Harnessing Human Potential in Business: Insights on Curiosity, Resilience, and Leadership

By Helen Wada with Róisín Hennerty

The Power of Being Human at Work  

In a captivating episode of the Human Wise podcast, Helen Wada engages in an in-depth conversation with Róisín Hennerty, an accomplished leader with extensive experience, notably as the former CEO of Ornua’s Global Food Division. As they explore critical themes that have influenced Róisín's professional journey, listeners are presented with valuable insights for personal and career growth.

The Importance of Curiosity

Curiosity stands out as an essential driver of learning and career advancement. Róisín believes that curiosity significantly accelerates the learning process, enabling individuals to discover new roles and opportunities within an organisation.

Róisín: "And I think if you're curious and you're interested, the learning can be really accelerated quickly.”

This openness to exploration not only fosters personal growth but also supports the ability to contribute meaningfully to a business.

The Human Framework

The Human Framework is a structured approach to career development that prioritises authenticity and strategic guidance. This framework is designed to help leaders and professionals understand their roles and strive towards clearly defined objectives and goals. 

Helen: “So the human framework is really central for me to support the clients that we work with, to help their leaders and those developing their careers, think about themselves in a structured way but one that's authentic and picking up on that point about.”

Róisín: "I've led with the idea of being really clear on your objectives and your goals, both as an individual within a business.”

Róisín highlights, underscoring the importance of strategic focus and clarity in career advancement.

Owning Your Narrative

Owning your narrative is pivotal for career development. Róisín stresses the necessity of being explicit about one's career path, articulating aspirations, and managing perceptions. 

Helen: "It's about being strategic about saying no." 

Helen advises, encouraging individuals to take control of how they are perceived and to ensure their achievements are recognised. Helen adds that taking ownership and finding one's voice is crucial for driving personal growth.

Negotiation Skills and Stakeholder Management

Effective negotiation and stakeholder management are vital for building enduring business relationships. Róisín advises against viewing every engagement as a negotiation, instead advocating for partnerships with shared goals. 

Róisín: "Work with them as strategic partners on shared goals.”

Understanding the broader context of a negotiation helps in creating long-term value and potential future outcomes.

Mindset and Resilience

Róisín emphasises the significance of mindset and resilience, highlighting how challenges in her early career taught her adaptability and perseverance.

Róisín: "I think mindset is really critical.”

Identifying resilience as a key factor in overcoming setbacks and developing strength. These experiences equip individuals to navigate the complexities of professional environments effectively.

Handling Setbacks and Building Resilience

Addressing setbacks and building resilience involves anticipating various outcomes and preparing for failures constructively. Recognising that success is not guaranteed in every pursuit, Róisín underscores the importance of preparing for circumstances where things don't go as planned. 

Róisín: "Challenging yourself to be resilient because there will be no's for all of us," she advises, fostering a resilient attitude.

Authenticity and First Impressions

Authenticity is crucial for creating a positive impression and confidently expressing one’s unique perspective. Róisín encourages individuals to be authentic and composed in professional settings, stressing the importance of self-representation. 

Róisín: "Being authentic and understanding how to be comfortable in your own skin," she suggests, is key to effective communication and ensuring others understand you accurately.

Adapting in Business Conversations

Preparation is crucial in managing business conversations smoothly. Róisín recommends writing down thoughts in advance to remove emotion from discussions and maintain focus on objectives. 

Róisín: "None of this is personal. It's business," she reminds, highlighting the importance of retaining professionalism and adaptability in business interactions.

The Importance of Calibration across Personal and Professional Goals

Calibration emerges as an essential practice in aligning personal ambitions with available opportunities within the business environment. Regularly evaluating and calibrating goals ensures they remain achievable and in harmony with personal growth and professional development.

Reflecting on Career Progress

Finally, Róisín urges individuals to reflect on past experiences as they plan their future career steps. 

Róisín: "Are you looking back to look forward?" she prompts, illustrating the value of reflection in understanding one's journey and charting future directions.

This engaging discussion with Róisín Hennerty on the Human Wise podcast not only provides practical advice but also inspires listeners to embrace curiosity, strategic planning, and resilience as they navigate their careers. 

For further insights and to connect with Róisín, she is accessible on LinkedIn.

***

Human Wise releases new episodes weekly and is available on all major podcast platforms.