Attending the International Women’s Forum in Hong Kong was an experience that will stay with us for years to come. Energized, curious, and humbled—that’s how we felt after a week of engaging conversations with colleagues and new friends from across the globe. This gathering, the #IWFHongKong24 Cornerstone Conference, provided a dynamic platform to explore the trends shaping our industries and reinforced the imperative to lead with a truly global mindset. It was also a valuable opportunity to go beyond the day-to-day and to learn from women who have come before us and paved the way forward.
Our time in Hong Kong was not just about attending a conference; it was an immersion into a tapestry of ideas and perspectives. After all, since our clients span all industries, we need to be fluent in all trends affecting business today. We dove deep into discussions about Finance and Supply Chains and spoke about the evolving role of women in steering the economic future amidst technological disruption and geopolitical shifts. The conversations underscored the importance of resilience and innovation in navigating an increasingly complex global economy.
In the Health sphere, we explored a range of pressing topics, from the intersection of technology and wellness to the profound implications of aging populations, with lessons from the Asia-Pacific region that apply to all geographies.
We left with a clear understanding of the importance of holistic health approaches, grounded in the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, which address physical well-being alongside mental and social aspects.
A highlight of the forum was the exploration of culture from the Eastern world. The traditions, philosophies, and contemporary practices of China and the broader Asia-Pacific region illuminated how these cultures approach balance, community, and leadership. From learning about ancient Confucian principles to gaining insights into modern Chinese business practices, we found ourselves inspired to integrate these timeless values into our own leadership journeys.
Hong Kong itself was the perfect backdrop for these discussions. A dynamic city navigating great change, that embodies the fusion of East and West. It reminded us of the importance of embracing diversity and innovation in all aspects of life. The skyline, vibrant streets, and culinary delights offered a living metaphor for the globalized yet deeply rooted themes we discussed throughout the week.
Igniting a Global Mindset
As we return to our respective corners of the world, we are filled with gratitude—for the learning, the connections, and the inspiration to lead with purpose. The conversations we had reaffirmed that fostering a global mindset is not just a professional responsibility; it is a personal commitment to building bridges and shaping a future where everyone can thrive.
As leaders at Edelman, we recognize that building a thriving global business transcends the establishment of offices around the world. It requires each of us to understand and integrate diverse cultures, perspectives, and markets into our core strategies. A global business is one that not only operates internationally but also embodies a global mindset. By embedding local insights and cultural nuances into how we work, we can create tailored solutions for clients that resonate deeply with varied audiences, ultimately driving sustainable growth and impact.
This holistic approach ensures that we are expanding our footprint, enriching our capabilities, and forging meaningful connections that propel us forward in today’s multilateral business environment.
Here’s what we think will help further support and empower a global mindset at work:
1. Foster Curiosity and Cultural Appreciation
Encourage your team to explore and celebrate diverse cultures. Share stories from global events, organize cultural appreciation activities, and incorporate international perspectives into discussions. Cultivating curiosity is the foundation for building a global mindset.
2. Promote Knowledge Sharing and Lead with Empathy
Model inclusive leadership by embracing diverse perspectives and practicing empathy. Create a platform for exchanging ideas and experiences, from global conferences to regional best practices. This collaboration strengthens connections and broadens horizons.
3. Inspire Innovation Through Global Learning
Integrate global stories, trends, and cross-cultural insights into your team’s daily routine. Share inspiring examples of leadership and resilience from around the world, and provide resources like articles, podcasts, and talks to spark bold, forward-thinking solutions.
Empowering a global mindset isn’t just about education—it’s about transformation. By creating an environment that celebrates diversity and encourages expansive thinking, you’re equipping your team to lead with purpose and thrive in an interconnected world.
By embedding these practices in our workplaces, we can amplify the ripple effect of forums like #IWFHongKong24, cultivating a global mindset that empowers not only our clients and ourselves but also the teams and communities where we live and operate.
Here’s to continuing the dialogue, nurturing the relationships we forged, and carrying the spirit of #IWFHongKong24 forward in all that we do for our clients and our teams.
