In such a highly globalized operating environment, the skills and competencies long recognized as critical for a successful foreign service officer mirror the “human skills” noted as the unique requirements for 21^st century leaders in Deloitte’s 2019 Human Capital Trends Report. Companies that invest in their employees’ skill development see measurable return on that investment by way of increased job performance and satisfaction.

As technology further shrinks the space between work life and home life, employees yearn to find purpose and fulfillment in their professional lives. Employees are increasingly seeking out positions that enable them to link their work back to the social impact it has on society. Companies that are intentional about connecting personal fulfillment and professional development are more likely to attract and retain next generation top talent.

Investors are focusing more and more on the net positive that business creates in society—as Larry Fink, CEO of BlackRock, wrote in his most recent annual investor letter, “Profits are in no way inconsistent with purpose—in fact, profits and purpose are inextricably linked.” Companies that embolden their employees to see themselves as social change agents are the epitome of the oft-repeated mantra of ‘doing good while doing well.’