Colleen Honestly: Work
Experience is a great teacher. I took notes.
Tools, ideas, and honest reflections—because we shouldn’t have to learn everything the hard way.
I’m Colleen. I write letters about the human side of work, drawing on a career in HR—with honest stories, a little humor, and practical tools you can actually use.
For anyone who leads, supports, or works alongside other humans.
Take The Reading Room on the go. Your letters, one tap away. No sign-in required.
Latest letter
Letters from Colleen
An Org Chart Has Boxes. People Have Lives.
Organizational design decisions happen on paper. Supporting the people whose lives change takes another kind of leadership.
Change · Leadership & People
Read the letter →Two more worth a read
The 48-Hour Rule: Don't React. Don't Avoid. Just Talk.
A letter about giving difficult feedback with clarity, compassion and timely follow-through.
People & conversations · Leadership
Read the letter →Live, Laugh, Document
I didn’t get into the business of helping people for the paperwork.
Conversations · Leadership & People
Read the letter →What’s New
Five Honest Questions
What’s behind “I’m fine”?
Five Honest Questions is a peek at what people are really thinking and feeling when they say they’re fine. Five questions, anonymous answers, the stuff that doesn’t always come out when you ask, “How are you doing?”
Read the latest answersAsk Colleen or share a work story
A gentle reminder: I’m an HR person, but I’m not your HR person. These letters are informational only and don’t replace medical, legal, or advice specific to your workplace. Your company policies, benefit plans, state laws, and circumstances can change the answer. Check with your own HR or benefits contact, review your specific plan documents, and consult the appropriate medical or legal professional.
If you’re looking for real advice from me: never volunteer while someone is still explaining what they need. That one’s on the house.