158 | 3 Simple Ways to Build Better Business Acumen in Your HR Role

If the idea of improving your business acumen feels intimidating, this episode will help make it feel achievable and clear. Host, Fay Wallis, breaks down what business acumen really means for HR and why it has nothing to do with being “naturally commercial” and everything to do with curiosity, awareness and understanding how your organisation works.To make building business acumen feel even more practical, Fay brings in insights from three recent Chief People Officer guests: Kanika Mehra, Jane Beeston and Dotty Day. Although each appeared on the show to share their experiences of becoming a CPO, their advice applies to every stage of an HR career.By the end, you’ll walk away with clear, actionable steps you can start using straight away. And one of the three tips might surprise you.Ready to make business acumen feel less daunting? It’s simpler than you think.You’ll hear about:What business acumen really means Why curiosity beats expertiseUnderstanding customers and service users Getting involved outside HRLearning from Finance colleagues Questions to ask your finance teamWays to grow confidence with numbersUseful LinksConnect with Fay Wallis on LinkedInVisit Fay’s websiteLearn about Fay’sInspiring HR leadership development programmeLearn more aboutThe Essential HR PlannerOther Relevant HR Coffee Time EpisodesEp 147 with Kanika Mehra:How to Become a Successful Chief People Officer: Insider Insights(Audio version)Ep 147 with Kanika Mehra:How to Become a Successful Chief People Officer: Insider Insights(Video version)Ep 148 with Jane Beeston:Skills That Shape a Great CPO: Communication, Coaching & Curiosity(Audio version)Ep 148 with Jane Beeston:Skills That Shape a Great CPO: Communication, Coaching & Curiosity(Video version)Ep 151 with Dotty Day:Could an Interim CPO/CHRO Role Be Your Perfect Career Option?(Audio version)Ep 151 with Dotty Day:Could an Interim CPO/CHRO Role Be Your Perfect Career Option?(Video version) Enjoyed This Episode? Don’t Miss the Next One!Sign up to the free weekly HR Coffee Time email to be notified each time a new episode is released – and get free career tips, tools, and resources.Mentioned in this episode:Kara Connect - Help When It's Needed MostMenopause, grief, ADHD, relationship breakdown... Every day, employees dealing with these situations are turned away by their EAP because they didn't qualify for counselling. When someone finally asks for help, they deserve better. Visit Kara Connect, where no employee is ever turned away. Kara Connect