Hey there Impact Maker!

As the Chief Excitement Officer of DisruptHR, disruption is always top of mind for me. The world — and the world of work — is in a constant state of change. Sometimes that brings innovation, momentum, and fresh ideas. Other times, it just feels like one curveball after another.
​
So what do we do when uncertainty becomes the norm and predicting what’s next feels impossible?

I believe it’s time for leaders — especially those who work in HR — to double down on leading through that uncertainty. That means embracing transformation, encouraging creativity, and shaping workplace cultures that don’t just survive disruption, but thrive in it. It’s not easy, and for most of us, it’s not how we were trained to lead. But it’s the opportunity in front of us — and it’s one I’m passionate about helping others step into with clarity and confidence.

This week, I'm sharing ideas and resources to support that mission, including a 5-minute DisruptHR Talk I gave last fall in Denver on why HR should be the Chief Disruption Officer in every organization. This is also the focus of my new 2025 keynote, my upcoming mega session at SHRM25 in San Diego — and yes, the book I’m currently writing! (Thanks to those of you who’ve reached out with encouragement. Your support means the world.)
​
​Ready to shake things up? Let’s go.

This Week's Featured Insight

I’ve said it before, and I’ll keep saying it: I believe HR is the most important place to work in any organization. But if we want others to see that too, we’ve got to stop playing it safe and start leading like the business-critical changemakers we are.

In this article I wrote on LinkedIn, I’m making the case for why HR leaders are uniquely positioned to lead innovation and change, because people are at the heart of every business challenge and every solution.

I don't believe that the role of Chief Disruption Officer is about a title — it’s a mindset. One that challenges outdated practices, prioritizes people strategy as business strategy, and positions HR as a force for growth.

If you’re ready to move beyond the status quo and lead real change — whether you’re in HR, leadership, or just tired of outdated systems — there’s something in here for you.

Click the link below to read more...

Have you ever wished that HR had more influence, more impact, and a bigger seat at the table? Then my DisruptHR Denver Talk is for you!
​
In just five minutes, I share why HR is uniquely positioned to lead disruption, drive transformation, and shape the future of work in every organization.

​

Why HR Should Be the Chief Disruption Officer in Every Organization | Jennifer McClure | DisruptHR Talks

3 Resources For You This Week

🧠 The Inner Game of Women CEOs​

This article from McKinsey is titled with women in mind, but its leadership lessons apply to everyone. It explores how successful CEOs navigate polarities — confidence and humility, purpose and performance, strategy and execution. The takeaway? Human-centric skills like self-awareness, resilience, and relationship-building are what set great leaders apart today. A smart, reflective read for anyone leading through complexity.

🛠️ Rewrite Recruiting w/ Kat K (LinkedIn Newsletter)​

If you want real talk about recruiting from someone who’s been in the trenches, subscribe to this LinkedIn newsletter from Katrina Kibben. Kat offers sharp, practical insights on everything from job post writing to hiring manager dynamics — and doesn't shy away from calling out bias or bad habits in the hiring process. It’s thoughtful, actionable, and always rooted in real-world experience. One of my go-to reads for staying grounded in what actually works.
​
​✍️ The Radical Candor Guide to Leading Through Uncertainty​

This article by Radical Candor author Kim Scott caught my attention because — gestures wildly at everything — we’ve clearly moved from pandemic-era “unprecedented times” to “uncertain times.” And we, as leaders, have to keep developing our skills to live and lead within that uncertainty. Kim offers clear, practical ways to lead with honesty, compassion, and trust — even when the news is hard. A great read for anyone committed to getting better at navigating the messy middle.

The Backstage Pass

A peek behind the curtain into what I’m loving, learning, or laughing about lately.

One of the most joyful things I experienced last year? A wild and crazy idea from my friend Laurie Ruettimann, who told me she wanted to throw me a birthday party during the SHRM Annual Conference because I turned 60 that week. I said, “Sure. As long as I don’t have to do anything to make it happen.”

(Because I'm a good friend like that.) 😉

Laurie ran with it and pulled together a team that transformed a simple birthday party into a BFF Party for the ages. Hundreds of HR pros — many attending the conference, and many who weren’t but flew in just for the party — packed the House of Blues in Chicago. Not for a session or a speaker, but to connect, dance, and celebrate the relationships we’ve built… and make a few new friends too.

Well… a week ago, we got the idea that maybe we could do it again (I promised to help this time!) at SHRM25 in San Diego next month. The people want it. The vibe is right. A cool venue is available. The only thing missing? A few amazing sponsors to help us bring it to life.

If your company wants to connect with a highly engaged and disruptive group of HR professionals — and not by chasing randoms around the expo hall trying to scan their badges — hit reply to this email and let’s talk. Soon. With your support, we could make the magic happen again!

Do you enjoy the weekly Impact Makers newsletter? If so, please share it with a friend or colleague that you think may also find it valuable!

They can get their own copy delivered weekly: Subscribe here.

​