The HR Network East Midlands

I’ve spent the last four years frequenting various networking events across Nottingham City and beyond. Although mostly enjoyable (you know me, I love to socialise!) I was finding that few events provided the exposure to fellow “people” specialists that allowed me to keep my finger on the pulse of latest developments and best practice in my local area.

Through working with Actons Solicitors and Blusource and hosting a series of successful round table breakfasts for HR Directors, we realised that there was a thirst for networking in the sector but that there wasn’t a platform to support it. So, what did we do? Roll up our sleeves and create our own network of course! Our aim was to ensure people specialists across the East Midlands could come together to learn, grow professionally and share their expertise to develop a robust HR community across the region.

Some might argue that there is sufficient opportunity online to connect with fellow professionals. Absolutely! However, you can’t replace face-face interaction to build solid relationships that can contribute to becoming more effective at work, and also lay the foundation for career progression.

But how will that actually work? Well the network is all about encouraging people specialists to come forward and share best practice – it’s all about sharing and won’t work if people aren’t prepared to host workshops and present at seminars. Our launch in October attracted over 50 attendees and contributed to building a fantastic pipeline of participants from big business such as E.ON to public sector including Nottingham City Council who are set to present next year. We also recognise the need to socialise and hosted a very successful event at the Nottingham Playhouse during October, which supported some great networking whilst also watching Andy Hamilton – the comedian.

I’m passionate about encouraging HR professionals to embed their position amongst the leadership team – with the decision makers, where they can influence strategy and provide solutions that ensure the organisation can grow with the right people, at the right time. Without exposure to other professionals who are already pushing boundaries, the large majority of professionals will struggle to change.  I would love East Midlands businesses to carry the torch for new age people processes and hope that our HR Network can provide the conversation and challenge the status quo.

To learn more about the events or to register free, visit www.thehrnetworkem.co.uk or give me a call on 0115 8800 098