People News

Improving wellness in the workplace.

Natassa is a HR Manager with a passion for people. To celebrate World Kindness Day, we chatted to her about her role and the importance of self-care.

At school…

…I became fascinated with Professor Robert Winston’s ‘Child of our Time.’ It showed me how our experiences can shape the way we learn and view the world. This inspired me to study Psychology.

At university…

…I learnt how psychology can influence human performance, so I decided to pursue a career in Human Resources (HR). Following experience in recruitment, employee benefits and rewards in large corporate organisations, I joined Hoare Lea as HR Manager in 2017, managing the operational HR team in Bristol.

It sounds cliché…

…but my role is incredibly varied, and no two days are the same. I can jump from a job interview one minute to supporting employees with their health and wellbeing the next. The next hour I can be delivering a training session, ensuring people get paid what they should or advising the firm on changing legislation. It’s a whirlwind – but I love it.

In my position…

…I work towards influencing positive change.

Mental health is on our agenda. It is wonderful to see that people understand the importance of looking after it.

World Kindness Day…

… presents us with an opportunity to try and make the world a better place by celebrating and promoting good deeds and pledging acts of kindness. Given the current situation, this is more important than ever.

Kindness doesn’t have to be a big gesture; a smile to a stranger, donating to charity or checking in with a friend are all small ways to make a big impact. I believe that…

However, we must remember to be kind to ourselves too.

Self-care is about being kinder to yourself…

…which is something we often forget to do. Think of your pre-flight safety demonstration. They always say, please put on your own oxygen mask before helping others.

Selfcare is subjective. My selfcare is trying to make people smile, being by the sea, talking to friends and family, belly laughing and jumping at any chance to dance. But what works for me may not for others. It is important that you find something that makes you smile and enjoy that.

In my spare time…

I love spending time with friends and family as they are so important to me. I’m excited (and terrified) that we are growing our own family next year too. I am the organised one amongst my friends, so I am always on the look out for our next adventure as we all firmly believe that you only live once! I also love swimming, cooking and eating out.