tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15972722296593469292024-03-13T12:16:17.445+08:00HR Club PhilippinesNews, Insights and Seminar Events on Human Resource Management by Businessmaker AcademyUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger61125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-74313698893302918982012-03-31T12:31:00.004+08:002012-04-15T14:58:10.380+08:00TOP 7 TRAITS RECRUITMENT OFFICERS LOOK FOR IN JOB APPLICANTS<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:donotpromoteqf/> <w:lidthemeother>EN-PH</w:LidThemeOther> <w:lidthemeasian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:lidthemecomplexscript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> 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mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";} </style> <![endif]--> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-size:85%;" >[published in Manila Bulletin, April 2012]</span><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" >HR Club Philippines, in cooperation with Businessmaker Academy, conducted an informal survey of 100 HR officers and business owners in Metro Manila on what traits and skills they look for when they are recruiting potential employees for their company.</span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >The results are in and l would like to share them with you, dear job hunters, so that you may gain insight on what employers are looking for and what you can aspire to improve to get the job that you want.</span></p><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >So here are the Top 7 Traits we noted from our survey respondents:</span></p><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:Arial;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">1.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" >COMMUNICATION SKILLS</span></b></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >According to the survey, Communication Skills ranks as the highest quality that employers want.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>This came out in 85% of the responses.</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" >Tips and Commentary:</span></b></span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>When we talk about communication skills, most applicants immediately think that it’s about English Proficiency.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>This is mostly true as English is the preferred language in the field of business and the corporate world.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Many companies look for people who can read, write and speak English very well, especially if they have international clients.</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >However, let’s dig deeper and find out what Communication Skills is really about.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Communication Skills is not just about writing and speaking English well.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It encompasses reading, listening, writing and speaking ability.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It is about how well you can understand and interpret what you hear and read, as well as how good you are at getting your message across in such a way that other people can understand you.</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >To improve your Communication Skills, I suggest reading as much books, newspapers and articles as you can.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Discuss these with others so that you can test yourself if you truly understood the message, while you practice getting your message across.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>If English proficiency is your weakness, use the English language more often. If it’s another language, do the same. Practice, practice, practice!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The only way you can improve your communication skills is for you to, well, communicate.</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:Arial;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">2.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span></b><b style=""><span style=";font-family:";" >ATTITUDE, VALUES & PERSONALITY</span></b></span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" ><br /></span></b></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >The second most common characteristics that our respondents look for is attitude, values or personality.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>This came out in 72% of the responses.</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" >Tips and Commentary:</span></b></span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>When we talk about attitude, values and personality, we are talking about a person’s principles, moral standards, ethics and even disposition that affect his or her behaviour in the workplace.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Evaluating a person on these is not an exact science.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Although there are measurements that can be used, most recruitment officers rely on their intuition, gut feel and judgement to determine if the applicant is fit for the prevailing culture of their company.</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >You have to understand that values and cultures may greatly differ from one company to another.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Some companies put more importance to teamwork, other companies prefer individual achievements while others are very competitive in nature.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Some companies encourage employees to be proactive with lean set ups, while some companies have bureaucratic environments.</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >To improve in this area, it is best to go with positivity since practically all companies want positive people in their company.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You would also want to determine your identity as a person and your principles in life.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>When you know who you are, it will be easier for you to see if you will fit in a particular company.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I do not suggest changing yourself drastically and giving up your principles to fit in, but rather, it is more important to find a work environment and culture that suits your personality and values.</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" > </span></b></span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:Arial;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">3.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span></b><b style=""><span style=";font-family:";" >INTERPERSONAL SKILLS</span></b></span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" ><br /></span></b></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >The third most common trait that our respondents mentioned is Interpersonal Skills.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>This came out in 53% of the responses</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" >Tips and Commentary:</span></b></span><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>When we talk about interpersonal skills, we are basically referring to people skills---your ability to interact socially with others.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Most people mix this up with communication skills because both are part of the realms of communication.</span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >However, let’s draw the distinction between the two. Communication Skills is the general umbrella where interpersonal skills would fall under.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The basic requirement of Communication Skills is your ability to read, listen, write and speak a language well.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>People Skills, on the other hand, consists of being basically good at communicating but it is more than that.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It reflects how well you are able to relate and work with people, which is highly important in any organization.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>This is where non-verbal communication such as facial expression and emotions come in.</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >To improve your Interpersonal Skills, learn how to smile.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>This may sound very simple, but it nevertheless is very important in the workplace.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>When I interview job applicants, even before I ask questions, the first thing I look at is the applicant’s facial expression.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I’ve interviewed so many applicants in my lifetime and you would be surprised that there are many who have very limited smiles.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Interestingly, when I talk to other managers who make the second interviews, they would tell me that the reason why they rejected a person is that he or she isn’t too smiley or not very pleasant.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Other things you can do to improve interpersonal skills is go back and learn the basics---etiquette, good manners, respect, politeness, courtesy, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">‘pakisama’ and ‘pagunawa sa kapwa’</i>.</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:Arial;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">4.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span></b><b style=""><span style=";font-family:";" >TECHNICAL SKILLS / JOB KNOWLEDGE<br /></span></b></span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" ><br /></span></b></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" > </span></b></span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >The fourth most common trait that our respondents mentioned is Technical Skills and Job Knowledge.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>This came out in 49% of the responses</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" > </span></b></span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" >Tips and Commentary:</span></b></span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>When we talk about technical skills or job knowledge, we are referring to the competencies required for the particular job that you are applying for.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Each job position requires your ability to do tasks and functions.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>For instance, if you are applying as a Customer Service Representative, the employer may include customer focus, problem solving, product and process knowledge as part of the competencies required.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>If you are applying as an Office Secretary, the employer may include computer literacy, typing speed, filing and documentation as competencies required for the Job.</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >To improve your technical skills and job knowledge, you may want to go for additional training on your particular field of interest.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Try to learn new skills that will help you be more competitive in the job market.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We are not talking 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style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:Arial;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">5.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span></b><b style=""><span style=";font-family:";" >FLEXIBILITY / ADAPTABILITY / MULTI-TASKING ABILITY</span></b></span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" ><br /></span></b></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >The fifth most common trait that our respondents mentioned is flexibility, adaptability and multi-tasking ability.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>This came out in 42% of the responses.</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" >Tips and Commentary:</span></b></span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>When we talk about flexibility, adaptability and multi-tasking ability, we are referring to a person’s willingness and ability to wear different hats and do different jobs, as well as work on different projects simultaneously.</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >As the business environment becomes more competitive and the needs of companies change rapidly, employers want people who can and are willing to adapt to change more readily.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Employees who are more open to this set up will be favoured by employers better.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>On the other hand, employees who only want to do the tasks they signed up for and who are not willing to pitch in are usually frowned upon by their bosses.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>These people are what you would call <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">“mabilang sa trabaho” </i>which is a trait that employers hate.</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >To improve your flexibility, adaptability and multi-tasking ability, I suggest you learn good time management skills.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>There are tools and even software programs that can help you achieve this.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>More importantly, you have to be willing to adjust your work, job roles and even schedule so that you can be more useful and helpful for your company to succeed.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>During interviews, some recruitment officers watch out for people who are overly concerned with schedule, shifts, overtime pay and work-scope as telltale signs of problems in this regard.</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:Arial;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">6.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" >EXPERIENCE / TRACK RECORD / PERFORMANCE</span></b></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >The sixth most common trait that our respondents mentioned is experience, track record and performance.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>This came out in 19% of the responses.</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" >Tips and Commentary:</span></b></span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>When we talk about experience, track record and performance, we are referring to your achievements in your previous job.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Experience plays a big role in how well you can do your job and how fast you can adjust to it.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Employers know that less training is required for experienced people. That is why they put a premium to it.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>If you can show how much you have contributed to your previous company or what you were able to do and accomplish, so much the better.</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >Many employers put more value on experience rather than degree.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>In one of the jobs I previously held, the HR manager confided in me later on that the other people who were competing for the job I landed had MBAs and were asking for less salary.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>However, they instead chose me because of my experience and accomplishments in real life and the business world even if I was more expensive.</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >To improve in this area, get as much experience as you can that is related to the job and be sure to put them in your resume.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>If you have samples of your work, show it to your interviewer.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Highlight the skills that you learned in your previous job to show that you can do it for your potential employer.</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >But what if you are a new graduate without any experience?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I would suggest writing down your thesis, practicum and extra-curricular activities that you were active in and showing some of the projects that you have done in school or even outside of school.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>If you have done on the job training for other companies, include that as well.<br /></span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:Arial;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">7.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span></b><b style=""><span style=";font-family:";" >DEPENDABILITY, RELIABILITY, HARDWORK</span></b></span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" ><br /></span></b></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >The seventh most common trait that our respondents mentioned is dependability, reliability and hardworking characteristics.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>This came out in 15% of the responses.</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" >Tips and Commentary:</span></b></span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>When we talk about dependability, reliability and hardwork, we are referring to people who can project that they are responsible and credible to do the job and be able to prove it when they are already working for the company.</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >During interviews, it is very difficult to determine this quality as these things can only be seen and proven in the workplace, when the person is already in action.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>However, during the pre-employment stage, recruitment officers can already watch out for telltale signs of these traits such as if the job applicant has readily available copies of their resume, if the applicant is able to submit the required employment documents on the date given, if the applicant contacts them for updates.</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >To improve on this area, you may want to read my previous article on “The CRAFT of Impressing Your Boss” which will show that you are always on top of things to your employer.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You can visit: <a href="http://worklifenow.blogspot.com/2009/10/craft-of-impressing-your-boss.html">http://worklifenow.blogspot.com/2009/10/craft-of-impressing-your-boss.html</a> to read the article.</span></p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style=""><span style=";font-family:";" >About the Survey Results</span></b></span></p><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" ><br /></span></b></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >The above items are the most common traits that our respondents who belong to the HR field mentioned as the topmost things they look for in job applicants.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Other traits were mentioned but for the purposes of this article, I only included the most popular ones.</span></p><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" ><span style="font-size:100%;">May this information help job hunters in improving their skills and their lives.</span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes;font-size:100%;" > </span><span style="font-size:100%;">And may the Philippines develop a great workforce with the necessary qualities that are in demand by local and international companies and institutions. <br style="mso-special-character:line-break"></span> <br style="mso-special-character:line-break"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-38012737419645164382012-02-14T16:48:00.003+08:002012-02-14T16:54:53.900+08:00Businessmaker Academy Corporate Training<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAoU3OcDPut6DmvUGx0E5kL4PPwok69ew_VTeko1MQ3DrFrdlsGxGae5iQean7FNsJlTAzAKII8Ej3h9Dh1OpgFX11q4UnAwCjZb4pQkp-3982vT_FCSgalf3iYKiyjafw259NY_WSyMkz/s1600/corpad.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 210px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAoU3OcDPut6DmvUGx0E5kL4PPwok69ew_VTeko1MQ3DrFrdlsGxGae5iQean7FNsJlTAzAKII8Ej3h9Dh1OpgFX11q4UnAwCjZb4pQkp-3982vT_FCSgalf3iYKiyjafw259NY_WSyMkz/s320/corpad.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5708912079713952178" border="0" /></a><br />Allow me to deviate from my normal blog posts to share with you this exciting promotion on corporate training. If you have training needs for your company, I urge you to take this opportunity to avail of this FREE 1-hour training consultation with Businessmaker Academy's chief training consultant. Call (632) 6874445, 6874645, 6873416 to schedule an appointment.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-89089645092488509022012-02-04T12:09:00.001+08:002012-02-04T12:11:56.194+08:00HR as the Chief Happiness Officer<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">[published in Manila Bulletin, January 2012]</span></span><br /><br />One of the best advices that I have ever received on leadership is from a long-time client of ours who regularly invest in training for his people. He had a simple philosophy when it comes to people management. He said, "Take care of your people, and your people will take care of you and your business."<br /><br />Being a business owner myself, I find that this piece of advice, when applied properly, does wonders for your company. As soon as we adapted this philosophy, running our business and managing people became easier and fun.<br /><br />That is why I now see the role of HR practitioners as not just transactional or strategic. HR people are present in our companies not just because we need someone to process our salaries and keep our employment records. HR people are here not just to make people productive. More importantly, HR people have the important role of ensuring that the people are well taken care of in the company. <br /><br />HR leaders are Chief Happiness Officers. They occupy the important role of ensuring the employees' well-being, while the employees work tirelessly in marketing, selling, finance and operating the business. The logic behind this is that "Happy employees stem from good morale. Good morale leads to enthusiastic employees and a harmonious workplace."<br /><br />Thus, the challenge for Chief Happiness Officers is this: How do you make employees happy and productive without spoiling them to a fault?<br /><br />Well, here are a few important guidelines that Chief Happiness Officers follow...<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Cover the Basics</span><br /><br />Salaries and benefits are important things that need to be processed promptly. The reason people get up day in and day out to go to work is so that they can earn a living for their families. They work hard and the last thing they want is to worry about is getting paid or not. They are employed, that's why salaries and benefits must be given regularly, without delays and difficulties.<br /><br />This rule is basic and yet not all companies have efficient systems for this. A group of employees from a popular internet company I know was not happy with their HR because of delays in salary and benefits administration. They did not have a high regard for their HR because of this. Fortunately, their big boss realized this early enough and approached our company to help iron out the issues and develop a more efficient system. As a result, they were able to retain key people in their company.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Encourage a Fun and Caring Environment</span><br /><br />All work and no play, makes a dull workplace. In our company, we try to provide fun activities for the team that isn't just centered around work. There are movie nights, periodic raffles, teambuilding activities, sports fest and other programs just to break the monotony of work. <br />Fun activities, rewards and gimmicks are HR's creative outlet. This is where HR people can unleash their creativity and establish a dynamic and vibrant image for the department. There are many HR departments who are thought of as boring and unexciting. That is why when they hold in-house events, they generate yawns and it's difficult to get people involved. So I suggest overhauling your image by creating fun programs with a little more noise for a change.<br /><br />Meanwhile, it is also important to project a caring image. it's quite easy to show people that you care, but another thing to show that the company cares. It's easy if you get naturally caring leaders. I'm quite lucky because one of my business partners really excels in this. One of our new staff recently had a heartburn episode and rushed to an emergency clinic. My business partner took the time to call her and see how she was which the new employee really appreciated. It may look like a simple gesture, but it does wonders to a person's sense of worth. Who wouldn't want to work for a caring leader?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Help People Grow</span><br /><br />Employees spend one-third of their adult lives at work. It's easy for them to stagnate if the work environment does not encourage learning and growth. This is why, no matter how busy we are, it's important to take some time to provide learning opportunities for employees. <br /><br />One of our corporate clients takes this seriously. They invest in "extra-curricular" seminars and workshops for their people that's not necessarily work-related. They provide money management seminars, livelihood workshop and even language classes. They focus not just on the professional growth of their employees, but also the spiritual, emotional and financial aspect. That is why people stay with the company. They are happy, which is what HR as Chief Happiness Officers' role is all about.<br /><br />After I started viewing HR work as a Chief Happiness Officer's role, managing the HR department became more fun and exciting. More importantly, it improved our company's morale and made running the business easier. I hope leaders out there will open their minds to the idea as it really works. Take care of your people and your people will take care of you and your company!<br /><br />---<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Special Note:</span> Allow me to take this opportunity to invite leaders, managers, administration personnel and HR practitioners to the second annual HR leadership conference to be held on February 9-10 at the Grand Auditorium of the Philippine Stock Exchange Building in Ortigas Center where you can network, benchmark and explore ways and means to develop your team, retain and keep them happy! For inquiries, call (632) 6874645 or visit www.hrleadershipconference.comUnknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-37817777401752555682012-02-04T11:49:00.002+08:002012-02-04T11:52:54.559+08:00How to Discipline Employees<span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">[Published in Manila Bulletin, January 2012]</span></span><br /><br />All bosses will eventually have to correct their staff whether they like it or not. It simply comes with the territory. As a leader or a manager of people, your role is to guide your people towards the right direction. This often means supervising and monitoring your staff closely. If they make mistakes, as their boss, you need to correct them. If they exhibit negative attitude or behavior, you need to deal with it. If they are stagnating, you need to find ways to motivate and help them grow.<br /><br />To a certain degree, being a leader is a bit like being a parent. When your child makes mistakes in the process of growing up, you are responsible in correcting them so that they will learn. If they are acquiring inappropriate behavior, you need to set them straight or else they won't grow up to be well-adjusted and productive individuals. If you go with the easy route and just leave them be, you'll have more problems in the long run and you are giving your child a disservice. <br /><br />There is no doubt that some form of discipline should be instilled upon people, whether young or old, at home or in the workplace. The question, however, is not why discipline is important, but rather, how do you instil discipline.<br /><br />How do you properly correct the mistakes of others without hurting their feelings? How do you admonish an employee who has been slacking off on the job and still show respect for his dignity? How do you keep your own emotions in check when you are angry yourself? How do you maintain a positive vibe when you need to discuss negative things? And more importantly, how do you ensure that the person improves after you've disciplined him or her, instead of just ending up with a deflated and disgruntled employee? --- These are just some of the issues many bosses have to deal with on a regular basis. See, it's not easy telling people that what they are doing wrong. <br /><br />It's not easy being the boss. But once you develop the skills to lead and manage people, your work life becomes easier. Once you have mastered how to discipline your employees the proper way, you will reap the rewards of having competent and happy people.<br /><br />Here are a few things I've learned in the art of Employee Discipline...<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">1. Do not admonish at the heat of the moment</span><br /><br />Bosses often get upset with stupid mistakes of others. It's normal to feel angry since you need to spend valuable time and effort managing the damage. But at the heat of the moment, do not talk to your staff or write a memo. Pause for awhile. Things will get clearer the day after and you'll be glad that you didn't embarrass yourself, your staff or issued a demoralizing memo that’s not easy to take back.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">2. Listen to all sides</span><br /><br />If there is conflict between your people or a mistake is committed by an employee, don't lash out immediately and tell them what they should have done. Instead, ask questions first and listen to find out why the employee did what he or she did. When you open your mind and listen, your staff may surprise you with good reasons for doing his or her thing. Who knows, he or she may have come up with better solutions. So listen first, before correcting.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">3. Look at the big picture</span><br /><br />Mistakes are not all equal. There are petty and minor ones; there are also major business-threatening ones. Although equally irritating, mistakes should be measured. Try to look at the overall picture. If it's petty, don't make a big deal about it. Don't sweat it. If you perceive that all mistakes are major catastrophes, the more stressed and angry you will become. So spend time correcting major mistakes, but be more forgiving towards petty ones. Don’t sweat the small stuff.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">4. Correct and Count</span><br /><br />One of the board members of a company I used to work for has a simple but practical guideline in disciplining employees. He advised, "If you tell a person to do something the first time and he makes a mistake, talk to him. Perhaps you failed to communicate it properly. If the same person commits the same mistake the second or third time, correct him. This time, he already knows what is expected of him and needs to be corrected. If he does the mistake the sixth time, fire him. This means that he already knows the mistake but cannot or would not follow you. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">5. Monitor Improvements</span><br /><br />So you need to monitor your staff closely. After spending time and effort in disciplining a person, what results can you see? Has the person improved? If so, then you are doing things effectively. If the person's attitude or performance deteriorates, re-examine your methods. Perhaps the discipline method you chose is not suitable for that particular staff. If you've tried everything and there is still no improvement, perhaps the problem is not how you communicate but instead the person you are communicating with. If the person is the problem, you have to decide whether he or she is worth keeping.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">6. Motivate or Terminate</span><br /><br />There are employees that only need a nudge to get back on track. These are the people that will benefit most from progressive employee discipline. So seek ways to motivate and encourage them to improve. Meanwhile, there are those that no matter what you do, it seems like a hopeless case. When you find yourself spending too much time and effort fixing things and correcting problematic employees instead of focusing on your main job or business, you seriously need to think about letting the person go.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">7. Know the Labor Law</span><br /><br />Should you decide to let the person go, be sure to know and abide by the Labour Code of the Philippines. There are important keys steps that you need to take to legally terminate an employee, be sure to follow them to avoid future problems and DOLE complaints. Every business owner, boss, manager and supervisor should know the basics of Human Resource Management. There are important guidelines that will help you manage your people better.<br /><br />Correcting the mistakes of people is not the easiest task in the world, but somebody has got to do it. Disciplining your people will feel awkward and painful most of the time, but it is something that needs to be done if you want a harmonious and effective workplace. So it is important to take the time to learn explore effective methods of disciplining employees. To learn more about best practices in progressive employee discipline, I encourage you to join HR Club Philippines's upcoming HR Leadership Conference on February 9 and 10 at the Philippine Stock Exchange Auditorium in Ortigas Center, Pasig City. Do visit www.hrleadershipconference.com for more information.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-13614855667443763612012-02-04T11:43:00.002+08:002012-02-04T11:46:27.169+08:00How to Professionalize Your Business Through HR<span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-size:85%;" >[published in Manila Bulletin, January 2012]</span><br /><br />When business owners and entrepreneurs establish their companies, their main challenge is to survive. This means that they have to focus on sales and cash flow first and foremost to stay in business. <br /><br />Because of this, Human Resource is often placed as low priority. Aside from the initial hiring of people and computing for salaries, the business owner tends to move on, busy operating the business and solving problems encountered on a daily basis.<br /><br />This may go on for years until the business owner gets burnt out and realizes that one of the best ways to improve sales, to make your company run smoothly and to avoid having to keep on solving problems is by professionalizing your business through good Human Resource practice.<br /><br />Like many business owners, I went through this. My partners and I were too busy micro-managing our business to the point of exhaustion. As a result, we encountered many problems within our company and we couldn’t make the business fly at the start. That was until we focused on HR. Once we developed the HR side of our business, sales got better and our people became equipped to solve day-to-day problems, allowing us to take a breather and work on other important matters in our business.<br /><br />So here are the seven keys that I have learned to professionalize your business through HR…<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">HR as Strategic Partner</span><br /><br />Fortunately for my partners and me, we realized in time that HR is not just about computing for tardiness or absences and preparing the payslip. Instead, HR is a terrific tool for business progress. HR can and should be used by businesses as a way to make important changes in the company and to improve the effectiveness of each employee. <br /><br />Through HR’s help, leading the company towards the direction that you want to take it is easier. You’ll be able to manage people better if you don’t just look at HR as just a transactional department, but instead look at it as a strategic partner. <br /><br />Every time we have a new product, a new system or new division that we want to introduce, we include HR input into the mix because it is critical to our success.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Develop Your HR System</span><br /><br />Many functions of HR are repetitious and transactional. To save on time and effort, our company created an HR operation manual and toolkit that has a complete compilation of templates, letters and contracts that we may need in our business. This way, every time there’s a new employee or there’s a disciplinary action that we need to take, we don’t have to start from scratch to do the paperwork. <br /><br />We consciously designed a system for Human Resource that guides us in processing the regular needs of each employee. Due to this system, we found more time to focus on creative programs that motivated our team and increased morale. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Let the Law Work for You</span><br /><br />Every business owner and entrepreneur should know the basics of the Philippine Labor Code. I attended the extensive seminar on Labor Law that was being offered publicly by our training company and found it very useful.<br /><br />One of our trainers mentioned that the Labor Code was designed to protect employees since that is the mandate of the Department of Labor and Employment. But upon studying it, I realized that it also serves to protect the interest of business owners, as well. <br /><br />By knowing the law and being guided with knowledge, it makes it easier to run your business. The Labor Code provides specific guidelines on leaves, separation pays, etc. All you have to do is know it and follow it, then you should be able to avoid labor problems and complaints. My two-days of learning saved our company from expensive lawsuits and it was worth the time and effort to learn it.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Recruit the Right People</span><br /><br />If you want capable people running your business, the solution is finding the right people for the job and your company. This includes job and value fit---the process of hiring people with the right skills set, but also a value system that matches that of your company culture. <br /><br />When you find the right people who have the ability to stay in your company for a long-time, you’ve hit the jackpot. The reason why I am able to work from home when I choose to is because we have very good people that I can rely on at work. This is why I personally manage recruitment in our company. It’s not easy finding the one, but once you’ve found him or her, life becomes so much easier.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Train Your People</span><br /><br />Once you’ve found the right people, training must be done continuously and regularly. As soon as we hire people, we give them an orientation about the company, basic sales and customer service training and product knowledge training. Aside from this, they get trained on the job and get additional training on skills needed for the job. <br /><br />The key to have a professional team is to invest in professional training. And this should be done on a regular basis so that they do not forget what they have learned and the training can adapt to the changing needs of the company.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Employee Discipline</span><br /><br />This is probably one of the most difficult areas of people management. Many Business Managers and HR practitioners have asked, “How do I correct my staff without hurting her feelings?”, “How do I discipline a habitually erring employee?”, “How do I fire someone the legal way?”. <br /><br />If you have been in business long enough, employee discipline is something that every manager, whether specializing in HR or not, should master. It is something that you will have to do time and time again.<br /><br />Interestingly, there’s a legal, humane and professional way of doing it. Do learn about the many styles available and prepare yourself to avoid grief and heartaches.<br />Recognize and Reward<br /><br />Having great programs that reward employees with sufficient compensation and benefits are very important if you want your people to stay with you for a long time. Balancing it with how much you can afford to give and making sure that your employees remain grateful is the challenge.<br /><br />There are many companies who offer great compensation and benefits, but I noticed that sometimes, employees take it for granted or become “spoiled”. So instead of becoming a positive HR program, it becomes counter-productive. <br /><br />It is therefore critical to present programs in a way that people will appreciate. It is important to let your people know that you are taking care of them, so that they can take care of the business.<br /><br />By focusing on these things, you will be on your way to having a professional and successful business.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-16311396811077170942012-02-04T11:14:00.003+08:002012-02-04T11:19:48.825+08:00Top Ten Work Life Resolutions for the New Year<span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">[published in Manila Bulletin, January 2012]</span></span><br /><br />Another year is passing and after the merriment and festivities of the holiday season, we are faced once again with a chance to start a new leaf. A fresh start, a new perspective and an opportunity for new beginnings await us as we celebrate the new year with hopeful cheers.<br /><br />Here are a some of the most popular work life resolutions that people around the world make. If you have not thought of your own new years resolution, take your pick below and see if you can make it stick as you go through life in the coming year.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Resolution Number 1 - I will be on time at all the time.</span><br />One of the most basic but difficult habits to develop at work is being prompt. Perhaps due to the long ingrained culture of Filipino time or maybe the unforgiveable traffic that we have in the city, most of us find it hard to be on time to start the day at work, meet people and keep appointments. <br /><br />Should you wish to improve in this area, allocate 30 minutes extra to what you would normally budget for travel time. Bring a book or gadget that you can work or play with, just in case you arrive early. This way, you will not get bored waiting for your appointment.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Resolution Number 2 - I will work better with my boss and co-workers.</span><br />We all want to be in a happy work environment. One of the keys to work happiness is acceptance and respect by our bosses and co-workers. <br /><br />If you want to be able to work better with others, be helpful. If you want be respected, give respect. At the same time, you also need to respect and protect yourself. Go the extra mile to assist others in their tasks but don't overdo it to a point where you start becoming miserable. Stay happy.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Resolution Number 3 - I will learn something new.</span><br />Life is more exciting if we continue to grow and learn new things. When we learn something new, our minds get sharper and our value increases. If you want to develop yourself, make it a point to read books, attend seminars and learn from other successful people.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Resolution Number 4 - I will build a stronger network of friends.</span><br />Success isn't just about what we know, it is also about who we know and associate with. Having a strong network of friends, associates and connections can bring us more success in our career. But a strong network of friends takes time and effort to build.<br /><br />So to build your network, invest the time and effort to meet and connect with people. Join associations and community organizations. Use social networking to keep in touch with people and stay connected.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Resolution Number 5 - I will invest in a new look and image.</span><br />There's nothing like a trip to the salon or barber's chair to revitalize our looks. A new haircut or makeover does wonders to our mood and self-esteem. This is a quick fix that can easily make us feel great.<br /><br />This new year, take a trip to the salon or barbers shop. Invest in new work clothes and grooming tools to greet the year with an amazing look that you can continue through out the months ahead. Look good, feel good.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Resolution Number 6 - I will lose weight and live a healthier lifestyle.</span><br />This is one resolution that can significantly improve the quality of our lives. If we can eat right, exercise well and remove the vices that we have like smoking, excessive drinking and too much television or computer games, our mind, bodies and moods will be lighter. <br /><br />If you want to improve in this area like I do, it takes a lot of resolve to stick to a healthy diet and to keep exercising. Get a buddy or a coach to help you stay on track. Keep reminding yourself and find your source of motivation to keep at it.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Resolution Number 7 - I will spend less and save more.</span><br />We all want to have enough money to live a good life and to take care of our families. We all want to free ourselves from money woes and worries. We work hard to earn a living and more often than not, we spend more in the process.<br /><br />If you want to learn proper money management, invest in a notebook and calculator and record your income and expenses. This will also allow you to keep track of where your money is going and figure out what you can do to save for a rainy day. Make this a habit and you should be able to take charge of your finances soon enough.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Resolution Number 8 - I will spend more time with my family.</span><br />For the workaholics among us, this is one resolution that will improve our hearts. Sometimes, we get so caught up with our careers that we push away the most important people in our lives. They become second priority and we lose the chance to witness our children grow, to spend time with our parents and to make good memories with our brothers and sisters.<br /><br />If you care about family, cut back a little from work, stay offline and turn off your mobile phones for awhile. Balance work with life. Give your time to your family so you won't lose your family's warmth.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Resolution Number 9 - I will go on a fun and exciting trip.</span><br />After working day in and day out, it is also important to enjoy life through adventure. What better way to do so with an exciting trip out of town or even abroad. This resolution is quite easy to commit to but it requires a bit of preparation. As early as now, check out the public holidays so that you can schedule your trip. Grab deals from group buying sites and enjoy a great vacation with your family or friends.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Resolution Number 10 - I will nourish my soul. </span><br />Inner peace and happiness comes when we find joy in the simple everyday things that we do and when we are able to have quiet time for ourselves to reflect, commune with God or nature, to get to our center. This holiday break, find the time to just be on your own even for a little while. Get some quiet time before you face the hustle and bustle of the year. We all need it to nourish our souls.<br /><br />New years resolutions often do not stick because we try to do too much or forget them along the way. In order to improve our lives and stick to our resolutions, we should just keep it simple. Choose a couple from the list above or create your own. The point of new years resolutions is to improve our lives. It feels official to start on a new year. But remember that every day is a new one so we get to start over again every day. Isn't that great? Happy new year to all!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-83521933243373946842012-02-04T10:49:00.004+08:002012-02-04T11:08:48.567+08:00Christmas Gift Ideas for Your Co-Workers<span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-size:85%;" >[Published in Manila Bulletin, December 2011]</span><br /><br />I did my Christmas shopping early this year. I didn't want to join the December madness, brave through the heavy traffic and rush to buy gifts from crowded stores. This year, I was prepared with my shopping list and I was able to get cool stuff at good prices in a leisurely manner. Aside from retail shopping, I even researched online and got good deals.<br /><br />Since I'm done with my buying and some of you may just be starting this week, let me share with you a few gift ideas that you can give your friends at work.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Personalized Items</span><br /><br />Simple things like towels, mugs, pens, shirts, stationary and bags can be made special by just adding the name of your recipient on it. When you choose personalized gifts, it shows your friend that you took the time to plan your gift and it was made especially for him or her. The best part is, with today's technology, you don't have to wait too long to have this done. Most personalized items can be done in less than an hour or so if there isn't a lot of pending jobs. You can have this done and shop while you wait.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Novelty Items</span><br /><br />Interesting and unique novelty items like statement shirts, couple statement pillows, toothpaste tissue holders, keyboard style bowls, animal shaped lamps or coin banks add the fun factor in gift-giving. One of the memorable gifts my husband and I received is a towel set that says “The Boss” on one and “The Bigger Boss” on the other. We had a blast deciding which of us should take the bigger one. There are many stores that carry these interesting items. Not only will you amuse your co-worker, you will also have fun shopping for these gifts items.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Decorative Items</span><br /><br />Decorative items add personality and warmth to the workplace. Indoor plants, photo frames, mobile phone holders, decorative cork boards, bottled scents with sticks are lovely gifts that your co-worker can display in their cubicles and remember you by. These gifts will surely brighten your friend’s year and best of all, it won't deplete your budget since most of them are very affordable.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Practical Office Things</span><br /><br />Anything that your co-works can use to make their work more efficient always make good gifts. Daily planners, memo pad set, business card holders, calendar mats, desk sets are very useful for work. <br /><br />You can also give your co-workers something they can wear to work such as neck ties, polo shirts, belts, watches, handkerchief for men or shawls, jackets, office bags for women.<br /><br />Utility items also make practical gifts such as water jugs, airtight food containers, lunch boxes, toiletry bags and umbrellas. This are things they can bring to work.<br /><br /><br />These things are so useful. Most of these do not end up as recycled gifts because you can never have enough of these. People use it all the time.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Goodies and Sweets</span><br /><br />Yum. These things will only last a few minutes, but they surely will be well appreciated. There are many baked goodies that are being sold during the holiday season. But I would veer away from fruitcakes unless your recipient loves it. These things get passed on from one person to another and they are so yesterday (as in 1980's yesterday).<br /><br />You can go for interesting treats like colourful French macaroons or cake pops with Christmas designs. Last September, I personally grabbed an exciting coupon deal at half the price for cake pops---dozens of bite-size cake lollies that you can have custom designed. They make for fun and tasty gifts.<br /><br />You can also go for classic baked goodies and treats such as hot fudge brownies, food for the gods, lemon squares or Filipino favourites like polvoron, ensaimada, lengua de gato or creamy cassava cakes. Mmmm... I’m getting hungry just writing about it.<br /><br />Goodies and sweets are great gifts for clients, group of people in departments and important people in your line of work.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Gift Baskets</span><br /><br />If you have the budget and time you can even make gift baskets for special people at work. There are many unique themes that you can do, so you don't have to limit yourself to the grocery basket variety. For movie lovers, how about a movie night basket filled with DVDs and popcorn. For dog lovers, why not create a pet care basket with treats and toys for the dog. For spa lovers, an aromatherapy basket with a good book would be great. <br /><br />This type of gift is relatively more expensive so reserve it to important customers or friends you hold very dear.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Cocktails, Wines and Spirits</span><br /><br />This is my go-to gift for men or older couples whom I have no idea on what to give. Red wines or sparkling wines are good. But since I'm no wine connoisseur, I often end up giving non-alcoholic beverages in wine-like bottles to be on the safe, but slightly boring side. Hey, some of us like those grape sparkling juice. And those bottles are inexpensive too!<br /><br />There are so many things that you can give colleagues, business associates and customers. Whether you choose to give gifts or choose to send simple greetings instead, the point of Christmas gift-giving is to show that you are thinking about your co-worker and you care enough to share your Christmas Spirit with them. Happy shopping!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-40040642994949690632012-02-04T10:36:00.003+08:002012-02-04T10:43:03.027+08:00Dealing with Retrenchment<span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(204, 102, 0);font-size:85%;" >[Published in Manila Bulletin last November 2011]</span><br /><br />Retrenchment, downsizing, early retirement---whatever you call it, it is one news that many employees dread to hear in their careers. This is because news of such means that you or your colleagues can get fired. And that is hard to swallow.<br /><br />If you are part of the group that will be let go, this means loss of income, uncertainty and worries. Suddenly, it would seem as if the rug has been pulled underneath the ground you stand on. You will experience the pain of rejection, even if the termination is not about your work performance. You will experience great stress, knowing that you will lose your main source of income. You might even get depressed for awhile until you realize that life goes on. Losing your job is not the end of the world. It is only the beginning…<br /><br />So how can you deal with retrenchment? How can you overcome this unfortunate experience? What can you do to survive such a fate and come out victorious in the end?<br />Here are some tips for people who are going through this stressful event in their lives:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Ride Your Emotions</span><br /><br />As a natural response to job loss, you will experience many emotions such as:<br />Denial – “No, this is not happening to me.”<br />Anger – “How dare they do this to me after all the hard work and years I’ve given them?!”<br />Bargaining – “Maybe they made a mistake… if I talk to them, they’ll see this is a mistake.”<br />Depression – “I feel really really bad. I want to go home and sleep this off.”<br />Acceptance – “I guess this is for real. Now what do I do?”<br /><br />The best thing to do is to allow yourself to grieve. Feel your pain. Cry if you have to and dwell on it for awhile. It is important to acknowledge what you are feeling and I’d advise you to ride it out. But I’d give it a timeline. Give yourself a few days, a week or a month at the most, depending on your threshold for pain. After that, you got to pull yourself together and stop dwelling on the problem and start moving forward.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Reflection</span><br /><br />While you’re at it, start reflecting on your work life. Ask yourself questions: “What type of work do I enjoy? What talents and skills do I have? What new skills do I want to learn? Do I want to do the same work as I did before or is there something else that I would like to do or a new career that I want to pursue. How’s my family? How will they feel about this? What can everyone do to cope with the situation.”<br /><br />Taking time to think about the past and the present will help you with your future. So pause for awhile. Find a quiet place and reflect on your life.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">See the Silver Lining</span><br /><br />Sooner or later, you will see the silver lining if you open your mind and heart to it. For one thing, your retrenchment comes with a severance package and perhaps some benefits depending on the generosity of the company. If you’ve worked with the company for a long time, then your years of service will give you a sizeable payout that can tide you over during this transition.<br /><br />This also gives you the opportunity and time to take a short break. It will allow you to spend precious time with family. It may even give you a chance to begin anew. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Clean House</span><br /><br />I’m not talking here about sweeping your floors and purging your stuff (although that may prove therapeutic during this time). Nope, this is where you roll up your sleeves and look into your finances. You have to organize your bills, check and update your bank accounts and see where your finances are at. You need to check how much money you still have. Check if you have loans or mortgages to pay, as well as, how much will you need to pay for monthly expenses. It is important to do this step so that you can preserve the severance pay you received and not waste it all away. This will help you survive the uncertainties since you are not sure how soon you can have another job right away.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Talk to Your Family</span><br /><br />I know of some men who after losing their job, hide the fact from their wives. They do this because they are either ashamed or afraid to tell their wives. I think this is not a good idea. At times like these, you need your spouse on your side. She can provide you with emotional support and she will also find ways and means to save money. She can also teach the kids to scale back a little and even make it an exciting journey if she is creative enough.<br /><br />Of course, not all wives will react positively at first. Like you, your spouse will also go through the emotions and she’ll have to ride it out. Just expect some stressful discussions and try to be understanding. When you show patience and understanding, sooner or later she will understand and even support you in your next decisions.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Plan Your Next Step</span><br /><br />Once you’ve spoken with your family, you can then plan on your next move. There are generally two options: find another job or start your own business. <br /><br />If you want to find a new job, you’ll have to update your resume. You can also find a head hunter to help you or you can post your resumes online. If you have a good network of friends and associate, let them know you are now free to work for another company. You can also continuously look at the job opportunities in Manila Bulletin Classified Section and submit your resumes to potential employers. <br /><br />If you want to start your own business, you will have to decide whether you want to start if from scratch, buy a franchise or an existing business. Now working as an employee is very different from entrepreneurship. I suggest that you read books, take seminars and talk to entrepreneurs first before your take the plunge.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Move On</span><br /><br />If you have no ill-feelings with your former employer and understand the reason for the retrenchment, exit gracefully and maintain contact. Who knows, they can even refer you to their friends who can give you a job or even be your customer for your business. <br /><br />Of course, there are some cases wherein employees oppose retrenchments and they battle it out in court with their former employers. There’s really nothing wrong with that if you have the legal basis and resources to do so. If in case you want to battle it out, think about it carefully and fight for your rights if you must. But don’t make it your career to stay stuck in battle. File the legal charges if you will, but you have to move on still. You have to deal with your emotions positively, you still have to find sources of income and make sure that your family is well-provided for. So don’t stay stuck. Move on.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-11659068174601390322012-01-31T01:15:00.003+08:002012-01-31T01:30:22.741+08:00DOLE DO 119-12: Employment of Night Workers[Source: PMAP & Philstar]<br /><br />Philippine Star, January 28, 2012: Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has just issued Department Order (DO) 119-12 on the Employment of Night Workers, pursuant to Section 7 of Republic Act 10151.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpKjmSmKbtGz5aJQyQvkG-zl6cf2G69cjXs5qhb6blN71lx9RwymeAQDRFZ2as6w621ArCz15jtqMeZrblOel4oU-L4biuvSvyoF-U0k6-JnfzC5cxkm_e8tn2uGw3ZuKQv5dChrvdNa-7/s1600/DOLE-DO119-12.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 311px; height: 374px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpKjmSmKbtGz5aJQyQvkG-zl6cf2G69cjXs5qhb6blN71lx9RwymeAQDRFZ2as6w621ArCz15jtqMeZrblOel4oU-L4biuvSvyoF-U0k6-JnfzC5cxkm_e8tn2uGw3ZuKQv5dChrvdNa-7/s320/DOLE-DO119-12.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703477984380951314" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Clipping courtesy of PMAPUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-69611266054394669592012-01-31T00:36:00.007+08:002012-01-31T01:15:23.671+08:00Proclamation 295: List of Philippine Holidays for 2012<span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-size:85%;" >[source: http://www.gov.ph]</span><br /><br />If you want to plan your company events early or identify the holidays for 2012. Maybe schedule a family trip, here's an important reference that you need.<br /><br />Last November 24, 2011, the Malacanang Palace issued Proclamation 295 announcing the List of Holidays for 2012:<br /><br /><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);" valign="top" width="226"><strong>A. Regular Holidays</strong></td> <td valign="top" width="273"><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="226">New Year’s Day<br />Maundy Thursday<br />Good Friday<br />Araw ng Kagitingan</td> <td valign="top" width="273">January 1 <span style="font-size:78%;">(Sunday)</span><br />April 5<br />April 6<br />April 9 <span style="font-size:78%;">(Monday)</span></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="226">Labor Day<br />Independence Day<br />National Heroes Day<br />Bonifacio Day<br />Christmas Day<br />Rizal Day</td> <td valign="top" width="273">May 1 <span style="font-size:78%;">(Tuesday)</span><br />June 12 <span style="font-size:78%;">(Tuesday)</span><br />August 27 <span style="font-size:78%;">(Last Monday of August)</span><br />November 30 <span style="font-size:78%;">(Friday)</span><br />December 25 <span style="font-size:78%;">(Tuesday)</span><br />December 30 <span style="font-size:78%;">(Sunday)</span></td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="1" valign="top" width="315"><strong><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">B. Special (Non-Working) Days</span></strong></td> <td valign="top" width="273"><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="1" valign="top" width="315">Chinese New Year<br />Ninoy Aquino Day<br />All Saints Day<br />Additional special (non-working) day<br />Last Day of the Year</td> <td valign="top" width="273">January 23 <span style="font-size:78%;">(Monday)</span><br />August 21 <span style="font-size:78%;">(Tuesday)</span><br />November 1 <span style="font-size:78%;">(Thursday)</span><br />November 2 <span style="font-size:78%;">(Friday)</span><br />December 31 <span style="font-size:78%;">(Monday)</span></td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="1" valign="top" width="315"><strong><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">C. Special Holiday (for all schools</span></strong><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">)</span></td> <td valign="top" width="273"><br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td valign="top" width="226">EDSA Revolution Anniversary</td> <td valign="top" width="273">February 25 <span style="font-size:78%;">(Saturday)</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />To read the official proclamation or see the signed copy in .pdf, <a href="http://www.gov.ph/2011/11/24/proclamation-no-295-s-2011/">click here</a>.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-30981876477508152592011-11-16T16:14:00.001+08:002011-11-16T16:16:47.419+08:00DOES JOB SECURITY STILL EXIST?<span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-size:85%;" >[Published in Manila Bulletin last Nov 2011]</span><br /><br />Years ago, our parents and grandparents found stable jobs, worked continuously for twenty or so years and retired at the ripe old age of sixty. Employees simply needed to work diligently and they were assured of keeping their jobs. Meanwhile employers didn't have to worry too much about employee turnover because most of their people were very loyal and stayed with the company during good and bad times long enough.<br /><br />During that time, it wasn't uncommon for people to work for one company for twenty to thirty-five years. Many have worked for only one to three companies in their lifetime. It was the norm for employers and employees to take care of each other for a very long time. I guess things were simpler then.<br /><br />But times have change. The business climate is definitely tougher and more competitive now. In the last decade, we've seen more mergers, changes in management, outsourcing and lay-offs from many companies.<br /><br />Employers are trying their best to survive and gain profit by increasing sales or decreasing expenses. The latter of which seems easier to control. That is why some companies have resorted to outsourcing or even contractual employment. Honestly, it's cheaper with lesser obligations and headaches. However, it has its downside too. If you outsource, you pretty much depend on an outside party. If you offer contractual employment, you'll have to keep on training new hires and make sure that your company's service quality doesn't go down.<br /><br />On the other hand, employees nowadays are not necessarily loyal for the sake of being loyal to their companies anymore. If a better opportunity comes along, most people nowadays will jump ship with another company. Many professionals move from one company to another in order to increase their salary level. Younger generations, perhaps because they have more options, ultimately work for themselves and use companies as stepping stones for career growth. That is why employee turnover is a lot higher now. Companies invest in training their people and they lose time and money every time an employee resigns.<br /><br />So job security, in my opinion, for employees and even employers seem to become a greyer area nowadays.<br /><br />The Labor Code of the Philippines, however, provide protection for both employees and employers. So to a certain extent, your expectations on job security can be based on what the law says.<br /><br />For instance, in layman's terms, the law secures that any employee cannot be immediately fired on any bosses' whim or unjust cause. Due process on termination must be followed or else the employer can be faced with an expensive lawsuit. The law also differentiates the types of employment that employers and employees can arrange. Regular employees can enjoy more job security over contractual employees. Thus, it is important to choose your type of job wisely.<br /><br />Another important provision in the labor code specifies exactly situations that are allowed if a company wants to terminate an employee or a group of employees. These include prolonged and contagious illness of an employee, gross violations of company policies, financial losses of the company (this has to be file and proven to DOLE) or business closure.<br /><br />The Labor Code does have a say on your job security, so does your company policies. These provide a guideline on what your employer can legally do and not do to you. I urge you to read these to know how you can best protect yourself.<br /><br />So going back to my question... Does job security still exist?<br /><br />My answer would be, yes, to a certain degree... but I wouldn't count on it as an absolute right. I think it's good to expect the best but plan for the worst when it comes to your career. See, we ultimately have to be responsible for our means of living. Your current job will help you pay for your living and hopefully your family's expenses but nothing lasts forever. Do your best and hold on to your job as long as you can if it is rewarding. On the side, create a safety net in preparation for your retirement whether I comes early or later in life. You have to adapt with the times, be competitive as an individual. Depend on yourself not on others when it comes to your future. Secure yourself.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-88635680382116643442011-11-16T16:10:00.001+08:002011-11-16T16:12:54.969+08:00SEXUAL HARASSMENT IN THE WORKPLACE<span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:78%;" >[Published in Manila Bulletin last October 2011]</span><br /><br />A reader asks:</span> As an HR, do you think it is right for some employees to use the book “Art of Seduction” at work? Do you think, superiors have to tolerate those who are following or practicing that book? Thank you.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">My response:</span> I personally have not read the book so I cannot comment about its content. <br /><br />Regardless, HR people do not really have any right or obligation to disallow or ban people from reading books of their liking. Employees are adults and they are old enough to decide what books to read. Plus we live in a democratic society where people are free to read whatever book fancies them.<br /><br />The only time HR can get involved is if a sexual harassment complaint is filed. For example, as a result of reading and applying the book, someone crosses the line and commits inappropriate behaviour towards a co-worker. If the co-worker feels that she was sexually harassed and she feels uncomfortable working in that environment, she can file a complaint with HR. The HR will then organize a committee to investigate the matter and if the person is found guilty, appropriate sanctions based on company policies and the law will be implemented.<br /><br />So HR can discipline people for inappropriate behaviour, however, they cannot ban or sanction people from reading books. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">SEXUAL HARASSMENT IN THE WORKPLACE</span><br /><br />The reader's question inspired me to write about an extreme form of bullying in the workplace and that is, Sexual Harassment. Although the reader's situation does not yet constitute sexual harassment, I'd like to shed some light on the matter.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">So what is Sexual Harassment?</span><br /><br />According to the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995, “Sexual harassment is committed usually in the form of physical abuse such as malicious touching, overt sexual advances or gestures with lewd insinuation.<br /><br />It may also be committed through verbal requests or demands for sexual favors, and lurid remarks. Or it may be visual, using objects, pictures or graphics, letters or writing notes with sexual underpinnings.<br /><br />This can happen in the premises of the workplace, office, school or training institution. It can happen in any place, business or social functions where the parties were found as a result of work, education or training. It can happen while on official business outside the workplace or training-related travel, or at official conferences, symposia or training sessions. It can also happen by telephone, cellular phone, fax machine or electronic mail.”<br /><br />So let's say your boss hugs you and gives you a kiss on the cheeks to congratulate you on closing a sale, can you call that sexual harassment?<br /><br />The answer is, it depends on how the hug and kiss was done and more importantly, the situation you find yourself in.<br /><br />Sexual harassment is considered as such “if it is used as a basis for any employment decision such as matters related to hiring, promotion, raise in salary, job security or benefits; if it interferes with your work performance; if it creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive work environment; or cause discrimination, insecurity, discomfort, offense or humiliation."<br /><br />I have a friend who works as a bookkeeper of a company. An external auditor kept asking her out to meet him for coffee and have a “good” time after. While working with her, he kept on asking intimidating questions about her work and making her feel incompetent because she wouldn’t go out with him. At one point, after rejecting several invitations, he asked her “Magkano ba sweldo mo sa trabaho? Kung gusto mo ako na lang ang bubuhay sa iyo?” (How much salary do you get? If you want, I can pay for your living.) She is a married woman.<br /><br />Because of this, she felt so stressed at work and couldn’t sleep at night. She didn’t want to see the auditor and started feeling anxious and dreadful at the thought of going to work and possibly seeing him. She couldn’t work properly.<br /><br />Would you consider this a form of sexual harassment? Although he never touched her physically, he made her uncomfortable with his advances and he spoke with sexual innuendos. Lucky for her, when she discussed this matter to her boss and showed proof via voice recording, management sided with her and immediately found a replacement auditor. She didn’t want to file charges, she just wanted him out of her life. So peace was easily restored. <br /><br />Many victims do not file complaints because going through the process of complaining and discussing the incident rocks the boat and may cause further embarrassment. I personally think that people should choose their battles. There are forms of sexual harassment that are truly unforgivable, but there are also some that are just slight or belong to the grey areas. To a certain extent, it also depends on the victim’s sensitivity and culture. If you want to tolerate this form of bullying instead of fight, you may have a good reason for it and should think about it thoroughly. But if you want to fight, it is good to know that there are laws to help you with your battle against sexual harassment.<br /><br />Victims of sexual harassment in the workplace can file a complaint against this form of bullying and your HR department should be able to help you. The Anti-sexual harassment act of 1995 further discusses the rules, guidelines and procedures for filing complaints. To read the law governing sexual harassment, you can visit www.chanrobles.comUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-5274915186797566572011-11-16T15:57:00.005+08:002011-11-16T16:01:57.627+08:00WORLD CLASS CUSTOMER SERVICE<span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-size:85%;" >[Published in Manila Bulletin last Oct 2011]</span><br /><br />I was having breakfast with a trainer one day and she kept on complaining about how bad the service in the Philippines was, in general. She kept on harping about examples of world class service of great American companies and compared them to the service that she gets in the Philippines.<br /><br />I then asked her which state she visited in the United States and she revealed to me that she hasn’t actually traveled there. But based on the business books that she has read, they have superb service.<br /><br />Having just come from a US trip, I quickly shared to her my experience in the hotels that I stayed in. Except for a few quality hotels like the Hilton, most of the hotels I stayed in did not have great service. Most of their guest relations officers were not really that friendly. Some were bordering on indifferent and rude. Interestingly, the most helpful service crew that they had were in fact, Filipinos.<br /><br />I then told her, don’t believe the foreign hype. Never think that our people are not world-class. Contrary to what you think, Filipinos are much more helpful and polite in general.<br /><br />In our country, even three-star hotels have friendly staff ready and eager to assist and carry your baggage which was sorely missing in most of the US hotels that I stayed in. I was actually surprised that I had to drag my luggage there. In the Philippines, we have many bellhops who will approach you as soon as you go in the hotel to help.<br /><br />Here, you go to a gas station and a gas boy is there ready to greet you, fill up your tank, clean your windows, pump air into your tires and give road directions. In the US, it’s do-it-yourself.<br /><br />Grocery shoppers in our country even get extra help from bag boys who will bring your shopping cart to your car upon request. They are even willing to carry everything themselves if they can’t use the cart. The help that they provide makes shopping so convenient. <br /><br />They don’t normally have that in America. In their country, you are left to fend for yourself. It’s all do-it-yourself because labour is expensive in their country.<br /><br />So, you see. The Philippines’ brand of customer service isn’t so bad. In fact, I think it is at par with some of the world’s best. What makes it special is that most of the service is given with willingness and sincerity because Filipinos are naturally friendly and helpful. In terms of attitude, most Filipinos have it right.<br /><br />Of course, there will always be room for improvement. Philippine customer service can be world-class if business establishments look into these areas…<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Product Knowledge</span><br />Even if the customer service representative is friendly, if he cannot help because he doesn’t know the products fully or is unaware of promos and pricing, it will be impossible for him to give superb service. Good customer service is not just about smiling. It is about being able to help customers and answer their questions.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Business Etiquette</span><br />Not a lot of people are aware of proper etiquette. Usually, people who are rough around the edges do not mean to be impolite. They just need a little polishing and education of business and social etiquette. Good manners will greatly improve the company’s image to their customers, so it is wise for companies to invest in training their people.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Communication Skills</span><br />Most Filipinos are eager to help, but they may have problems with communications skills such as listening, comprehension and articulating what they want to say. There are also times where, faced with a foreigner, they may get tongue-tied. This can easily be improved through practice, exposure and learning.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Customer Service System</span><br />Often overlooked, this is a critical part of great customer service. World-class business establishments invest in gadgets and tools that will help their people provide the best service to all their customers. They have customer tracking systems, spiels, operation manuals for customer service and even a customer complaint reporting system.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Customer Solutions </span><br />Customers who encounter problems are the most in need of good customer service. World-class business establishments track and anticipate the most common problems encountered by their customers. They then equip their people with Customer Solutions Protocols that will guide them in solving their customer’s problems. Hence problem-solving is systematized.<br /><br />The Philippines have what it takes to provide Great Customer Service. With a few improvements here and there, we can be at par with the world’s best. Filipinos are world-class, we just have to believe and appreciate our own people. In terms of service, we’ve got it good in our country! Don’t let other people tell you otherwise.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-20911791249275992792011-09-02T16:07:00.001+08:002011-09-02T16:10:54.435+08:00CAN HR PREVENT WORKPLACE BULLYING?<span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-size:85%;" >[Worklife Column, Manila Bulletin, September 2011]</span>
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<br />Bullying causes a lot of stress and wasted energy for many people. Instead of focusing all efforts in doing their jobs well, the bullies and the bullied engage in emotionally draining social politics that could not possibly help make the company and its people prosper.
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<br />It is a real concern in the workplace. It lowers morale. It cripples productivity. It increases employee turnover. It is a major cause of employee resignations. That is why it makes sense for HR practitioners to bully-proof their companies or at least set policies and processes in place to deal with this issue.
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<br />HR practitioners are in charge of the overall welfare of employees. This includes developing a happy and enjoyable work environment. Yes, HR can and should prevent workplace bullying. We are in a unique position to positively influence the workplace through creative programs and policies.
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<br />A reader shares her bad experience against workplace bullying and asks for HR solutions to her problem. Let’s see how we can help her.
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Good Day Madame!</span>
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<br />I just want to ask what is the best thing to do in these situations:
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<br />-What if you have co-workers (group of boys) bullying you every day (ex. Throwing tissues at the work station). The superior can see what these boys are doing but he’s doing nothing about it.
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<br />-If you have co-workers, including an immediate superior, spreading rumors and gossip about you, that you are a hooker and a mistress. (The employee is not a hooker and not a mistress, actually, the girl is a Christian and never had a boyfriend and never had sex with anyone)
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<br />-Is it okay to file a case to these people who've been spreading malicious rumors?
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<br />Hope that you can site me HR solutions on this matter. Thank you and God Bless! --BB
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">My Response: </span>
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<br />Thank you for emailing your work issues. Bullying in the workplace is a real issue for a lot of people as it affects not just the happiness of individuals but also the team's morale as a whole.
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<br />There are many ways of dealing with bullying at work. I wrote an article with excellent strategies against bullying for my column awhile back. Do check out my blog at http://hrclubonline.blogspot.com/2010/09/dealing-with-workplace-bullies.html.
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<br />If after using the strategies I mentioned to protect yourself against bullies, you still find yourself under attack. Then it may be time to use administrative actions and escalate it to your management.
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<br />Companies with structured human resources have policies and protocols in dealing with issues and grievances at work. The first thing you should do is check your Employee Handbook or Policy Manual. Does it state policies on employee conduct and culture? Does it include disciplinary actions for violations of policies? Does it have a section on how to report grievances? If it does, then put your handbook to good use and follow procedures and be guided accordingly. Employee Policies are there not just to protect the company, but more importantly, to guide and protect employees.
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<br />Next, try to gather your own evidence. Whether you plan to solve it on your own or escalate the matter, evidence will give you solid grounds for your complaint. Without evidence, the disciplinary board will have to deal with a he-said, she-said scenario which is difficult to deliberate on.
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<br />Normally, protocol will dictate that you deal with the problem amongst yourselves first. If you can't resolve it, talk to your immediate supervisor. But if this doesn't improve the situation or the immediate supervisor is the problem, then it would be best to talk to HR or the Boss of your immediate supervisor.
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<br />If you want to escalate it, simply follow your Employee Handbook on how to file grievances. Make sure that you are also in good graces with your HR and top management. If you are a valuable and hard-to-replace employee, these people will back you up or find immediate solutions to your problems.
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<br />But what if, your Employee Manual does not have any provision on bullying or worse, your company does not even have an employee manual? Well, you will then have to do it informally and maybe even suggest to top management to issue a memo or create a more comprehensive policy manual.
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<br />There are basically just five ways of dealing with workplace bullying issues:
<br />You may quietly accept it, but this will eat away at your job satisfaction.
<br />You may seek revenge, but this will worsen the situation.
<br />You may speak up to the bully and hope to change your situation.
<br />You may fight, get management involved to fix the situation.
<br />Or you can resign, if you can be sure that doing so will give you better opportunities, benefits and peace of mind.
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<br />Whatever you decide, there are of course consequences to every action that you take. So just be prepared to handle the worse-case scenarios of each. Bullying in the workplace is a real concern for a lot of people. But if you learn how to deal with it without quitting right away, you will become a better, stronger and more successful person. May you have the strength and wisdom to do what is best for your situation. Good Luck!
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-68595298319756802792011-09-02T16:01:00.001+08:002011-09-02T16:07:45.188+08:00CONQUERING AGE LIMITS<span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">[Worklife Column, Manila Bulletin, September 2011]</span></span>
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<br />In my past article, I wrote about age limitations in job ads that many older job hunters are facing. It is a real issue for many and I explained why companies do this and the process HR practitioners go through to set job requirements and specifications. If you are interested in the behind-the-scenes activities of job design as well as reasons for age limits, you can read my article on “Age Limitations” at http://worklifenow.blogspot.com/2011/07/age-limits.html.
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">TODAY</span>, I’d like to discuss how older job hunters can deal with age limitations. I’d like to explore the many opportunities that abound and how you can conquer this issue. So let’s get started!
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What’s Going for You?</span>
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<br />Before entering the battlefield, you need to know your strengths. Why should companies hire you instead of younger job applicants? Once you figure this out, you can then capitalize on them. That is your competitive advantage.
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<br />So, what exactly is going for you? In order for you to answer this, you need to look inside yourself. List down the positives---your skills, knowledge and accomplishments. What are the skills that you have gained in the many years that you have been employed? What special trainings have you had from your previous work?
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<br />Ideally, as a seasoned professional, your future employer doesn’t have to spend a lot in training you. You already have acquired important skills and more importantly, the experience needed to be good at your job.
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<br />Perhaps you can emphasize that there’s less trial and error when you are hired which means lesser costs for the employer. That should get them interested.
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Seeking Employment beyond the Age Limit</span>
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<br />Some companies are very strict with age limitations while others are more flexible. In order for you to find out, you’ll just have to do trial and error. You can send out resumes despite the age issue and just qualify when they call you for an interview.
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<br />Once you get a call, you can ask if they are open to hiring slightly older applicants. You may ask this before an interview if you want to save time. Or you can do this during the interview if you don’t mind the extra effort and if you would like to convince the employer to consider you despite the age issue. There is also a chance that it may not even come up. It all depends on the company. So just be cool about it.
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Your Untapped Resource</span>
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<br />Just in case, you’ve done your best to find a job but you keep on getting bumped over the age issue. Don’t fret. It’s not over for you yet. You have an untapped resource that’s still going for you. Not a lot of people think about this, but it could definitely give you better opportunities. That untapped resource is YOUR CONNECTIONS.
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<br />As you age over the years, you meet a lot of people. You gain acquaintances and if you’re smart, you’ve built a good network of connections. See, you can tap your connections for opportunities. They can help you get a good job or better career options. You just have to reach out and keep in touch which is easier now with the presence of social media networks.
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<br />So start connecting! Look back to your schoolmates, past co-workers, church mates, associations, friends and family. You can even capitalize on your connections to get hired.
<br />Smart marketing and sales-oriented companies value connections above all.
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Finding Other Opportunities</span>
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<br />Regardless of age, I believe that everyone should have a back-up plan. For older jobseekers, I would suggest looking into other opportunities while you are job hunting. It may even turn out to be more rewarding for you.
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Selling</span>. Start selling. Sell anything that you can comfortably sell. If you have equipment, property, furniture or assets that you are willing to sell, sell it. This will give you extra income and hone your skills in selling not just objects, but yourself too. If you become good at selling, getting a job will be easier.
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Consulting and Teaching</span>. Teach other people what you know. This is your chance to give back, learn in the process and earn extra income. Training companies like mine are always on a lookout for people with experience who can teach others. Some companies also outsource projects to consultants. So if you have the skill and experience, consider this field.
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Gigs or Rackets</span>. If you have hobbies or talents that can be marketed as a service such as writing, photography, web design, hosting, singing and others, consider getting into service-for-hire work. You can tie up with existing event organizers or outsourcing websites to get gigs or you can ask your friends and family to hook you up with people who need your service.
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sideline Business</span>. Starting a sideline business is pretty easy. There are many things that you can buy and sell, or build and sell. There are now many avenues where you can sell your items like the internet, weekend bazaars and direct agents.
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Business Ownership</span>. This is an option for older people who do not or cannot join the corporate world. You may start a business from scratch, buy an existing business or get a franchise depending on your skills, experience, finances and preference. Do take note however that business ownership is very different from being an employee. Having your own business, in my opinion, is more challenging. So prepare well by attending seminars and seeking advice from successful business owners.
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Conquering Age Limitations</span>
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<br />At first glance, work opportunities seem narrower for older people. But this is only so for those who do not open their minds to the possibilities. Aging is inevitable. You will get wrinkles when you live long enough. But you can defy dull aging with youthful spirit. Rediscover your childhood wonder. Allow yourself to become excited and enthusiastic again. Open your arms to the next chapter of your life. Aging is not about losing opportunities, it is a new stage of taking chances and rediscovering yourself again. Good luck!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-72528283501808802802011-08-01T12:20:00.001+08:002011-08-01T12:23:38.136+08:00AGE LIMITS<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-size:78%;" >[Published in Manila Bulletin, August 2011]</span><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >When you are young and free, your career possibilities are endless.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Opportunities abound.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You can experiment a bit and hopefully quickly find a career that is best suited for you.</span></p><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" ><br /><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >As you grow older, however, your choices begin to shape your career and you’ll find yourself in a set line of work.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>By the time you are in your late thirties, you’ve gained enough knowledge through the years on your chosen field and you should ideally be moving upwards in your industry.<br /></span></p><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >During this time, you would also have taken on more of life’s responsibilities.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You may get married and have children.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You may need to take care of ailing parents or other siblings.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>All of these are reasons why you want to work to provide well for your family.</span></p><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >But what if, all of a sudden, you find yourself longing for a change of career?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Or what if, life suddenly throws you a curve ball and you find yourself out of work and in need of a new job?</span></p><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >You then open Manila Bulletin’s classified ads section.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You look for job listings that are suitable for your knowledge and experience since you want to capitalize on what you’ve mastered in the last decade. You find a couple of job advertisements that suit you.</span></p><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" ><br /><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" > </span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" >Good reputable company, check.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" >Good position, check.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" >Skills required, check. </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >Competitive compensation and benefits, check.<br /></span></p><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >You’ve found your next job!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>BUT WAIT!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It says in the job ad that the age requirement is from 25 to 35 years old.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You’ve just celebrated your 40<sup>th</sup> birthday.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Bummer.</span></p><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" ><br /><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >You then look at other job ads and notice a similar pattern.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>There is an age limit specified in the job ads.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You’re way above the age limit.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You then start wondering exactly what our letter sender asked:</span></p><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-weight: bold;"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" >Dear Ms. Jhoanna, </span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >I’m an engineer by profession and also finished EMBA.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I currently work overseas for a power plant.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Pay is good and knowledge advancement is great.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>However, I miss home and have been exploring the possibility of coming back for good.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I’ve been looking at job advertisements but have been noticing age limitations that are, well, limiting.</span></p><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" ><br /><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >We say that experience plays a big part in true learning and you can acquire this through years of working as you also age.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>As I browsed job listings, I am qualified for most of the opening, but I always end up frustrated due to age requirement.</span></p><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >So I have a few questions on this issue:<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Is the Age limit mandatory as a minimum requirement for all hiring companies? Does HR have an influence on this? Is this what we call Equal Opportunity?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I hope you can enlighten me.</span></p><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" > </span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" >Thanks,</span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" >A Mature Engineer</span></p><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" ></span></b> <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" ><br /><br /></span></b><b style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" >My Response:</span></b><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"> </p><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" > </span></b></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >Thanks for writing in with this relevant issue.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Allow me to answer your question about Age Limitations...</span></p><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >Before HR practitioners post job advertisements, they usually conduct a job analysis wherein they try to define the required skills, competencies and scope of work needed for the position.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They also determine what age range and sometimes even the gender the manager in need of staffing prefers so that they will have a clear set of criteria for recruitment.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>As much as possible, HR confers with the manager on his or her preference since s/he will be the one working directly with the new hire.</span></p><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" ><br /><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >Although Age Limitations and Gender Specification do not exactly reflect the ideals of equal opportunity which has been made into law by some first world countries, it is a practice many companies do in our country for practical purposes.<br /></span></p><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" > </span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" >From an employer's point of view, younger employees are seen as less costly and tend to demand lower compensation because they do not have that much family obligations or medical health problems yet.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They also have more years ahead, so investing in their training offers the chance for longer service time. </span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ><br /></span></p><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" >On the other hand, some companies are also aware that older and veteran workers have more experience and knowledge.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They have already been trained by their previous employers.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They have first hand practical experience and are usually more emotionally mature to handle work concerns and issues. </span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >So it really depends on the company’s culture, needs and financial capacity.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Some companies have strict age requirements, others are more flexible.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>If they can afford to, they hire veterans for higher positions; if they cannot, they get consultants to help out and train their younger work force.</span></p><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" >I understand how difficult it is for older people to find jobs.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Usually, the older you become and the higher your position gets, the opportunities seem to get narrower... But older people still have a lot of options.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You just have to go out of your comfort zones, think outside the box and explore other ways to pursue your career.</span></p><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" ><br /></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" > </span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:11.0pt;" >Stay tuned for my next article to get ideas on how to conquer age limits.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:8.0pt;" lang="EN-US" ></span></b> <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" lang="EN-US"><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">About the Author:</span><br /><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></b> <span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" lang="EN-US" >Jhoanna O. Gan-So is president of <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">Businessmaker Academy, HR Club Philippines and Teach It Forward Organization</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Since 2003, her company has served more than 15,000 participants from various companies and industries by providing corporate skills training, business <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>and human resource seminars. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>To know more about the seminars and services that they offer, you may visit <a href="http://www.businessmaker-academy.com/">www.businessmaker-academy.com</a> or <a href="http://www.hrclubphilippines.com/">www.hrclubphilippines.com</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You may also call (632)6874645.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Email your comments and questions to:<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>mbworklife@gmail.com</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-11516517443670502082011-08-01T12:07:00.003+08:002011-08-01T12:14:31.831+08:00TEN CHARACTERISTICS OF GREAT EMPLOYERS<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:donotpromoteqf/> <w:lidthemeother>EN-PH</w:LidThemeOther> <w:lidthemeasian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:lidthemecomplexscript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> <w:splitpgbreakandparamark/> <w:dontvertaligncellwithsp/> <w:dontbreakconstrainedforcedtables/> <w:dontvertalignintxbx/> 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mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";} </style> <![endif]--> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";" >[Published in Manila Bulletin, August 2011]</span></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif";font-family:";font-size:11pt;" ><br /></span></p><p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" >In my last column, I wrote about “Ten Characteristics of Star Employees”.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>This time, I’d like to explore the flip side and discuss what makes employers great to work for.</span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" >See, your happiness and contentment in the workplace is directly affected by how the company that you work for is run.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Contrary to popular belief, it’s not just the salary that people look at when they choose employers.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Money is not the end all and be all of job satisfaction.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>So if you want to be part of a great company, aspire to find or even develop these ten characteristics in your company:<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /><br /></span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:Arial;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">1.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" >They have a clear vision</span></b></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" >Great employers have direction.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Their leaders have a clear picture of what they want their company to stand for and where they want to go.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>We’re talking here about full enculturation of the company’s vision, mission and values wherein employees live by these guiding principles.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It’s not just about putting a mission statement in a frame and hanging it on the wall.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It’s about building a culture that employees are proud of and can easily identify with on a daily basis.</span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:Arial;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">2.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" >They have a good recruitment process</span></b></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" >Great employers know that top notch employees equal an excellent company.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>So they establish recruitment systems that are designed to get the crème of the crop, not the bottom of the barrel.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They seek out people who are skilled with the right attitude to fill in key positions in their company.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They are organized in their recruitment efforts and have done the necessary homework for finding competent employees. </span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:Arial;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">3.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" >They have adequate compensation and benefits programs</span></b></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" >Once they’ve hired their employees, great employers are able to keep them longer because they provide not just competitive salaries, but also benefits and perks.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>These benefits may include essentials such as healthcare, allowances for uniforms or food, to fun stuff like workshops and outings, to cool perks such as transportation assistance and mobile phone loads.</span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:Arial;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">4.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" >They train their people</span></b></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" >Great employers also ensure that each employee grows professionally by providing training to help them do their jobs.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>From the beginning, as soon as an employee is hired, they are given an orientation.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Then as they settle in their jobs, they are provided on the job training.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>This is also followed up by seminars, workshops and learning materials that will help employees develop further. </span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:Arial;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">5.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" >They monitor their people’s performance</span></b></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" >After all the training, great employers make sure that their employees are able to apply what they have learned.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>This is done by continuously monitoring performance.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Managers and supervisors constantly look at how their subordinates are doing.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They provide guidance and immediate feedback.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Then this is followed up by regular performance evaluations that are documented by the company’s HR people.</span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:Arial;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">6.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" >They recognize and reward good performance</span></b></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" >The reason why performance is monitored is so that the company can reward the good ones and correct those that need to be improved.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>To encourage and motivate employees, great companies provide rewards and incentives.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>This could range from simple treats and tokens, to elaborate programs like employee of the month, sales target bonus with gifts like gadgets and trips abroad.</span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:Arial;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">7.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" >They equip their people with tools that help them work better and faster</span></b></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" >If you want to double or triple your team’s performance, it is important to equip them with the right tools and equipment.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Great employers understand this, so they make sure that their people are given the best software and hardware.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>More importantly, they are trained to maximize them.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They understand that, “When you give a man the tools and know-how, you can step back and see the ingenuity that may come after.”</span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent:-.25in;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:Arial;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">8.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" ><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">They have safe and conducive work environments</span> </span></b></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" >Great employers understand that a person’s environment affects his or her moods.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>So they take care in providing a workplace that’s conducive and safe for work.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You can easily determine if a company is great or not by how clean and well-maintained the place is.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>So gather those waste baskets and purge unimportant items, clear your desks and organize!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>A clean work station will improve your mood and make you work better for a great company.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:Arial;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">9.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" >They care about their people</span></b></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" >Great employers are able to provide programs that ensure their employees are well-taken care of physically, emotionally and spiritually.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The company has heart and they show it to their people with kind words, caring leaders, firm and constant guidance.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They understand that, “When you care for your people, your people will take care of the company.”</span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:Arial;" ><span style="mso-list:Ignore">10.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" >They develop leaders</span></b></span></p> <p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:.5in; margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" >Lastly, great employers develop leaders.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They encourage initiative and innovation.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They allow their employees to shine and provide opportunities for star performers to develop themselves as leaders.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>From the group of star performers, they choose and hone select people to lead the company to greater heights.</span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" >The truth is, there’s no such thing as a perfect company.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Great employers are simply built by the people who work for it.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>If you want to work for a great company, it is in your hands to make your company a great and happy place to work in.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" > </span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span style=" Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" >If you are looking for a job, seek to find a company that has these qualities.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>If you are already employed, make your company a great place to work in. If you have influence in your company, seek to develop these characteristics to make your company great and reap the rewards of a happy and productive workplace!</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";" lang="EN-US">Author box:<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></b></span></p> <div style="mso-element:para-border-div;border:solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt:solid windowtext .5pt;padding:1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border:none;mso-border-alt:solid windowtext .5pt; padding:0in;mso-padding-alt:1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" lang="EN-US" ><span style="font-size:85%;">Jhoanna O. Gan-So is president of <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">Businessmaker Academy, HR Club Philippines and Teach It Forward Organization</b>.</span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes;font-size:85%;" > </span><span style="font-size:85%;">Since 2003, her company has served more than 15,000 participants from various companies and industries by providing corporate skills training, business </span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes;font-size:85%;" > </span><span style="font-size:85%;">and human resource seminars. </span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes;font-size:85%;" > </span><span style="font-size:85%;">To <span style="font-size:85%;">know more about the seminars and services that they offer, you may visit <a href="http://www.businessmaker-academy.com/">www.businessmaker-academy.com</a> or <a href="http://www.hrclubphilippines.com/">www.hrclubphilippines.com</a>.</span></span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes;font-size:85%;" > </span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes;font-size:85%;" > </span><span style="font-size:85%;">You may also call (632)6874645.</span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes;font-size:85%;" > </span><span style="font-size:85%;">Email your comments and questions to: </span><span style="font-size:85%;">mbworklife@gmail.com</span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-42159041835740814612011-07-03T21:02:00.002+08:002011-07-03T21:06:15.013+08:00Ten Characteristics of Star Employees<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-family: arial;">[Published in Manila Bulletin in July 2011]</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">In the workplace, there will always be star employees who shine. These people are well-liked by their bosses. They reach their targets or accomplish notable achievements. They are star performers, which is why they get recognized by their company and get promoted faster than the rest of the regular folks. It’s pretty cool to be a star employee. So let’s all aspire to be one.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">If you are presently employed, I’d like you to take a good look at yourself. From a scale of 1-10, 10 being the highest, how would you rate your general work performance? If you were your boss, would you point to yourself as a star employee?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">If your answer is yes, then keep up the good work. Kudos to you! However, if you are not quite there yet and would like to become one, let’s take a look at the qualities that separates star employees from ordinary ones. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">1. They are Always Present</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Star Employees are always present physically, mentally and emotionally. This means that they have good attendance records. They understand that quantity affects quality of time---that no matter how brilliant you are, if you’re not present for work, then you can’t really do a good job. So they come to their place of work, alert and ready to face the challenges the day brings. They leave their personal issues and problems at the door which allows them to focus on the job at hand. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">2. They are Results-Oriented</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">When Star Employees are busy, they really are. They do not spend all day doing things just to look busy. They actually do tasks that they deem instrumental in helping them reach their goals. These people look at the end-results all the time. They measure their performance with targets and actual results. For example, star salespeople know their sales targets by heart. They find the best use of their time that will get them the desired results. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">3. They are Self-reliant</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Star employees do not need to be micromanaged. They require very little supervision as they are capable in making common sense decisions. They are not too dependent on their bosses or co-workers. Unlike some people who ask their bosses to solve everything and decide on the littlest of things, they are well-capable of managing themselves and dealing with everyday work issues. They are also self-motivated.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">4. They are Reliable</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Star employees carry a sense of dependability about them. They look and act responsible. Bosses feel at ease assigning them to important projects because they are diligent and consistent with the quality of their work. They are steadfast which is why they don’t make their bosses worry too much about project completions. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">5. They are Progressive</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">To most employees, change is difficult to swallow. They like doing things that they are comfortable with. They like things to be the way they are. Star employees, on the other hand, can adapt well to change. In fact, they initiate it. They constantly look at how their work, the procedures and systems in their office can be improved. In the process they find innovative solutions that increase their company’s profits or generate huge savings for the company which their employers appreciate.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">6. They are Good Reporters</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Star employees are on top of things. Bosses often get frustrated in constantly reminding their subordinates about things they need to do and they often waste a lot of time following up on projects. Meanwhile, the star employee gets there first. They regularly update their bosses and teammates on what’s happening. You don’t have to ask them what’s up with this account, because chances are, they’ve already told you before you even thought of asking. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">7. They can Communicate with Ease</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">When star employees talk to people, they are not tense and uptight. They communicate in a comfortable and enthusiastic manner which makes the other person feel at ease right away. They can talk to bosses, co-workers, suppliers and customers very well in a conversational manner. They are naturally personable which draws people to them.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">8. They are confident</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Many people equate confidence as being extroverted and outspoken. But not all star employees are made that way. There are many star employees who are quiet and not so gregarious. See, confidence is about knowing who you are and your self-worth. Star employees know their capabilities and limitations. They courageously face challenges and are not afraid to seek assistance if needed.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">9. They Go the Extra Mile</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">What sets star employees apart from regular folks is they go further than what is expected of them. If they are expected to know a specific product of their company, they go the extra mile in learning the whole product line, the competitor’s product, pricing and promos. If they are expected to reach a sales quota, they don’t stop upon reaching the quota. They go for more. They do a little bit of extra when it comes to their work and even their relationships.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">10. They are Grateful</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Most important of all, star employees are grateful. They are not brats who feel entitled to all the benefits, rewards and incentives given by their company. Instead, they sincerely appreciate what is given to them and make it known by saying thank you all the time. The reason why they perform better than the rest and why bosses like them is because they know how to value their jobs, their employers and colleagues. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Now, given the ten characteristics above, take a look at yourself. Which of these traits do you have? Which ones do you lack? Are you a star employee?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Aspire to be a star employee because it’s pretty cool to be recognized and appreciated by your bosses and colleagues. Not to mention the perks and rewards attached to it. Everyone has the capacity to become a star employee, all you have to do is hone yourself and build on the ten characteristics of a star employee.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-44566152006970164522011-07-03T20:54:00.004+08:002011-07-03T21:00:45.764+08:00My Boss is Threatening to Fire Us!<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">[Published in Manila Bulletin in July 2011]</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Bosses have different ways of motivating employees to improve their performance. Smart ones use several methods of reward and punishment and adjust their approach according to circumstances. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">In my experience, I have found that rewards and punishments are equally effective depending on the situation and the type of people you have. But in general, people respond more to rewards, incentives, promotions, recognition and all the nice stuff.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Occasionally, however, punishments or “threats” may be warranted but using this can become counter-productive and dangerous too. If you threaten and put people down often enough, they might get paralyzed in fear and begin to lose focus. Instead of finding ways to improve performance, they might get caught up with just fighting the perceived threat.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Such is the case of a reader of mine. Let me share his story, my advice and some thoughts about motivating people. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >Dear Ms. Jhoanna,</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"> </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I am an avid reader of your column for more than two years now. I loved the way you do it, by way of giving everyone your PAST, PRESENT and FUTURE perspective, and my fervent prayer is that God will give you more talents and wisdom and add more years for you to live longer.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"> </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">By the way I am “ABE”, 62 years old from Tarlac. I live with my wife, our 4 children and 3 grandsons. I’ve been connected for two years now to a real estate company as an AVP in Marketing. My position gives me a basic living subsidy, over-ride commissions plus the use of the company vehicle.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"> </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">In the previous year, I used to be No. 3 among the 15 Marketing Directors. At times, I’d reach No. 1 and No. 2 ranking. When I was promoted as an AVP, I’ve been able to consistently land again at No. 3, sometimes No. 2 and even No. 1. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">But 2 months ago, my Marketing Directors were transferred to another group. Hence, I am now in survival mode, currently at No. 3 among 4 AVPs.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">My concern is that our EVP has been threatening me that he will dissolve our group if we don’t increase sales. As a result, we feel tremendous pressure almost every day, every week and every month.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">What do you think should I do? Although I am determined to fight, the “THREAT” is becoming worse. Please kindly advise me.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"> </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Thank you very much and i hope you can help me. God bless, more power and good luck!</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"> </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Sincerely yours,</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Threatened Abe </span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >My Response:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Thanks for avidly following my column for the past two years, Mr. Abe. I understand how pressure-filled Sales Jobs are and I hope that you'll be able to overcome your challenges and find abundance soon.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Regarding your work issues, allow me to share with you my thoughts...</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">From a relational perspective, it would be great if you can talk to your EVP and calmly explain to him that you understand how critical sales is for the company and that you are doing many things to increase sales. However, the approach (or "threat of dissolution") is becoming counter-productive to your sales team's morale. And that you would appreciate it very much if he'll try a different approach. Of course, you need to do this in such a way that he won't be offended or feel alienated by you.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">From an emotional perspective, it would be great if you can find some sort of stress release. I know Sales is highly stressful since you need to reach your quotas. Two of our own company's top sales people actually had a very difficult time getting the numbers during the start of this year and this almost paralyzed them. To solve the problem, one of them opened up to management and sought support. The other one took a short retreat to reenergize herself. With the help of our Mancomm and some smart changes in their sales routine, things eventually improved and they are back on track.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">From an HR perspective, I think it's wise to revisit the Employment Contract you signed with the company, as well as the company policies for Termination as it pertains to Sales People. Much of your protection will come from what type of employment you have, the provisions in your contract, the HR policies and processes in your company and the Philippine Labor Laws. Since a sales job is highly quantitative, much will be based on your sales results. Normally, verbal warnings are the first steps for disciplinary action. Written warnings carry more weight and these are actually needed for an employer to terminate employees if due process is to be followed.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Meanwhile, I think it's not yet too late. You still have your job. The real estate industry has been booming for the past few years. You can still focus and concentrate on generating more sales, despite the threat.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-family:arial;" >Motivating Employees</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">I wish I could talk to Mr. Abe’s boss and point out that his “threatening” approach is de-motivating his people. Since I don’t really know him, allow me to use this column to reach out to the bosses out there. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Fear is a potent tool. Its powers can motivate people to move, but it could just as easily demoralize people. I personally would only use it as a last resort. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">The job of every boss is not just about pushing people to do what they want. Great bosses take the time to understand what drives their people and figure out what buttons to push to positively impact their subordinates. They also arm their people with the means and tools to let them achieve. They push, encourage, guide and support others be great at what they do. </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-83483753106560299952011-06-22T15:53:00.002+08:002011-06-22T17:55:44.153+08:00HEALTHCARE OPTIONS<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-family: arial;">[Published in Manila Bulletin last June 2011]</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">In my last article, I talked about medical crisis and how you can take charge of your health and cushion yourself from exorbitant medical bills in case you get sick and hospitalized. (To read the article, you may check out my blog at http://hrclubonline.blogspot.com)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">This time, I'd like to discuss the healthcare plans and types available in the Philippines since shopping for a health card can get overwhelming and confusing. Here are some of the healthcare programs that are being offered in the market. I find that each type of plan has strong and weak points and choosing your plan will all depend on your budget and preference.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">SSS and Philhealth </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">If there are items in my pay slip that I'm more than willing to get deductions for, these would be at the top of my list. SSS provides maternity benefits, sick benefits and even a small pension as long as you pass their requirements. I personally have had the privilege of using my maternity benefit this year and it was a big help. Philhealth also provides you a sizable discount off your hospital bills so it made my hospital stay more affordable.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Both the employer and employee are legally required to give shared contributions for these funds. Your HR or Accounting Department will process payment for you so it's pretty easy to join and maintain membership. Be sure to go and get your SSS and Philhealth ID so that you can avail of the benefits. It is also prudent to check if your company is indeed remitting your payments to these agencies. There are a few irresponsible companies out there who deduct SSS and Philhealth contributions from their employees' pay slips but fail to remit them to the right agencies.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Although our SSS and Philhealth benefits will help us during a medical crisis, more often than not, they are not enough. So to protect themselves, employers and individuals enroll in extra healthcare programs that are offered by insurance companies. There are various healthcare plans and types out there and if you are seriously interested in getting a health plan for you, your family or employees, be sure to research and do due diligence. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">HMO - Health Maintenance Organization </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">When you become a policy-holder of an HMO, you get access to their network which consists of hundreds of doctors, clinics and hospitals. You also can avail of the network's medical services with no cash outlay. This means that when you go visit an accredited doctor or get hospitalized, all you have to do is present your card and follow procedures, but you won't have to spend as long as costs are within you maximum benefit. This type of plan usually covers in-patient and out-patient services. Dental services and personal accident insurance are optional.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Medical Insurance</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Not all doctors are created equal. Some are really just better. If you are like me who take time and great effort to find great doctors with experience and good bedside manners, then you may want to get a healthcare plan that allows you to choose your own doctor. Most Medical Insurance Plans allow this, but they are usually reimbursement type. This means that you will still have to put up the money to pay your doctor, but you can reimburse from the insurance company later on as long as you follow their process and requirements. Some Medical Insurance companies offer flexibility and let you choose coverage. You can go with basic in-patient and you can just add on outpatient, dental and others. There are even plans that let you add on an HMO component which offers access to their medical services network without cash outlay.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">HMO with Pension</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">There are also some companies who offer combination plans wherein you pay premiums for several years with a locked-in arrangement. You get access to their network of doctors, clinics and hospitals with no cash outlay. Then after a certain number of years, you get a portion of your money back. The money back feature is an attractive offer, but rates are a little bit higher initially. It's worth a look if you have extra cash to spare.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Hospital Confinement Insurance</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">If you get hospitalized, you are faced with many issues. Aside from the medical bills you have to pay, you also will lose the opportunity to earn income. The purpose of this type of insurance is to give you an allowance during your period of hospital confinement. It is supposed to supplement you income loss. Some plans offer money back guarantee while other's don't.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">There are many other types of Insurance that will suit your needs. These are just some of them. If you want to invest in healthcare insurance plans, be sure to research, investigate and ask other plan-holders. Read the policy very well. Ask about pre-existing conditions (if you don't know what this means, ask the agent to explain as this is a crucial point). Know and understand the benefits and limitations of your plan before you plunk your hard-earned money on it. The last thing you want when you are in a medical crisis is to be denied coverage. So read and ask a lot of questions.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">I hope this article has shed a little light on important features of healthcare plans. If you are a jobseeker, don’t just look at how much salary you will get, but check if the company provides healthcare benefits. If your company offers healthcare, be very grateful. If they don't, consider getting a plan for yourself or your family. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">We all work really hard to earn and save money. A single disease can easily wipe us out. So take charge of your health and finances while you are still healthy.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-89957221781752145522011-06-22T15:49:00.002+08:002011-06-22T15:52:49.099+08:00MEDICAL CRISIS<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-family: arial;">[Published in Manila Bulletin last June 2011]</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">When illness strikes, it could be very devastating to any hardworking person. Medical bills can wipe out your entire savings. If your disease is contagious or debilitating, you will be asked to stop working for awhile and this means loss of income for a critical period in time. And if you are the breadwinner in your family, you can just imagine how this will impact your loved ones who depend on you. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Let me share with you the experience of one reader and the issues he is faced with during his illness...</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;">Dear Ms. Jhoanna,</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">I was recently diagnosed with Pneumonia. At first, my company allowed me to take a break for a few weeks to recover. But I got hospitalized and during that time, it was discovered that I also contracted tuberculosis. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">My medical bills reached Php95,000 and I did not have enough money to pay the hospital so I asked my employer if they could help. They provided financial aid as well as a salary loan, but it's not enough to cover my hospital expenses. Our HR manager then suggested that we go for termination due to prolonged illness with an option to reapply to the company when I get better. She said, this way, I can get a separation pay. I agreed to this, but they are asking me now to submit a medical report, as well as sign a quit claim before they release the money. I'm very stressed right now and I can't help but feel paranoid with all the paperwork they are letting me sign. Is this really necessary?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Honestly, I feel very depressed. I have spent years working so hard trying to save up but I'll have to spend it all to pay for my medical bills. It's so unfair! I'm sick. I can't work. I don't have money. How can hardworking people like me move up in life? What can I do to improve my situation?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">From, </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Kevin</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;">My response:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">I'm sorry to hear about your illness and I sincerely hope that you will get well soon. It is normal to feel emotional distress when you are physically ill, not to mention the pressure of being faced with a steep medical bill. But do know that this too will pass, so hang in there.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Based from your letter, I think your company is pretty decent as they have provided you medical assistance and salary loan. They are also willing to give you separation pay as well as give you a job when you get better, so you can at least get some relief and not worry about job opportunities for the time-being, while you are recovering.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">The paperwork is necessary. Legally, if a company is terminating an employee due to prolonged illness, a medical report must be submitted and this must be issued by a duly authorized public health officer. It is also prudent for companies to document all things related to termination. Efficient HR practitioners will normally ask you to sign a salary release, clearance and quit claim form. So just read the documents properly and sign, if everything is in order.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">As an optimistic person, I don't really enjoy talking about sickness, disability or even death. But I know that Illness can strike anyone regardless of race, educational attainment and economic status. So for my peace of mind, I've chosen to face these issues head on and find ways to protect me and my family from these types of crisis. I urge everyone to do the same.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">To protect yourself and your family against illness-related disasters and to cushion the financial blow that comes with it, take the time and effort to...</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Invest in Health</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">In the movie "Tanging Ina", Ms. Ai Ai says: "Ang batang masipag, paglaki... pagod," (A kid who works hard, grows up to become... tired!). Many people who work hard, do just that---work hard. In the midst of all that hard work, they forget to eat properly, to rest well and to do the right kind of exercise. So they end up working hard for money, then they get sick and lose the money they earned while working hard in the first place! It's a vicious cycle that needs to be stopped. The best way to prevent illness-related blows is to stay healthy. Eat if you have to eat. Take a break if you need to rest. Wash your hands often to avoid bacteria and viruses. If you get sick, stay home until you get better. Don't ever act like a martyr by forcing yourself to go to work when you are seriously ill or worse, contagious. Other people might catch what you have and they won't be happy about it. Learn to work smarter, not harder. You will become healthier and happier in the long-run.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Invest in Affordable Health Insurance</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Honestly, today's medical costs can give you a heart-attack. Depending on the illness and treatment required, bills can run from thousands to millions. Your SSS and Philhealth membership will help a bit, so make sure your contributions are up to date. If your company provides healthcare or HMO, good for you. It will help pay for your hospitalization in case you get confined. But if your company does not provide this benefit, you can proactively research and look for an affordable plan for you and your family (or even get free healthcare if you're a Makati resident with that magic yellow card). </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">See, companies are not required by law to give healthcare benefits aside from SSS and Philhealth. So they are not legally bound to cover your medical costs. Employers will pay you for your day's work. They are responsible for providing good working conditions, but they are not accountable for your health. In other words, you are ultimately responsible in taking care of yourself.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Hardworking people must not just work hard, but more importantly, they should live smart. Take care of your health and finances now, because nobody else will do it for you. Stay healthy!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-248606567885517072011-06-22T15:43:00.000+08:002011-06-22T15:48:16.232+08:00JOB HUNTING ETIQUETTE<span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">[Published in Manila Bulletin last May 2011]</span></span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">Last week, a group of new graduates dropped by our office and asked if there were any job vacancies. Our receptionist told them that they can leave their resumes and she’ll hand it to the HR department. Surprisingly, they did not have any resumes with them--- Yikes! This is like entering a battlefield without any weapons! </span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">One of them, however, volunteered to come back on the same day since his house is near our office. So he rushed to get his resume and came back within an hour. When our receptionist asked for his resume, he took out his USB memory stick and said it was inside. He then asked if he could have it printed in our office--- Double yikes! This is like asking your opponent to make your weapon for you! </span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">Our receptionist nicely informed him that she cannot do that for him. He’ll have to bring a printed copy to our office if he wants to drop off his resume and apply. So he went down to the print shop, had his resume printed and went back to submit it. He was then given a job application form to fill out. Then he asked our receptionist, “Can I borrow your pen?” --- Triple yikes! This is like bringing a weapon without bullets!</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">When I heard about this, I couldn’t help but be amused, but I also felt sad. Obviously, these new graduates were not trained well for job hunting. This lack of training will hamper their quest for a good job and it will waste their time, effort and resources.</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">So for those of you, who have not been given good guidance on job hunting, let me share some basic etiquette and tips that will make your job hunting more efficient and let you appear more professional. </span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Send a Message When You Email Resumes</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">If you want to apply via email, be sure to type in a short message indicating your intention of applying for a particular position. This shows that you can communicate in a professional manner and with proper etiquette. More importantly, the recruitment officer will immediately know what position you are interested in, which will then minimize the guess work. If you just attach your resume and send the email without a message, there’s a chance that your application might be misplaced or ignored. Some recruitment officers immediately delete resumes without cover letters or email messages. So better be safe than sorry.</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Bring Your Job Hunting Kit</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">Prepare a job hunting kit or clear book with copies of your resume, transcript of records, medical certificate, NBI clearance, ID photos and pens. If you have a portfolio of projects that you have been involved in, add that to the kit. </span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">When you get called in for an interview, bring this kit. You will find it very handy particularly if the recruitment officer didn’t print a copy of your emailed resume. Plus, it will save you the trouble of going back and forth like the young graduate mentioned above who tried to apply in our company.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: arial;"></span><br /> <span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Bring a Presentable Resume</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">Back in my time, we submitted printed resumes on crisp linen paper with a neat folder or envelop. If you can spend a little on nice paper, you can still do this so that your resume can stand out from the pile of resumes that recruitment officers go through. But skip the perfume or make sure that your paper does not smell of moth balls. I swear, whenever I encounter a resume that has a strong scent, I get a headache.</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Research about the Company You are Applying For</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">Before you go for an interview, it will help to know what the company does. You can easily do this by googling and checking out the website of the company. While you are at it, you can even formulate smart questions that you can ask the interviewer. This will show the recruitment officer that you take time to prepare and get to know potential employers. It proves that you are not just interested in getting any job, but you are seriously interested in the company that you will eventually work for. </span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Dress in Smart Business Casual Attire</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">How you should dress for an interview depends on the company and position you are applying for. If you are applying in a traditional organization, better dress in conservative business attire. If you are applying in a dynamic and youthful organization, you can dress in more relaxed attire, but be sure you look presentable in decent clothing. If you are commuting, it is also best to bring a grooming or “kikay” kit. Bring a small towel or even an extra shirt to wipe off your sweat and other grooming aids that you can use to freshen up. You should always look your best when you want to impress.</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Confident Handshake and Warm Greeting</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">If you are not yet comfortable shaking hands with people because you have never really done so in school, it is time to learn now. Practice shaking people’s hands with a moderately strong grip. Be sure to smile so that you will warm up the interviewer. If it helps, do this in front of a mirror. </span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">Also, be polite when addressing people. If for instance, the name of the interviewer is Anne. Call her Ms. Anne to show respect.</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Thank you</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">After the interview, if you want to be remembered, you can send a text or email message thanking the interviewer for the time and opportunity. People used to do this back in the old days. It’s called courtesy. But this practice is so uncommon nowadays, that you are sure to make an impression with this simple effort.</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Minding Your Manners</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">Recruitment officers do not just look at the skills and educational background of job applicants. They also look at the attitude and breeding of a person which is apparent in one’s etiquette. So don’t forget to mind your manners all the time!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-65000633571990643042011-06-22T15:39:00.002+08:002011-06-22T15:42:29.269+08:00CAREER CHOICES<span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;">[Published in Manila Bulletin last May 2011]</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">At some point in time, you will be faced with major choices that will greatly impact your life. One of the critical decisions that you will have to make is your line of work. The question you will be faced is: What do you want to do with your life? </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Most of us are faced with this decision at the end of our high school years when it is time to choose our major in college. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">There are some very lucky people who know exactly what they want. For instance, at a very young age my brother already knew that he wanted to be an architect. He pursued it and has been highly successful in his chosen career. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Some people (like me) choose careers based on their interests and talents. They are not sure what exactly they will be when they grow up but they know in general what they like to do. So they choose careers where they can apply themselves and discover what’s in store for them in the process.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Yet, there are those who are not able to make a decision for a number of reasons. Some are simply clueless on what they want to be, some follow what’s in demand at the moment, while others are pressured into courses that their parents want for them. So they walk through a path of uncertainty and only find out later on if the career they have pursued is something they really like or not.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Now let me ask you, dear readers, how did you choose your career? Do you believe you made the right choice? Have you found satisfaction and success in your chosen career?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">I recently received an email from a reader asking for advice about her choice of career. Let me share her issues with you so that we can all learn from her situation:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;">Dear Ms. Jhoanna,</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">I have been job hunting for the longest time. I have been waiting already for five years of nothing but continuous applications. Although I’d occasionally be called in for interviews, I cannot seem to land the job that I want. I get job interviews and exams, but when it is time to decide whether they are going to hire me, they would always not accept me.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">See, my problem is that I graduated with a major in accounting from a prestigious school. But I dislike accounting, so my past work experiences are rather short. During interviews, I’d be asked why I had not stayed long enough with the companies that I have worked for. It is a reasonable question. But the fact is, I dislike accounting, hence the change of jobs. It would not have been the same if I graduated with a Masscom degree and I did the job I liked.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">All throughout my young years, twenties and even early thirties, I disliked accounting and I wanted a job as a reporter. I sent resumes to networks but of course, there are tons who do the same. Since I’m not a MassCom graduate, how would they recognize me from the pile of resumes?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">I just feel that maybe if I pursued Masscom in college, i would have a much different life than the life of unemployment that I have right now. It has been difficult. I haven’t had income since 2004 and I only rely on the Php200 allowance that I get from my Mom. I cannot overspend because my mom wouldn’t have budget for it. I know it sounds so little for someone whose got resources but the continuous rejections in jobs has amounted me to this. I really hope you could comment. </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Sometimes, it is just too hard, I guess. But I believe there are solutions. I would always plan, meaning plan to get hired and they wouldn't hire me. So there comes a point when I lose hope in ever having a job again. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">I was hoping you could somehow give me a suggestion as to how I could get hired by companies again. I am not as young as before. At this point, I’ll take any job. Right now, I am entertaining call center jobs and have a couple of interviews with them this week. When it comes to accounting jobs, I would always get bypassed.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Thanks, and appreciate your help.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Sincerely,</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Jobseeker-reader</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;">My Response:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Thanks for sharing your job hunting experience. All of us eventually make major decisions that greatly impact our lives. Some of those decisions will be good ones, while others may be bad. The good decisions are easy to see as it brings success and happiness while the bad ones may cause regret and frustration---BUT, the important question is this: If you make a wrong decision, does it follow that you are doomed to a life of failure and misery?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">I think not. There are many roads that one can take in one's lifetime. We all have choices to make. If you take one road and feel that it's not right for you, you are not doomed. You can always turn left on the next stop, make a U-turn or go on a detour. It's not your choice of course that's holding you back, so try not to fall into the "What-If" trap. Instead, take what you can out of your learning in college and apply it in your life.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Since you have been out of work for a long time, I do suggest that you make an inventory of your skills, talents, knowledge and experience. Don’t limit yourself with your college major. HR practitioners do not just look at your educational attainment, they want to know your capabilities. Then check out all your job options whether it be freelance, part-time, full-time or even voluntary work. This will give you the chance to get reacquainted with work-life. It will put you in touch with people and open up opportunities. Making a living will boost your confidence. Whether it's your dream job or not, it doesn't matter at this point. You just need to get your feet wet again. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Stop making excuses from the past. Each day brings an opportunity to make better choices. It is time to take charge of your career!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-47590967234820774592011-06-22T15:32:00.001+08:002011-06-22T15:35:52.181+08:00Leadership Motivation: Are You Ready for a Promotion?<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-family: arial;">[Published in Manila Bulletin last April 2011]</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Do you want to get promoted? Believe it or not, not everyone wants to be promoted to a position of leadership or as a supervisor or manager in the company they work for. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">I observed this during my consultancy project with a top retail company for their Management Trainee Program. The employer wanted to give deserving salespeople a chance to move up by promoting them as supervisors. So their HR department set up a much publicized program wherein people can either volunteer on their own or be selected by their superiors to attend the company’s leadership training program which was a prerequisite to getting promoted.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Interestingly, most of the participants for the program were nominated by their managers. Not one volunteered to get into the program for a chance at moving up the ranks. This prompted the employer to ask: Why didn’t our people grab the chance of rising above the ranks? Don’t they want to get promoted to a position that pays higher? Do they lack the ambition? </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">This is where our consulting team stepped in. Before running a series of intensive leadership training workshops to develop the supervisorial skills of the attendees, we conducted a Training Needs Analysis to find out what the sentiments of the nominated attendees were about possibly taking on a new role as a supervisor. We needed to know if they were willing participants, since the success of the program hinged on how eager they were in becoming leaders.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">DESIRE TO LEAD</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">See, the first and most basic prerequisite for leadership is the desire to lead. After all, becoming an effective leader takes dedication and commitment. It presents many challenges that you will have to face. If you're not prepared to work hard at developing your leadership skills or if, deep down, you're really not sure whether you are leadership material or not, you'll struggle with the new role. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">In line with this, let me ask our dear readers… How ambitious are you? Do you want to be promoted as a supervisor or manager in your company? If your employer offered a similar program wherein you can volunteer to attend a required seminar to get the chance of moving up the ranks, would you volunteer?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">If you answered YES to these questions, then good for you. You have a healthy dose of ambition and you are willing to step out of your comfort zone to move up in life. If, however, you answered NO, let’s see what’s holding you back. Could it be any of the reasons below?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">BARRIERS TO LEADERSHIP </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">When we surveyed the selected employees of the top retail company, we did uncover some apprehensions and fearful attitudes about becoming a leader. Here are some of the common barriers that prevent people from embracing leadership.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;">Insecurity</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Some people do not embrace positions of leadership because they are not confident that people will follow them or they feel they are not deserving of the position. In the case of the salespeople I mentioned earlier, some of them felt they are not capable because they are not college graduates. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Although education helps, I believe you don’t have to be a college graduate or have the pedigree to become a good leader. Instead, an eager learning mind and a mature understanding of people will push you to the right direction. Leadership skills can be learned and developed. If you believe in yourself, other people will believe in you too.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;">More Responsibility</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Some people do not want to become a supervisor or manager because of the added responsibilities attached to a promotion. A position of leadership means that you will be overseeing people under you. For a lot of people, this is no easy feat so why bother with the added work?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">The answer is it will make you grow---not just professionally, but also mentally and emotionally. The more you experience dealing with different personalities and situations, the better you will become as a person and the higher your chances of success in life. Having to manage people is a challenging feat, but you will enjoy the rewards if you learn to manage your team well. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;">Peer Pressure</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Some people are hesitant to become leaders because they are afraid that their friends and colleagues will hold it against them or treat them differently. When you get promoted as a supervisor or manager, the dynamics of your relationship with your co-workers instantly changes especially if they become your subordinates. You will have to give them orders and correct them if they make mistakes. While they may be used to you as a work-buddy, they will have to adjust to you as their new “boss”. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">I understand that this can be unnerving for most people, but I don’t think you should let it stop you from getting ahead in life. There are smart ways and means to rally your co-workers to support you as a leader which we cover in our training workshops. All it takes is a little savvy and an effective technique to prevent power-struggles with your peers.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">BENEFITS OF LEADERSHIP </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">The above are just some of the issues that people wrestle with, but the benefits far outweigh the momentary difficulties of mastering the art of leadership. For one thing, a promotion means an increase in income and benefits which your family will enjoy. Aside from the financial rewards, your professional growth as a supervisor or manager in your company starts the wheel for greater achievement not just for yourself but the people around you. You become a better person because you build courage which you can bring with you for the rest of your life. But before you can become a good leader and get a promotion, you must first have the desire to lead.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1597272229659346929.post-18824266191659524332011-06-22T15:22:00.000+08:002011-06-22T15:28:59.513+08:00FINDING OJT WORK<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-family: arial;">[Published in Manila Bulletin last March 2011]</span></span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">Way back in my college years, we had all sorts of programs to prepare us for work in the real world. Our university required us to participate in practicum, thesis and OJT programs. And I must say, I learned a lot from these experiences. It was a good way to hone my skills and get a taste of the work environment. I’m glad that these sorts of programs are still being done today.</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">Recently, I received a Facebook message from a junior college student inquiring about OJT work. Here is a shortened version of his letter:</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">Hi Ms. Jhoanna,</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">I’m already at the junior year of my collegiate studies and as we approach our senior year, we are preparing for our OJT that should take place on the first semester of the next school year. We are not that rich that’s why I’m looking for a company that could help us to be exposed and be trained on the real jobs in the industry with a program that could help us pay for our tuition and daily expenses. Whoa, I thought it was easy to find companies who offer such things but it’s hard to find an attainable OJT program. Some of our schoolmates have even gone through bad experiences wherein they are the ones who are paying the company for their OJT program and yet they do not get to learn from the job. Our university has many partnering companies for the OJT of its students but they do not have the contact details for those companies. So I looked for the contact details myself and sent emails to some but only one replied. How could we now achieve our longed OJT when the local college can’t help further? </span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">That is why I’m writing to you to ask for recommendations and other things we should do. I am looking forward to any advice that you can extend to us. Thank you for accommodating my inquiry and GOD bless you. ---J. Augustin, La Union</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">WAYS AND MEANS OF FINDING OJT WORK</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">To J. Augustin of La Union and other college students who are seeking OJT work: Welcome to the Real World! </span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">Finding OJT work is very similar to job-hunting for regular employment after college. Even if your university has “partner companies” for OJT programs or Career Placement Offices, you will most likely still have to search and apply for a company that has a good OJT program that pays. </span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">As you hunt for OJT work, you will get to experience and learn job-hunting skills. Yes, not all companies offer OJT programs with allowances, but there are some who do. So do your best to find them and learn as much as you can from the process as the skills that you will learn will help you later on when you are actually looking for a job after you graduate.</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">So let me give you some tips on how you can find OJT work that pays:</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Google It</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">This has become my all-time solution for finding things: Looking for something? Google it! And it definitely applies to job-hunting. There are many companies who provide OJT work opportunities in the Philippines. Some of them are multinational firms, but there are also small-medium enterprises (SMEs) who provide OJT work that gives out allowances or per diem. This is the first thing I did after reading your letter and I immediately found a website portal in the Philippines that publishes OJT work opportunities online for BPO companies and other industries.</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Connections</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">Use your contacts. Ask your relatives, friends and teachers if they know of OJT work opportunities. Perhaps they can give you referrals. Better yet, if you know of relatives and friends who own businesses, offer them your services. When I was in college, I found part-time work from my seatmate whose family owned a manufacturing firm. After college, I immediately found work through one of my professors who worked for an entertainment firm. When it comes to jobs, just seek and you shall find.</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial; color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-weight: bold;">Apply for It</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">Similar to job-hunting, you will have to send in your application. When doing so, observe proper email etiquette. Write an email message about the details of your OJT program and the skills that you have that the company can utilize, aside from attaching your resume. This will make you stand out among other OJT applicants who typically just attach resumes without any message at all. A few years back, I received an email from a college student who was applying for OJT work. At that time, my company was not looking for trainees nor did we even have an OJT program. But I was so impressed with the applicant’s email and skills (she had an online website resume) that convinced me that I had to have her. So I started an OJT program just so that I could get her even for a short period of time. She didn’t ask to be paid, but we gave her an allowance because she deserved it. </span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Ask for Recommendation Letters</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">A good university OJT program provides support for their students, either by matching them with companies in need of OJTs or at least providing authorization or recommendation letters. The first OJT trainee that I got attached a recommendation letter from her professor as well, so it formalized and authenticated her application. These documents are optional but they help.</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">It’s a Job</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">When applying for work, whether it’s OJT or regular employment, show the employer the skills that you have that will help their company instead of just telling them that you want the OJT program to provide you with the best learning experience. Employers are busy running the day-to-day operations of their business. Most do not have the time to train students who will only be there for a short period of time and leave after 300 hours. That is why not all employers are willing to pay for OJT work. However, if you can show them that you’ve got skills that can really help them, they may seriously consider hiring you as OJT with pay like what I did. </span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: arial;">See, OJT work is a job. You may be in it to learn, but business people and employers pay for work and performance. So ask not what the employer can do for you, but ask what you can do for your employer. That’s how you can find OJT work that pays!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1