Helen Mekonen's Insights

Future of Work

Explore practical insights and leadership perspectives from BES on talent strategy, organizational performance, and future-ready teams.

Future of Work

  • Future of Work/Helen Mekonen

    Bridging Generations: Three Fun and Creative Ways to Foster Cross-Generational Collaboration

    Generational diversity is one of the most valuable assets in today’s workplace, bringing together unique perspectives, experiences, and strengths from Baby Boomers, Gen Xers, Millennials, and Gen Zers. However, leveraging this diversity isn’t always straightforward, as stereotypes and misunderstandings can hinder collaboration. To bridge these generational divides, organizations can implement creative strategies like generational “Show-and-Tell” sessions, reverse innovation workshops, and two-way learning exchanges. These activities foster connection, mutual respect, and a culture of inclusivity, enabling teams to unlock innovation and build stronger relationships. By embracing the contributions of every generation, organizations can create thriving workplaces where everyone feels valued and empowered to succeed.

    Read Bridging Generations: Three Fun and Creative Ways to Foster Cross-Generational Collaboration
  • Future of Work/Helen Mekonen

    Generalist vs. Specialist: Rethinking How We Define Expertise in a Hybrid World

    In this piece, Helen Mekonen challenges conventional wisdom by arguing that generalists—not specialists—are becoming the most critical leaders in today’s rapidly evolving workplace. As AI, hybrid models, and cross-sector complexity reshape how value is created, organizations need leaders who can apply knowledge across unfamiliar contexts, connect disparate ideas, and lead without a script. While deep expertise still matters in specific high-risk settings, Helen shows that it’s the generalist—adaptive, integrative, and systems-minded—who increasingly drives innovation, collaboration, and enterprise-wide momentum.

    Read Generalist vs. Specialist: Rethinking How We Define Expertise in a Hybrid World

Thought Leadership Videos

Watch recent thought leadership videos on inclusive leadership, workplace culture, and transformation.

Why Confidence Stops Working at Executive Level

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Why Confidence Stops Working at Executive Level

When interviewing for jobs at the executive level, confidence is expected—and so it’s no longer a differentiator. In this short, Jason Murray shares tips on what executive hiring committees are listening out for, which includes evidence of sound judgment and being able to navigate ambiguity.

Watch Why Confidence Stops Working at Executive Level
The Interview Mistake Strong Leaders Make

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The Interview Mistake Strong Leaders Make

When interviewing for executive roles, strong delivery is expected—so it’s no longer what sets you apart. In this short, Jason Murray shares a common mistake leaders make: answering like high performers instead of future peers.

Watch The Interview Mistake Strong Leaders Make
What Executive Presence Actually Is

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What Executive Presence Actually Is

In this short, Jason Murray breaks down why hiring committees look for calm, clarity, and restraint, and how presence often comes through in what you don’t say.

Watch What Executive Presence Actually Is

Sustainability/Stephanie La

Green AI: The Role of AI in Sustainability

Green AI emphasizes the importance of balancing innovation with environmental responsibility, addressing the significant environmental and ethical challenges posed by AI development, such as high carbon emissions, energy consumption, and data privacy concerns. While AI offers transformative benefits, including climate change prediction, pollution monitoring, and public health insights, its rapid advancement often prioritizes speed over sustainability. By adopting Green AI practices—such as energy-efficient algorithms, renewable energy sources, and sustainable development goals—organizations can reduce their environmental impact, align with sustainability objectives, and foster long-term growth while contributing to a more sustainable and equitable future.

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Leadership/Melissa Sumnauth

The Importance of Pronouncing a Name: An Act of Inclusive Leadership

Names are not just labels; they are powerful reflections of identity, culture, and history. In this article, Melissa Sumnauth explores the significance of correct name pronunciation in leadership and organizational culture. Drawing on her experience in executive coaching, executive search, facilitation, and people & culture she illustrates how mispronunciation can function as a microaggression and a barrier to inclusion, while intentional effort to say names correctly fosters dignity, belonging, and trust. With practical tools and a call to action for leaders, this article reframes name pronunciation as a vital practice in advancing equity and respectful engagement.

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Learn more about The Importance of Pronouncing a Name: An Act of Inclusive Leadership