Chris and Helen from Mr and Mrs in Business are joined by HR expert Emma Cromarty from EC Human Resources for an in-depth discussion about navigating HR laws and hiring tips for small businesses. This episode provides essential guidance on how to hire employees while avoiding common legal pitfalls that could cost your business thousands.

Emma shares crucial insights about upcoming changes in HR laws, including the controversial day one rights legislation expected in October 2026. Business owners learn practical hiring tips that can protect them from expensive tribunal claims, with Emma explaining how the current two-year protection period for unfair dismissal claims will be eliminated. The conversation covers essential employment contracts, the importance of proper documentation, and why every business needs comprehensive HR policies regardless of size.

The discussion delves into how to hire employees effectively, emphasising the importance of thorough recruitment processes, proper onboarding, and regular performance reviews. Emma reveals why hiring friends and family can be particularly risky and shares real examples of businesses facing tribunal claims from relatives. The episode also addresses common misconceptions about HR laws that cost businesses money, including settlement agreements and harassment prevention requirements.

Listeners gain actionable hiring tips including the importance of detailed job descriptions, skills testing, and getting potential employees to spend time in the business before making final decisions. The conversation explores workplace culture changes, remote working challenges, and why proper HR documentation is more critical than ever. Emma introduces her HR Chest platform, designed to help small businesses stay compliant with employment law without breaking the bank.

This episode is essential listening for any business owner looking to understand current HR laws, implement effective hiring tips, and learn how to hire employees while minimising legal risks in an increasingly complex employment landscape.