Storytelling to support leadership communications has been around for a while now. And whilst it’s often seen as an effective way of getting our message across, what does it really mean to be a great storyteller - and how does it work on a practical level in a business? It could be that you are trying to help your leaders communicate the strategic priorities for the coming year or you want your own HR comms to have more impact. In this episode we’re going to really break it down for you and to do that Lucy has enlisted the support of someone who has straddled the world of leadership and engagement - and actual proper storytelling as a published author - Simon Wright.

This episode of HR Disrupted looks at how storytelling can change the way we communicate at work, especially in HR and leadership. It explores how stories go beyond facts and figures to create emotional connection, build trust, and help people really understand and care about what’s being said. Instead of treating storytelling as something fluffy or ‘extra’, the episode shows how it can be a powerful tool for getting messages to stick and for helping people feel part of something bigger.

The episode explores how storytelling isn’t just for creative types, it’s something anyone can use to make their communication more meaningful. Whether you’re explaining a new strategy or trying to build team connections, telling a story helps people understand not just what you’re doing, but why it matters. It looks at how good storytelling often starts with vulnerability and honesty and shares tips to bring storytelling into everyday communication without it feeling forced or awkward. HR and leaders need to see storytelling not as a ‘nice to have’, but as a core part of how we inspire, influence and build stronger, more connected workplaces.

Discover Simon Wright’s novels - The Red Scarf Series - and contact him at https://simonwrightbooks.com/

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In this episode of HR Disrupted, Lucy Adams is joined by Karen Moran to explore whether artificial intelligence can help leaders get better at the “people stuff” including giving feedback, recognising effort, and holding difficult conversations. Despite over $360 billion being spent annually on leadership development, most programmes fail to deliver meaningful change. Lucy and Karen ask: can AI offer a smarter, more practical solution?

We explore how AI can act as a real-time “pocket coach,” supporting leaders with small nudges and advice exactly when they need it. Rather than waiting for a scheduled training session, leaders can use AI to reflect on their leadership style, build micro-habits, or prepare for tricky conversations. We look at how AI is transforming hiring and onboarding by helping managers to write more inclusive job descriptions, generate interview questions, and create onboarding plans tailored to each new hire.

When it comes to recognising and engaging teams, AI can prompt leaders to show appreciation more often and in more meaningful ways. And prompts can also help with career development conversations, especially the tricky ones, such as when someone isn’t quite ready for a promotion.

Importantly, it doesn’t have to cost the earth. Free tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, and Copilot can deliver a big impact. Simple prompts like “What are three ways I can improve team morale this week?” or “Write a thank-you message for a five-year work anniversary” can help managers act with more empathy and intention.

Disruptive HR

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In an age where a single tweet can spark a crisis, reputation management is no longer the preserve of PR teams. In this episode, Lucy is joined by Lis Anderson, founder of the award-winning PR agency Ambitious, to explore how HR can (and must) play a bigger role in shaping, protecting and enhancing an organisation’s reputation.

They delve into the shifting dynamics of trust, the power of employee advocacy, and why the most credible voices about your culture aren’t your leaders – but your people. Lis also shares what often goes wrong when HR and comms don’t collaborate, and offers practical ideas to help HR teams get ahead of reputational risks, not just clean them up.

Whether it’s Glassdoor reviews, crisis planning, or understanding digital reputational threats, this episode is packed with insights to help HR step confidently into its growing communications role.

Connect with Lis Anderson Website: www.ambitiouspr.co.uk LinkedIn: Lis Anderson

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