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Editor's Letter
EDITOR'S LETTER
Leadership plays a crucial role in the success of a
business. And great leaders have an ability to understand
the spirit of the times they live in, as well as have a vision
for the future.
“Zeitgeist” translates literally as "time mind" or "time
spirit". It’s the defining mood of a period of history as
shown by the ideas and beliefs of the time. So what’s the
zeitgeist that business leaders must absorb?
Today’s mobile generation has a front row seat to world
events and an increasingly global mindset. Diversity
matters. Technology matters. Integrity matters. Culture
matters.
Reputation capital is fast becoming the new venture
capital with which businesses will compete for new
talent. Ethical and responsible treatment of workers and
consumers is a complex challenge, but those who can
master technology are striding ahead.
In the words of Kronos CEO Aron Ain, named a Glassdoor
Highest rated CEO in 2017, “great businesses are driven
by great people - technology is a key part of making that
a reality.”
Heightened awareness of our interconnected futures
drives business leaders to leverage technology to bridge
gaps between workplace compliance and workforce
wellbeing, as well as embrace cultural change to build a
stronger corporate social culture and reputation.
Business history shows us that context also matters.
Companies that aren’t attuned to the zeitgeist and its
implications fail to adapt to changing workforce and
customer expectations.
Our main feature looks at leadership, asking: is leadership
that’s in sync with the times the key to surviving through
busts and thriving in booms?
We also interview Ascender CEO Marjukka Mäki-
Hokkonen on her leadership tips, and hear from futurist
Anders Sorman-Nilsson on what’s next in leadership
styles.
Enjoy!
Deane Hornsby
Editor, Workforce Life
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AHEAD OF THE TIMES
Workforce Life | ISSUE 04