The HR Dept Weekly Roundup

Asos tells employees that virtual meetings are detrimental to the business

Asos staff have been given a friendly reminder that online meetings can put a "fashion faux pas" on performance. Employees have been told to mind the flexible working rules or risk facing the HR runway for disciplinary action. The message is clear: strut into the office at least three days a week, or it’s no more casual Fridays for you!

According to a report in The Times, Asos emphasized the need for face-to-face meetings in the office, highlighting that there's a “very real need” to see, touch, and feel the clothes—because let’s face it, you can't exactly gauge the latest fabric trends through a screen. Read more here .

Bank fires employees for fake typing

As trust in employees reaches a breaking point with the rise of hybrid working, organisations are turning to tech to keep tabs on productivity. But Wells Fargo has cranked things up a notch. The bank recently fired several employees for the "simulation of keyboard activity creating the impression of active work," according to a filing with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, the BBC reported.

While it's unclear exactly what sneaky methods these employees used or how they got caught, the bank’s decision comes amid a wave of workers using 'mouse jigglers' to trick surveillance tech while they’re actually away from their desks. It seems some folks have been doing more faking than working. Read more here .

What does a Gen Z boss do differently?

Running a company at 20 years old means work-life balance, mental health, and continuous learning are the foundations of our culture – not just ‘nice to haves’, says Oliver Hodgson.

In the spring of 2020, amid the chaos and uncertainty of a global pandemic, Oliver Hodgson took a leap of faith and founded Platinum Live, a creative communications agency nestled in the picturesque Lake District. Fast forward, and the company is now spreading its creative wings across the UK and Europe.

As a 20-year-old managing director leading a team of six talented individuals, Hodgson’s journey has been uniquely shaped by the challenges and opportunities of being a Gen Z boss. He has learned that prioritising mental health, fostering continuous learning, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance aren't just trendy buzzwords—they’re essential to the company's success. Read more here .

Tackling social loneliness: Asda kicks off “happy to chat” with a twist

Just in time for a summer packed with sports action, Asda is bringing back its ‘Happy to Chat’ initiative with a new twist. Delivery drivers in Scotland can now sport a ‘Happy to Chat about the game’ badge, signalling to customers that they're up for a quick chat about the latest match while dropping off the groceries.

Originally launched in partnership with the Royal Voluntary Service during the pandemic, this initiative became a social lifeline for many, with 23% of customers admitting their weekly chat was often with their delivery driver.

Asda’s Community Tracker revealed that 60% of people feel more should be done to tackle loneliness, especially among the elderly. To keep the conversation flowing and spirits high, the Happy to Chat scheme is back as part of Asda’s summer campaign, uniting sports fans of all ages. Read more here .

Menstrual health still seen as a “problem” in workplaces.

Menstrual health is still a "cultural taboo" in many workplaces, from offices to oil rigs. Researchers at Heriot-Watt University found that women, trans, and non-binary people are often "stigmatised, silenced, and ignored" regarding period management at work.

The study revealed issues like poor access to toilets, pain management, and the need to conceal menstrual blood. One engineer on an oil rig reported no flowing water in her toilet, while lab researchers dreaded wearing white uniforms.

With seven in 10 women negatively affected by periods at work, experts urge managers to develop a "shame-free" understanding. It's time workplaces tackle period stigma and make menstruation just another day at the office! Read more here .

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