b"LEADERSHIPTodays leaders also have the benefit of access to cutting-edge data and analytics Leadership is not about authority.tools that enable them to gather insights and trends that inform key HR functions, You dont have to be in the mostincluding mobility and everything that senior positionanyone can besupports it.a leader. Its about inspiring andWe are now in a very data-driven environment where we have the tools in empowering others to reach theirplace to take in collaborative data across SONIA GANDHIdifferent fields, whether it's tax, immigra-NATIONAL LEADERfull potential tion or relocation, and to be able to make OF GLOBAL MOBILITYinformed decisions based on that data, SERVICES says Gandhi.KPMG Canada Ariganello is also an advocate for enhan-cing digital literacy and using technologies like artificial intelligence to take HR and mobility functions to the next level. These skills are particularly important as AI First and foremost, says Ariganello, itKEEPING PACE redefines or outright eliminates organiza-is important to have the confidence toIndustry leaders like Ariganello andtional roles, he says, requiring workforce make your voice heard. I've heard aGandhi also know that the rules, trendsupskilling and adaptation. The question lot of human resource professionals sayand best practices in HR and mobilityfor a lot of us is: How do you deal with they don't get a seat at the table or arentare never static. So both are advocates fortechnology? Organizations are going to be included in strategic conversations unlessusing supports, technologies and resourceslooking to human resources to lead, and there is an emergency, he says. Myto keep pace. There's so much changethis is where we have an opportunity for response to that is: Take your space. that's happening out there, whether it'sus to not only rise but to shine and demon-What does that mean in the field? It meanstax laws, immigration laws, or geopoliticalstrate the value of this profession like never getting involved in other facets of the busi- changes, notes Gandhi. You need to bebefore, explains Ariganello.ness, knocking on the doors of differentup to date with what's going on to support departments, finding out what they neednot only your people who are working inBoth Ariganello and Ghandi agree that to run their function better, and learningdifferent countries but to keep the busi- these are challenging times for HR and how you can be of help. It's importantness aligned with whats happening in themobility leaders, but opportunities still to learn about other areas as much asmarket so they can be ahead of it. await those who are open to stepping you can so you can add value to them,beyond their boundaries. As Ariganello Ariganello says. That is what I wouldThere are plenty of resources to helpsums up: This is a great profession and encourage any leader to do going industry leaders stay ahead of the curve.a tremendous opportunity for people forward if they want to attain that They include professional networks,who want to affect lives and contribute in penultimate level. industry associations, online training (e.g.,impactful ways to their businesseswebinars), and years of industry research.and economies.Gandhi also believes in adopting a mindset of continuous learning and relationship-building. And she also holds to the idea that individuals dont need an official title to start demonstrating leadership in their field. Leadership is not about authority, she says. You dont have to be in the most senior positionanyone can be a leader. It's about inspiring and empowering others to reach their full potential. Ive heard a lot of HR professionals To that end, Gandhi says that building strong soft skills is key to workingsay they dont get a seat at the withand movingemployees acrosstable or arent included in strategic multiple demographics, as well as creating work environments in which everyoneconversations My response to is empowered to bring their best to their roles, no matter where they work. HavingANTHONYthat is: Take your spaceempathy and social skills is importantARIGANELLO when youre trying to foster a positive workPRESIDENT AND CEOenvironment, explains Gandhi, espe- World Federation of People cially now when were dealing with peopleManagement Associationsworking remotely or in hybrid offices.Winter 2024PERSPECTIVES21"