It was in January 2009 when I started to apply for a job. I underwent several interviews and exams around Makati and Ortigas area. At first, I really don’t know what I was looking for. I applied for different positions such as HR assistant, events coordinator, marketing and sales representative and many more. For me, job description was not a problem because I can learn to do anything. My reasons for choosing my current company which is exeqserve are very simple: 1. It is a young company, and I can envision myself contributing to its growth. 2. The people, they are warm and friendly it almost feels like home. And that is the most important factor to me. I value relationships and I value people. When you become my friend you will be my friend for life, no matter where you are in the world I would always stay in touch and greet you or even sing to you a happy birthday. Everyone in exeQserve has contributed a big part of my growth as an HR professional. This job is not just an ordinary job for me it is my second home and that’s why it deserves the first spot here in my 2009 highlights. Salamat ng marami to my exeQserve family!
2. My first pay check
It is more than just a paycheck. It symbolized my independence and my first reward being in the HR industry. It is not the amount that mattered but the sense of fulfillment it brings. For me it is the start of my promising career in HR and especially in training. Some of my friends in business ask me why do, I have to enter the rat race where in fact I am already out and just doing a very profitable business. Well, the answer is we have different values and I think I value accomplishment and contribution in an established industry more than just earning money. The business is good and I will continue doing it part time but it will not replace the feeling I get from training and corporate job. The success in nu skin is international but limited only to its people and to those who understand what a blue diamond or team elite is. It is it far different from improving and making a mark in the Philippine HR industry. But that is just me. I don’t know what works for you.
3. My first time to a run training under exeQserve
This is one of my favorite highlights for 2009. Before I used to run trainings only for my mom’s management team or in school, they say I’m good but I don’t really know if that was true or maybe they’re just saying that because my mom’s their boss. This training was truly memorable. It affirmed that I have talent in public speaking. Though of course, I know I have a lot of things to improve and a lot more books to read. Thank you Ed for allowing me to do this under the corporate name, I will always be grateful.
4. My first TM speech
It meant game on! TM or Toastmaster’s Club is an avenue to improve our public speaking skills. At first, I couldn’t commit to it since I have prior commitments to my biz. Finally, I had the time to do it. And it will definitely take my training skills to the next level. I’m so excited to give my next speech and to practice more with impromptu speeches.
5. New mentors
In life it is important that you have a mentor, someone who will guide you and enrich not only your knowledge but also your life by sharing their wisdom and life experiences. I have several mentors in med school and from college. I am thankful for them for they have molded me into who I am today. But the learning never stops as people continue to be so generous to me. Like my TM mentor Gege Sugue. First time I met her, I didn’t speak to her in English because she was known to be the grammar police. I am so afraid to commit unforgivable grammar crimes. But she was so warm and supportive. Her passion and burning desire to help people inspires me. And also, Ed Ebreo our president and general manager who gives me a lot opportunity to hone my skills is also a mentor to me. His integrity amazes me because that is also one of my values. He will always choose to do the right thing. And lastly, to Christine though we might always have a different perspective on things I sure learned a lot from you as well.
6. New friends
Thank you for making this year fun and exciting! Having new friends never fails to brighten my day. You all are worth keeping. Donna, Tina, Hersh, Loren, Mike, Gino, Phao, Che, Shayne and also our managers Christine and Christopher. Thanks for the 2009 memories.
7. My first trip abroad with friends
Wow! That trip will be in my heart forever. So many memories to keep, like the time we were lost and out of nowhere. No English speaking people until the students and the tour guide came. The time when we were walking forever in the streets of HK, finding where the lights and sound show is after which we still went shopping. My feet, legs and back hurt so bad that I had to verbally motivate my body parts to move. The Pringles on bread with butter dinner and the free hotel buffet super breakfast, lunch and snack in one at 10am and the team of sausages and hard roll going in our zip-lock for “baon”. The special Halloween treat at Disneyland and the haunted house that is just like in “big bang sa alabang and boom na boom” the only difference is that we don’t understand what the monsters are saying. The breath taking view on top of the Macau Tower, the casinos and the Venetian is the best! The learning and memories of this trip was priceless!
8. Watching the lights and sound show in Ayala triangle
It reminded me of my childhood Christmases. It was comparable to HK’s light and sound show or even better because it is closer to the heart. It felt good to be there and to see so much improvement with that place. Good job Makati Government!
9. Discovering my true strength.
Yes it was this year I realized what my true strength is. That is public speaking. Running training felt so good, just like the taste of ice cream on a hot summer day. For me it felt effortless unlike when I was in med school. I had to study really hard, stay up late and read a paragraph twice before I can truly understand. But right now it is light and fun! I want to get better and better. Since high school I enjoyed reading my mom’s books on management. I never knew it was going to be for this. All the while I thought I was preparing myself to become a doctor but the reality is I have been preparing all my life to be a trainer.
10. Supposedly meeting “the one” but I guess I have to reserve that for next year’s highlights.
