Show notes
Workplace culture is shaped by far more than policies and procedures. It reflects societal values, leadership behaviours, attitudes to work-life balance, and what organisations choose to reward and recognise. As debates around remote working, flexible working and employee wellbeing continue, many employers are looking beyond their own borders for inspiration.
In this episode of The HR Room Podcast, Dave and Mary are joined by Shannon Murphy, Workplace Investigator at Insight HR, who recently returned from several months working remotely from Australia. Together, they explore what Irish employers can learn from workplace cultures around the world, from Australia's strong emphasis on life outside of work to the progressive workplace practices found across Scandinavia.
The episode also looks at the future of work in Ireland, including the ongoing debate around remote and hybrid working, the growing interest in four-day working weeks, and the importance of creating workplace cultures that genuinely align with organisational values.
Guest:
• Shannon Murphy — Workplace Investigator, Insight HR
Topics include:
• Shannon's experience working remotely from Australia and the cultural differences she observed
• How Scandinavian countries consistently rank among the happiest in the world
• Ireland's evolving approach to remote and hybrid working
• The benefits and challenges of four-day working week models
• The importance of aligning workplace policies with day-to-day practices
• How employers can assess and improve their own workplace culture
Key Takeaways for HR Leaders:
• Workplace culture is reflected in behaviours, not just policies or values statements.
• Productivity should be measured by outcomes and quality of work rather than hours spent at a desk.
• Flexible working arrangements can improve wellbeing, engagement and retention when implemented effectively.
• Employees quickly recognise when there is a gap between what organisations say and what they reward.
• Work-life balance initiatives are most effective when they are genuinely supported by leaders.
Resources Mentioned:
OECD Better Life Index — international comparison of work-life balance
Global Work Life Balance Index (Ireland second in the world, highest in Europe)
World Happiness Report 2026 (Finland happiest in world, Ireland placed 13)
Four Day Work Week Research – The World’s largest study, in the UK
Upcoming Webinar:
Book your spot for our upcoming webinar "AI in the Workplace: What HR Needs to Know". The session features insights from Liam Barton, Commercial Director at Insight HR, and Karen Howley, AI specialist and expert in organisational change.
Register here
Get in Touch:
If you're not already following us on LinkedIn, please do.
If you have suggestions for future episodes, or if you'd like to join us as a guest, reach out to Dave Corkery at [email protected] or connect with him on LinkedIn.
About The HR Room Podcast:
The HR Room Podcast is brought to you by Insight HR — where we speak with HR leaders, experts and practitioners across Ireland about the issues shaping the world of work today.
If you're enjoying the podcast, please share it with colleagues or friends and leave us a review.
We love to hear your feedback, we take requests, and we're always here to support you with your HR challenges.
Immediate HR support: 056 770 1060 or [email protected].