Working On It is your essential podcast for navigating today's evolving work environment. Hosted by Lauren Spearman and Molly Johnson-Jones, this show dives int...
Work Friends: Boundaries, Confidentiality, and Career Impact
Hey there, everyone! Welcome back to another episode of "Working On It," the podcast where we unpack the real-life complexities of today's working world. I'm Lauren Spearman, your advocate for salary transparency, here with my fantastic co-host, Molly Johnson-Jones, the mastermind behind Flexa Careers.Today, we’re diving into a topic that's super relatable for most of us: workplace friendships. We’re talking about those amazing yet sometimes complicated connections we form with our colleagues. On the one hand, having friends at work can make your job a lot more enjoyable and even help you advance in your career. On the other hand, it can get a bit tricky when it comes to maintaining boundaries, dealing with promotions, and keeping things professional—especially if you end up managing your friends or connecting with your boss on social media.We're going to break it all down for you. From the benefits of sharing salary info with a trusted colleague to the perils of workplace fallouts when competition and promotions come into play. We’ve got some eye-opening statistics lined up, along with personal stories that both Molly and I have experienced in our careers that highlight just how impactful workplace friendships can be.You'll also hear about my own journey navigating work friendships as a freelancer, balancing professionalism with genuine connections. Plus, Molly will share her insights on maintaining boundaries, especially when you're the boss or managing a close friend.So, if you’ve ever struggled with where to draw the line, felt the sting of a work friendship gone sour, or wondered how to maintain these valuable connections without compromising your professional integrity, stick around. This episode is packed with tips and advice to help you make the most out of your workplace friendships while keeping things smooth and professional.Let's dive straight into exploring the fascinating realm of professional friendships!Key Points:00:00 Work buddies make work awesome and bearable.06:26 Our friendship grew online to offline through the podcast.09:17 Navigating work friendships requires balance and awareness.10:03 Regret losing a work friend over competition.14:53 Company vibes really influence how open you are.18:14 Fear of leaving strong work friendships.21:50 Old WhatsApp group full of cherished memories.24:00 Made great friends from work connections, surprisingly!27:40 Respect is key when managing friends.31:56 Became close friends in a hectic workplace.32:53 Work friendships are cool; find your balance.36:02 Keeping standards is tough; don't play favourites.39:22 Balancing work friendships beyond just colleagues.42:28 Office romance: can be good, just navigate carefully.Hosts BioLauren Spearman brings a wealth of experience from her career in advertising, social media, and brand strategy to her current role advocating for salary transparency and flexible working conditions. Her journey, marked by her advocacy on TikTok against unfair hiring practices, has made her a champion for creating better work environments. Lauren’s unique perspective as a freelancer, balancing work with personal commitments, adds a rich, authentic layer to every discussion.https://www.tiktok.com/@spearmanlaurenhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenspearman/Molly Johnson-Jones, at the helm of Flexa Careers, is transforming how companies and individuals approach flexible working. With a platform that empowers millions to find roles that fit their desired working environments, Molly’s insights on the future of work, DEI, and employer branding are indispensable for anyone...
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Quiet Quitting Explained: Steps to Reignite Passion and Productivity at Work
Welcome back to "Working On It," the podcast where we delve into the complexities of today's workplace. I'm Lauren Spearman, your brand consultant and advocate for salary transparency, and joining me as always is the awesome Molly Johnson-Jones, CEO and co-founder of Flexa.Today we're getting into a hot topic that's been buzzing everywhere—"quiet quitting." It’s that whole vibe where you’re mentally checked out at work, doing just enough to get by without actually being engaged or aiming for that next promotion. Sound familiar?We’re diving deep into why this happens—think lack of career growth, feeling unappreciated, and not seeing the rewards for your hard work. Molly’s got a personal story about how she quietly quit when she got stuck in a role without the promised promotion, and I’ll share how I avoided it by proactively shaking things up for myself.Plus, we’ve got a tonne of practical tips to help both employees and managers turn that disengagement around. Whether it's through open communication, flexible work schedules, or even just more regular one-on-one meetings, there are so many ways to keep the passion alive at work. Oh, and wait till you hear about the "region beta paradox"—it’s that weird thing where people stick with mildly crappy situations because the unknown feels scarier.So if you’ve ever felt stuck at work or you're a manager looking to boost team morale, this episode is for you. We’ve got real-life stories, expert insights, and actionable steps to help you move from quiet quitting to being totally engaged and excited about work again.Settle in, grab your coffee, and let's get started on "Working On It!"Key Points:00:00 Quiet quitting because they blocked my promotion.04:48 Did the bare minimum, then quit; no shock.07:41 Companies often find it tough to keep employees happy and engaged.11:07 Proposed a creative role, they approved it!15:22 Structured catch-ups help spot and solve issues early.18:34 When someone checks out, it's tough; they should go.22:15 Loved the job, but hated the new task.25:41 Boosting engagement with flexible work-life options.28:23 Think about why promotion plans don't motivate you.31:37 Working through tough times can really boost both job satisfaction and relationships.Hosts BioLauren Spearman brings a wealth of experience from her career in advertising, social media, and brand strategy to her current role advocating for salary transparency and flexible working conditions. Her journey, marked by her advocacy on TikTok against unfair hiring practices, has made her a champion for creating better work environments. Lauren’s unique perspective as a freelancer, balancing work with personal commitments, adds a rich, authentic layer to every discussion.https://www.tiktok.com/@spearmanlaurenhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenspearman/Molly Johnson-Jones, at the helm of Flexa Careers, is transforming how companies and individuals approach flexible working. With a platform that empowers millions to find roles that fit their desired working environments, Molly’s insights on the future of work, DEI, and employer branding are indispensable for anyone looking to navigate or shape the modern workplace. Her frequent speaking engagements on these topics bring cutting-edge perspectives and actionable advice to the podcast.https://www.tiktok.com/@mollyjohnsonjoneshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-johnson-jones/Sign up to...
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LinkedIn Tips: Authenticity, Engagement, and Professional Networking
Hey everyone, and welcome back to another episode of "Working On It," your go-to podcast for all things modern workplace.Today, we're diving headfirst into the fascinating and sometimes frustrating world of LinkedIn—yes, we're talking about the professional social media network that everyone loves to hate and hates to love.In this episode, we're going to explore some hot topics that will give you a fresh perspective on how to really make LinkedIn work for you. We'll chat about everything from the dangers of engagement pods—those sneaky little groups that artificially boost your post's likes—to the pitfalls of chasing viral content at the expense of authenticity.We'll discuss why being genuine online is crucial, how to build a personal brand that truly reflects who you are, and share some insider tips on enhancing your LinkedIn profile in a way that feels organic and impactful. Plus, we've got a listener dilemma to unpack: imagine feeling pressured to constantly post updates about your job just because your manager is super active on LinkedIn. We'll share our thoughts on how to handle that without losing your sanity.And it doesn't stop there—Lauren will share her journey from TikTok to LinkedIn, blending creativity and humour to break the often-stuffy corporate tone on the platform. Molly will recount her own experiences, including how consistent posting led to significant growth and visibility for her company, Flexa. We’ll also touch on the ins and outs of personal branding, from striking the right balance between visibility and value to dealing with LinkedIn trolls and sensational posts.Whether you're an aspiring professional, an established manager, or an entrepreneur looking to grow your network, you’ll find plenty of actionable advice and real-world examples to help you navigate LinkedIn like a pro.So sit back, relax, and get ready to jump into the latest scoop on how to make LinkedIn work for you. Let's get started!Key Points:00:00 Molly wanted to share Flexer's story: Preferred LinkedIn's written vibe initially.04:32 Guy argues against the gender pay gap, then blocks everyone.07:20 Job Posting: Crazy hours, unclear expectations; seemed like satire.09:32 We're all about personal branding and online life.18:38 Succeeding on LinkedIn needs genuine, smart, personal stories.22:17 Not many women have huge LinkedIn followings.25:47 Share client posts for better LinkedIn reach.26:47 Being successful is about expertise, not just likes.32:00 Take it easy; progress needs consistency and time.34:08 Here's the daily routine: brainstorm, post, chat, repeat later.38:57 Set up some content-sharing rules with your boss.42:13 Testing led to LinkedIn comments being engaging.43:12 Find the right balance between visibility and value.Hosts BioLauren Spearman brings a wealth of experience from her career in advertising, social media, and brand strategy to her current role advocating for salary transparency and flexible working conditions. Her journey, marked by her advocacy on TikTok against unfair hiring practices, has made her a champion for creating better work environments. Lauren’s unique perspective as a freelancer, balancing work with personal commitments, adds a rich, authentic layer to every discussion.https://www.tiktok.com/@spearmanlaurenhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenspearman/Molly Johnson-Jones, at the helm of Flexa Careers, is transforming how companies and individuals approach flexible working. With a platform that empowers millions to find roles that fit their desired working environments, Molly’s insights on the future of work, DEI, and...
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Embracing Mistakes: The Key to Growth and Development in the Workplace
Hey there, awesome listeners! Welcome back to another episode of Working On It: The Modern Workplace Handbook! Your favourite hosts, Lauren Spearman and Molly Johnson-Jones, are back and ready to dive into one of the most relatable topics around—making mistakes.Today’s episode, "Making Mistakes," is all about those facepalm moments we’ve all experienced. Lauren kicks things off by sharing how attending an emotional intelligence course totally transformed her career and boosted her soft skills. On the flip side, Molly emphasises how feedback on your soft skills is a sign your boss is genuinely invested in helping you grow.Feeling a bit nervous about owning up to mistakes at work? Don’t sweat it. Lauren and Molly dig deep into why creating a safe environment to admit those oops moments without fear is so crucial. They both share some hilarious and humbling personal stories—like Lauren blowing an advertising budget and Molly’s epic slip-up during her first live TV appearance on the BBC. Trust us, you’re going to love hearing how they bounced back and what they learnt.So, why should you tune in? Here’s the scoop:Safe Spaces: Learn why creating a no-judgement zone at work can seriously boost your growth and productivity.Learning Opportunities: Get the lowdown on how our brains are wired to learn from mistakes, thanks to neuroplasticity.Leadership Tips: Discover how admitting mistakes can actually make you a stronger, more trustworthy leader.Emotional Maturity: Hear real-life examples of how mastering emotional intelligence can help you handle workplace hiccups like a pro.This episode isn’t just about sharing tips; it’s about embracing your not-so-perfect moments and using them as stepping stones to better yourself. Lauren and Molly will guide you on the fine line between holding yourself accountable and shifting blame, so you’ll leave feeling empowered and ready to tackle anything.So grab that coffee, get comfy, and let’s jump right in. Whether you’re a newbie in the working world or a seasoned pro, there’s a little something here for everyone. Welcome to a place where mistakes are just lessons waiting to happen!Key Points:00:00 How Lauren spent the company ad budget too fast; boss helped us learn.05:36 Getting better at handling emotions with age.08:18 Build a chill vibe for handling mistakes.12:27 Mistakes help you learn and grow fast.14:28 Embrace mistakes early for career growth.18:52 Role modeling shapes company culture and accountability.23:56 Oops, our producer took UK MD's clothes after a football game!26:48 Intro yourself to dodge name slip-ups.29:49 Embrace mistakes, learn, and boost growth vibes.Hosts BioLauren Spearman brings a wealth of experience from her career in advertising, social media, and brand strategy to her current role advocating for salary transparency and flexible working conditions. Her journey, marked by her advocacy on TikTok against unfair hiring practices, has made her a champion for creating better work environments. Lauren’s unique perspective as a freelancer, balancing work with personal commitments, adds a rich, authentic layer to every discussion.https://www.tiktok.com/@spearmanlaurenhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenspearman/Molly Johnson-Jones, at the helm of Flexa Careers, is transforming how companies and individuals approach flexible working. With a platform that empowers millions to find roles that fit their desired working environments, Molly’s insights on the future of work, DEI, and employer branding are...
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Mastering Networking: From Low-Pressure Events to Building Genuine Connections
Hey there, welcome back to “Working On It!”.Today we’re tackling a topic that’s either your best friend or your worst enemy—networking! Yup, we’re diving headfirst into the world of handshakes, LinkedIn invites, and, let's be honest, some awkward small talk.But hold up, we’re here to flip the script on networking. Forget the high-stakes, nerve-wracking scenarios you might imagine. We’re talking about how to make networking feel natural and, dare we say it, fun. Whether you're just starting out in your career or you’re a seasoned pro, there's something for you here.We’ll share some personal stories—like how I went from being a super-strategic sales hustler to loving the more relaxed networking flow. And Molly? She’s got some killer tips on using speaking gigs to make connections without breaking into a nervous sweat.We’ll also hit on some key strategies—how asking good questions can build real rapport and why chatting about your hobbies can sometimes lead to the best connections. Plus, we’ll touch on the emotional side of things. Let’s face it, we all get nervous about networking now and then, and that’s totally okay!And let’s not forget about online networking. Platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter? Major game changers. We’ve got some great advice on how to make the most out of your online presence without feeling like a spam bot.So grab your favourite drink, get comfy, and let’s make networking something you not only survive but actually enjoy. Welcome to “Working On It!”Key Points:00:00 Lauren went on TV to tackle shyness.06:10 Got better at networking, eased the awkwardness.07:49 Networking taught me confidence and handy questions.09:57 Hang out with smooth networkers at events.15:33 Networking works best when it's not transactional.16:12 Weak ties bring fresh info and chances.19:26 Networking can be chill, not stressful.22:30 Marketing networking event focused on mentoring vibes.27:38 Working 4 days, networking and biz development on the 5th30:56 Networker types hover around important folks.32:55 Networking through dating feels weird.Hosts BioLauren Spearman brings a wealth of experience from her career in advertising, social media, and brand strategy to her current role advocating for salary transparency and flexible working conditions. Her journey, marked by her advocacy on TikTok against unfair hiring practices, has made her a champion for creating better work environments. Lauren’s unique perspective as a freelancer, balancing work with personal commitments, adds a rich, authentic layer to every discussion.https://www.tiktok.com/@spearmanlaurenhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenspearman/Molly Johnson-Jones, at the helm of Flexa Careers, is transforming how companies and individuals approach flexible working. With a platform that empowers millions to find roles that fit their desired working environments, Molly’s insights on the future of work, DEI, and employer branding are indispensable for anyone looking to navigate or shape the modern workplace. Her frequent speaking engagements on these topics bring cutting-edge perspectives and actionable advice to the podcast.https://www.tiktok.com/@mollyjohnsonjoneshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-johnson-jones/Sign up to receive the latest updates, episodes and more delivered right to your inbox at
Working On It is your essential podcast for navigating today's evolving work environment. Hosted by Lauren Spearman and Molly Johnson-Jones, this show dives into the realities of the modern workplace, offering practical advice and insightful discussions.
Lauren, a Salary Transparency Advocate and Creative Director, shares her journey from advertising and social media to her current freelance life, championing for better work conditions and salary transparency. Molly, CEO and Co-Founder of Flexa Careers, brings her expertise in flexible working and employer branding, helping companies and individuals thrive in the modern work landscape.
Tune in for actionable tips, expert insights, and inspiring stories on topics like crafting standout CVs, managing office dynamics, and understanding workplace rights. Whether you're an employee, manager, or job seeker, this podcast provides valuable guidance to enhance your career and work-life balance.
Join Lauren and Molly on Working On It: The Modern Workplace Handbook and master the future of work, one episode at a time.
Your Hosts
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Lauren Spearman brings a wealth of experience from her career in advertising, social media, and brand strategy, to her current role advocating for salary transparency and flexible working conditions. Her journey, marked by her advocacy on TikTok against unfair hiring practices, has made her a champion for creating better work environments. Lauren’s unique perspective as a freelancer, balancing work with personal commitments, adds a rich, authentic layer to every discussion.
https://www.tiktok.com/@spearmanlauren
https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenspearman/
Molly Johnson-Jones, at the helm of Flexa Careers, is transforming how companies and individuals approach flexible working. With a platform that empowers millions to find roles that fit their desired working environments, Molly’s insights on the future of work, DEI, and employer branding are indispensable for anyone looking to navigate or shape the modern workplace. Her frequent speaking engagements on these topics bring cutting-edge perspectives and actionable advice to the podcast.
https://www.tiktok.com/@mollyjohnsonjones
https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-johnson-jones/
UK