Having a seat at the table doesn't automatically mean your voice shapes the conversation. So how do HR professionals become trusted advisors whose insights genuinely influence business decisions?
In this episode of the HRchat Podcast, Bill Banham is joined by Jennifer McClure, longtime HR executive, keynote speaker, founder of DisruptHR, and self-described "student of the future of work." Jennifer shares practical lessons from decades of leadership, explaining why influence—not title or attendance—is the true measure of HR's impact.
Jennifer reflects on a pivotal piece of career advice that transformed her approach to leadership: stop being the person who immediately says "no" and instead begin with curiosity. By asking, "Tell me more about what you're trying to accomplish," HR professionals can uncover better solutions, build stronger relationships with leaders, and protect both people and the business.
The conversation explores how HR can navigate difficult workplace decisions with integrity, including performance management, layoffs, bias concerns, and termination requests. Jennifer explains why empathy and accountability aren't opposing forces and how HR can advocate for respectful, evidence-based decision-making, even when conversations become uncomfortable.
Bill and Jennifer also discuss the evolving role of HR in shaping organizational culture, why some leadership challenges can't be solved with policies alone, and how workforce data—from turnover patterns to exit interviews and candidate feedback—can strengthen HR's strategic influence.
Whether you're an HR business partner, people leader, CHRO, or someone looking to expand your influence within your organization, this episode offers practical advice on becoming the trusted voice leaders turn to when the stakes are highest.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- Why having a "seat at the table" isn't the same as having influence
- How curiosity helps HR become a more strategic business partner
- Practical ways to build trust with senior leaders
- How to navigate difficult employee relations decisions with integrity
- Why empathy and accountability can—and should—coexist
- How HR can use workforce data to influence business decisions
- The importance of moving beyond compliance toward strategic partnership
- Why HR has a unique opportunity to shape organizational culture and performance
Connect with Jennifer McClure: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifermcclure/
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