RiskTalk: How do you engage colleagues in risk management?

In this episode, Berry Kok (HEMA), Anouk Jessurun (Winitstreet), and our Bram Ketting share insights on involving employees in risk management. They discuss the importance of clear communication, practical tools, and accessible processes to make risk management a natural part of daily work.

Communication must align with everyday practice

Employee involvement is crucial for effectively identifying and managing risks. Berry Kok highlights how a straightforward and practical approach at HEMA encourages active participation: "At HEMA, it’s our responsibility to keep processes simple and accessible. We use easy-to-understand templates and clearly outline expectations, making risk management a natural part of daily operations." Anouk adds that clear communication at all organisational levels makes a significant difference: "Breaking information into manageable steps and using visual tools enables employees without specialist knowledge to contribute effectively to risk control."

A strong focus on engagement ensures that employees at all levels are informed about their role in protecting the organisation. In practice, when employees understand how their work contributes to risk control, compliance increases, and the likelihood of costly mistakes decreases.

Takkie plays a key role

For 3rdRisk, technology is a key component in integrating risk management into daily workflows without overwhelming employees with extra responsibilities. The platform provides real-time insights into risky situations, allowing users to act quickly and maintain oversight. Bram Ketting explains: "Our platform combines compliance with collaboration; employees at all levels are equipped with the tools they need to contribute to risk management. This not only increases the speed but also the accuracy of the response."

One example is the integration of HEMA’s iconic mascot Takkie within the platform, which gently reminds employees of pending risk-related tasks. This playful element helps to reframe risk management as part of the organisational culture rather than a burden. The accessibility of the technology, integrated into tools like Microsoft Teams, ensures that risk management becomes a seamless part of daily workflows, motivating employees to stay actively engaged.

Supportive, not a burden

This episode offers more than just strategies; the speakers share practical experiences and approaches that truly work. As Berry explains: "Risk management should help and support, not be an added burden. A user-friendly approach allows us to involve employees without overloading them, enhancing both speed and effectiveness."

Anouk elaborates on how interactive learning methods, such as her Third Party Risk Game, enhance employee engagement: "The game provides a realistic simulation of risks and encourages team members to work through the third-party risk lifecycle together. This not only increases risk awareness but also fosters collaboration and discussion among employees."

Want to learn more about how to apply these strategies in practice? Listen to the full episode and discover actionable ways to build a risk-aware culture and mitigate risks within your organisation. Listen also to other episodes at www.risktalk.nl.