Connecting HR Professionals: the HR Forum advantage
Caroline Laidlaw, Human Resources (HR) Manager at Podfather, discusses the benefits of Scottish Enterprise's HR Forum. Learn how the forum can help your HR staff access crucial insights and connections.
With years as an HR lead, including her current role at Podfather — a fleet logistics tech company supporting over 70,000 users — Caroline Laidlaw knows the demands of leading HR in a fast-moving digital business. Here, she shares how Scottish Enterprise’s HR Forum helps her stay informed and connected in her role.
"At Podfather, we recognise the importance of professional networking, and few platforms provide a better example than the Scottish Enterprise HR Forum.
"This unique collaborative space is a source of support and innovation for HR professionals across Scotland, offering valuable opportunities for learning, growth, and mutual support."
Breaking professional isolation
"For HR professionals – particularly those running one-person departments or working in smaller organisations – the HR Forum provides critical connections.
"The forum addresses the often-overlooked challenge of professional isolation. It creates a supportive environment where HR workers can share experiences, challenges, and solutions."
A collaborative knowledge exchange
"The HR forum's true strength is its collaborative approach to professional development.
"Members gain crucial insights by sharing experiences across various industries and different sizes of organisation. From developing wellbeing tools to creating innovative employee support systems, the forum has become a dynamic platform for knowledge sharing.
"One standout example is how members have successfully adapted employee wellbeing strategies. Many of us have been able to develop accessible online platforms that gather critical information in one place, including mental health support, work-life balance resources, and comprehensive employee benefits."
Staying ahead of emerging trends
"In today's rapidly evolving workplace landscape, the HR Forum offers a big advantage. Members gain early insights into emerging trends, particularly in areas such as technological innovation.
"Through discussions around artificial intelligence and modern HR technologies, you can get practical, real-time information that can transform your approach."
Practical benefits for members
"The forum offers real benefits for HR professionals:
- Comprehensive peer support for professionals in standalone HR roles
- Opportunities to benchmark HR practices across different organisations
- Access to a network of experienced HR practitioners
- Insights into emerging workplace technologies and strategies
- A platform for sharing and solving common workplace challenges"
More than just a network
"What sets the HR Forum apart is its commitment to creating a genuinely supportive environment. With flexible participation models, including smaller breakout rooms and no-pressure engagement, the forum welcomes HR professionals at all stages of their career."
An invitation to connect
"For HR professionals feeling isolated or seeking growth, the HR Forum represents more than a networking opportunity – it's a transformative professional resource. As one participant noted, it's a chance to find reassurance, share ideas, and develop innovative solutions to workplace challenges.
"In an era of constant workplace evolution, this forum proves that connection is not just beneficial – it's essential. It's about building a resilient, supportive, and innovative HR community across Scotland."
Learn more about Podfather on the company’s websiteopens in a new window
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