'The convergence of tech and human experience is going to reshape how we communicate'

In this e4m PR & Corp Comm 40 under 40 feature, we have Dikshant Dangwal, Head of Culture, Engagement, and Internal Communications, Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages and the proud recipient of the 6^th edition of e4m PR & Corp Comm 40 under 40 awards 2024. Dikshant is a seasoned professional and storyteller who operates at the intersection of communication, culture, and innovation, shaping narratives and strategic visions for standout brands and agile startups alike. He holds more than a decade of experience in the communications industry, including stints with Gutenberg LLC, MSL, Skill-Lync, and more.

In this feature, he opens up about what the recognition means to him, the remarkable moments that shaped his journey, a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the mindset, values, strategies that define success in today's communications industry, and the personal and professional lessons he has gathered in his career till now.

Excerpts:

How do you feel being part of this renowned list of 40 under 40 leaders?

It’s an honour, and more than anything, it’s a moment of deep gratitude. Being recognized among such dynamic and diverse professionals is humbling. The “40 Under 40” list is not only a milestone but also a reminder of the responsibility we carry as storytellers, culture champions, and change-makers in our industries.

My journey has been rooted in the power of communication; starting with public relations, evolving through corporate communications, and now taking shape in a role that drives culture, engagement, and internal storytelling. To be acknowledged in this way tells me that the lines between “soft” skills and “strategic” impact are finally blurring, and for the better. I see it as a collective win. For the teams I’ve worked with, for the mentors and colleagues who’ve shaped me, and for everyone who believes in the quiet but powerful force of consistent, meaningful communication.

What are the top 3 skills you believe are essential in today’s professional landscape?

Let’s be honest - today’s professional world is not for the faint-hearted. We’re navigating complexity at a pace that’s almost cinematic. That said, there are three skills I consider absolutely non-negotiable -

• Empathetic Communication - We live in a hyper-connected world, but we’re starved for meaningful connection. Leaders who can listen deeply, communicate authentically, and convey both clarity and care, are the ones people will rally behind. Communication today is not only about message delivery but also about emotional intelligence.
• Cultural Agility - Whether you’re working across time zones or managing hybrid teams, understanding cultural context, be it organisational, regional, or generational, is critical. The most effective professionals are those who can decode nuance, shift perspective, and still bring everyone to the same table.
• Curiosity-Driven Learning -  In an era where knowledge has a shelf life, the ability to stay curious is a superpower. I’ve always believed that you don’t just learn to stay relevant, you learn to evolve. Lifelong learners are not just survivors in this landscape; they’re the ones shaping it.

What emerging trends or technologies do you believe will shape your industry in the next 5–10 years?

The convergence of tech and human experience is going to reshape how we communicate, lead, and build culture. Three things I see on the horizon-

• AI-Enhanced Communications - From crafting hyper-personalised content to predicting engagement trends, AI will enable communicators and culture leaders to work smarter, not harder. But let’s be clear - it’s augmentation, not replacement. The human voice will remain irreplaceable.
• Employee Experience as Strategy- Internal communications will no longer be “support functions.” They’ll be strategic levers, directly impacting performance, retention, and brand advocacy. Expect to see EX platforms, data-driven insights, and narrative-led culture shaping become standard.
• Values-Driven Engagement - Gen Z and Alpha are raising the bar. They’re asking not just what companies do, but why they do it. Expect more emphasis on purpose alignment, social impact storytelling, and radical transparency. Culture will be the new competitive advantage- and only those who invest in it authentically will thrive.

How do you define leadership in the modern workplace?

Leadership today is about trust.

Modern leaders are not just decision-makers; they are narrative builders, energy givers, and culture shapers. They have the courage to say, “I don’t know,” the empathy to ask, “How can I support you?” and the vision to say, “Let’s build this together.”

I also believe that leadership is increasingly horizontal. Influence often matters more than authority. Leaders who can co-create, who champion inclusion, and who nurture psychological safety - those are the ones shaping future-ready organisations.

Personally, I see my role as a mirror and a megaphone - reflecting back to the organisation the voices that often go unheard, and amplifying the values that matter most.

What are your future plans? What’s one lesson you want to pass on to young professionals?

The future, for me, is about continuing to play at the intersection of communication, culture, and leadership. I want to keep pushing boundaries - creating workplaces where authenticity is rewarded, where engagement is not an initiative but a mindset, and where communication is strategic, soulful, and brave.

Working across different facets of communication, from shaping narratives externally to building connections internally, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it is when messaging and meaning align. I want to keep building that bridge - for people, for organizations, and for impact.

And if there’s one lesson I’d love to pass on, it’s this - Don’t just chase job titles or roles. Focus on the kind of work that energizes you. The kind that aligns with your values, challenges your thinking, and makes you want to show up fully.

Titles will change, org charts will shuffle, but the work that lights you up - that’s your compass. Stay curious, stay grounded, and never underestimate the power of your voice - even when it shakes. Especially when it shakes.