As HR consultants working with businesses across Adelaide, we’re constantly fielding questions from business owners and managers about their people management challenges. Here are the top 5 questions we’re being asked right now, and our insights to help you navigate these common challenges.

1. “How Do We Handle Hybrid Work Effectively?”

Even several years after COVID, businesses are still fine-tuning their hybrid work arrangements. The key questions now center around maintaining productivity, ensuring fairness, and building culture when teams are split between office and home.

The solution isn’t one-size-fits-all, but successful businesses are focusing on:

• Clear expectations and policies around office attendance
• Performance measurement based on outcomes rather than presence
• Regular team connection opportunities, both virtual and in-person
• Technology that supports seamless collaboration

2. “What’s the Best Way to Attract and Retain Staff in This Market?”

With Adelaide’s competitive job market, this is perhaps our most frequent question. While salary is important, we’re finding that successful retention strategies go beyond just money.

What’s working well:

• Career development opportunities
• Flexible working arrangements
• Strong company culture and values alignment
• Comprehensive benefits packages
• Regular feedback and recognition programs

3. “How Do We Manage Performance Issues Properly?”

With increasing focus on unfair dismissal claims, businesses are particularly concerned about handling performance issues correctly.

Key steps we recommend:

• Document everything from day one
• Have clear performance expectations in writing
• Follow a structured performance improvement process
• Provide regular feedback and support
• Seek professional advice before making termination decisions

4. “What Policies Do We Really Need?”

Many businesses are overwhelmed by the number of policies they think they need. While comprehensive coverage is important, we recommend focusing on these essentials first:

• Work Health and Safety
• Code of Conduct
• Leave Management
• Flexible Working
• IT and Social Media Usage
• Equal Employment Opportunity and Anti-Discrimination

5. “How Do We Build a Strong Company Culture?”

With workplaces becoming more diverse and flexible, maintaining a strong culture is increasingly challenging.

Effective strategies include:

• Clearly defined and lived company values
• Regular team building and social activities
• Recognition programs that celebrate cultural contributions
• Consistent communication across all work arrangements
• Leadership development focused on culture-building

The Bottom Line

While these questions might seem daunting, they all point to one thing: Adelaide businesses are increasingly focused on getting their people management right. They understand that their success depends on having engaged, productive, and well-managed teams.

Need Help?

If you’re grappling with any of these challenges, you’re not alone. Our team of experienced HR consultants can help you navigate these and other HR issues. Whether you need a sounding board or comprehensive support, we’re here to help ensure your business thrives through its people.

Contact us at admin@bespokehr.com.au

Remember: Good HR isn’t just about solving problems – it’s about creating an environment where problems are less likely to occur in the first place.