How do I handle a difficult employee?
Get practical guidance to approach challenging conversations, manage performance fairly and confidently, and work towards a constructive outcome.
Independent HR Consultancy · Sunshine Coast
HR, humanised.
Different people. Different perspectives. Solutions that work.
Practical, people-first HR support that takes the complexity out of people management, helping leaders understand their people and find tailored solutions that work — for everyone.
Sound familiar?
People challenges don't always come with easy answers.
People issues are rarely one-size-fits-all, and the right response takes more than a policy or process. You know your people matter — but sometimes, knowing what to do next isn't so straightforward.
Why aren't my managers dealing with issues earlier?
Build leadership confidence and capability so people issues are addressed early rather than becoming bigger problems.
How do I get the best out of my team?
Strengthen engagement, communication, accountability and team performance by understanding what helps different people thrive.
I'm worried about psychosocial risks. Where do I start?
Understand workplace risks and identify practical steps to create healthier, safer and more supportive working environments.
We've tried the usual approach, but it's not working.
Find tailored solutions that reflect the people involved, the situation and the needs of the business, rather than relying on generic templates.
I just need someone experienced to talk this through with.
Access independent HR advice, a fresh perspective and clear next steps for complex or sensitive people matters.
You don't have to figure it all out alone.
Different Works takes the complexity out of HR, helping you understand the people behind the challenge and find practical solutions that work.
Let's talkHow I can help
Practical support to the challenges that matter.
Different Works supports small and medium businesses, not-for-profits and leaders who need experienced HR expertise — without the cost of a full-time hire. These are the areas I am asked about most, each tailored to your people, your leaders and your goals.
Leadership
Build confident leaders who have better conversations, set clear expectations and address issues early, before they grow.
Engagement & Performance
Strengthen engagement, communication and accountability so your team can perform at its best.
Healthy & Inclusive Workplaces
Create safer, healthier and more supportive workplaces where different people can thrive.
I also provide
- General HR advice
- Complex employee relations support
- Workplace change assistance
- Ongoing HR Partner support
My difference
A thoughtful approach, not a template.
Human first
I take the time to understand the people and circumstances before recommending a solution.
Clarity over complexity
I turn complicated HR issues into clear, practical next steps leaders can confidently take.
Tailored, not templated
I develop solutions that suit the people, the situation and the business.
It's not about lowering expectations. It's about understanding people and finding the best way to help them succeed.
About the founder
Experienced in HR. Human in approach.
I'm Nikki, the founder of Different Works. With 15 years of HR experience, including eight years in HR consultancy, I help businesses and leaders navigate the people side of work with confidence.
My approach is practical, empathetic and solutions-focused. I enjoy making complex situations easier to navigate, helping leaders see things from different perspectives and finding approaches that work for both people and the business.
I believe better workplaces start with understanding, honest conversations and a willingness to do things differently.
Get in touch
Let's find a better way forward.
Whether you're working through a complex people issue, looking to strengthen your leadership team or simply need an experienced HR partner in your corner, let's have a conversation.
You don't need to have it all worked out — a short conversation is a great place to start.
Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
Replies within one business day