Economic uncertainty doesn’t remove opportunity for HR consultants, it reshapes it. In this episode, we explore why businesses need more focused, outcome-driven HR support during challenging times, and how consultants who position themselves clearly, speak commercially, and solve real business problems can stand out and grow. As organisations face increasing pressure around performance, retention, and leadership, the demand for practical, experienced HR support becomes even more critical.

We are also delighted to be joined by Lena Mistry, who shares her personal story of making the leap into consulting. As MD of People First HR, she offers an honest insight into what it really takes to step away from corporate life, build confidence, and create a consultancy that works in today’s market. This episode will leave you with a fresh perspective, renewed confidence, and a clear reminder that clarity and action are what move you forward.

Lena's details - please connect with her!

https://people-first-hr.co.uk/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-mistry/

Communities and why they are so important: With Claire Cathcart, Founder of Elevate HR In this episode, Sarah Hamilton-Gill talks with Claire Cathcart, founder of Elevate HR, to explore why community is becoming one of the most powerful support systems for HR professionals today.

After leaving a toxic corporate environment in 2023, Claire took a leap many HR professionals dream about but rarely make. What started as conversations with her growing LinkedIn audience quickly evolved into a thriving community designed to support in-house HR professionals who often feel isolated in their roles. Many HR professionals work as the only HR person in their organisation, carrying complex employee relations issues without a sounding board.

Elevate HR was created to change that. But what surprised Claire most wasn't the popularity of the workshops or the resources. It was the power of the community itself. Members now come together to share real challenges, ask questions without judgement, and support each other through the realities of working in HR. And the impact has been significant.

One member even secured two promotions and a £15,000 pay rise after building confidence through the network.

In this conversation, Sarah and Claire explore:

• Why so many HR professionals feel professionally isolated

• How safe peer communities accelerate confidence and career growth

• The real value of having a place where there are “no stupid questions”

• Why HR professionals need spaces where they can talk honestly about ER challenges

• The mindset shift that happens when professionals stop learning alone Claire also shares how Elevate HR works, including its membership structure, regular ER discussion sessions, expert workshops and the community spaces where members support each other daily. If you're an HR professional looking for support, connection and practical learning, this conversation offers a powerful reminder that you don't have to navigate the profession alone.

About Claire Cathcart Claire is the founder of Elevate HR, a professional community created to support in-house HR professionals through learning, collaboration and real-world HR discussions. Her mission is simple: help HR professionals feel confident, connected and supported in their careers.

Key Topics Covered Community and career confidence Supporting standalone HR professionals Creating safe spaces for HR conversations Real stories of career progression Building professional networks that actually help.

Please connect with Claire : Claire Cathcart | LinkedIn

https://www.elevatehub.co.uk/

Connect with Sarah : Sarah Hamilton-Gill FCIPD | LinkedIn

All our services can be found here :

www.leapintoconsulting.com

3 Quick Wins to Get Client Conversations This Week (Plus FAQs on Proposals and Getting Clients)

Feeling busy but not seeing any client conversations? In this practical 20 - 25 minute episode, Sarah shares three quick wins you can implement this week to create momentum, plus a bonus tactic that builds trust quickly. You will also hear answers to common Academy FAQs on niching, pricing, proposals (including a simple three-option proposal structure), follow-up, and getting clients without a huge network.

• Website: https://www.leapintoconsulting.com

• Capsule CRM: https://capsulecrm.com/invite/?friend=dXMxIzIwMzg4MQ

• Festival tickets: https://www.leapintoconsulting.com/the-hr-consultancy-festival-2026

• One month of free access to The HR Consultancy Academy: https://leap-into-consulting.mykajabi.com/offers/DEANnq4M/checkout

• How to use the 10/10 List to generate warm introductions (without feeling salesy)

• A simple LinkedIn formula: One Problem, One Post, One Offer

• The Two-Call Week approach to keep business development consistent

• Why tracking leads and follow-ups in Capsule CRM prevents opportunities from slipping

• A bonus strategy: "Pick My Brain" calls to build trust and uncover paid work

• How to structure a three-option proposal so clients can choose the right level of support

• Do I need a niche yet?

• How do I price when I feel unsure?

• When should I send a proposal?

• What should a simple proposal include?

• How do I create a three-option proposal?

  What if they ask for my day rate?

• How do I get clients without a big network?

• Should I offer referral incentives?

• How many follow-ups is too many?

• What if I am scared of outreach?