Sarah Hamilton-Gill, Managing Director, Globus HR Consulting Ltd
Sarah Hamilton-Gill is the Managing Director of Globus HR Consulting, as well as being an Author and thought-leader in the HR Industry. Sarah talks to The Industry Leaders about her journey into HR - including why she wants her industry to kill off the "tea and tissues" label - and tells us why it's an exciting time to be in HR.
How did you end up sitting where you are today?
It was a long and winding road as an HR Professional and Entrepreneur. My early career aspirations of becoming a Pharmacist, to become the 3rd Generation Pharmacist in our family, were thwarted after time off school and the resulting poor A level grades. Plan B kicked in, and I ended up at University studying Business Studies and then HR.
I have now been a business owner for 27 years - pivoting most recently in the pandemic to provide online coaching programmes and HR Consulting.
What kind of work does your role involve?
Every day is varied. In essence, I help SME's with any people-related issues, acting as a partner to enable them to focus on their core business.
In addition to this, my coaching business helps HR Professionals move from the corporate world to set up their own HR Consultancy. In 2020 I supported over 50 people to set up their businesses - providing them with the structure to create a flexible business which is important with the many other commitments and challenges of lockdown.
What gets you excited about your industry?
HR has often had a bad wrap and the butt of many corporate jokes. However, during lockdown, many businesses have realised these people and departments' value to help them navigate the stormy waters.
At a drop of a hat when the Government has announced new guidelines, HR has had to read and interpret and implement these into businesses without much clarity or notice.
There is so much step-change taking place in the world of work, and it's a very exciting time to be in the profession.
What's the best advice anyone ever gave you?
"Be True to Yourself".
Long before it became a buzzword, I was authentic. I found that this quality was often valued by others, and it's only as I have recognised that being different is good that I am OK with my approach. I am not your typical HR Professional, but then I am an Entrepreneur by heart.
What, or who inspires you?
I love a good rags-to-riches story, and there are so many women in particular who share their struggles and challenges and have gone onto create a new life for themselves despite adversity.
Whether that adversity is poverty, heartbreak, discrimination or many other areas.
How do you keep up to speed with what's happening in your industry?
I engage actively across the whole business world through a variety of media and activities.
I have a thirst for learning and am inquisitive to know more. Current affairs interest me, and I like to be ahead of the curve in developing new products and ways of working.
What was the most challenging project or situation you've overcome?
I have had several challenges that I've overcome along my journey. One of the key ones was bringing up my two boys from babies - my dream of having a happy family shattered overnight.
At the same time, I had just set up my consultancy and found my way through the situation. Knowing that the business was my vehicle for providing for my boys certainly kept me focused and motivated.
You finish work today and step outside the office to find a lottery ticket that ends up winning $10 million. What would you do?
See what the exchange rate is!!
I would then pay for the expertise that I need to grow the business, set up a fund to help others and then enjoy my time on the island of Corfu- while focusing on photography and travel, with my partner Russell.
And of course, I'd pop a chunk into trust funds for the boys!
How do you switch off after a day at work?
Well, that's a tricky one at times, and right now it's a challenge.
All the things I love doing are banned in lockdown, but after that, I will meet up with all my friends and family and hug them so tight!
If you had one wish for the future of your industry, what would it be?
That HR gets a seat at the "Top Table" more frequently and becomes more integrated as an essential part of the team - being strategic and business savvy.
And I'd also wish that the old fashioned view of "tea and tissues" is killed off.
What book or podcast should everyone know about?
If you are thinking of going into HR Consulting, then read my book:
And if you need a kick-start to get more done, The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod is a book I'd recommend too.
How should people connect with you?
Connect with me on LinkedIn, and all my other contact details are there :-)
*Looking to level-up your leadership skills? Check out our article on the best self-help books for business leaders and entrepreneurs. Thetheindustryleaders.org participates in Amazon's Affiliate Links programme. So, if you click through the highlighted links and buy a book, we may earn Amazon commission (we hope that's a win-win!).
