Sharing the True North Message

Let’s be honest, terminating an employee is never easy.

Learn how to handle terminations with clarity, empathy, and professionalism, without compromising your values or your business.

- The five biggest mistakes leaders make

- What to say (and what not to say)

- How to prepare

- What “compassionate” really looks like

- How to support your team after someone exits

This episode answers the question: How can I prepare to interview for jobs without getting so burned out and stressed?

We chatted with Tara Bodine, founder and CEO of True North People Consulting, about strategies to navigate job interviews without burning out. Tara shared how crafting a compelling personal story and preparing a “bank” of answers for common questions can reduce stress and boost confidence. She also emphasized the value of researching employers’ missions and values, practicing consistently, and asking thoughtful questions during interviews to ease pressure and build rapport.

In this episode of Divorce Happens, host Olivia Howell chats with HR consultant Tara Bodine, founder of True North People Consulting, to explore the critical intersection of divorce and the workplace. Tara shares expert insights on how employers and HR teams can create supportive environments for employees navigating divorce, a life transition that often impacts work performance and emotional well-being. From implementing compassionate policies to fostering open communication, Tara provides actionable advice for companies looking to build a culture of understanding and resilience.

Whether you’re an HR professional, a manager, or an employee going through a divorce, this episode offers valuable perspectives on balancing personal challenges with professional responsibilities. Learn practical strategies for navigating this transition with empathy and gain tools to advocate for yourself or others in the workplace. Don’t miss this engaging and informative conversation!

Hiring your first employee is a milestone that can transform your business, but it requires careful planning. This webinar will guide entrepreneurs through the process of preparing for and making their first hire.

In this Lunch & Learn, human resources consultants will teach you how to take the stress out of hiring and build a foundation for growth with confidence.

Every interaction is an opportunity to connect. Networking isn’t just something you do at a formal event, and it’s woven into everyday moments. Shift your mindset from “networking” as a task or process to connection and a way of being. I met my very first client in an Uber, long before I even owned a business. Go into each interaction with curiosity about what you might learn, and leave with gratitude for whatever was shared. It may not be obvious in the moment, but it could be meaningful down the road.

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“The foundation of effective goal setting lies in a clearly defined company vision,” explains Tara Bodine, HR Consultant and founder of True North People Consulting. “This overarching goal should inspire and guide all employees, providing a sense of direction and purpose. Once company-wide goals are established, they can be broken down into smaller, more manageable objectives for teams and individuals.”

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“Because miscarriage and infertility are not openly talked about, employees can feel isolated and alone as they grapple with emotions such as sadness, anger, guilt, and disappointment,” explains  Tara Bodine, human resources professional and founder of True North People Consulting. “In addition, the medical procedures and financial burden can be overwhelming and can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression, which can lead to strain in all areas of life, including interpersonal relationships and work.”

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“Commission-based sales teams may see a major impact. “Noncompetes previously restricted these employees from joining competitors, even if their success hinges on personal relationships. Now, these workers can freely leverage their networks, potentially posing a challenge for some businesses,” says Tara Bodine, HR consultant and founder of True North People Consulting in Massachusetts”…

“Bodine predicts it’s the next step in the future of work and a welcome one for many. “Overall, the FTC’s decision signifies a shift toward a talent-driven workforce, where employee well-being and innovation take center stage.”

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“Tara Bodine, HR consultant and founder of True North People Consulting, shares ideas on activities to consider that support personal growth, like:

Travel: Time to explore different cultures and perspectives. Family connection: Spending extra time with children or extended family. Volunteering: Giving back to the community in a meaningful way. Learning a new skill: Taking a course or certification on a new professional or personal skill. Hobby: Learning a new hobby or taking on a passion project. Relaxation: Dedicating time to connect back with the body and mind to recharge”…

“Bodine also adds that constant pressure and attention at work can make it difficult for our brains to innovate, especially if we are being stifled by the monotony of everyday tasks. “The benefits of taking extended time are to help clear brain fog and foster creativity, which heals burnout,” she shares. “Sabbaticals also allow time to pursue new passions or volunteer work, which is cognitively enriching.” Collectively, this could allow for a fresh perspective when returning to work, which can support innovative ideas, improved employee engagement and higher levels of productivity and efficiency at work”…

“Bodine also notes that when employees take extended leave, others have to step in and take on stretch assignments to cover work responsibilities, allowing for internal career development and succession planning. This cross-training and skill-sharing can enhance the overall capabilities of the team, ensuring the company is not overly dependent on any single individual. It also fosters a culture of healthy collaboration and flexibility as employees learn to work together and support each other in new ways”…

“Additionally, Bodine recommends that companies, whenever possible, offer financial assistance, fully paid sabbaticals and savings plans. This approach ensures that sabbaticals are accessible to a larger pool of employees, making them fair and equitable.”

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“Unfortunately, the issue is complex and there’s no quick fix. “Women historically have lower starting salaries, [which are] caused by numerous factors, including… [less] experience with negotiating salaries, [more] time spent out of the workforce and [fewer] opportunities for advancement,” says Tara Bodine, a fractional HR consultant and founder of True North People Consulting in Massachusetts. “If we did fix the pay discrepancies today, I would argue that we would find ourselves in a similar situation, as the root cause behind the gender pay gap is deeply rooted in gender norms.”

But even within the broken system, there are some action steps. Employers need to “take time to educate their employees” on their total compensation package, Bodine says. “Companies should take the opportunity to teach employees at all levels about business financials. This education provides a level of experience and exposure that helps employees support the business vision and understand how they fit into the strategy.”

She adds that everyone needs to “get comfortable with negotiating salary and advocating for the full value of what [they] offer. This important influencing skill starts with confidence and believing that you are worth the money and your role.”

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“Understanding the eligibility criteria for each state-paid leave program is crucial,” said Tara Bodine, HR expert and consultant and founder of the Andover, Massachusetts-based True North People Consulting. “Factors such as company size, public or private sector, employment type (self-employed, freelancers, contractors, etc.), length of employment, and earnings (contributed to the payroll tax of the program) all play a role. This knowledge will empower you to plan your leave effectively”…

“And don’t forget that even if you qualify for paid leave, it’s usually not your full salary, Bodine noted. “Expectant parents, it’s essential to remember that paid family leave typically covers only a portion of your salary,” she explained. “Therefore, conducting thorough research and planning ahead is key. Valuable information can be found on The Department of Labor and State Government websites, equipping you to make informed decisions.”

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“It’s also possible that you will negotiate during your meeting. Because of this, Tara Bodine, human resources expert and founder of True North People Consulting, recommends being flexible and setting a minimum for what you’re willing to accept.”

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“According to the psychology of color, “gray suggests balance and reliability, reinforcing a professional image,” Jones says.

Tara Bodine, HR expert and founder of True North People Consulting, says it can also give you that air of confidence and reliability.”