As AI technologies and digital tools become increasingly integral to business operations, understanding and integrating them without overwhelming your people and existing systems is crucial for businesses to grow and succeed.  In today’s...

Great leadership goes beyond managing people—it’s about fostering growth, empowering teams, and creating a culture that drives business success. In this episode, we explore the five key leadership skills every business owner and manager needs to develop for long-term impact.  Tune in to learn about:  Emotional Intelligence & Self-Awareness – How understanding yourself improves decision-making,...

In this episode, we focus on the pivotal role of managers in your business's growth and the complexities that arise with new managerial roles. Whether you're promoting from within or hiring externally, mastering people management is not just an HR task—it's a cornerstone of successful business leadership.  Here's what you'll discover today: ✅ Evaluating Potential Managers...

Karen dives into the critical need to adopt a candidate-centric approach to hiring. With the landscape of recruitment evolving rapidly, understanding and optimising every step of the hiring process not only enhances your ability to attract the best talent but also strengthens your company's reputation and efficiency.  What you'll discover in this episode:  -> The importance of refinin...

In this episode, Karen provides actionable insights on leveraging your employer brand to drive business growth through strategic recruitment.   As businesses expand, the challenge of hiring the right people becomes even greater. This episode provides a deep dive into how strengthening your employer brand can significantly enhance your recruitment process and overall business success.  In today’s e...

In this milestone episode, we delve deep into why managing 'people stuff' effectively is not just an HR function but a core aspect of running a successful business. If you're looking to unlock growth and drive performance, this episode is a must-listen!  In today’s episode, you will learn about:  -> The crucial role of employee engagement in financial success, illustrated by a ca...

Welcome to Episode 99: Navigating 2025 – Trends and Strategies for Employee Engagement! In this episode, our host Karen Kirton explores the vital trends shaping employee engagement for the coming year and offers a step-by-step guide to enhancing your workplace environment. This episode is crucial for any business leader seeking to improve profitability and create a thriving culture through effecti...

In this episode, Karen addresses the challenges of recruiting in a slow economy and the strategic shift towards hiring early career professionals or students. This approach not only cuts costs but also builds a pipeline of talent that grows with your business. Karen shares her insights and strategies on how to adapt the recruitment process to better suit early career candidates. In today’s episode...

In this insightful episode, Karen revisits the ever-relevant topic of workplace flexibility, particularly the hybrid work model, as businesses continue to adapt to the changing dynamics of office and remote work into 2025. This episode builds on past discussions and incorporates fresh research to guide companies on how to effectively manage their evolving workplace strategies. In today’s episode,...

As the year draws to a close, in this episode Karen delves into effective strategies to tackle the year-end rush and lay a strong foundation for employee retention. Essential listening for business owners and leaders, this episode offers practical advice and strategic insights to ensure you enter the new year with momentum. In this episode, you'll discover: End-of-Year Review Strategies : Lea...

In this episode, Karen sat down with Ed Greenwood from Eton HR to tackle a phrase we’ve all heard: “culture fit.” But what does it really mean? 🤔 Too often, it’s used as a vague reason to reject candidates, leaving them feeling dismissed and disrespected. Ed challenges us to define our company culture clearly and avoid hiding behind this term, which can even mask unconscious bias. This discussion...

In this critical episode, Karen dives into the challenges and strategic decisions required for businesses experiencing rapid growth. We explore the concept known as the "Valley of Death" and its implications for scaling businesses, a concept explored by Verne Harnish in his book, "Scaling Up." In this episode, you'll learn: Understanding the Valley of Death : We discuss th...

In this episode, Karen Kirton addresses the significant cultural shift in Australian workplaces with the introduction of the 'right to disconnect'—a new legal right under the Fair Work Act allowing employees to refuse work-related communications outside regular working hours. This episode delves into the implications for business owners and managers, blending compliance requirements with...

When it comes to building a strong workplace culture, some things work and some things definitely don’t. Hiring an HR manager is not going to fix your problem, and neither is conducting endless employee surveys.  In today’s discussion, we reflect on a crucial topic that many leaders encounter: the struggle to foster business growth amid a problematic organisational culture. Drawing from conversati...

n today’s dynamic economic environment, where living costs are soaring, employees seek more than just a salary from their jobs. This episode focuses on the critical role of personal and professional growth in employee retention and engagement. We delve into how fostering a culture of development can significantly impact your team's loyalty and satisfaction. What you'll discover in this e...

Today, Karen explores the pivotal role of a strong, adaptable culture in supporting sustainable business growth. As businesses aim to scale, the foundation of shared values, beliefs, and practices becomes essential. These elements should foster innovation, agility, and resilience, aligning closely with the organization’s growth objectives. What you'll discover in this episode: -> The signi...

In this episode, Karen Kirton explores how to lead your business—and more importantly, your people—through successful digital transformation. While tech tools may streamline operations and boost efficiency, it's your team who brings those systems to life. So how do you ensure they're ready, capable, and confident to embrace the changes? Karen breaks down what digital transformation reall...