Once Upon a Time in HR…the Sequel

Once upon a time, in a workplace not so far away, three employees faced challenges that tested the magic of their HR departments. With the right support from their employers, they knew that they could find their happily ever after…

“Hansel and the Breadcrumbs”

Hansel was excited to start his new job. He had worked hard to land a role in his dream company, but after onboarding, he felt lost in an unfamiliar forest of responsibilities. His manager was always too busy, and any guidance he received was scattered, much like a breadcrumb trail leading nowhere.

Hansel isn’t alone – over half (54%) of office-based employees said they were dissatisfied with their onboarding experience. Without any clear direction, he struggled to find his way, second-guessing himself and feeling isolated.

How can Hansel’s employer help him?

Firstly, companies should ensure structured, well-documented onboarding programs that don’t leave new hires to fend for themselves. Regular check-ins with a mentor or manager can help employees feel guided and supported. A buddy system, where a more experienced colleague helps navigate the first few months, can also work wonders.

And, most importantly, onboarding shouldn’t end after a few weeks. Continuous learning opportunities and career development plans ensure employees feel valued long after their first day. And this sentiment rings true – a Glassdoor survey found that a strong onboarding process improves a company’s retention rate by 82%.

“Rapunzel and the Remote Tower”

Rapunzel was thriving in her fully remote role – until she wasn’t. At first, working from home felt liberating. But over time, isolation crept in, and the excitement of flexible working turned into a lonely existence. She missed casual coffee chats and brainstorming sessions, and despite attending every virtual meeting, she still felt disconnected.

Rather ironically, she’s not alone – 67% of remote workers reported feeling disconnected from their colleagues. This is because a lack of in-person interaction can make employees feel like they’re trapped in a tower, with little social engagement.

So, how can Rapunzel’s employer support her?

Remote work should not mean working in solitude. Employers can implement virtual coworking sessions, casual chat channels, or monthly team-building activities to foster community. Hybrid work options, where employees can meet in-person periodically, can also help combat isolation if this is an option.

Most importantly, leaders should check in with their remote employees regularly – not just about tasks, but about their wellbeing, too. Encouraging employees to set boundaries and take microbreaks is key to ensuring they don’t feel trapped within their own four walls.

“The Three Little Pigs and the Big Bad Layoffs”

The Three Little Pigs worked hard to build their careers, but storm clouds loomed overhead. Economic downturns and restructuring left them anxious about job security. Some of their colleagues had already been let go, and rumors of more layoffs circulated like the wind. The first pig tried to ignore it, hoping it would blow over. The second panicked, applying to jobs frantically. The third, however, sought clarity from leadership.

With about 70% of employees saying layoffs negatively impact workplace morale, how can companies ensure their people feel secure, even in uncertain times?

Transparency is key. Leaders should communicate openly about business challenges and any potential restructuring, rather than letting rumors dictate the narrative. If layoffs must happen, organizations should prioritize empathy, offering career transition support and mental health resources.

For those staying, companies must rebuild trust by reinforcing a clear vision for the future, ensuring employees feel supported rather than expendable. Strong foundations – just like the pig who built his house of bricks – are what keep employees engaged even during turbulent times.

In today’s ever-changing workplace landscape, the magic isn’t in fairy godmothers or enchanted castles – it’s in the HR policies and leadership decisions that shape an employee’s experience. If companies want their employees to live happily ever after, then they must continue their commitment to making workplace wellbeing more than just a fairy tale. If you would like to discuss how we can help you achieve this, please get in touch with us today!