What if the way we've always done things at work is exactly what's holding us back?

In this episode of "WorkPossible," Elaine and Hattie sit down with Martin Fitzpatrick, Global Employee Communications and Engagement Director at Ericsson, to challenge some of the most outdated practices in the workplace.

From the uninspiring employee handbook that kills excitement on day one, to why we expect frontline managers to become brilliant communicators overnight without any support, to leaders hiding behind polished spin instead of saying, "I don't know," Martin pushes for a more human approach to communication and leadership.

This is a conversation about ditching the rulebook, designing experiences that work for humans, and reimagining how leaders and employees engage with one another. Because work should feel possible, not prescribed.

Martin brings lived experience from the shop floor to the boardroom - from his days as a Vodafone retail advisor watching corporate decisions fail in real time, to creating award-winning campaigns that connect with people. Listen as he reveals why the best communicators listen first, why proximity matters more than seniority, and how small authentic moments can transform cultures.

No scripts. No safe answers. Just honest conversations about what's possible when we stop doing things by default and start doing them by design.

Tune in for fresh perspectives, future-focused thinking, and ideas bold enough to change things.

Additional Resources:

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Connect with Hattie on LinkedIn

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Learn more about Fauna

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Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn

Learn more about PeopleForward Network

Key Takeaways:

• Onboarding should spark belonging, not bury new hires in rules.
• Trust grows when leaders admit, "I don't know."
• Communication works best as two-way listening, not one-way spin.
• Frontline leaders need support, not more tasks.
• Authentic moments drive engagement more than polished messaging.