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Leadership

The Future of HR: Personalization, AI, and Human-Centered Workplaces

The Future of HR: Personalization, AI, and Human-Centered Workplaces

Is HR’s One-Size-Fits-All Era Over? Anna Tavis on Why Personalization, AI, and Inclusivity Will Define the Future of Work.
The Future of HR: Personalization, AI, and Human-Centered Workplaces

The Future of HR: Personalization, AI, and Human-Centered Workplaces

Is HR’s One-Size-Fits-All Era Over? Anna Tavis on Why Personalization, AI, and Inclusivity Will Define the Future of Work.
From Cost Center to Business Function: The Power of Total Rewards in HR

From Cost Center to Business Function: The Power of Total Rewards in HR

David Turetsky unveils the future of total rewards—shifting HR from cost to value with personalized growth, engagement, and lasting impact.
From Cost Center to Business Function: The Power of Total Rewards in HR

From Cost Center to Business Function: The Power of Total Rewards in HR

David Turetsky unveils the future of total rewards—shifting HR from cost to value with personalized growth, engagement, and lasting impact.
People, Places, and Purpose: Phil Kirscher's Advice for HR’s Role in Shaping Tomorrow’s Workplace

People, Places, and Purpose: Phil Kirscher's Advice for HR’s Role in Shaping Tomorrow’s Workplace

Is HR ready for the future? Discover why social capital is key to thriving in hybrid work on Future Work with Phil Kirschner!
People, Places, and Purpose: Phil Kirscher's Advice for HR’s Role in Shaping Tomorrow’s Workplace

People, Places, and Purpose: Phil Kirscher's Advice for HR’s Role in Shaping Tomorrow’s Workplace

Is HR ready for the future? Discover why social capital is key to thriving in hybrid work on Future Work with Phil Kirschner!
Brian Elliott’s Expert Tips for A Better Workplace Culture

Brian Elliott’s Expert Tips for A Better Workplace Culture

How can leaders build a better workplace culture, especially in the context of hybrid teams? We have the answers and tips from Brian Elliott, Future Forum Cofounder and WSJ best-selling author.
Brian Elliott’s Expert Tips for A Better Workplace Culture

Brian Elliott’s Expert Tips for A Better Workplace Culture

How can leaders build a better workplace culture, especially in the context of hybrid teams? We have the answers and tips from Brian Elliott, Future Forum Cofounder and WSJ best-selling author.
Culture Guru Gustavo Razzetti: "HR Doesn't Control Culture. It's Its Godparent."

Culture Guru Gustavo Razzetti: "HR Doesn't Control Culture. It's Its Godparent."

Today, Tim interviews world-renowned culture expert Gustavo Razzetti. Discover game-changing strategies for HR leaders to revolutionize workplace culture, master hybrid work, and harness AI for a competitive edge.
Culture Guru Gustavo Razzetti: "HR Doesn't Control Culture. It's Its Godparent."

Culture Guru Gustavo Razzetti: "HR Doesn't Control Culture. It's Its Godparent."

Today, Tim interviews world-renowned culture expert Gustavo Razzetti. Discover game-changing strategies for HR leaders to revolutionize workplace culture, master hybrid work, and harness AI for a competitive edge.
5 Key Insights from the Charter Workplace Summit 2024

5 Key Insights from the Charter Workplace Summit 2024

From AI to flexible work and the evolving role of leaders in empowering their employees to thrive, here are five key insights from this year's Charter Workplace Summit you need to craft a better future of work.
5 Key Insights from the Charter Workplace Summit 2024

5 Key Insights from the Charter Workplace Summit 2024

From AI to flexible work and the evolving role of leaders in empowering their employees to thrive, here are five key insights from this year's Charter Workplace Summit you need to craft a better future of work.
Tim Reitsma: "HR's Critical Role in the Future of Work"

Tim Reitsma: "HR's Critical Role in the Future of Work"

New Host, New Era! Tim Reitsma takes over Future Work Season 4—HR's role, AI, inclusion, and shaping the future!
Tim Reitsma: "HR's Critical Role in the Future of Work"

Tim Reitsma: "HR's Critical Role in the Future of Work"

New Host, New Era! Tim Reitsma takes over Future Work Season 4—HR's role, AI, inclusion, and shaping the future!
How AI Can Radically Reshape Work (with BCG’s Managing Director Debbie Lovich)

How AI Can Radically Reshape Work (with BCG’s Managing Director Debbie Lovich)

AI Revolution: BCG’s Debbie Lovich on Why Gen AI Could Save Your Job – or Make It Worse!
How AI Can Radically Reshape Work (with BCG’s Managing Director Debbie Lovich)

How AI Can Radically Reshape Work (with BCG’s Managing Director Debbie Lovich)

AI Revolution: BCG’s Debbie Lovich on Why Gen AI Could Save Your Job – or Make It Worse!
Building AI-First Companies Without a Tech Background

Building AI-First Companies Without a Tech Background

Peek CEO Sherry Jiang shares how non-technical leaders can leverage AI to build AI-first companies, rethink SaaS, and drive team productivity.
Building AI-First Companies Without a Tech Background

Building AI-First Companies Without a Tech Background

Peek CEO Sherry Jiang shares how non-technical leaders can leverage AI to build AI-first companies, rethink SaaS, and drive team productivity.
Inside Roblox’s AI-Driven Employee Experience

Inside Roblox’s AI-Driven Employee Experience

Arvind KC, Chief People and Systems Officer at Roblox, reveals why merging HR with IT is the bold move companies need to master AI and reshape the future of work.
Inside Roblox’s AI-Driven Employee Experience

Inside Roblox’s AI-Driven Employee Experience

Arvind KC, Chief People and Systems Officer at Roblox, reveals why merging HR with IT is the bold move companies need to master AI and reshape the future of work.
Beyond the AI Pilot: How PwC Scaled Adoption Across 6,000 Employees

Beyond the AI Pilot: How PwC Scaled Adoption Across 6,000 Employees

PwC Netherlands' Marlene de Koning reveals strategies for scaling AI adoption from pilot to enterprise with workflow integration and AI influencers.
Beyond the AI Pilot: How PwC Scaled Adoption Across 6,000 Employees

Beyond the AI Pilot: How PwC Scaled Adoption Across 6,000 Employees

PwC Netherlands' Marlene de Koning reveals strategies for scaling AI adoption from pilot to enterprise with workflow integration and AI influencers.
Cracking the AI Maturity Code: What the Best Companies Do Differently.

Cracking the AI Maturity Code: What the Best Companies Do Differently.

Discover the 5 C's That Separate Leaders from Laggards with Rebecca Hinds from Asana.
Cracking the AI Maturity Code: What the Best Companies Do Differently.

Cracking the AI Maturity Code: What the Best Companies Do Differently.

Discover the 5 C's That Separate Leaders from Laggards with Rebecca Hinds from Asana.
Women in AI: From Impostor Syndrome to AI Trailblazers

Women in AI: From Impostor Syndrome to AI Trailblazers

Helen Lee Kupp and Nichole Sterling are revolutionizing AI adoption for women, bridging the gender gap in tech, and shaping the future of work.
Women in AI: From Impostor Syndrome to AI Trailblazers

Women in AI: From Impostor Syndrome to AI Trailblazers

Helen Lee Kupp and Nichole Sterling are revolutionizing AI adoption for women, bridging the gender gap in tech, and shaping the future of work.
Always Be Curious: Revolutionizing AI Adoption in Business (with AJ Thomas)

Always Be Curious: Revolutionizing AI Adoption in Business (with AJ Thomas)

Former X talent leader and fractional CHRO AJ Thomas shares practical tips on how shifting mindsets and strategic experimentation can transform AI adoption in your organization.
Always Be Curious: Revolutionizing AI Adoption in Business (with AJ Thomas)

Always Be Curious: Revolutionizing AI Adoption in Business (with AJ Thomas)

Former X talent leader and fractional CHRO AJ Thomas shares practical tips on how shifting mindsets and strategic experimentation can transform AI adoption in your organization.
Unlocking Human Potential With AI (Featuring Boston Consulting Group CTO Matt Kropp)

Unlocking Human Potential With AI (Featuring Boston Consulting Group CTO Matt Kropp)

AI can drive growth beyond cost-cutting. Learn BCG's strategies for successful AI implementation to unlock hidden value in your organization and spark joy.
Unlocking Human Potential With AI (Featuring Boston Consulting Group CTO Matt Kropp)

Unlocking Human Potential With AI (Featuring Boston Consulting Group CTO Matt Kropp)

AI can drive growth beyond cost-cutting. Learn BCG's strategies for successful AI implementation to unlock hidden value in your organization and spark joy.
Atlassian's Annie Dean: Where we work doesn't matter. Focus on the how.

Atlassian's Annie Dean: Where we work doesn't matter. Focus on the how.

Atlassian’s VP of Team Anywhere spent 10 years promoting flexible work. Now, we’re talking about the HOW, with insights on AI, remote collaboration, async, and inclusion.
Atlassian's Annie Dean: Where we work doesn't matter. Focus on the how.

Atlassian's Annie Dean: Where we work doesn't matter. Focus on the how.

Atlassian’s VP of Team Anywhere spent 10 years promoting flexible work. Now, we’re talking about the HOW, with insights on AI, remote collaboration, async, and inclusion.
 Reimagining the Office: Gensler’s Janet Pogue on Space Design for a New Era

Reimagining the Office: Gensler’s Janet Pogue on Space Design for a New Era

Learn how to create high-performance workspaces that inspire and engage employees with insights from Gensler Global Head of Workplace Research, Janet Pogue.
 Reimagining the Office: Gensler’s Janet Pogue on Space Design for a New Era

Reimagining the Office: Gensler’s Janet Pogue on Space Design for a New Era

Learn how to create high-performance workspaces that inspire and engage employees with insights from Gensler Global Head of Workplace Research, Janet Pogue.
Empathy and Efficiency: Ashley Herd's Viral Management Tips

Empathy and Efficiency: Ashley Herd's Viral Management Tips

Discover how Ashley Herd’s viral tips, with 5M monthly TikTok views, blend empathy and efficiency to transform leadership and create happier workplaces.
Empathy and Efficiency: Ashley Herd's Viral Management Tips

Empathy and Efficiency: Ashley Herd's Viral Management Tips

Discover how Ashley Herd’s viral tips, with 5M monthly TikTok views, blend empathy and efficiency to transform leadership and create happier workplaces.
Treating Employees Like Grownups (with Amy Leschke-Kahle)

Treating Employees Like Grownups (with Amy Leschke-Kahle)

Explore how treating employees as responsible adults revolutionize HR and workplace culture with Amy Leschke-Kahle, a renowned thinker.
Treating Employees Like Grownups (with Amy Leschke-Kahle)

Treating Employees Like Grownups (with Amy Leschke-Kahle)

Explore how treating employees as responsible adults revolutionize HR and workplace culture with Amy Leschke-Kahle, a renowned thinker.
Why We Need People AND Technology (with Josh Bersin)

Why We Need People AND Technology (with Josh Bersin)

We kick off Season 3 with an hour-long episode featuring HR guru Josh Bersin. From AI to Irresistible companies, this is one you don’t want to miss.
Why We Need People AND Technology (with Josh Bersin)

Why We Need People AND Technology (with Josh Bersin)

We kick off Season 3 with an hour-long episode featuring HR guru Josh Bersin. From AI to Irresistible companies, this is one you don’t want to miss.
Atlassian PhD: Why Meetings Don’t Work, and What to Do Instead (with Molly Sands, Head of Team Anywhere Lab, Atlassian)

Atlassian PhD: Why Meetings Don’t Work, and What to Do Instead (with Molly Sands, Head of Team Anywhere Lab, Atlassian)

Meetings don’t work, but why? And what do we do about it? Atlassian’s Head of the Team Anywhere Lab shares new research.
Atlassian PhD: Why Meetings Don’t Work, and What to Do Instead (with Molly Sands, Head of Team Anywhere Lab, Atlassian)

Atlassian PhD: Why Meetings Don’t Work, and What to Do Instead (with Molly Sands, Head of Team Anywhere Lab, Atlassian)

Meetings don’t work, but why? And what do we do about it? Atlassian’s Head of the Team Anywhere Lab shares new research.
What the World Happiness Report Teaches Us About Modern Organizations

What the World Happiness Report Teaches Us About Modern Organizations

Explore some key leadership lessons from the World Happiness Report and how it relates to workplace joy and productivity.
What the World Happiness Report Teaches Us About Modern Organizations

What the World Happiness Report Teaches Us About Modern Organizations

Explore some key leadership lessons from the World Happiness Report and how it relates to workplace joy and productivity.
Trust, Neuroscience, and Embracing Our Weirdness at Work (with neuroscientist Paul J. Zak)

Trust, Neuroscience, and Embracing Our Weirdness at Work (with neuroscientist Paul J. Zak)

Learn practical strategies to build and maintain trust in remote and hybrid teams. Plus, the impact of emotional intelligence on business success.
Trust, Neuroscience, and Embracing Our Weirdness at Work (with neuroscientist Paul J. Zak)

Trust, Neuroscience, and Embracing Our Weirdness at Work (with neuroscientist Paul J. Zak)

Learn practical strategies to build and maintain trust in remote and hybrid teams. Plus, the impact of emotional intelligence on business success.
The Secret to Amazing Online Meetings (with Jakob Knutzen, CEO, Butter)

The Secret to Amazing Online Meetings (with Jakob Knutzen, CEO, Butter)

We all want to run better meetings, but how? Meeting facilitation guru Jakob Knutzen of Butter shares what we can do to improve our meetings today.
The Secret to Amazing Online Meetings (with Jakob Knutzen, CEO, Butter)

The Secret to Amazing Online Meetings (with Jakob Knutzen, CEO, Butter)

We all want to run better meetings, but how? Meeting facilitation guru Jakob Knutzen of Butter shares what we can do to improve our meetings today.
Why Remote Companies Are More Profitable (with Liam Martin, CEO of Time Doctor)

Why Remote Companies Are More Profitable (with Liam Martin, CEO of Time Doctor)

Liam Martin is a walking library of remote statistics. In today’s interview, he’ll share why and how remote companies beat traditional ones and much more.
Why Remote Companies Are More Profitable (with Liam Martin, CEO of Time Doctor)

Why Remote Companies Are More Profitable (with Liam Martin, CEO of Time Doctor)

Liam Martin is a walking library of remote statistics. In today’s interview, he’ll share why and how remote companies beat traditional ones and much more.
The People-Centric Guide to Leadership in 2024 (incl. Remote Work, AI)

The People-Centric Guide to Leadership in 2024 (incl. Remote Work, AI)

AI, Remote Work, and the End of Full-Time have forever changed leadership. Here’s how to lead teams and companies in 2024.
The People-Centric Guide to Leadership in 2024 (incl. Remote Work, AI)

The People-Centric Guide to Leadership in 2024 (incl. Remote Work, AI)

AI, Remote Work, and the End of Full-Time have forever changed leadership. Here’s how to lead teams and companies in 2024.
Retaining Your Top Talent with Flexibility and Joy (featuring Debbie Lovich, Managing Director & Senior Partner at Boston Consulting Group)

Retaining Your Top Talent with Flexibility and Joy (featuring Debbie Lovich, Managing Director & Senior Partner at Boston Consulting Group)

TED speaker and Boston Consulting Group Managing Director Debbie Lovich tells us the secrets of retaining your top talent. Hint: it involves joy!
Retaining Your Top Talent with Flexibility and Joy (featuring Debbie Lovich, Managing Director & Senior Partner at Boston Consulting Group)

Retaining Your Top Talent with Flexibility and Joy (featuring Debbie Lovich, Managing Director & Senior Partner at Boston Consulting Group)

TED speaker and Boston Consulting Group Managing Director Debbie Lovich tells us the secrets of retaining your top talent. Hint: it involves joy!
21 Best Leadership Books for Management Success in 2024

21 Best Leadership Books for Management Success in 2024

Our picks of the best leadership books for 2024 on strategies, self-improvement, talent development, culture, and innovations that every leader should read.
21 Best Leadership Books for Management Success in 2024

21 Best Leadership Books for Management Success in 2024

Our picks of the best leadership books for 2024 on strategies, self-improvement, talent development, culture, and innovations that every leader should read.
The 2024 Guide to Leadership Podcasts for People-First Managers

The 2024 Guide to Leadership Podcasts for People-First Managers

A comprehensive list of the best leadership podcasts to follow in 2024 with detailed reviews. Tune in to elevate your leadership skills today!
The 2024 Guide to Leadership Podcasts for People-First Managers

The 2024 Guide to Leadership Podcasts for People-First Managers

A comprehensive list of the best leadership podcasts to follow in 2024 with detailed reviews. Tune in to elevate your leadership skills today!
Coaching Leadership Style: How People-First Managers Transform Teams

Coaching Leadership Style: How People-First Managers Transform Teams

Leaders who coach improve well-being and performance. Be a coach for your team with our guide, tips, and resources about the coaching leadership style.
Coaching Leadership Style: How People-First Managers Transform Teams

Coaching Leadership Style: How People-First Managers Transform Teams

Leaders who coach improve well-being and performance. Be a coach for your team with our guide, tips, and resources about the coaching leadership style.
Leadership Coaching for People-Centric Leaders (Complete 2024 Guide)

Leadership Coaching for People-Centric Leaders (Complete 2024 Guide)

Everything you need to know about leadership coaching before investing in it – critical skills to develop, guide and tips to find the best-fit coach in 2024
Leadership Coaching for People-Centric Leaders (Complete 2024 Guide)

Leadership Coaching for People-Centric Leaders (Complete 2024 Guide)

Everything you need to know about leadership coaching before investing in it – critical skills to develop, guide and tips to find the best-fit coach in 2024
25 Best Leadership Conferences in 2025

25 Best Leadership Conferences in 2025

Level up your leadership skills with the key leadership conferences in 2024 – 2025. We've done the research for you and have the complete list of potential events.
25 Best Leadership Conferences in 2025

25 Best Leadership Conferences in 2025

Level up your leadership skills with the key leadership conferences in 2024 – 2025. We've done the research for you and have the complete list of potential events.
The Playbook for Leadership That Impacts People AND Profits (with "HR Godfather" Dave Ulrich)

The Playbook for Leadership That Impacts People AND Profits (with "HR Godfather" Dave Ulrich)

Discover how to lead teams and ourselves in the remote and AI-driven future of work with Dave Ulrich - father of modern HR.
The Playbook for Leadership That Impacts People AND Profits (with "HR Godfather" Dave Ulrich)

The Playbook for Leadership That Impacts People AND Profits (with "HR Godfather" Dave Ulrich)

Discover how to lead teams and ourselves in the remote and AI-driven future of work with Dave Ulrich - father of modern HR.
Top 10 Leadership Interview Questions and How to Respond Wisely (Sample Answers)

Top 10 Leadership Interview Questions and How to Respond Wisely (Sample Answers)

Prepare winning responses to impress the interviewer and land your dream job. Learn how to prepare for on-site and remote leadership interview questions.
Top 10 Leadership Interview Questions and How to Respond Wisely (Sample Answers)

Top 10 Leadership Interview Questions and How to Respond Wisely (Sample Answers)

Prepare winning responses to impress the interviewer and land your dream job. Learn how to prepare for on-site and remote leadership interview questions.
What is your Leadership Philosophy? Guide & Examples in 2024

What is your Leadership Philosophy? Guide & Examples in 2024

What is a good leader? Your answer to this question is your leadership philosophy. Learn how to write one with a template and practical examples.
What is your Leadership Philosophy? Guide & Examples in 2024

What is your Leadership Philosophy? Guide & Examples in 2024

What is a good leader? Your answer to this question is your leadership philosophy. Learn how to write one with a template and practical examples.
The What, Why, and How of Amazon Leadership Principles

The What, Why, and How of Amazon Leadership Principles

16 leadership principles helped Amazon go from a garage to a global powerhouse. Learn how to apply these powerful principles to your hybrid and remote team.
The What, Why, and How of Amazon Leadership Principles

The What, Why, and How of Amazon Leadership Principles

16 leadership principles helped Amazon go from a garage to a global powerhouse. Learn how to apply these powerful principles to your hybrid and remote team.
Psychological Safety at Work: Guide & Tools for People-Centric Leaders

Psychological Safety at Work: Guide & Tools for People-Centric Leaders

Psychological safety is key to winning teams. What is it, and how do you build it? Read our guide + the top tools to build psychological safety at work.
Psychological Safety at Work: Guide & Tools for People-Centric Leaders

Psychological Safety at Work: Guide & Tools for People-Centric Leaders

Psychological safety is key to winning teams. What is it, and how do you build it? Read our guide + the top tools to build psychological safety at work.
21 Remote Work Books to Level Up Your Leadership

21 Remote Work Books to Level Up Your Leadership

Check out the top 21 remote work books by best-selling authors to create a strong culture and manage teams effectively.
21 Remote Work Books to Level Up Your Leadership

21 Remote Work Books to Level Up Your Leadership

Check out the top 21 remote work books by best-selling authors to create a strong culture and manage teams effectively.
16 Remote Work Training Courses for Excellence in Management (Free + Paid in 2024)

16 Remote Work Training Courses for Excellence in Management (Free + Paid in 2024)

In this article, you will find the top 16 Remote Work Training Courses to boost your virtual leadership skills. From productivity to talent retention.
16 Remote Work Training Courses for Excellence in Management (Free + Paid in 2024)

16 Remote Work Training Courses for Excellence in Management (Free + Paid in 2024)

In this article, you will find the top 16 Remote Work Training Courses to boost your virtual leadership skills. From productivity to talent retention.
20 Must-Dos for Managing Remote Teams in 2024 [Expert Leaders Sharing]

20 Must-Dos for Managing Remote Teams in 2024 [Expert Leaders Sharing]

Guide to managing remote teams in 2024: Focus on safety, communication, AI integration, and continuous learning for improved productivity.
20 Must-Dos for Managing Remote Teams in 2024 [Expert Leaders Sharing]

20 Must-Dos for Managing Remote Teams in 2024 [Expert Leaders Sharing]

Guide to managing remote teams in 2024: Focus on safety, communication, AI integration, and continuous learning for improved productivity.
Remote Work Best Practices (ft. Chris Dyer, #1 Forbes Leadership)

Remote Work Best Practices (ft. Chris Dyer, #1 Forbes Leadership)

Chris is a recognized company culture and remote work expert who consistently creates the "best place to work" for thousands of workforces.
Remote Work Best Practices (ft. Chris Dyer, #1 Forbes Leadership)

Remote Work Best Practices (ft. Chris Dyer, #1 Forbes Leadership)

Chris is a recognized company culture and remote work expert who consistently creates the "best place to work" for thousands of workforces.

Our latest articles

FlexOS helps you stay ahead in the future of work.

The Future of HR: Personalization, AI, and Human-Centered Workplaces

The Future of HR: Personalization, AI, and Human-Centered Workplaces

Is HR’s One-Size-Fits-All Era Over? Anna Tavis on Why Personalization, AI, and Inclusivity Will Define the Future of Work.
AI Colleagues, Personalization, and a CEO Rejecting the Return to Office

AI Colleagues, Personalization, and a CEO Rejecting the Return to Office

As HR leaders, the election might be behind us, but the real marathon begins now: navigating policy shifts, fostering empathetic conversations, and keeping it all together without breaking a sweat.
How Microsoft's Magentic-One Impact The Future Of Work (+10 AI Workflows To Boost Productivity)

How Microsoft's Magentic-One Impact The Future Of Work (+10 AI Workflows To Boost Productivity)

Microsoft’s Magentic-One, AI workflows and apps to boost productivity, OpenAI's slowdown, open roles at robotics companies, and more.
Report: How Companies Roll Out AI Successfully

Report: How Companies Roll Out AI Successfully

A new report from Asana's Work Innovation Lab highlights the current state of AI at work, its key barriers, and what the highest-velocity companies do differently to make AI a success.
From Cost Center to Business Function: The Power of Total Rewards in HR

From Cost Center to Business Function: The Power of Total Rewards in HR

David Turetsky unveils the future of total rewards—shifting HR from cost to value with personalized growth, engagement, and lasting impact.
How Will HR Adapt After Trump's Victory?

How Will HR Adapt After Trump's Victory?

November 7, 2024
3
min read
How Will HR Adapt After Trump's Victory?

How Will HR Adapt After Trump's Victory?

Donald Trump is back in the spotlight as he takes the presidency: What Does It Mean for HR?
ChatGPT Search vs. Google Search: Choose the Right Tool for Your Queries

ChatGPT Search vs. Google Search: Choose the Right Tool for Your Queries

Things ChatGPT Search can do better, and worse, than Google Search, Perplexity’s Election tracker, and more.
How Workplace Experience Managers Are Becoming the Linchpin Of Hybrid Success

How Workplace Experience Managers Are Becoming the Linchpin Of Hybrid Success

Workplace Experience Managers bring together people, places, and tech. And we need more great ones. Here's a look into what they do, and what it takes to become one.