Episode 23: Understanding the human condition to deliver business success – Flo Starks, Chief Diversity Officer and Kevin Lyons, Senior HR Manager, Pearson plc.

Flo and Kevin share their approach to go beyond surface level understanding and create a work environment that empathises with the lived experience of colleagues and understands the human condition. Including having courageous conversations on areas of life often considered taboo at work, to how data and tech help move businesses forward, Flo and Kevin provide practical examples of how they’re creating change, across 200 countries, at Pearson plc. Inviting us to use the word ‘love’ in our work, Flo and Kevin call on everyone in HR to put Equity, Diversity & Inclusion at the top of their agendas. Here’s a snapshot of a few things we talked about: [6:42] The impact of acting as part of a community and the ongoing change this inspires [10:50] Understanding the lived experience of employees, particularly in relation to areas often considered to be taboo [16:46]  Going beyond the surface for a greater understanding of the human condition, especially in the most under-represented areas [21:21] The transformative opportunities that tech creates for an inclusive workforce [24:35] Harnessing data and technology to focus equity and evolve the impacts of business in society [29:07] Female equality – the wonderful opportunity for organisations [31:35] Having courageous conversations, being vulnerable and increasing empathy [36:00] Calling HR: Put ED&I at the top of your agenda and help businesses to be more loving. Kevin’s recommended reading: We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie  “I love How HR Leaders Change the World” – if that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us achieve our goal, to reach more of your peers, so we can all contribute to further and faster change. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review”. Be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. We’ll add a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now!