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- It's Okay to Cry at Work—Here’s Constructive Ways to Respond
It's Okay to Cry at Work—Here’s Constructive Ways to Respond
HR is lonely. It doesn’t have to be.
The best HR advice comes from people who’ve been in the trenches.
That’s what this newsletter delivers.
I Hate it Here is your insider’s guide to surviving and thriving in HR, from someone who’s been there. It’s not about theory or buzzwords — it’s about practical, real-world advice for navigating everything from tricky managers to messy policies.
Every newsletter is written by Hebba Youssef — a Chief People Officer who’s seen it all and is here to share what actually works (and what doesn’t). We’re talking real talk, real strategies, and real support — all with a side of humor to keep you sane.
Because HR shouldn’t feel like a thankless job. And you shouldn’t feel alone in it.
📊 HR Trends: Aviation Industry Turns to Specialized HR Systems
HR in aviation is facing unique challenges—from pilot scheduling to compliance, crew rest mandates, and talent retention during fluctuating demand. Companies now seek specialized HR systems tailored to these complexities. These tools promise better demand forecasting, compliance tracking, and workforce flexibility to match tight industry schedules and safety standards. It marks a shift toward smarter, industry-focused HR tech solutions. Read more.
🎧 HR Insights: It's Okay to Cry at Work—Here’s Constructive Ways to Respond
Emotions are human, and crying at work can signal stress, grief, or overwhelm. Colleagues and managers should offer calm presence, privacy, and permission to pause. A gentle question like “Want to step out for a moment?” can provide space. Avoid judgment or rushing reassurance. Respond with empathy and follow-up later—not advice, but support. This builds trust, psychological safety, and a human workplace.
💡 HR Tips & Tricks
Tip of the Day: Launch a “HR Lunch Roulette”—invite each employee quarterly to a surprise lunch with a different HR team member. No work discussion—just casual connection and real human engagement.
Trick of the Day: Implement “HR Flash Wins”, short weekly updates posted on the intranet. Share one positive outcome—successful hire, improved policy, or training milestone. Keeps people informed and builds momentum.
🧾 HR Case Files - Teneo.ai Powers Agentic AI for Recruitment Firm
Teneo.ai has signed a contract with a global HR and staffing firm to deploy agent-driven voice AI. This platform will manage high-volume candidate interactions and FAQs around the clock. It also frees recruiters to focus on strategy and personalized advisory work. This deal underscores demand for enterprise-grade, autonomous solutions in HR.
Key Takeaways
Agentic AI is being used to automate candidate screening and support, improving responsiveness and efficiency.
Recruiters are gaining capacity to focus on strategic tasks by offloading routine work to AI.
The agreement highlights growing market interest in scalable, intelligent HR solutions.
🧰 HR Toolbox
Stay equipped with the latest HR events and resources.
Resource of the Day
AI agents—autonomous “teammates” that act without direct prompts—are becoming part of business operations. They handle complex tasks, make decisions, and carry real responsibility. As they integrate, organizations face risks: security, misuse, and lack of governance frameworks. HR must plan for induction, training, and guardrails to manage these non-human resources effectively and safely.
Event of the Day
The Siouxland SHRM Chapter hosts its 2025 Annual Conference, titled “HR: Mission Possible!” It runs on September 12, from 8:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Northeast Community College in South Sioux City, Nebraska, with doors opening at 8:00 a.m. Attendees include HR professionals from various levels and offer breakout sessions, keynote insights, networking, and vendor exhibits.
For event details and registration, visit the website.
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