People, Performance & Practical HR with Allaina Smith

People, Performance & Practical HR with Allaina Smith

From Plant Grow Reap by Aintree Group

May 10, 2026 · 45 min · Episode 60

About this episode

Allaina Smith shares practical HR strategies and insights for small businesses, addressing common misconceptions and challenges in managing people.

Smart HR Strategies for Small Businesses with Allaina Smith Allaina Smith, Founder and Director of Jigsaw People Solutions, shares practical and refreshingly honest insights into people, performance, and what HR really looks like for small and medium-sized businesses. This episode unpacks common misconceptions around HR, the challenges business owners face when managing people, and why many so-called “recruitment problems” are actually retention and leadership issues. Allaina also explains how small businesses can build strong HR foundations without unnecessary complexity, and the growing importance of AI policies, contractor vs employee risks, and Fairwork compliance. Packed with practical advice and clear takeaways, this episode is a must-listen for business owners who want to sleep better at night knowing their people practices are sound, sustainable, and aligned with their business goals. Connect with Allaina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allaina-smith-%F0%9F%A7%A9-87455945/ More from Jigsaw: www.jigsaw.com.au

People in this episode

Host: Aintree Group

Guest: Allaina Smith

Topics covered

  • HR strategies
  • small business
  • employee retention
  • leadership issues
  • AI policies
  • Fairwork compliance

Keywords

  • HR
  • small business
  • recruitment
  • retention
  • leadership
  • AI policies
  • Fairwork compliance

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Jigsaw People Solutions, Jigsaw

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