A featured contribution from Leadership Perspectives: a curated forum reserved for leaders nominated by our subscribers and vetted by the Manage HR Advisory Board.



Chantal Duke is a highly skilled and experienced Professional Certified Coach (PCC) known for her exceptional expertise in empowering individuals to unleash their full potential. With a passion for personal development and deep understanding of human behavior, Duke has dedicated her career to guiding and inspiring others to materialize their goals. She possesses proficient skills and extensive expertise in the realm of human resource management, exhibiting a deep-rooted passion for actively facilitating transformative change initiatives. Duke holds a professional certification from the International Coach Federation (ICF), ensuring the highest level of coaching standards and ethical practices. She is also skilled in career development, positive psychology, conflict resolution, team building, facilitation, and leadership.
In an exclusive interview with Manage HR Canada, Duke shared her valuable insights on the challenges, trends, and best practices in the Immigration space
What are your roles and responsibilities as an HR professional? In your opinion, what sets you apart from other leaders?
I have devoted a significant portion of my career to immersing myself in the realm of positive psychology, with extensive experience in talent and leadership. In addition, as a certified PCC coach, I derive great joy from providing coaching services to individuals, groups, and teams.
In your opinion, what are the prevailing trends that currently influence both organizations and individuals? Furthermore, what challenges have arisen as a result of these recent changes?
There has been a notable shift in my belief regarding the significance of leadership in relation to individuals. Organizations and individuals now recognize how leadership profoundly impacts productivity and engagement, rendering it an essential and indispensable factor in the years ahead. Moreover, there has been a transition from a transactional approach that primarily emphasized task completion to a transformational approach that prioritizes leadership centered on values and personal development. Furthermore, there has been a shift towards prioritizing people, fostering an inclusive environment where their opinions are valued and their voices are heard.
"One can spend a lot of time collecting the dots, like studying and doing research, and not enough time connecting these dots, that is doing actual action"
In the post-pandemic era, there has been a heightened emphasis on resiliency and psychological safety. Equipping individuals with the necessary tools and skills to enhance performance in any situation, while also establishing a secure platform for free expression without fear of ridicule, is crucial for organizations to foster rapport and engagement with their employees.
Have you been involved in any recent project initiatives? If so, what strategies have you employed to effectively lead your team during those projects?
A current project that is being undertaken is one that helps senior leaders enhance their leadership skills by imbibing in a human-centered approach. It is a program that incorporates every people-centric element along with a psychologically safe environment for the employees to work. It further assists leaders to make decisions that align with their values.
Can you provide insights on potential disruptions that could significantly impact the industry in the upcoming years?
AI disruptions, like ChatGPT, are highly likely and have the potential to completely reshape people management. A major challenge that would affect the industries and organizations would be a lack of focus amidst the constant flow of actions. Without having the time to reflect and focus, there will not be any space for creative thinking. Taking the time to slow down and reflect on thoughts can be difficult for leaders as they must focus on their own personal growth apart from ensuring that every employee is valued and heard.
What advice would you offer to budding entrepreneurs who are considering entering the same field as yourself?
One can spend a lot of time collecting the dots, like studying and doing research, and not enough time connecting these dots, that is doing actual action. While being involved in a project, I have always felt the need to collect all the raw materials available which gave me the impression that the extra material acquired, would sail my boat one step further away. Being more focused on collecting, I had found myself lagging on the connecting factor. The act of connecting is doing the actual action, taking risks, and pursuing a cause with full conviction while transforming your intellectual thought into action.