Hireside Chats

In this eye-opening episode of Hireside Chats, we tackle a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of workplace diversity: neurodiversity. While diversity of thought is gaining traction, neurodiversity—encompassing conditions such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia—is still not a priority for many organizations. With unemployment rates for neurodivergent individuals as high as 30-40%, much higher than those without disabilities, it's clear that more attention is needed. Join us as we speak with Dr. Sharanya Anil, Founder-Director of DIRECT and a leading cognitive and neurodiversity-affirming specialist. Dr. Anil shares her insights on the reality of neurodiversity in Indian organizations and the critical steps companies can take to foster a more inclusive, supportive work environment. Timestamp:  (00:58) Part 1: Introduction to guest and the platform (02:46) : To start, could you tell us a bit about your background and the work you do? We'd love to hear about your journey and how your expertise supports organizations in creating more inclusive workplaces. (04:40) Many people have misconceptions about what neurodiversity is and what it entails in a workplace setting. So, what exactly is 'neurodiversity,' and why is it essential for companies to embrace it in the workplace?  (06:06) Part 2: Breaking the Stigma – Neurodiversity in Indian Workplaces (06:38) : What are some of the biggest misconceptions you encounter regarding neurodiversity, in professional environments? How do you see stigma manifesting specifically in the Indian corporate environment, and what impact does it have on neurodivergent employees? (8:46) : From your experience, what would you say is one of the most effective ways to begin reducing stigma at an organizational level? (11:26) You've worked with a lot of organizations that have successfully advocated, accommodated neurodivergent individuals and organizations. So it'll be great if you can  help us give some examples, some anecdotal inputs. How can we do that? (11:09) Part 3: Accommodations that Work – Practical Solutions for Neuroinclusive Workplaces(11:26) You've worked with a lot of organizations that have successfully advocated, accommodated neurodivergent individuals and organizations. So it'll be great if you can  help us give some examples, some anecdotal inputs. How can we do that? (15:06) Now, in your experience are these initiatives that require a lot of budget or, you know, it's more the intent that counts. And if, if we have the intent, do they, do these programs really require very large investments?  (16:42) Part 4: Where and How Organizations Can Begin Their Neuroinclusion Journey (17:04) : What do you think are some of our Indian ethos, the Indian cultural advantages of supporting neurodivergent behavior, if at all there exists one?  (19:41) Do you think the current generation, the millennials, the Gen Zs being a lot more open in advocating neurodiversity in accommodating neurodiversity than let's say.  Gen X or the previous generation,  especially when it comes to the professional context? (21:56) What would be your top two or three pieces of advice to some of our listeners who could be neurodivergent who are listening to this conversation right now? (24:11) Part 5: Rapid Fire Round  (24:33) : One book or resource you’d recommend for leaders on neurodiversity? (25:00) : A skill that neurodivergent individuals bring to workplaces that often gets overlooked? (25:11) : What’s one neurodiversity-friendly workplace practice everyone should try? (25:48) : One piece of advice you’d give to a company starting its neuroinclusion journey? (26:25) : So last one, a little more personal doctor, what would be one of the most fulfilling moments in your career?  (27:04) Part 6: Closing Thoughts 

In this episode of Hireside Chats, we dive into one of the most pressing topics in today’s workplaces: balancing work and wellness. As discussions around mental health gain momentum, it's become clear that supporting employee well-being is essential for thriving in a high-pressure environment. Our guest speaker is Vamshi Vasudevan, founder of Anyo, a mobile app focused on mental health and emotional wellness. Vamshi’s personal journey of self-discovery has transformed her into a passionate advocate for mental wellness, guiding her mission to reshape how organizations approach employee well-being. Join us as we explore the rise in workplace stress, the need for organizations to foster supportive environments, and practical strategies for avoiding burnout traps. Get ready for an insightful conversation on cultivating trust, openness, and flexibility within teams, and the importance of integrating emotional wellness into the workplace ethos.  Guest Bio Vamshi Vasudevan Vamshi Vasudevan is a mental health and emotional wellness advocate and the founder of Anyo, a groundbreaking mobile app that supports mental wellness through a blend of traditional wisdom and modern science. Vamshi's journey into wellness began with her own experiences of self-discovery, where she identified limiting beliefs that hindered her growth. This transformative journey led her to create Anyo, where the core philosophy centers on holistic approaches to mental health that resonate with the challenges faced in today’s workplaces. With a commitment to empowering individuals and organizations alike, Vamshi has dedicated her career to transforming mental health practices, making well-being accessible and actionable for all. In this episode, she shares her insights on navigating workplace stress, the common burnout traps employees face, and how organizations can cultivate a culture that values emotional wellness just as much as productivity. (00:57) Part 1: Introduction to guest and the platform (02:43) Can you start by telling us a little about your personal journey into mental wellness? What led you to create Anyo? (04:36) Part 2: Part 2: Handling Workplace Stress (04:43) How do you think employees and organizations should protect themselves from this high-pressure environment, and what steps should they take? (07:23) In your opinion, what makes a mentally healthy workplace? What are some practical, everyday steps businesses can take to ensure emotional wellness is part of their core values? (11:34) What Anyo does and how can organizations benefit by using the product.  (14:11) Can you share with us some common themes you’ve seen in therapy rooms related to workplace stress?  (18:23) What advice would you give to companies looking to integrate mental wellness into their HR policies? (20:13) Part 6: Rapid Fire and Conclusion (20:32) If you could introduce one wellness practice to every workplace, what would it be? (20:53) Personally, one wellness practice you cannot live without. (21:01) Your favorite wellness app other than Anyo? (21:23) The unique combination of technology and wellness— is it a boon or a bane, according to you? (22:30) When it comes to genders, do you feel that their requirement from a wellness app is different, or does Anyo cater to all genders as such? (23:29) Your personal mantra or affirmation that you live by?  (23:43) What is the best book on mental health that you've ever read, and is there a set of books that you would like to recommend to our audience? (24:26) Is there a way we can address mental health?  (26:18) Part 4 Closing thoughts If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it on your socials to help us reach as many ears as possible. So, until next time, stay tuned.

In this episode of Hireside Chats, we explore an emerging trend that’s reshaping the C-suite - Fractional Executives. As new economy companies prioritize agility and innovation, roles like fractional CFOs and CHROs are taking center stage. Our guest speakers are two trailblazers in the fractional leadership space, Srinivasan V Swamy, Founder of CFO Bridge and CTO Bridge, and Suresh Bethavandu, Founder of KFW and CHRO Bridge. Together, they unpack the rise of fractional leadership, discuss the benefits, challenges, and the profound impact these leaders are having on startups and SMEs. Tune in as we dive deep into the future of leadership, the strategic advantage of fractional roles, and how companies can leverage this model to thrive in dynamic markets. Plus, get insights into real-world success stories and expert advice on determining if a fractional executive is right for your business. Guest Bio: Srinivasan V Swamy is a true trailblazer in the fractional CXO business. As the Founder of CFO Bridge and Co-Founder of CTO Bridge, Srinivasan is an independent director, sleep advocate, business mentor, and growth partner, offering outsourced and virtual CFO services to SMEs and startups;  Suresh Bethavandu, Founder of KFW and CHRO Bridge - Suresh is a Talent Transformation Specialist with a passion for the human side of business he has over 25 years of expertise across every imaginable HR role.  Timestamp: (00:53) Part 1: Introduction to guest and the platform (01:43) Part 2: The Rise of Fractional Leadership (02:06)  To kick things off, can you tell our audience what a fractional CFO or CHRO is and how they differ from a full-time role? Why are fractional roles becoming more popular, especially in new economy companies? (04:49) Can you tell us the story of how you got this idea? How did this idea come to be? And a little bit of insight into how the last decade has been for the CFO bridge?  (09:09) Do you really think a fractional CHRO can create an impact both in terms of value and in terms of lower costs for some of the new emerging organizations? (13:23) Can you think of an example as to how a fractional CFO has been able to create the same impact or more impact despite working across multiple engagements or assignments?  (17:56) For the fractional CFO or the CHRO, how important it is to build trust with the existing ecosystem?  (23:29) Part 2: Challenges and Considerations (23:50)  What are some of the challenges that you have seen in this model and overcome them? Have some of those challenges that you overcame earlier, are they helping you in redefining the way the model has to be introduced  to the new economy, new growth companies?  (27:45) The fractional CXOs,  do they need to have  certain additional skills or different types of type of skills to be successful in a setup such as this? What is the adaptability, especially on the skill side, that they need to have to be successful in a typical fractional kind of an engagement?  (32:39) Part 3: Rapid Fire Round  (32:57) When you recruit  fractional CFOs,  what is that one must have skill that you look for? (33:14) What is the common misconception about fractional execs that all of us carry, the world carries? (33:38) One thing you wish companies, prospective clients of yours companies knew about the fractional exec role? (34:00) How do you determine whether a fractional CXO is successful or not successful? (34:54) Part 4 Closing thoughts  If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it on your socials to help us reach as many ears as possible. So, until next time, stay tuned.

In this episode of Hireside Chats, we explore the transformative potential of Generative AI in talent acquisition with Sukumar Rajagopal, Founder & CEO of Tiny Magiq and a veteran in the IT services industry. Sukumar shares his insights on how Gen AI is revolutionizing recruitment processes, from automating tasks to enhancing decision-making. We also debunk common myths surrounding AI, such as fears of it replacing human recruiters or being inherently biased. Sukumar offers a glimpse into the future of AI-driven hiring systems, discussing the evolving role of human recruiters and how organizations can prepare for a seamless collaboration between AI and humans. Tune in to discover what Gen AI can—and can't—do in the realm of talent acquisition, and get a sneak peek into the innovations shaping the future of work. Guest Bio: Our guest on the show today is a visionary in the field—Sukumar Rajagopal, Founder & CEO of Tiny Magiq, a digital disruption accelerator startup that has been at the forefront of Gen AI innovation since 2015. With over 35 years of experience in the IT services industry, including his former leadership roles at Cognizant, Sukumar brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to our discussion. (01:00) Part 1: Introduction to guest and the platform (02:26) A quick introduction to everything you do at Tiny Magiq? (04:12) Part 2: Setting the Stage (04:25) Let’s start with your take on the current state of Gen AI, and how close are we to realizing its full potential, especially in the realm of talent acquisition? (08:06) Can you share an example of an innovative company or two that are revolutionizing the way talent acquisition is done?  (10:12) Part 3: Busting the Myths (10:58) Myth 1: Generative AI Can Replace Human Recruiters (14:51) Myth 2: Gen AI is Biased and Discriminatory (16:58) Part 4: Vision of a Future TA System Powered by Generative AI (17:26) Do you really think that something like this will become the core of future recruiting or a future talent system or is this still  several years away ? (21:30) Part 5 : Rapid fire round  (21:52) Imagine a day without Gen AI in your work life. What would be the biggest challenge? (22:46) What are your top 3 Gen AI investments / tools in your arsenal?  (24:38) The one thing where you felt Gen AI can’t do, no matter how advanced it gets? (25:48) Considering your deep roots in IT and Gen AI, if you were to compare Gen AI to a pivotal invention in history, which would it be and why? (26:44) Have you come across any individual who was anti Gen AI, who completely debunked the myth that Gen AI can do so many transformative things and you were able to transform this person's perception through your wor? (28:38) Part 6: Closing thoughts If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it on your socials to help us reach as many ears as possible. So, until next time, stay tuned.

In This Episode we’re taking a closer look at the LGBTQ+ experience in the workplace. While there has been significant progress in LGBTQ+ rights, many workplaces still struggle with inclusion and discrimination issues. We dive into these challenges and discuss actionable steps toward a more inclusive workplace. Meet Our Guest: Neelam Jain - a dynamic social entrepreneur and the founder of PeriFerry, India's first social enterprise dedicated to improving the socio-economic status of the transgender community and fostering workplace inclusion. shares her insights on - the importance of diversity imperatives for meaningful progress toward LGBTQ+ inclusion and how to make recruitment and hiring processes more inclusive of LGBTQ talent. Timestamp:  (00:55) Part 1: Introduction to guest and the platform (03:08) Could you just share with us a bit about your journey with the LGBTQ+ community and what led you to become an advocate for inclusivity in the workplace?  (06:08) Part 1: LGBTQ+ Awareness in Indian Workplaces (06:19) Did you have advice or did you have friends who kind of helped you in this journey? (09:39) Share with us some examples of initiatives of practices that organizations today are following or implementing to foster a more inclusive environment. You know, I'd love to hear how has PeriFerry helped these organizations think about such practices and, and, and what help have you provided to these institutions? (12:39) Part 2: Pride in Hiring (14:01) Do you help such organizations, walk them through the journey, train the talent acquisition specialists  and help them what to look for and guide them to this process? (19:32) Have you come across  some people in organizations and how do you deal with them? How do you get them to start becoming inclusive,  make an attempt to include the other community into the larger ecosystem zone?  (23:10) How did you name the organization Penny Ferry? Is there a story behind that? And what does it mean?  (24:21) Part 3: Trans-Inclusive DEI  (24:37) What advice would you give today's employees, both within the community as well as the allies,  how can they effectively contribute to creating more inclusive work workplaces?I mean, what is  the average employee?  On the floor. What is his or her  role as such? (27:35) Part 4: Rapid fire round  (27:43) What does a pride month mean to you personally? (28:27) Any memorable pride moment that stands out to you that you would like to share with others? (29:26) Who's your biggest inspiration? (30:23) What message would you like to share with the LGBTQ+ youth today? (30:50) Part 5: Closing thoughts  If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it on your socials to help us reach as many ears as possible. So, until next time, stay tuned.

In this episode, we explore the art of scaling businesses effectively and sustainably, focusing on one of the critical pillars: recruiting and retaining top-notch talent. With guest speaker Sreejith Moolayil, Co-Founder and COO at True Elements, India's first and only certified clean-label packaged food brand - we discuss the importance of scaling with the right talent. Whether you're a startup founder with ambitious growth plans, an HR professional navigating talent challenges, or simply interested in business scaling dynamics, this episode explores the intricacies of talent strategies, demystifies scaling challenges, and unveils the essence of a winning talent strategy.  Guest Bio:  Sreejith Moolayil is the co-founder and COO at True Elements, India's first and only certified clean-label packaged food brand. Sreejith is a food enthusiast with close to a decade of experience in retailing, distribution, and brand building. In his past life, he was a Human Resources professional with extensive experience in India and China.  Timestamp:  (02:45) Introduction to guest and the platform (3:38) How did you land up as an entrepreneur, and that too in a very unrelated industry?  (6:28) What was your biggest learning when these startups failed and, how comeTrueElements is a success story today? What did you do differently? (7:59) Tell us a little bit about TrueElements, the journey, and what did it start off as? What is it today? (12:53) Part 2: Strategies for Attracting and Retaining Top Talent (13:00) How important was the talent element? And what is your biggest learning here? And if you have to advise startups, how do they think about talent as a strategy, and how do they make the right kind of investments in talent? What would be your advice to them? (17:09) Did you make the right investments in technology or in any other or any other investments that helped you scale your business? (19:42) Part 3: Takeaways from Health Food E-commerce Business (19:48) Scaling up these businesses, how important is your HR function? And what do you think an HR function could do? Do you see the importance of the HR function in such organizations, in such enterprises?  And What do you believe should be their core objective? (21:39) Can you give us some useful tips when you look for talent? I'm sure you also are in the constant lookout for good talent. What are the core expectations or characteristics you look for in a candidate? (24:59) Have you used AI to run your enterprise? Have you used AI to scale your business? Have you used AI  in the talent strategy or talent ecosystem? (25:55) Part 4: Rapid Fire Round (26:09) What advice would you give a company that has limited resources? (26:18) One thing you wish you had known while scaling the firm, which you later realized was an important lesson for you. (26:29) What was the biggest challenge you faced while scaling True Elements? (27:26) What is the best piece of advice you have ever received? (27:49) Part 5: Closing thoughts If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it on your socials to help us reach as many ears as possible. So, until next time, stay tuned.

In this episode, we delve into the complexities of mastering the talent supply chain and uncover strategies for success in today’s rapidly evolving business environment. Our guest, Arunava Bhattacharjee, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Talent Supply Chain at Birlasoft, shares invaluable insights on aligning talent strategies with business objectives, overcoming the talent shortage, and leveraging technology to optimize recruitment processes. Learn how to build a resilient talent pipeline, align workforce capabilities with business needs, and stay ahead in the competitive landscape. Tune in now for actionable insights and expert advice to future-proof your organization’s talent supply chain. About the Guest: Arunava Bhattacharjee is the Senior Vice President and Global Head of Talent Supply Chain at Birlasoft. With over 27 years of expertise in talent management and driving talent transformation, Arunava is a visionary leader dedicated to successfully leading and implementing transformation projects across diverse environments. He excels in aligning talent strategies with business objectives and enhancing the employer brand. His deep knowledge and strategic insights have made him a pivotal figure in shaping effective talent supply chains and fostering organizational growth. Timestamp:  (00:58) Introduction to guest and the platform (02:33) Segment 1: The Benefits of an Optimized Talent Supply Chain (02:57) What do you think is the primary role of a talent supply chain function in an organization and its significance to modern businesses?  (07:50) How do you effectively stitch together a talent strategy that will enable the right skills at the right time at the right cost? (10:11) Segment 2: Building a Future-Ready Workforce with Effective Talent Supply Chains (10:33) With the delivery organization demanding a hundred percent skill set, how do you manage this conundrum and what are some of the unique ways we can manage the situation?  (16:09) What do you think are the similarities, differences, or uniqueness of each of these geographies when it comes to talent supply chain practices and strategies?   (19:28) Segment 3: The Role of Technologies in Talent Supply Chain Management (19:46) How do you think technology has played a role in optimizing talent supply chains across organizations?  And what do you think is the impact Gen AI has had on the jobs and on the talent supply chain ecosystem? (27:52) Segment 4: Rapid Fire Round  (28:04) What is your advice for companies looking to scale their recruitment process?  (28:23) What are the top skills required to be a good talent supply chain expert?  (28:49) Do you foresee AI replacing some of the traditional roles that the recruitment of other talent supply chain professionals have been doing,  and do you see this as a challenge? (29:47) Segment 5: Closing Thoughts  If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it on your socials to help us reach as many ears as possible. So, until next time, stay tuned. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In this episode of Hireside Chats, we delve into India’s Notice Period Dilemma, particularly in the technology sector. We explore the historical reasons behind the standard 60 or 90 day notice periods, how they've benefited organizations and employees, and the significant changes in today's landscape.  With advancements in AI and the impact of COVID-19 on hiring practices, Sriram Rajagopal, Founder and Director Diamondpick, shares with us his insights on the potential advantages of transitioning to shorter notice periods and the challenges associated with this shift. Tune into this episode to explore the complexities and opportunities in reshaping India's notice period norms. Sriram Rajagopal Founder and Director Diamondpick Sriram is a thought leader and a trendsetter in the HR industry. With over 25 years of experience in Talent Management, Sriram is currently pursuing his dream of talent democratization through Diamondpick - an ecosystem that equally empowers candidates and companies to find the right fit. Sriram led the global talent supply chain for Cognizant, a Fortune 500 Global IT Services firm, for more than two decades, apart from stints in the human capital consulting team of Arthur Andersen. Timestamp:  (00:55) Introduction  (00:55) Part 1: Historical reasons behind extended notice periods  (05:40) Part 2: Impact of advancements in AI on hiring practices  (09:20) Part 3: Potential benefits and challenges of transitioning to shorter notice periods If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review, or share it on your socials to help us reach as many ears as possible. So, until next week, stay tuned.

In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of cognitive brain science, which offers invaluable insights into how people learn, process information, and make decisions, as well as its transformative impact on talent management. Brain Science breakthroughs are being applied to various areas of talent management to train and develop top talent, identify high-potential candidates, make better hiring decisions, and much more. Join us as we explore how understanding the brain's inner workings can unlock the full potential of your workforce with our esteemed guest, Srinivas Ananthanarayanan, Founder and Chief Scientist at Peopleverse. Guest Spotlight: Srinivas Ananthanarayanan Founder and Chief Scientist, Peopleverse Srinivas Ananthanarayanan is a visionary leader with over 23 years of experience in global business leadership and organizational transformation. As the Founder and Chief Scientist at Peopleverse, he spearheads a cognitive science-powered venture revolutionizing the potential of people and businesses. Srinivas holds advanced certifications in business leadership and psychological aid provision from prestigious institutions such as Singapore Management University and John Hopkins University. To listen to this interesting episode, click here. Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our podcast for exclusive interviews, expert insights, and actionable strategies to transform your workforce. Timestamp:  (00:43) Part 1: Introduction to guest and the platform (01:56) Segment 1: Cognitive Brain Science in Talent Management (01:56) Can you tell us a little more about the origin of Peopleverse, the story behind it, and what you do? (04:08) What factors ignite employee motivation and propel them toward peak performance?  (09:22) You mentioned the nucleus accumbens (NAcc) as a key region associated with reward and pleasure or the ‘surprise factor.’ Could you elaborate on its role in employee motivation? (14:48) Segment 2: Application of Cognitive Brain Science (14:48) Any stories or examples of how - gaining deeper insights into human behavior, cognition, and decision-making processes helps businesses make more informed talent-related decisions and optimize their workforce strategies? (21:50) Segment 3: Spotlight on a Unique Tool: Predicting Candidate Joining  (21:50) Can you share any success stories or case studies where this tool has been particularly effective in predicting candidate joining outcomes? What level of accuracy or reliability can you expect from this tool in predicting candidate joining outcomes?  To learn more about EXPRESS RIGHT© visit ⁠https://www.peopleverse.in/expressright (27:27) Segment 4: Future Outlook and Closing Thoughts (27:27) What are some emerging trends or developments in Cognitive Brain Science that you believe will have the most significant impact on talent management in the coming years? (32:31) Rapid Fire Questions: (32:31) An area of talent management where you believe Cognitive Brain Science has the most potential for success? (32:59) One piece of advice to HR professionals about leveraging Cognitive Brain Science in talent management (34:25) Segment 4: Closing Thoughts If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it on your socials to help us reach as many ears as possible. So, until next time, stay tuned.

In our first episode of a brand-new season of Hireside Chats, we explore the business landscape of 2024 with special guest Sowri K, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Synergize Partners.  Join us as we delve into macro trends defining 2024, opportunities and challenges in India's business climate, the rise of Global Capability Centers (GCCs), and investor expectations for the year ahead. Plus, don't miss the exciting launch of Diamondpick’s Talent Trends ebook for 2024, providing valuable insights for navigating the evolving talent landscape. Tune in for a captivating discussion on the future of business! Download your exclusive copy of the Talent Trends 2024 Ebook now!  https://bit.ly/TalentTrends2024  Guest Spotlight: Sowri K, Co-Founder, and Managing Partner at Synergize Partners, a company specializing in incubating and scaling healthcare technology companies. With over 25 years of experience, Sowri is passionate about leveraging generative AI to revolutionize healthcare. His expertise lies in driving business outcomes, leading digital transformations, and fostering innovation. With a strong track record in technology ventures, Sowri aims to empower healthcare providers and drive industry thought leadership. Timestamp:   (00:36) Part 1: Introduction to guest and the platform (02:18)  Part 2: Introduction: Macro Trends Defining 2024 (02:18) What are the transformative changes or technological trends you are witnessing and anticipate in 2024?  And how do you think businesses such as ours should prepare for the opportunities that arise  (06:23) Part 3: Zooming In On India (06:23) How do you view the rise of  GCCs and their role in the country's business ecosystem?  (06:23) You spoke about shrinking S curves, faster S curves, and so on. With that comes a lot of opportunity. How is India positioned to grab some of these opportunities? (10:13)  Part 4: Closing Thoughts (10:13)  From an investor's viewpoint, what are the key expectations and considerations in the business landscape for 2024? What are your expectations or considerations and the factors you use to influence some of the investment decisions for 2024? (13:25) What are your observations? Has delivery mechanisms or the way work is done undergone any significant transformations?  (17:13) What would you like to convey to those who aspire to be entrepreneurs and investors- your advice to them? (19:58)  Launch of Talent Trends Ebook 2024 (20:53)  Part 5: Closing Thoughts If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it on your socials to help us reach as many ears as possible. So, until next time, stay tuned.

In this season finale episode of Hireside Chats, we celebrate the highlights from our incredible first season!    We revisit the pivotal conversations that shaped our debut season with experts and thought leaders who are shaping the future of recruiting. From talent intelligence, HR platforms, and Gen AI revolutionizing HR practices to enriching conversations on emotional intelligence and high-performance habit-forming in leadership, we’ve covered it all. We also delved into topics that matter, from shattering the stigma surrounding mental health, unlocking brain capital, and embracing equity to the fascinating fusion of AI and ITeS recruitment and the power of upskilling in today's times. This showcase captures the essence of our best moments on Hireside Chats so far!

In this episode of Hireside Chats, we explore the transformative impact of upskilling on employee retention and workforce skills in the contemporary workplace. Host Sriram Rajagopal, Founder Diamondpick, chats with Nick Greif, the VP of Go-to-Market Strategy & Communications at InStride, about challenges faced by organizations in retaining talent, the evolving landscape of employee expectations, and the crucial role of continuous learning in fostering an engaged and loyal workforce. (01:28) Introduction to guest and the platform (02:30) Part 1: The Retention Challenge (02:43) What are the common challenges organizations face with high employee turnover and employee retention issues? How does high turnover impact organizational stability and productivity? (04:36) In your opinion, what are the main reasons why employees tend to leave organizations after a short tenure? (06:30) Part 2: The Power of Upskilling:  (06:50) Can you tell us how continuous learning and upskilling contribute to a company's competitive edge? How does it help to overcome retention challenges?  (09:04) Can you share success stories of organizations that have effectively implemented upskilling programs for their employees and the impact it had on retention and turnover? (12:01) Part 3: Benefits of Upskilling (12:23) From an individual point of view, from an employee's perspective, Are there any specific skills or upskilling programs that have shown a greater impact on employee retention over others? In general, do people see it as an investment in them? (14:19) Part 4: Prioritizing Upskilling in High Turnover Environments (14:47) Have you seen the investment in learning succeed as a tool to retain and upskill because you know that's what the individual is worried about today, right?  So, how do I get to a better position or pay? Have you seen it work in such environments as well?  (16:43) Do organizations have to tweak their entire strategy around growth and development and new talent acquisition in light of this investment? (19:19) Q&A (19:26)  According to you, the biggest retention challenge today. What do you think is the biggest retention challenge today that organizations face?  (19:42) A must-have in a learning culture? (19:50) A top must-have skill for modern employees? (20:06) A quick tip for companies looking to enhance employee adaptability? (20:25) A quick tip for employees looking to upskill their way to success? (20:42) Part 4: Closing Thoughts

If there is one industry where AI is almost a ‘natural fit’ for building a competitive edge, it is IT-enabled services (ITeS).    In this riveting episode, SatJ speaks to Swaminathan R, Chief People Officer at WNS Global Services, to explore the evolving landscape of recruitment in the Information Technology-enabled Services (ITeS) industry, with a focus on the game-changing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Join us on this journey through the fascinating fusion of AI and ITeS recruitment. Whether you're a recruiter, industry professional, or AI enthusiast, this episode promises valuable insights and engaging discussions. (01:00) Introduction (01:51) Part 1: Understanding the ITES Landscape (2:02)  Can you share your perspective about the recent advancements in the Indian ITeS sector and its significance on the global business ecosystem today? (2:15) How have recent advancements in AI and technology affected the demands for talent in the ITeS sector, and how are companies adapting to this change? (6:10) Part 2: AI's Impact on ITES Recruitment (6:10) How is AI reshaping recruitment practices in the ITeS industry? (10:20) Can you give a very practical example of how let's say generative AI is impacting or transforming a business process in very simple terms? (13:10) Part 3: Navigating Challenges and Transforming TA in ITeS (13:10) What are some of the common challenges regarding AI-powered recruitment in the ITeS sector?  What are the best ways to overcome these challenges and maximize the benefits of AI-driven recruitment? (16:50) Any specific tips you want to give to students who are studying on these campuses? How can they be industry-ready over the next two to three years? (19:37) What upskilling initiatives are leading the way in building a highly skilled and adaptable workforce that thrives in the future of work? (21:58) Part 4: The Future of AI in ITeS Recruitment (22:02) How do you see India preparing itself for this AI challenge or the whole generative AI space? Do you think India is preparing itself again, not necessarily from a demand side or from a supply side, but as a country in your experience? (24:49) Q&A (24:57) Considering the evolving landscape and the influence of AI on work dynamics, what are your thoughts on the recent 70-hour workweek debate?  (25:37) So we spoke a lot about how AI is going to impact the recruiting industry. So, What are things that it cannot, where AI cannot make a difference in the recruiting process? (26:00)  In the near horizon, let's say a two to three-year term if you're excited about something and you're looking forward to something that AI is capable of doing, what is that?  (27:20) What is it that you dread the most with AI coming in? (28:25) What is your top advice to somebody young who wants to make it big in the industry that you represent, where, you know, business processes are getting transformed (30:20) Part 4: Closing Thoughts

Habit-forming leadership has the power to drive and sustain employee high performance for long-term success.    In this episode, SatJ speaks to Vivek Vijayan, Founder of TinyChange, to unravel the concept of habit-forming leadership, providing actionable guidance for leaders striving to attain their objectives, lead with effectiveness, and nurture high-performing teams. The conversation also emphasizes the transformative power of small habits, such as setting weekly goals or conducting daily reviews, in boosting leadership and team performance. (01:00)  Introduction to guest and the platform (02:35)  Part 1: Introduction: Understanding the Significance of Habit-Forming Leadership (03:00) What is the significance of habit-forming leadership in shaping effective leaders and creating high-performing teams, and specifically, why is it crucial for sustained long-term performance? (05:26) What are some of these key habits that leaders should have that are worth emulating? And again, let's kind of look at it from the current business context. Are there some habits that you can share with our viewers?  (09:20) Part 2: Cultivating Habit-Forming Leadership (9:34) So the power of habits can certainly not be understated. And you kind of alluded to that. But how do leaders create and propagate this amongst their teams? (09:58) How can leaders cultivate the right high-performing habits that you described and ensure that they drive their teams to success? As you know, some daily actions that leaders should have to help these teams kind of pick up these habits and start living them. (16:28) Part 3: Habit-Forming Leadership in Practice: Tools and Resources (16:35) Can you walk us through, how do you how TinyChange supports and encourages habit formation? It'll be great if you can share with us a real-life example that Tiny Change has come across where you have significantly transformed either organizational effectiveness or a leader's effectiveness through your interventions. (22:57) Part 3: Closing Thoughts, Actionable Steps and Productivity Insights (23:05) Can you suggest any actionable insights, steps, productivity hacks, or ideas for our own fraternity and for our HR leaders to implement these habits and actionable solutions?  (29:03) Q&A (29:13) What's the first leadership habit you recommend forming? (29:36) What’s your favorite personal productivity hack that has impacted your work? (30:08) A book or resource that has influenced your approach to habit-forming leadership? (30:56) Any productivity tip you learned from a renowned leader and found effective? Either someone you've worked with or someone you've heard about?  (32:16) Can you talk a little bit about what are these TinyChange planners and how one can access these planners? Do they have to go through a program of sorts to get access to it? How does it work? (35:01) Closing Thoughts If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it on your socials to help us reach as many ears as possible. So, until next time, stay tuned.

In this episode, we delve into the transformative role of emotional intelligence (EQ) in modern leadership. EQ is not just a buzzword; it's a game-changer that shapes how we lead, connect, and thrive in our personal and professional lives. Our guest speaker discusses how blending thinking and feeling skills helps leaders make smarter decisions.    As the world evolves at an unprecedented pace, leaders are faced with unique challenges and opportunities. This episode explores why EQ is the cornerstone of success in this hyper-changing environment, with key takeaways on how EQ can positively impact leadership and team dynamics. (01:01) Part 1: Introduction to guest and the platform (2:51) Part 2: Introduction: The Power of Emotional Intelligence (3:18) Why don't you tell us a little about your experience as a leadership coach? And why are so many people discussing about EI, especially in the leadership context?  (6:22) Why do you think EQ or EI is even more relevant and important during the volatile and highly unpredictable times we are going through today? (8:25) Part 3: The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Success (8:39) What are some of the components of Emotional Intelligence that one must possess to be an effective and successful Leader? Can you share examples or instances where leaders who exhibit high Emotional Intelligence drive success? What specific behaviors or actions demonstrated their EI? (14:03) Is EQ truly measurable? How does EQ contribute to achieving higher success in all outcomes of life? (19:18) How does EI help leaders adapt to change and bounce back from setbacks, making them more resilient in the face of challenges? (23:32) Part 4: Practical Strategies for Developing EI as a Leader (23:52) For those working towards developing their emotional intelligence, what guidance would you give them as a good starting point? (27:03) Are there specific technologies or tools that technology leaders can leverage to enhance their emotional intelligence and leadership skills, especially in today’s digital work environment? (29:04) Part 5: Q&A (29:16) Can you share a moment of leadership that had an impact on you? (29:37) A sure shot approach or step towards enhancing one's emotional intelligence?  (29:54) What is the most common misconception about emotional intelligence, and how do you address it?  (30:17) Your personal hack to effectively manage emotions and incredibly high-pressure situations.  (30:40) A book or an article on the topic that you would recommend as a must-read.  (31:14) Part 6: Closing Thoughts  If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it on your socials to help us reach as many ears as possible. So, until next time, stay tuned.

This episode unveils the secret sauce for Talent Transformation in the age of AI and Automation to help build the perfect workforce fit to take on emerging job roles.    SatJ, CEO of Diamondpick, and Satish Rajarathnam, HR and Global Head of Talent Transformation at Mphasis, talk about the biggest talent transformation reshaping the industry and redesigning talent practices using AI and Automation to build a digitally savvy and skills-powered, and future-ready workforce.  (02:22) Part 1: Introduction to guest and the platform (02:26) Part 2: Introduction: A company is only as innovative as its employees (03:00) How has the concept of talent transformation evolved over the years? And why has it become a critical focus for organizations today?  And what are some of the large transformation programs that you are aware of that are shaping the industry? (09:46) How HR practitioners can create this agility in the workforce, how are HR practitioners responding to this future disruption and demand, and what is happening out there in the market? (13:14) Part 3: The Changing Face of Talent Acquisition (13:24) How are organizations leveraging AI and automation, especially in the talent acquisition function? How have you and your team adopted AI and automation? (20:23) Are you seeing candidates being open to this change? Do you get a sense that candidates and people who are being subject to these methodologies are embracing this, or is there resistance?  (24:40) Part 4: Real-World Success Stories & Embracing the Future (24:41) What advice would you offer to CHROs and talent leaders who are excited about the potential of AI and automation but are unsure about how to initiate such transformative changes within their own organizations? (29:17) Part 5: Q&A (29:33) A personal experience where AI-powered insights led to a game-changing hire? (30:39) Looking ahead, what future AI advancement are you most eager to incorporate into your talent acquisition playbook? (32:12) If you had to pick between a human recruiter versus an AI bot, whom would you pick?  (32:47) Closing thoughts  If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review, or share it on your socials to help us reach as many ears as possible. So, until next time, stay tuned

This episode features a hot topic, a new thought process that is exciting and cutting-edge – Unlocking Brain Capital. By combining technology, AI, and Neurosciences, Brain Capital is fast becoming an organizational asset that has the power to generate greater worker productivity, make better hiring decisions, and build a stronger, more resilient workforce.  Join the conversation as SatJ, CEO Diamondpick, Naresh Nagarajan, CTO of Neurowyz - a brain capital company that uses the latest thinking in neuroscience, advanced analytics, and AI to optimize employee brain health and performance and Nav Vij, Chief Digital Neuroscientist, Neurowyzr discuss how putting a premium on Brain Capital will help us all thrive in today’s complex world. (00:55) Part 1: Introduction to guest and the platform (03:06) Part 2: The Cutting-Edge Concept Of Brain Capital & the Genesis of Neurowyzr (03:21) What exactly is this concept of brain capital, and how does it drive innovation in today's economy? (04:24) What led to the creation of Neurowyzr, where did this idea originate, and how far have you come along?  (09:56) Part 3: Developing a Brain Capital Workplace Strategy for Today's Workplaces (09:58) How do we harness neuroscience to build a high-performing, productive, and creative agile workforce? Share some examples of how organizations have been able to leverage brain capital to bring out their best in employees and how Neurowyzr has been helping them.  (15:12) Part 4: The Impact on Recruitment/Hiring (15:42) How can neuroscience help organizations attract potential employees?  And does Neurowyzr have plans to enhance the tools and technology that are available today— to use neuroscience to help with this whole recruitment process? (22:32) Part 5: Recruitment Powered by Generative Al (23:07) With generative AI and so much of neuroscience being spoken around, and especially when you speak about brain health and all that with employees, how do you think the reception has been, and has Neurowyzr been successful in convincing organizations that this is the way to go? (26:36) Part 6: Q&A  (26:51) If there is one brain-boosting best practice in your day-to-day regime, what would that be?  And what would be your suggestion to our listeners?  (29:20) One cognitive skill that you feel is a must-have for all our modern workplaces. (29:55) Closing thoughts  If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review, or share it on your socials to help us reach as many ears as possible. So, until next time, stay tuned!

In this Recruiter’s Day special episode, Raghunandan Patre, Talent Strategy Consultant and Coach, shares strategies to help recruiters equip themselves to navigate the changing world of work and build resilient and successful recruitment capabilities. He also shares valuable insights on the latest trends shaping the world of work and the skills needed to adapt and excel in this new environment. Listen to the episode for a real-world glimpse of the evolving talent landscape and tips and tactics for recruiters to stay relevant in the near future. He urges recruiters to develop a forward-thinking mindset and leverage technology to enhance their recruitment capabilities. (01:30) Introduction to guest and the platform (02:16) Part 1: It's time to future-proof your career (04:35) By 2025, the role of a recruiter will be even more complex than it is today, but it will create many opportunities for those that can seize them. (05:50) How does the TA role look like in 2025? (17:10) How will recruiting roles evolve? (22:50) Part 2: Changing Recruitment Landscape - Current State and Future State  (27:16) Recruitment IS marketing. If you’re a recruiter nowadays and don’t see yourself as a marketer, you’re in the wrong profession. (28:36) Talent Attraction & Recruiters (30:22) Technology & Recruiters (31:35) What should you do NOW? (35:18) Your future skill map (39:54) Part 3: Q&A (43:38) Closing Thoughts If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, or share it on your socials to help us reach as many ears as possible.

Even on the best days, stress and anxiety can prevent us from doing our best work. In the wake of COVID-19, it’s never been more critical for businesses to address the mental well-being of their people. And that’s what this episode is all about – actionable insights & proven mindfulness that lead to healthier organizations from the inside out. This timely episode features our host SatJ, CEO of Diamondpick, and Dr. Srividhya – Professor, Head Psychologist, Behaviour Therapist, and Transformational Coach at Myndwell, and Senior Consultant Psychologist, Mindscape Counseling – who talk about confronting the stigma surrounding this topic and how to prioritize mental health and employee wellbeing in the workplace. (00:44) : Introduction to guest and the platform (03:34) : Part 1: Introduction: The State of Mental Health (04:22) : What has led to this phenomenon, and what can we do about it? (05:10) : In your opinion, how much does the hybrid work environment contribute to burnout, stress, or anxiety? (07:33) : What are some ways we can support mental health for women? (11:52) : Part 2: Destigmatizing Mental Health (12:38) : What must organizations do to destigmatize mental health and normalize conversations around it at work? (14:12) : Can you share good examples of what other organizations are currently doing to provide the best mental health programs for their employees? (15:27) : Part 3: Mental Health Matters (15:55) : Almost all organizations today have an EAP program in place. How do we take these programs up a notch to make them work for us all? (18:53) : There is a sudden emergence of mental health apps and also many mental health experts out there. How useful are these? (21:00) : Can you share some practical tips for our listeners on managing our mental health? (22:04) : How can one self-diagnose? How do we know if we are silently suffering from some mental health issues? (23:00) : Part 4: Closing Thoughts: Creating a Psychologically Great Place to Work (23:17) : How do we make our organization a safe space where employees at all levels can communicate openly without fear or discrimination? (25:21) : How do we encourage more diversity within mental health? (26:37) : Rapid Fire Questions (28:49) : Closing Remarks If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review, or share it on your socials to help us reach as many ears as possible. So, until next week, stay tuned

We are back with another episode of Hireside Chats brought to you by Diamondpick. This special episode features two in-house talent leaders and experts, Sriram Rajagopal - Founder & Director Diamondpick, and Arvind Ramani - President, Account Management and Operations Strategic Accounts, Diamondpick; who chat about the rise of the contingent workforce.  The duo talk about the dynamics of the contingent workforce, the mindset shift for both employers and employees and how this trend shapes up the talent market. They share some interesting thoughts and anecdotes from client experiences on how this agile workforce model can be engaged and leveraged dynamically for organizational success. (00:00) : Hireside Chats Intro (00:43) : Host & Guest Intro (02:24) Part 1: Introduction: The Rise of Flexpreneurs  (02:50) : I like the term Flexpreneur. It has a nice ring to it. How did this term come into being? (03:42) : What are your thoughts on the growth of the contingent workforce, its impact, and where do you think we’re heading? (04:40) : Part 2: The cost effect (05:04) : The cost-benefit ratio is comparatively higher to onboard a Flexpreneur, especially w.r.t filling open positions, cost to hire, and cost of separation or replacement. What are your views on this? (06:07) : From your client interactions, can you share with us a scenario to help our listeners better understand the cost-benefit this working model brings to organizations? (07:52) : Part 3: Contingent Staffing– the most powerful employment strategy of today (08:19) : Why do you think contingent staffing is becoming one of the most powerful employment strategies today? And why now? (09:18) : In India, contingent labor is considered subpar, or at least that is a perception. Do you get to hear that? And what is your view or take on it?  (10:36) : Apart from cost, what are the other benefits of hiring Flexpreneurs? Filling a short-term requirement is one, flexibility and agility is a close second. What else does this model have to offer? (15:16) : Any client experience that you would like to share with our audience to put things into perspective? (16:40) : Let’s talk about what we do here at Diamondpick. How does our Contingent Staffing offering stack up against others in the market?  Are you doing anything specifically to curate that talent, what kind of promise do you give to the individuals that place their bets with you? (18:06) : Part 4: The Flexpreneur Revolution and Closing Thoughts If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review, or share it on your socials to help us reach as many ears as possible. So, until next week, stay tuned!