Wondering how to start an HR consulting business in 2024?
Yes, there’s a lot to consider but there’s a lot to be optimistic about too.
Now that the world has moved to hybrid work, there is a global market for new start-up HR consultancies to help employers get the best out of their workforce.
Expanding internationally presents businesses with significant challenges, especially when it comes to hiring and managing teams across borders while remaining compliant with local laws and regulations. Companies are increasingly seeking solutions that simplify these complexities and support seamless global operations.
Dee Coakley
In a recent episode of the HR business marketing podcast, A Better HR Business show, Ben spoke with Dee Coakley, CEO and Co-Founder of Boundless, a platform providing Employer of Record (EOR) services, about helping businesses expand globally without the need for local infrastructure, enabling them to seamlessly hire talent in over 30 countries.
Dee has an impressive background, having served as COO for three scaling, venture capital-funded startups: Masabi in London, Bizimply in Dublin, and Axonista, which has locations in both Dublin and New York. She is also the founder of two consultancy firms, Solas Consult and Lucid, where she advises early-stage and scale-up tech companies. Additionally, Dee acts as an advisor to various tech-focused organizations and mentors programs that support tech startups.
Boundless is a world-class Employer of Record (EOR) that supports global teams with exceptional expertise and customer service. By simplifying international employment, Boundless ensures robust compliance and seamless HR operations for businesses of all sizes. The company combines an intuitive employment platform with deep local market knowledge to effectively manage compliance and HR processes. Fully owning the corporate and employment infrastructure in the countries where it operates, Boundless guarantees consistent and compliant employee contracts along with 100% accurate payroll processing each month.
While technology firms make up about 30% of its client base, Boundless serves a diverse range of industries, including financial services, manufacturing, and digital marketing. These companies often face challenges such as sourcing the right talent domestically and supporting relocating employees. By handling employee payroll, taxes, benefits, contracts, and onboarding, Boundless empowers businesses to expand their remote teams effortlessly, allowing clients to focus on their core operations while remaining compliant with local employment regulations. With its commitment to providing a reliable solution for global employment, Boundless enables companies to confidently manage their international workforce and thrive in the global market.
In a wide-ranging discussion, Dee and Ben talked about:
In today’s business world, prioritizing inclusivity drives diversity and fosters innovation. Mentorship plays a key role in career growth, while early, strategic marketing can set businesses on the path to success. Whether it’s refining services or using modern networking techniques, these elements are essential for building a sustainable and impactful business.
Karan Kapoor
In a recent episode of the HR business marketing podcast, A Better HR Business show, Ben spoke with Karan Kapoor, CEO of Vividh, about the challenges and opportunities of starting a diversity and inclusion consulting business and building inclusive workplaces.
Karan Kapoor is a dynamic leader with a unique blend of executive leadership and Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) expertise. As the CEO of Vividh and an accomplished former D&I Manager/Lead, Karan has a deep understanding of fostering cultural change and driving key initiatives to advance the D&I agenda. His career spans multiple industries, including medical devices, FMCG, mobile games, and automotive, providing him with a rich, holistic perspective on navigating complex challenges and delivering innovative solutions.
Karan is passionate about championing diversity as a core driver of organizational growth and shaping inclusive company cultures. His journey highlights resilience and adaptability, overcoming challenges like imposter syndrome while transitioning into leadership roles. Karan thrives on connecting with professionals who share a commitment to fostering inclusivity and driving positive change in the workplace.
Vividh is dedicated to guiding organizations on their journey toward true inclusion, helping them build and retain the best diverse workforce possible. Born out of frustration with the lack of genuine progress in achieving inclusive cultures, Vividh aims to create meaningful, authentic change. With a strategic approach and years of expertise in developing inclusive roadmaps and impactful training, Vividh demonstrates that inclusion, when done right, remains critical and transformative for any organization. Vividh is committed to showing that real inclusion is not only achievable but essential for lasting success.
In a wide-ranging discussion, Karan and Ben talked about:
Talent assessment and leadership development are key to building a strong, capable workforce. They help organizations identify top talent, align people with the right roles, and develop future leaders, driving growth and ensuring long-term success in a competitive market.
In a recent episode of the HR business marketing podcast, A Better HR Business show, Ben spoke with David Jones, CEO of Mercer Talent Enterprise, a global leader in talent assessment, technology, and leadership development, part of Mercer, about the fascinating journey of founding the Talent Enterprise 12-13 years ago and its recent acquisition by global powerhouse Mercer. David speaks about the challenges and opportunities of scaling a tech-based business in a competitive global market, the impact of AI on talent assessments, and the importance of maintaining rigorous data standards.
Mercer Talent Enterprise is a global leader in talent assessment, technology, and leadership development, part of Mercer. As the pioneers of Behaviourmetrics®, they provide innovative solutions that blend behavioral science, artificial intelligence, and data insights to help organizations make critical talent decisions. With a growing network across the Asia Pacific, Middle East, Africa, Europe, and North America, they support over 350 clients. Their flagship platform, Lighthouse, offers a comprehensive suite of psychometric tests, virtual assessments, and surveys to address key recruitment, leadership development, and succession planning needs.
David Jones is the Chief Executive Officer and Partner at Mercer Talent Enterprise, where he leads global growth and key client relationships. With over 34 years of experience, including 26 years in the Middle East, he has advised clients in over 40 countries on talent and leadership. Jones holds degrees from the University of York, University of West England, University of Bradford, and a PhD from the University of Leicester. He is a senior advisor to policymakers, a global lecturer, and a published author, with works including “The Future of Assessments” and contributions to various academic volumes.
In a wide-ranging discussion, David and Ben talked about:
In the benefits technology space, effective solutions start by tackling deployment challenges head-on. By blending health benefits expertise with strong engineering, top platforms offer tools that simplify every part of ICHRA, from planning and compliance to enrollment. The goal is to reshape the benefits landscape, making personalized and sustainable solutions accessible to all.
Brandy Burch
In a recent episode of the HR business marketing podcast, A Better HR Business show, Ben spoke with Brandy Burch, CEO and founder of Benefitbay, a groundbreaking company that’s revolutionizing employee health benefits.
Through a modern healthcare approach known as ICHRA (Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements), Benefitbay allows employees to purchase individual health plans while still reaping the tax advantages typically associated with group insurance policies.
Brandy Burch’s pathway into the HR tech space came from an unconventional angle. With a robust background in accounting, she scaled the professional ladder quickly from staff accountant to controller. However, her practical involvement in the HR components of various businesses sparked an interest that couldn’t be ignored.
Upon pursuing her master’s degree, Brandy supplemented her financial expertise with formal HR training, earning SHRM certifications that cemented her skill set in both domains. This powerful combination of accounting accuracy and HR empathy provided her with unique insights into the shortcomings of traditional health benefits systems, spurring the creation of Benefitbay.
ICHRA, a healthcare model implemented since 2020, forms the backbone of Benefitbay’s offerings. This model allows employers to allocate a defined contribution towards employee health plans, ensuring fairness, compliance, and financial efficiency. The problem was that navigating the maze of individual health plans and maintaining compliance with ERISA and other regulatory mandates was a daunting challenge for many organizations. Benefitbay steps in to resolve these complexities, providing seamless integration and administration while empowering employees with choice.
One of the core advantages of ICHRA, as implemented through Benefitbay, is its ability to save both employers and employees significant sums of money. By pricing health insurance on an individual basis considering variables like age and location, rather than a general population standard, Benefitbay can offer more competitive rates. Additionally, it tackles the inherent inefficiency in traditional group plans, where one-size-fits-all solutions often result in overprice premiums without meeting individual needs.
Benefitbay operates exclusively through the broker channel, seeing brokers as essential partners rather than competition. This strategy ensures that brokers are equipped with the tools they need to efficiently quote ICRA plans, while also minimizing administrative burdens. Unlike competitors that often sideline brokers or create administrative headaches, Benefitbay offers brokers a seamless, integrated platform to better serve their clients.
In a wide-ranging discussion, Brandy and Ben talked about:
In the ongoing discussion about gender equality, the workplace continues to be a crucial area of focus, where progress is still needed. Despite growing awareness, women remain underrepresented in leadership roles, highlighting the importance of innovative solutions that drive real change.
Shubhi Rao
In a recent episode of the HR business marketing podcast, A Better HR Business show, Ben spoke with Shubhi Rao, the founder and CEO of Uplevyl, an AI-driven company dedicated to closing the gender gap in leadership roles.
Uplevyl is transforming leadership development by providing a safe and trusted space where women can connect, learn, and grow. The platform offers personalized content with a strong focus on diversity and inclusion.
Global executive, board member, and advisor with a proven track record of delivering strategic and operational leadership for complex and dynamic businesses, including Alphabet/Google, Tesco, PwC, Tyco, Ford, and venture-backed companies, Shubhi Rao made history as the first woman and person of color to serve as Treasurer at both Alphabet/Google and Tesco. She currently serves on the Board and Audit Committee and chairs the Compensation Committee of Open Lending Corp (a Nasdaq-listed company). A dual US and UK citizen, Shubhi has combined her extensive experience with a passion for data and technology to champion equality in the workplace, particularly for professional women. This passion led her to found Uplevyl, a pioneering AI platform developed by women to close the gender gap in organizations.
Shubhi holds a B.S. in Computer Science Engineering from Michigan State University and an MBA from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.
In a wide-ranging discussion, Shubhi and Ben talked about:
Looking to enhance your on-camera presence? You’re not alone – many HR business owners are striving to improve their video skills. Potential clients and partners are eager to connect with the person behind the brand, and top-performing small businesses often leverage video to showcase their leaders and build authentic relationships.
Kerry Barrett
In a recent episode of the HR business marketing podcast, A Better HR Business show, Ben spoke with Kerry Barrett, an Emmy Award-winning journalist and expert in media training and PR, about how small business owners can enhance their credibility and visibility through strategic media placements.
Kerry Barrett is an on-camera coach, corporate trainer, and keynote speaker dedicated to helping individuals and businesses elevate their on-camera skills and confidence. As the founder of The VIQ Academy and creator of the MVP Your VIQ™ training framework, Kerry draws on over 20 years of experience in the TV industry to empower clients to leverage video for greater authority, visibility, and revenue. After overcoming her own fear of public speaking, Kerry now specializes in guiding others to break through mindset barriers and develop a confident, authentic presence on camera, on stage, or during presentations.
In a wide-ranging discussion, Kerry and Ben talked about:
Ever wondered how HR Directors want (and don’t want) to be marketed to?
Siân Harrington, Co-Founder of The People Space and Siân Harrington Media Consulting, reveals the findings in our newest episode on the A Better HR Business podcast.
Siân Harrington
Based on a recent study with 100 HR Directors from well-known brands, we’ve uncovered crucial information that will reshape the way you approach and connect with HR decision-makers.
In a recent episode of the HR business marketing podcast, A Better HR Business show, Ben spoke with Siân Harrington, Co-founder & Editorial Director of The People Space and Founder of Sian Harrington Media Consulting & PR, about strategies for effectively engaging HR directors and avoid common marketing mistakes. This data comes from a recent study involving 100 HR directors from well-known brands.
Siân Harrington is a renowned business and HR journalist with over three decades of experience, including 18 years focused on HR and work. As co-founder and editorial director of The People Space and host of the ‘Work’s Not Working… Let’s Fix It!’ podcast, she has established herself as a trusted voice and thought leader in the HR community.
Siân’s extensive network and insider insights enable her to craft compelling content strategies that resonate with HR professionals. Siân’s career highlights include serving as editor and publishing director of HR magazine and founding the HR Most Influential annual ranking. She has also authored and edited numerous business books and reports, such as The CIPD’s Responsible Investment in Technology Guide (May 2022) and How to Become a World Class Manager by Wayne Clarke (March 2023).
In a wide-ranging discussion, Siân and Ben talked about:
In this recorded small group session, Ben explains the role of pre-conversion events and pre-conversion content in the marketing funnel between early-stage outreach and sales meetings, and how to use them to win more clients.
These pre-conversion tactics are designed to immerse potential clients in the company’s expertise and build a deeper connection.
Examples provided include webinars, roundtables, virtual conferences, LinkedIn Live sessions, and competitions. Ben highlights the effectiveness of co-hosting webinars to double the audience size and leveraging challenges and competitions to engage prospects.
Multi-author reports and industry surveys are also mentioned as valuable pre-conversion content, aiding in building authority and expanding reach through shared contributions.
The conversation also delves into practical advice for executing these strategies, such as the importance of choosing co-speakers who can help fill the audience and sending calendar invites to improve attendance.
Challenges faced by new business owners, like building email lists and engaging cold audiences, are addressed with suggestions for leveraging partnerships and existing content.
Ben shares some pre-conversion event experiences, including running a successful competition and virtual conference, as examples of low-cost, high-impact pre-conversion efforts.
The session ends with a short, small group Q&A discussion where other HR founders ask questions and share their experiences.
[00:00:01]: Introduction to Pre-Conversion Events and Content
[00:01:10]: Immersive Pre-Conversion Events: Webinars and Round Tables
[00:02:25]: Round Tables and Client Training Events
[00:03:32]: Challenges and Virtual Conferences
[00:05:40]: Competitions and Master Classes
[00:08:07]: Examples of Successful Pre-Conversion Events
[00:09:19]: LinkedIn Live and Multi-Author Content
[00:13:34]: Q&A: Competitions and Engagement Strategies
[00:19:30]: Reusing Webinar Content and Increasing Attendance
[00:33:52]: Building Email Lists and Audience Engagement
Enjoy!
Watch The B2B Marketing Session For HR Business Owners Now
In a recent episode of the HR business marketing podcast, A Better HR Business show, Ben spoke with Michelle Minnikin, CEO of Work Pirates and author of “Good Girl Deprogramming”, about workplace dynamics, diversity, and the need for a shift in traditional HR practices
Michelle Minnikin
Michelle Minnikin, a Chartered Psychologist and Coach, co-founded multiple businesses alongside her partner James Eves. With over two decades of experience in leadership and organizational development, employee selection and assessment, coaching, and personal development, Michelle brings a wealth of expertise and a passion for driving transformative change.
Michelle’s deep understanding of positive psychology and personal development fuels her dedication to helping individuals craft their ideal lives. She guides clients toward greater clarity, purpose, and fulfillment with a coaching approach that is warm, playful, and sensitive, creating safe spaces that foster trust and authenticity.
Michelle’s journey toward her Good Girl Deprogramming began with an ADHD diagnosis in December 2020, a revelation that brought new clarity to her life. Embracing this self-awareness, she explored her conditioning and examined how societal norms had shaped her identity.
Good Girl Deprogramming Podcast, scheduled to start in September, will feature insightful conversations, storytelling, and practical tips for navigating workplace dynamics and fostering a more inclusive atmosphere. Additionally, for those curious about how good girl conditioning might be impacting their work life, the Good Girl Deprogramming Quiz offers valuable insights and practical advice based on Michelle Minnikin’s book, “Good Girl Deprogramming.”
The audio version of “Good Girl Deprogramming” will be available next month, providing an opportunity to explore this thought-provoking content in a format that fits a busy schedule.
For individuals interested in becoming certified Good Girl Deprogrammers, the Work Pirates Workshops offer training to deliver valuable workshops and promote a more inclusive workplace culture.
In a wide-ranging discussion, Michelle and Ben talked about:
In a recent episode of the HR business marketing podcast, A Better HR Business show, Ben spoke with Allan Tsang, International Negotiation Coach for Executives, about strategies to drive profits and foster collaborative work.
Allan Tsang
With over a decade of experience, Allan has guided clients through more than 10,000 negotiations, ranging from $10K to $250MM.
Allan Tsang founded 88 Owls to help people overcome their fear of negotiations, build stronger agreements, and achieve their goals without compromising, especially when the stakes are high.
Allan is currently developing and co-delivering a negotiation program at Virginia Tech, further establishing himself as a thought leader for future negotiators. As co-author of “Negotiation Mythbusters: Rethinking Everything You Know About Negotiation,” he challenges outdated wisdom with his expertise.
Mentored by renowned coach Jim Camp and trained alongside former FBI Crisis Negotiation Chief Gary Noesner, Allan integrates their proven approaches to excel in building positive business relationships. His unique skill set has helped clients succeed in high-stakes negotiations with industry giants like Google, Boeing, PepsiCo, and Microsoft.
Having guided nearly 1000 companies and thousands of professionals, Allan’s expertise in strategic negotiation, conflict resolution, and talent development leads organizations to successful outcomes. He helps clients navigate negotiation complexities, create effective plans, and close mutually beneficial deals.
In a wide-ranging discussion, Allan and Ben talked about:
Luca Lotterio was a psychology student who gained diverse experience working in the restaurant industry while studying. He began his career in Edinburgh before relocating to Tenerife and later Romania. Luca has worked in various roles in the restaurant industry, including in the kitchen, on the floor, and in management. He has also spent time working in different seasons in the mountains and on the seaside, gaining a wide range of experience in the food and beverage industry.
The discrepancies observed in the hospitality industry and the inefficiency of traditional hiring methods that fail to bring in the right candidates were the triggers for Luca to co-found a business.
Restworld aims to enhance the matching of job demand and supply in the hospitality sector by addressing high worker turnover rates and improving working conditions for industry professionals.
In a wide-ranging discussion, Luca and Ben talked about:
In a recent episode of the HR business marketing podcast, A Better HR Business show, Ben spoke with Benjamin Moróne, an American entrepreneur and innovator residing in Warsaw, Poland, the founder of Zabota, a company dedicated to recruiting top talent in Eastern Europe and Latin America. Before founding Zabota, Benjamin was one of the initial employees at a fast-growing tech startup in the United States, where he swiftly advanced through the ranks.
Benjamin Morone
Zabota specializes in placing pre-vetted, European, English-speaking talent in businesses. They offer a comprehensive service that includes intensive headhunting, leveraging AI for vetting, and understanding local work ethics and values.
Zabota.io saves costs for clients while increasing generational wealth for talented individuals globally. They handle the entire hiring process, from strategy and attraction to vetting, interviewing, and onboarding, ensuring a perfect fit for the client’s needs. Additionally, they offer a guarantee, replacing hires for free if necessary.
In a wide-ranging discussion, Benjamin and Ben talk about:
In this podcast episode (see the video version on the Get More HR Clients website), Ben shares how, on a flight recently, he watched an episode of ‘Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares’, a formulaic but highly successful reality TV series in which world-renowned chef Gordon Ramsay visits struggling restaurants to help them succeed.
Ben explains Ramsey’s business turnaround formula and the lessons we can learn when running an HR-related business.
While you’re here, check out the HR Business Accelerator . . .
The HR Business Accelerator helps people who run their own businesses in the broad ‘HR’ field and helps people who are getting ready to start their own HR business.
We’ve helped hundreds of HR consultants around the world to grow their own successful businesses – the HR Business Accelerator will help you too.
Want to launch your own consulting business in the broad Human Resources sector? Check out: www.GetMoreHRClients.com/Services for resources.
ABOUT THE ‘A BETTER HR BUSINESS’ PODCAST
The A Better HR Business podcast looks at how consultants and tech firms in the broad Human Resources field grow their businesses; and how they help employers get the best out of their people.
In a recent episode of the A Better HR Business show, Ben spoke with Carolyn Shepherd, Founder and Mentor at Emmeline.AI, a personalised helpline dedicated to helping women understand and utilise Generative AI.
Carolyn Shepherd
Carolyn is a versatile HR professional with over 20 years of strategic and operational experience, specializing in GenAI applications, learning and development, and change management.
She collaborates with women in senior leadership roles, guiding them to harness Generative AI to enhance productivity, foster innovation, and dispel concerns about being left behind in the evolving landscape of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
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