In A Simple HR Story: From Sipping Coffee to Brewing Careers, Author Sanketh Ramkrishnamurthy offers a refreshing, human-centred perspective on the world of HR. Through the journey of Arjun, a thoughtful HR leader, the book explores everyday workplace challenges—hiring, engagement, leadership, learning, and change—through empathy, purpose, and connection. Blending storytelling with insight, the book reminds us that at the heart of every organisation are people, not policies.
Q1. Can you provide an overview of your book and how it addresses key challenges in the world today?
A Simple HR Story is about people—how they think, feel, and connect at work. It follows Arjun, an HR leader navigating challenges many of us face: hiring, engagement, leadership, learning, and managing change. Through his journey, I wanted to simplify HR, make it more human, and show that when we lead with empathy and purpose, even complex challenges can become opportunities for growth.
Q2. What inspired you to write this book, and what experiences do you bring to the subject?
I’ve spent over two decades in HR, working with people from all walks of life. I’ve witnessed the struggles, emotions, and small wins that shape organisations. The inspiration came from real-life experiences and conversations with employees, leaders, and friends who were searching for meaning at work. I wanted to turn those reflections into a story that HR professionals, managers, and employees could all relate to.
Q3. What are some key insights or takeaways readers can expect from the book?
Readers will realise that HR is not just about policies and processes—it’s about people and presence. Some key takeaways include:
- Leadership starts with listening.
- Engagement is built through trust, not activities.
- Learning is a mindset, not a department.
- Growth happens when we connect the heart and the head at work.
Q4. Can you share any real-world examples from the book that illustrate these principles?
Every chapter is built around real-world scenarios shared through Arjun’s experiences. For instance, one story shows how he transforms a disengaged team into a motivated one simply by starting conversations that matter. These examples reflect real organisations, where small shifts in understanding and empathy lead to lasting change.
Q5. What challenges did you face while writing this book, and how did you overcome them?
The biggest challenge was balancing storytelling with lessons. I didn’t want the book to feel like a textbook or a corporate manual—it had to feel real. I kept returning to my own experiences and emotions, asking myself, “Would I say this to a colleague? Would this help someone?” That approach helped me keep the tone honest, relatable, and simple.
Q6. What do you hope readers will gain from reading this book?
I hope readers see themselves in the story. Whether they work in HR or not, the emotions are universal—feeling unheard, seeking purpose, and learning to lead with empathy. If this book helps someone pause, reflect, and reconnect with the human side of work, I’ll consider it a success.
Q7. How does the book stay relevant in a rapidly changing workplace environment?
While technology and systems continue to evolve, human emotions remain constant. This book is rooted in timeless values—relationships, trust, and growth. As workplaces change, these values will only become more important. A Simple HR Story is a reminder that leadership and HR will always begin with being human.
Ready to rethink HR? Brew better conversations, build meaningful careers, and lead with empathy. Pick up A Simple HR Story today on amazon and rediscover the human side of work.
