As an HR professional, staying informed about the latest trends and gaining insights into human behaviour and organisational dynamics is essential. We recently published a list of our favourite HR podcasts.
Another excellent resource that offers valuable knowledge and inspiration you can use to design your HR strategy is TED Talks. These captivating presentations by experts from various fields can provide HR professionals with fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and practical strategies to enhance their skills and make a positive impact on their organisations. In this blog post, we have curated a list of the best TED Talks that every HR professional should watch.
1. “The Puzzle of Motivation” by Dan Pink
Dan Pink’s talk on motivation challenges the conventional belief that monetary rewards are the primary drivers of performance. He presents the concept of intrinsic motivation and explains how it can significantly impact employee engagement and productivity. This talk offers valuable insights into designing effective reward systems and creating a work environment that fosters intrinsic motivation.
2. “The Power of Vulnerability” by Brené Brown
Brené Brown’s powerful talk on vulnerability delves into the importance of embracing vulnerability as a leader and creating a culture of trust within organisations. HR professionals can learn valuable lessons about fostering psychological safety, promoting authentic connections, and encouraging a culture of openness and growth.
3. “Why We Do What We Do” by Tony Robbins
Tony Robbins, a renowned motivational speaker, explores the driving forces behind human behaviour and the significance of emotional intelligence in the workplace. This talk offers HR professionals practical strategies for understanding and influencing employee behaviour, leading to improved communication, teamwork, and overall employee satisfaction.
4. “How Great Leaders Inspire Action” by Simon Sinek
Simon Sinek’s influential talk focuses on the importance of starting with the “why” rather than the “what” or “how” in leadership and communication. HR professionals can gain valuable insights into inspiring and motivating employees, building a strong company culture, and attracting and retaining top talent.
5. “The Happy Secret to Better Work” by Shawn Achor
Shawn Achor’s talk on positive psychology and happiness in the workplace emphasises that happiness fuels success, rather than the other way around. HR professionals can learn practical techniques for fostering a positive work environment, promoting employee well-being, and enhancing overall organisational performance.
6. “How to Make Stress Your Friend” by Kelly McGonigal
In this thought-provoking talk, Kelly McGonigal explores the impact of stress on our bodies and challenges the negative perception of stress. HR professionals can gain valuable insights into helping employees develop a healthier relationship with stress, promoting resilience, and creating a supportive work environment.
7. “The Way We Think About Work Is Broken” by Barry Schwartz
Barry Schwartz discusses the problems associated with the prevailing mindset around work and motivation. HR professionals can learn about the significance of meaningful work, autonomy, and intrinsic motivation in fostering employee engagement, satisfaction, and productivity.
8. “How to Speak So That People Want to Listen” by Julian Treasure
Julian Treasure’s talk focuses on the art of effective communication and provides valuable techniques to capture attention and deliver messages that resonate with others. HR professionals can enhance their communication skills, promote empathy, and build stronger organisational connections.
TED talks offer HR teams immeasurable benefits, thanks to thought-provoking ideas, fresh insight, pioneering practises and awe inspiring stories by respected speakers from all walks of life. They are great motivators with powerful points of view to take heed of and invigorate your own HR strategies with.
