From Homeless Actor to Human Resources Hero: The Unexpected Inspiring Story of Nathan Atkinson

Nathan discusses his background in acting and his transition to the business world. He shares his childhood dreams of becoming an actor and his experience studying acting in Sydney and ending up homeless. Nathan talks about the challenges he faced in pursuing his acting career and how he eventually realised it wasn’t his calling.

He then shares his journey toward his current role as a Director and co-Founder of Strategic HR Supports. Nathan also discusses his involvement in supporting local businesses and his passion for helping others achieve their goals. Nathan shares his journey from aspiring actor to HR professional and entrepreneur.

He grew up in Bundaberg, Queensland, and moved to Sydney to pursue acting, but it didn’t work out. He then decided to study teaching but realised it wasn’t for him. Nathan eventually found his way into HR and started working in a small electrical business, where he faced challenges in managing people.

He later joined a disability provider and experienced the impact of COVID-19 on the industry. Nathan then took a position at the local council. After a few more job changes, he decided to start his own business with the support of his partner.

Nathan shares his experience of starting his own business, Strategic HR Supports, and the challenges he faced. He emphasises the importance of finding mentors and seeking help from others in the industry. Nathan also discusses the unique approach of strategic HR, which focuses on proactive solutions and win-win situations. He highlights the significance of communication and building genuine connections with clients and employees.

Nathan shares his plans for the future, including rebranding his side business Strategic Business and expanding their networking events around Australia. He encourages young men pursuing entrepreneurship to have a positive mindset and see others as potential collaborators rather than competitors.

Takeaways

  • Nathan initially wanted to be an actor and pursued his dream by studying acting in Sydney, but eventually realised it wasn’t his calling.
  • He transitioned into sales and gained experience in various jobs to support himself.
  • Nathan is now a Director and co-founder of Strategic HR Supports, where he focuses on supporting local businesses with their HR needs and helping them achieve their goals.
  • He is passionate about networking and building genuine connections among business owners and professionals.
  • Nathan’s journey highlights the importance of adapting and finding new paths when faced with challenges. Sometimes our initial career choices don’t work out, and that’s okay. It’s important to be open to new opportunities and explore different paths.
  • Finding a career that aligns with your values and allows you to make a positive impact can be more fulfilling than simply chasing money or status.
  • Facing challenges and stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to personal and professional growth.
  • Building credibility and a strong reputation in your field can open doors and create new opportunities.
  • Starting your own business requires careful consideration and planning, but it can be a rewarding and fulfilling endeavor. Finding mentors and seeking help from others in the industry is crucial for success in entrepreneurship.
  • Strategic HR focuses on proactive solutions and win-win situations.
  • Effective communication and building genuine connections with clients and employees are key.
  • Expanding networking events can create opportunities for collaboration and growth.
  • Having a positive mindset and seeing others as potential collaborators rather than competitors can lead to success.

Sound Bites

  • “If it doesn’t work, it doesn’t work and it didn’t work, but at least I know that I tried.”
  • “If it’s not working, adapt your strategy, have a reflection, realize what’s not working, and then work out what you can do to make it work.”
  • “I thought HR was this wonderful thing where just people get out the trumpets and they blow their horns when you walk past them and you’re all hugging each other.”
  • “Finding the people that can help you is really awesome.”

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Podcasting Experience

09:39 Transitioning to the Business World

16:25 Adapting to Challenges and Finding New Paths

32:12 Stepping Out of the Comfort Zone

38:51 Starting a Business and Building Credibility

46:44 The Unique Approach of Strategic HR

56:42 The Power of Communication and Genuine Connections

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