Love ‘em or hate ‘em, there’s one thing certain about HR – we need ‘em. They look out for a business’ most valuable asset – the people. When it comes to starting a new job, getting employee benefits, and smoothing out any office issues, HR are your go to. So if you ever wondered what it takes to get into the biz, and how to be bloody good at it, we fired a few questions at HR rep Joanne Temenu…
1. Let’s start at the beginning – what is HR?
HR is like the backbone of a company – we handle the people side of things. From hiring and onboarding new talent to managing benefits and employee relations, we make sure our team is happy, supported, and thriving.
2. That’s a lot of responsibility for a lot of people – does it impact you outside of work?
Yes, but not in the way you might think… My job is all about creating a positive work environment and supporting people, and it’s that passion that spills over into my personal life. Whether it's lending an ear to a friend or organising gatherings, the HR mindset definitely influences how I interact with people outside of work. I’m all about spreading those good vibes!
3. Are you ever able to fully switch off from work-mode?
Yes, I stand by setting boundaries. I've got this awesome ritual where I switch gears after work. I wrap up my day with a little gratitude journaling sesh then I put away my work stuff, switch off those emails, and dive into some me-time or hang out with my favourite people - namely my 5-year-old daughter! Having these boundaries helps me recharge and come back to work feeling refreshed and ready to tackle whatever comes my way.
4. How did you get into HR, was it always the plan?
After finishing my first degree, I found myself in an admin role at a company that didn't have a HR department. But here's the twist - I became the go-to person for onboarding new starters. And I absolutely loved it! Being the first point of contact and helping newbies settle in gave me a buzz. Then one day, lightbulb moment - I realised this was actually a HR function! So, I dove headfirst into research and decided to pursue a masters in HR. And the rest is history - I landed my dream role in HR and haven't looked back since.
5. What piece of advice would you give someone starting out in HR?
Dive in headfirst with passion and curiosity! Start by soaking up all the knowledge you can - read books, take courses, and network like a pro. Embrace every opportunity to learn and grow, whether it's through internships, volunteer work, or even shadowing HR professionals. And don't forget to show genuine emotion. After all, HR is all about people.
6. You’ve obviously looked at more than your fair share of CVs – what’s your top tip for making a CV stand out?
Without a doubt - tailor it to the specific job you're applying for. Think of your CV as a personalised love letter to the company you're interested in - highlight relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that directly align with the job requirements. Show them why you're the perfect fit for the role and how your unique talents can bring value to their team. And sprinkle in a dash of personality to make it memorable!
7. And you’ve got through to interview - how do you make a good first impression?
It's all about bringing your A-game and letting your personality shine through. Start by wearing an outfit that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Arrive with a big smile, a firm handshake, and a positive attitude. Show genuine interest in the company by doing your homework beforehand and asking insightful questions during the interview.
8. You’ve got the job! How can someone prepare for their first day in a new business?
First things first, do a little research on the company. This will give you the confidence to start conversations and actually know what people are talking about! When it comes to the night before, make sure you've got all your essentials packed and ready to go - a notepad, pen, water bottle etc. Next, pick out an outfit that's comfy, professional, and shows off your personal style. When the big day arrives, take a deep breath, smile, and be yourself!
9. Big Q incoming… WFH or from the office?
It's like choosing between two flavours of ice cream - both are awesome, but we’ve all got different tastes. Remote working brings so much flexibility and freedom, and for some people it’s the only way they can focus and get into the zone. But let's not forget the magic of being in an office - those coffee machine chats, and brainstorming sessions are invaluable to building team morale. It's all about finding that perfect blend for maximum productivity and happiness! Personally, I’m against being in the office five days a week.
10. Finally, what’s the best piece of advice you’ve received in your career?
To never stop learning and growing. Embrace every opportunity to develop new skills and challenge yourself. Stay curious, be open to feedback, and don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. This will help keep you relevant in your field and also empower you to seize new opportunities when they come along.