The HR world is shifting – and fast. Small businesses are embracing hybrid work, prioritising empathy, and needing more strategic HR support than ever before. And for experienced HR professionals exploring life as an independent HR consultant, that shift brings both challenge and opportunity.
So where does face2faceHR come in?
This month, we’ve explored how the future of HR work is becoming more hybrid, independent, and human. Now, in this final article, we’re looking at how we support consultants to not only keep up with these changes – but to thrive.
Whether you’re thinking about a new direction or want to make your consultancy stronger, here’s how face2faceHR helps you meet the moment – with confidence.
Making hybrid HR work for small businesses
In our first article, we looked at how small businesses are adapting to hybrid work – and the role of HR consultants in helping them navigate that change. From flexible working policies to remote team dynamics, this new way of working requires HR strategy that goes beyond the office.
How we support our consultants:
- Ready-to-use policy templates tailored for hybrid teams
- Up-to-date guidance on compliance, homeworking, and H&S responsibilities
- Coaching and tools to help consultants support SME leaders with hybrid working challenges
- Real-world examples and case studies from our consultant community
face2faceHR gives you everything you need to step in as a credible partner on hybrid strategy – so your clients stay compliant and connected, and you feel fully equipped.
Leading with empathy – and helping your clients do the same
Our second article explored empathy in HR and how people-centred practices are becoming the heartbeat of great small business culture. For consultants, this means going beyond policies – and helping create workplaces where people feel safe, supported, and heard.
How we help you build a human-centred HR consultancy:
- Templates and tools written in plain English with a human tone
- Wellbeing policy guidance and mental health resources
- Ongoing development in inclusive hiring, communication and feedback skills
- Support with sensitive employee issues
At face2faceHR, we know that great HR isn’t about ticking boxes – it’s about caring. We support our consultants to bring empathy into everything they do, and to help clients do the same.
Building a consultancy that’s future-ready
In article three, we covered the key skills that help HR consultants stay relevant – strategic thinking, tech confidence, coaching, and data know-how. For many experienced HR professionals, moving from employment into consultancy is a big leap – and keeping up with all these areas can feel like a lot.
face2faceHR supports your growth by providing:
- Comprehensive training on strategic consultancy approaches
- Coaching-style support to help you work confidently with SME owners
- Access to practical tech and reporting tools you can use with clients
- Regular updates and training to keep your knowledge fresh
- A community of like-minded professionals to share ideas and best practice
You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. We’re here to help you keep growing – and to help your clients benefit from everything you bring to the table.
Turning professional independence into professional confidence
Becoming an independent HR consultant is exciting – but it can also feel overwhelming. You’re suddenly responsible not just for your clients’ HR, but for your own business success.
At face2faceHR, we believe independence doesn’t have to mean going it alone.
We offer a flexible, supportive way to build your consultancy, where you still set your own goals and hours – but have expert backup whenever you need it.
Here’s what that looks like in practice:
- Clear launch and onboarding programmes to set you up for success
- Personalised support on everything from marketing to client management
- Tried-and-tested materials that save time and boost your credibility
- A strong brand with a reputation for great work with SMEs
- A community where you’re never more than a phone call or message away from help
We’ve built our model to reflect the same trends we see in HR – flexibility, empathy, strategy, and human connection. And we’re proud to support consultants who want to do meaningful work on their own terms.
Final thoughts
The future of HR is already here. It’s flexible, people-focused, and increasingly shaped by independent professionals who want to make a real difference.
Over the last few weeks, we’ve explored how independent HR consultants are helping small businesses navigate hybrid work, lead with empathy, and stay ahead of the curve. These are big shifts – but they’re also exciting opportunities.
At face2faceHR, we help you meet those opportunities with the tools, training and community to thrive. So if you’re ready to create a consultancy that works for you – and for your clients – we’d love to support you on the journey.
Whether you’re just starting out or ready to take your next step, we’ll give you the expert resources, personalised support and friendly community you need to succeed. Download our prospectus or get in touch to learn more.