When a staff worked hours beyond the normal office hours, he should received overtime pay, right?
Yes and no. Yes if he is required. No if he is plainly killing time at the office, and OT wasn't approved by the direct head.
When I was just a newbie at an audit firm, we were told not to overshoot the budgetted working hours for a particular client. If you worked in an audit firm, you'd know how it is during busy season. Work 16 to 20 hours, yet claim ony 3 hours overtime. Or to some extent, claim nothing at all. Martyrs, eh!
When I joined another company after audit life, I thought my job would be easier. It wasn't. In fact, I spent more hours at work as compared to my previous job at the audit firm. And so I made efforts to fix the system and hired competent people. After a few months, nobody from our group stayed beyond office hours. How's that for the manager?
When I arrived here in Manila, I also noticed that plenty of my staff were doing OT work. I asked them about their family life, and what they do other than work. I learned that they also longed to go home but because of the volume of their work, they have to stay and render overtime. It seemed that everybody were resigned to the idea that they have no option left but to render overtime. Their head, was also staying late. And this is what I noticed:
1. The manager gave the staff reason to work OT
2. Free meals with no limit
3. Late afternoon instructions, with the 'urgent' tag, when actually, it can be done the next day.
4. Lack of planning on the part of the supervisor and manager
Having started from the associate position, I know why I wanted to work OT. And these are some of the reasons:
1. OT pay is good.
2. There's no reason to hurry for home.
3. Free meals
4. It's traffic at 5pm. Leaving at 8pm or at a later time is much better.
5. There are those who gauge one's dedication by the number of hours spent at work
6. Your co-workers have become your friends
7. Work is fun.
From management's point of view, this I also learned from experience, that there must be something wrong with the department if people there put in lots of overtime hours. It could be a problem of efficiency and lack of proper planning. One has to change the mindset of the department head when it comes to overtime work.
From the top, we went to the middle. We had the supervisor check the job description of each associate and compare it with their actual work. How much time will the supervisor need if he's the one doing the associate's staff? Is he going to do it differently? These are some questions we asked. After a week, the supervisor reported that we need one more staff, then the others will no longer have to work OT.
Today, my department has lowest number of OT hours. And on most nights, I am the only one left from my department.
Showing posts with label Career. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Career. Show all posts
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
Is It the Coffee?
I drank more than five cups of instant coffee today. Tough meetings and those number-crunching jobs made me thirst for these caffeine-powered drinks. It made me stay awake even at this 3:50 AM.I am not on night shift. I was never on a night shift. There is no night shift in my present job. But you know what accountants do on the first week of every month -- closing of books, monthly reports and all that. We may go home past midnight but still have to report to work at 8am. "What a life!" if you might complain.
But I'm used to it, working on this same situation when I started out at PWC at age 20. 14 years later and many steps up in the corporate ladder, it is still the same.
It is still the same 3-in-1 coffee that filled my cup, satisfied my lips, and kept me awake. Maybe I should try tea next time.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Shortage of Accountancy Graduates
Is there a shortage of BS Accountancy graduates? It’s been a few years now that we’ve been having difficulty in hiring accounting graduates. Is it just us? An ex-colleague of mine also complained about the same. She finds it hard to hire a bookkeeper. When you go to job websites, there are also plenty of job openings for accounting graduates.
The CPA board exam has started last Sunday. By Tuesday or Wednesday next week, we will already know the May 2009 CPA board exam results and list of passers. A few thousand more will join the rank of the CPAs. I am sure that they will not be left jobless for more than a month. That unless if they decide to rest for a while, or take up law right after passing the board.
Maybe this could also be attributed to the raised standards. You see, some schools impose departmental exams for every level. Aside from that, they require grades of not less than 2.0 in a major subject. The PRC stops the offering of certain schools for BS Accountancy courses if they fail to produce a CPA after a few years of existence.
And perhaps it can also because of the draw of the Nursing field. Every highschooler dreamed of Nursing and all the dollars it can bring. But the reality is, Filipino CPAs abroad have higher pay than Nurses.
The CPA board exam has started last Sunday. By Tuesday or Wednesday next week, we will already know the May 2009 CPA board exam results and list of passers. A few thousand more will join the rank of the CPAs. I am sure that they will not be left jobless for more than a month. That unless if they decide to rest for a while, or take up law right after passing the board.
Maybe this could also be attributed to the raised standards. You see, some schools impose departmental exams for every level. Aside from that, they require grades of not less than 2.0 in a major subject. The PRC stops the offering of certain schools for BS Accountancy courses if they fail to produce a CPA after a few years of existence.
And perhaps it can also because of the draw of the Nursing field. Every highschooler dreamed of Nursing and all the dollars it can bring. But the reality is, Filipino CPAs abroad have higher pay than Nurses.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
How Can I Leave Cebu?
How can I leave Cebu? As I've said before, I'm not good at moving, and specially if I leave behind people close to my heart.
The first day of September would have been the appointed day. But I had some doubts as to the intent of this move. I too doubted my own intent, having formed so many alternative plans in my mind. This is a challenge ahead of me, I kept repeating that to myself. And I really wanted to believe that.
So I had my annual medical checkup middle of August There was a not so good news from the doctor, and I was given some prescription medicines. At 32, I should not have these cholesterol and uric acid levels. I emailed my bosses citing medical problems and buying some more time to delay my transfer. There were also other matters, both work and personal, to attend to.
They said it's fine, and were not in a hurry too. Ok, I felt relieved, but as the day nears, I really don't feel comfortable anymore.
The first time I left Cebu for a period longer than 6 months was when I was 5. I spent my first grade in a remote baranggay in Mindanao. I remembered how I missed my parents and my sisters. I cried almost every night on the first few weeks. I really wanted to quit school and return to Cebu. My wish was not granted. I stayed on and finished the first grade before moving back to Cebu.
At this time, I know that I should be ready and that Cebu is just a temporary dwelling. If I want to become a global citizen I should look beyond my hometown, and consider relocation as a normal event of existence. When asked by my friends and colleagues about my impeding transfer, I just smiled and said, "I'll be there in due time.".
A long time friend and mentor of mine said these words that pierced deep into me. "Whereever you will be, just continue to let your light shine and be a blessing to others."
The first day of September would have been the appointed day. But I had some doubts as to the intent of this move. I too doubted my own intent, having formed so many alternative plans in my mind. This is a challenge ahead of me, I kept repeating that to myself. And I really wanted to believe that.
So I had my annual medical checkup middle of August There was a not so good news from the doctor, and I was given some prescription medicines. At 32, I should not have these cholesterol and uric acid levels. I emailed my bosses citing medical problems and buying some more time to delay my transfer. There were also other matters, both work and personal, to attend to.
They said it's fine, and were not in a hurry too. Ok, I felt relieved, but as the day nears, I really don't feel comfortable anymore.
The first time I left Cebu for a period longer than 6 months was when I was 5. I spent my first grade in a remote baranggay in Mindanao. I remembered how I missed my parents and my sisters. I cried almost every night on the first few weeks. I really wanted to quit school and return to Cebu. My wish was not granted. I stayed on and finished the first grade before moving back to Cebu.
At this time, I know that I should be ready and that Cebu is just a temporary dwelling. If I want to become a global citizen I should look beyond my hometown, and consider relocation as a normal event of existence. When asked by my friends and colleagues about my impeding transfer, I just smiled and said, "I'll be there in due time.".
A long time friend and mentor of mine said these words that pierced deep into me. "Whereever you will be, just continue to let your light shine and be a blessing to others."
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Relocation Woes
I surveyed the map of Metro Manila. I checked the places I've been to. Monumento, SM North, Navotas, Sucat, Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, GreenHills, Makati, Tutuban and Luneta. I let my fingers run the streets and highways. From this point to that took me 40 minutes in a taxi. Here to there, took an hour.
Some things I'm considering when I'll look for a place to live in that big city. I know I should start looking by now. In a few weeks, I have to relocate. The house/apartment doesn't have to be big. Just enough for me and my wife. A garage is a must, or just any available parking space. Since I don't wake up early, I should find a place that can be traveled within 30 minutes from my workplace. It will probably be within the Parañaque and Las Piñas areas.
As to the budget, we don't really have a large budget for relocation. I rechecked our policies and it's really a small amount compared to what was mentioned by a friend who works for another company and is also going to be reassigned in Manila. Of course, we are in different industries.
I am not really good at moving. Perhaps this one is a good experience for us. I'm just thinking positively here.
Some things I'm considering when I'll look for a place to live in that big city. I know I should start looking by now. In a few weeks, I have to relocate. The house/apartment doesn't have to be big. Just enough for me and my wife. A garage is a must, or just any available parking space. Since I don't wake up early, I should find a place that can be traveled within 30 minutes from my workplace. It will probably be within the Parañaque and Las Piñas areas.
As to the budget, we don't really have a large budget for relocation. I rechecked our policies and it's really a small amount compared to what was mentioned by a friend who works for another company and is also going to be reassigned in Manila. Of course, we are in different industries.
I am not really good at moving. Perhaps this one is a good experience for us. I'm just thinking positively here.
Friday, July 11, 2008
A Bigger Challenge Ahead
There is a bigger challenge ahead of me. Careerwise, this is good. And my knees were not shaken, nor my heart beating fast when I first heard of the news, though informally. So many things/ideas/plans are swirling in my head right now. Plans here, plans there. These could not be another crossroad. I see myself as a catalyst for change, someone who comes from the outside, though basically from the inside. This could be a 'make or break' for me. I know it won't be easy.
I also have to relocate to a place I've been to many times but have not learned to fall in love with. My wife will join me a month after. That what she said but reluctant to actually transfer. "If it's a transfer then we'd better go abroad" she once said. She's a nurse, and I am a CPA. Plenty of foreign countries need us and are willing to pay more.
It's not that I don't want to go abroad. I want to. But we just have to wait for a little time. And there is a bigger challenge ahead of me now. May God give me the strength and wisdom!
I also have to relocate to a place I've been to many times but have not learned to fall in love with. My wife will join me a month after. That what she said but reluctant to actually transfer. "If it's a transfer then we'd better go abroad" she once said. She's a nurse, and I am a CPA. Plenty of foreign countries need us and are willing to pay more.
It's not that I don't want to go abroad. I want to. But we just have to wait for a little time. And there is a bigger challenge ahead of me now. May God give me the strength and wisdom!
Friday, February 01, 2008
Moving To A New Home
In an attempt to change profession and alter the course of our young accounting career, a friend and I took the local real estate brokers’ exam and explored the possibility of becoming realtors. Both of us took the top two places when the result was released but we stopped there. At least, we got ideas about the real property business.
A realtor or what we usually refer as a real estate agent or broker does not only sell subdivision lots or houses but they can also assist one who is relocating to a new city. This we learned in our review. This is not really a familiar transaction here in the Philippines but in the USA, you certainly need a realtor to assist you in buying homes or looking for a home for rent. Realtors have this extensive property listing that you don’t have to search the properties yourself. They can also assist you in the mortgage quote.
At NationalRelocation, they provide assistance to people who are relocating and are on the move. Moving to a new home would no longer be a hassle.
A realtor or what we usually refer as a real estate agent or broker does not only sell subdivision lots or houses but they can also assist one who is relocating to a new city. This we learned in our review. This is not really a familiar transaction here in the Philippines but in the USA, you certainly need a realtor to assist you in buying homes or looking for a home for rent. Realtors have this extensive property listing that you don’t have to search the properties yourself. They can also assist you in the mortgage quote.
At NationalRelocation, they provide assistance to people who are relocating and are on the move. Moving to a new home would no longer be a hassle.
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
Deleted Files
What if, after working long hours on payroll, the payroll clerk accidentally deleted the entire computer file a day before payday?
It’s actually one of the worst fears of management, and even to the person handling it. It would not be a problem if there are only a few employees. But what if you have hundreds or thousands of them? The affected personnel may complain (or even wage a strike) against management. They certainly don’t want a delay of their salary even for just a day.
Part of the every company’s contingency plan is risks management. File back-ups and physical security are considered, even the plans to recover deleted files. File-saver is a useful tool to aid persons and companies wanting to recover their deleted files. Check out http://www.file-saver.com/ now.
It’s actually one of the worst fears of management, and even to the person handling it. It would not be a problem if there are only a few employees. But what if you have hundreds or thousands of them? The affected personnel may complain (or even wage a strike) against management. They certainly don’t want a delay of their salary even for just a day.
Part of the every company’s contingency plan is risks management. File back-ups and physical security are considered, even the plans to recover deleted files. File-saver is a useful tool to aid persons and companies wanting to recover their deleted files. Check out http://www.file-saver.com/ now.
Friday, January 04, 2008
Holed In
It’s still the 4th of January and I am now on my 7th post for the year. What’s my hurry? The last two months I’ve been flooding this site with entries. I realized I really have to slow down, pause and catch my breath for a minute. There is really no hurry in writing blog posts. Those opps may not wait, but I don’t necessarily have to grab each of them. I’m taking this semi-problogging thing in stride.
Today and in the coming couple of weeks, I will be finalizing company budgets and it will mean that I’d be very very busy. None of the badminton games despite the many invites that I received. Perhaps I’ll be working again till midnight at the office or at home. There would be less of the paid entries too, as these take away my concentration. Advertisers don’t deserve haphazard posts.
But I’d write personal thoughts every now and then. You know those thoughts (attractive or whatever) that suddenly pops in your mind and won’t let go until you type it down. It’s something that’s difficult to part with despite the busyness
Today and in the coming couple of weeks, I will be finalizing company budgets and it will mean that I’d be very very busy. None of the badminton games despite the many invites that I received. Perhaps I’ll be working again till midnight at the office or at home. There would be less of the paid entries too, as these take away my concentration. Advertisers don’t deserve haphazard posts.
But I’d write personal thoughts every now and then. You know those thoughts (attractive or whatever) that suddenly pops in your mind and won’t let go until you type it down. It’s something that’s difficult to part with despite the busyness
Monday, December 17, 2007
The Driver
Sometimes, I wonder what it is to be a cab driver or a chauffer. I once said to a boss that I might probably be a cab driver when I migrate to the US. He laughed. He too declared he wants to be a driver when he retires.
Friday I took a leave from work to assist our youngest sister in her wedding preparations. It was the day before her wedding day and she still have to go to some place to check on the outfit of the entourage and the flower baskets, have their picture taken for the guest book, buy other items, attend rehearsals, etc…. I volunteered to be their driver for the day.
We set out early morning to the downtown of Cebu. Traffic was just moderate. Since parking is problem, I dropped off my sister and her husband-to-be at the busy Colon Street (the oldest street in the Philippines). I also dropped off my wife in Manalili Street. She assisted my sister in the preparations. If you’re familiar with Cebu City, these two streets are really the busiest during the day. Good thing there was a vacant parking space towards the end of Manalili Street. It saved me from circling around the busy area.
We were out on the streets whole day, traversing between downtown Cebu, Mandaue City, and back to uptown Cebu. There were times when I felt a stinging pain in my left ankle, the one that got injured a couple of years ago in a badminton tournament. But I just tolerated the pain.
My wife and I planned to have a haircut and probably have our hair dyed, but we never had the chance. Between 9-11pm, we were still looking for a dress my wife would wear for the wedding. We’re glad to have bought a P250 (at 30% discount) purple dress at a night bazaar. We went home very very tired, but quite satisfied we did our job for the day.
Saturday was the big day. The wedding was in the afternoon and my wife still had to purchase flowers and design the headdresses of the bride and the entourage in the morning. As the obedient driver, I drove her to the Carbon Market. Then in the afternoon, my car was used as the bridal car and I was again the driver. I wore an apple green colored polo shirt, brown tie and a purple jacket, which did not in anyway complement their wedding color motif.
I had a little chat with my sister while she was inside the car, waiting for her march. She was really really grateful for her big brother’s help. I just smiled and said, “This is your big day, Sis. Just relax and enjoy it.”
Sunday was a free day for me so I just dozed off in the afternoon. But I felt pain in my lower calf and left ankle. This must now be the after effect of my two days work as a driver. This job ain’t really easy. Now, I want a massage.
Friday I took a leave from work to assist our youngest sister in her wedding preparations. It was the day before her wedding day and she still have to go to some place to check on the outfit of the entourage and the flower baskets, have their picture taken for the guest book, buy other items, attend rehearsals, etc…. I volunteered to be their driver for the day.
We set out early morning to the downtown of Cebu. Traffic was just moderate. Since parking is problem, I dropped off my sister and her husband-to-be at the busy Colon Street (the oldest street in the Philippines). I also dropped off my wife in Manalili Street. She assisted my sister in the preparations. If you’re familiar with Cebu City, these two streets are really the busiest during the day. Good thing there was a vacant parking space towards the end of Manalili Street. It saved me from circling around the busy area.
We were out on the streets whole day, traversing between downtown Cebu, Mandaue City, and back to uptown Cebu. There were times when I felt a stinging pain in my left ankle, the one that got injured a couple of years ago in a badminton tournament. But I just tolerated the pain.
My wife and I planned to have a haircut and probably have our hair dyed, but we never had the chance. Between 9-11pm, we were still looking for a dress my wife would wear for the wedding. We’re glad to have bought a P250 (at 30% discount) purple dress at a night bazaar. We went home very very tired, but quite satisfied we did our job for the day.
Saturday was the big day. The wedding was in the afternoon and my wife still had to purchase flowers and design the headdresses of the bride and the entourage in the morning. As the obedient driver, I drove her to the Carbon Market. Then in the afternoon, my car was used as the bridal car and I was again the driver. I wore an apple green colored polo shirt, brown tie and a purple jacket, which did not in anyway complement their wedding color motif.
I had a little chat with my sister while she was inside the car, waiting for her march. She was really really grateful for her big brother’s help. I just smiled and said, “This is your big day, Sis. Just relax and enjoy it.”
Sunday was a free day for me so I just dozed off in the afternoon. But I felt pain in my lower calf and left ankle. This must now be the after effect of my two days work as a driver. This job ain’t really easy. Now, I want a massage.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Stronger Peso and the Need for More Dollars
From P56 three years ago, it’s now down to P42.85 a dollar. Good news or bad news?
Is there really a strengthening of the peso? Economists say that the $14.6B OFW remittances in 2006 (and growing more in 2007) buoyed the value of the peso. And they say it’s good for the economy. Thanks to our New Heroes! Along with their families’ improved conditions, needs also increase. With this, they are more likely to pour in more dollars.
But what about inflation and the rising prices of fuel? What about our own export industry?
Imagine if it were at P56 to a dollar rate. Juan’s $500 remittance is equivalent to P28,000. His wife in the Philippines spends it for Junior’s and his siblings’ tuition, food, house maintenance, etc… Then the peso rose to P42.85. To be able to cover the same expenses, Juan needs to remit $653.54 or an increase of 31%. But it’s actually not enough. We all know of the rising prices, inflation, and all the other problems the government tried to downplay.
Now for the exporter, he earns lesser compared to what he earns before. The prices of these export goods are controlled by the market, hence, the exporter doesn’t really have a say on the price. With the increasing costs, margins become thinner and may even be totally eliminated forcing some to close shop.
But what did the government do? Are there any safety nets for who are badly affected by this rise of our currency? Perhaps now, our best exports are our people. Call it brain-drain or whatever. It seems that nobody cares anymore. We have plenty of RNs yet hospitals lack nurses. We have plenty of CPAs yet there seems to be a shortage.
Who among my PwC buddies remained here? Sadly, only a few of us are left here. Almost all of my wife’s classmates in nursing already left the country and found greener pasture abroad. Who’s gonna prevent us from seeking employment outside the country? The government even encourages it. And, yeah, we need more dollars to survive in this country.
Is there really a strengthening of the peso? Economists say that the $14.6B OFW remittances in 2006 (and growing more in 2007) buoyed the value of the peso. And they say it’s good for the economy. Thanks to our New Heroes! Along with their families’ improved conditions, needs also increase. With this, they are more likely to pour in more dollars.
But what about inflation and the rising prices of fuel? What about our own export industry?
Imagine if it were at P56 to a dollar rate. Juan’s $500 remittance is equivalent to P28,000. His wife in the Philippines spends it for Junior’s and his siblings’ tuition, food, house maintenance, etc… Then the peso rose to P42.85. To be able to cover the same expenses, Juan needs to remit $653.54 or an increase of 31%. But it’s actually not enough. We all know of the rising prices, inflation, and all the other problems the government tried to downplay.
Now for the exporter, he earns lesser compared to what he earns before. The prices of these export goods are controlled by the market, hence, the exporter doesn’t really have a say on the price. With the increasing costs, margins become thinner and may even be totally eliminated forcing some to close shop.
But what did the government do? Are there any safety nets for who are badly affected by this rise of our currency? Perhaps now, our best exports are our people. Call it brain-drain or whatever. It seems that nobody cares anymore. We have plenty of RNs yet hospitals lack nurses. We have plenty of CPAs yet there seems to be a shortage.
Who among my PwC buddies remained here? Sadly, only a few of us are left here. Almost all of my wife’s classmates in nursing already left the country and found greener pasture abroad. Who’s gonna prevent us from seeking employment outside the country? The government even encourages it. And, yeah, we need more dollars to survive in this country.
Monday, October 08, 2007
That Online Image
An article in yahoo somewhat got my attention. This is what Liz Ryan has to say:
“A majority of employers now routinely check their job candidates' MySpace, Linkedin and Facebook profiles for any impropriety, prior to making an offer. Can you blame them? It's not so much that your prospective employer worries about your keg parties or those photos of you with your favorite bong. It's that they worry, with reason, about your judgment in throwing these items online for anyone to see.”
I’ve already done googling my name. So far, I’m satisfied to have behaved myself in the internet world. I have not posted my nude pics anywhere (as if I have one). I have not written something to degrade or insult anyone, even against our political leaders. I have not ranted like I’m ready to murder someone. No, not yet.
Even with some online alias in some forums, I kept myself in check. When you argue with someone online, it’s like arguing with a shadow. Freedom of expression is too vague. And it’s difficult to hide ones’ self in opinions. We are who we are, even in the dark.
“A majority of employers now routinely check their job candidates' MySpace, Linkedin and Facebook profiles for any impropriety, prior to making an offer. Can you blame them? It's not so much that your prospective employer worries about your keg parties or those photos of you with your favorite bong. It's that they worry, with reason, about your judgment in throwing these items online for anyone to see.”
I’ve already done googling my name. So far, I’m satisfied to have behaved myself in the internet world. I have not posted my nude pics anywhere (as if I have one). I have not written something to degrade or insult anyone, even against our political leaders. I have not ranted like I’m ready to murder someone. No, not yet.
Even with some online alias in some forums, I kept myself in check. When you argue with someone online, it’s like arguing with a shadow. Freedom of expression is too vague. And it’s difficult to hide ones’ self in opinions. We are who we are, even in the dark.
Thursday, October 04, 2007
Career: Move Up or Move Out
The news is out. My friend got his well-deserved promotion. I’m happy for him.
But is he happy? Twice he voiced out his intention to resign citing health problems and other work related stress. Many times he confided to me his rift with some of the executives and his frustrations with management. Many times we plotted our exit and our possible job adventures abroad. But he was hesitant to leave behind his wife and three kids, even for a year or two just to work abroad.
We were classmates back in college. We belonged to the same circle of friends and graduated on the same batch. He was one of our bets to top the board that year but he got sick months prior to the test. He took the board six months later. I lured him to join me at one of the top accounting firms in the country. When I got out and joined another company, I also invited him to join us in one of our affiliates.
Years flew so fast. We’ve been here for almost six years now. In a job like ours, there were happy and unhappy moments. You couldn’t just watch numbers everyday. You also feel down when black turns red, or when you question yourself when someone at sales puts the blame on accounting. Like they thought we invent figures. Or when some budgets are scrapped or when a benefit diminished because of organizational changes.
One day my friend submitted his resume to the firm we used to work for. But he turned down a managerial job offer because he was persuaded to suffer a little longer. Just last month, he unluckily missed an email coming from a “big four” partner informing him of a telephone interview for a possible work abroad. I saw the sad expression on his face. He said he was tired. I told him to quit. But he said he wasn’t ready because the timing was quite off. Quitting is not in my friend’s vocabulary. And I wasn’t really serious about him quitting that soon.
When I asked him a few weeks ago (before the official announcement) if he was happy or not, he simply replied that the promotion was some sort of a relief. Happiness, for him, is dependent of many factors. He still have to see till the year ends. But he’s grateful to our mentors for the opportunity.
What about me? When do I move up? On my part, to move up meant that I must relocate to the battlefront. That will be in Manila. I’ve seen executives come and go. Perhaps the safest position is in the middle of the hierarchy. Or when do I move out? That is another option that I have contemplated these past few months. I think I’ve waited long enough already. I might change career and start writing books for children.
But is he happy? Twice he voiced out his intention to resign citing health problems and other work related stress. Many times he confided to me his rift with some of the executives and his frustrations with management. Many times we plotted our exit and our possible job adventures abroad. But he was hesitant to leave behind his wife and three kids, even for a year or two just to work abroad.
We were classmates back in college. We belonged to the same circle of friends and graduated on the same batch. He was one of our bets to top the board that year but he got sick months prior to the test. He took the board six months later. I lured him to join me at one of the top accounting firms in the country. When I got out and joined another company, I also invited him to join us in one of our affiliates.
Years flew so fast. We’ve been here for almost six years now. In a job like ours, there were happy and unhappy moments. You couldn’t just watch numbers everyday. You also feel down when black turns red, or when you question yourself when someone at sales puts the blame on accounting. Like they thought we invent figures. Or when some budgets are scrapped or when a benefit diminished because of organizational changes.
One day my friend submitted his resume to the firm we used to work for. But he turned down a managerial job offer because he was persuaded to suffer a little longer. Just last month, he unluckily missed an email coming from a “big four” partner informing him of a telephone interview for a possible work abroad. I saw the sad expression on his face. He said he was tired. I told him to quit. But he said he wasn’t ready because the timing was quite off. Quitting is not in my friend’s vocabulary. And I wasn’t really serious about him quitting that soon.
When I asked him a few weeks ago (before the official announcement) if he was happy or not, he simply replied that the promotion was some sort of a relief. Happiness, for him, is dependent of many factors. He still have to see till the year ends. But he’s grateful to our mentors for the opportunity.
What about me? When do I move up? On my part, to move up meant that I must relocate to the battlefront. That will be in Manila. I’ve seen executives come and go. Perhaps the safest position is in the middle of the hierarchy. Or when do I move out? That is another option that I have contemplated these past few months. I think I’ve waited long enough already. I might change career and start writing books for children.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
The Inconsistencies Within
Some struggles. Call it whatever you like. Deep within, I know this is just an understatement. Like when we excel at one point and crash on the next. Or today I wear a suit and a cute tie, but will wear and old shirt and rugged jeans on the office the next day.
My grade 1 teacher praised me for my handwriting. But when I began to practice the long-hand at the last phase of our term, she berated me for having ruined my own handwriting. It got worst in the succeeding years. Even until now.
In grade VI, I graduated at the top of everyone else, but got the insult that bruised me for years, only because I failed to memorize the graduates’ motto during rehearsals. No, I was actually too nervous with the other class’ adviser around. Her own bet for valedictorian was only a fraction of points behind me.
In high school, I failed in science but topped the class in general info quizzes.
I almost failed to enter Accountancy because of low grades in UP High. So they let me take an IQ test. The guidance counselor assigned to interview me revealed that I got excellent scores, and had the potential of graduating summa. Summa, I wish! I think I was just fortunate to have plenty of correctly guessed answers.
In college, my essay got a rare praise from an English teacher when she lectured the 6Cs in writing. I feared the expectations that followed. The essay I submitted during the final exams obviously lacked the qualities of my first one. And she talked to me about it, her reaction showing dismay.
In auditing subjects, I have not really correctly solved any of the problems in the quizzes during undergrad. But I got almost perfect scores in the pre-board and in the actual board. That was all that mattered.
In my post last week, I enumerated ways to curb my internet addiction. Honestly, I have not really acted on it. And here I am, after not posting any entry for seven days, flooded my blog with four posts on a Sunday. I really shouldn't be here in my cubicle.
My grade 1 teacher praised me for my handwriting. But when I began to practice the long-hand at the last phase of our term, she berated me for having ruined my own handwriting. It got worst in the succeeding years. Even until now.
In grade VI, I graduated at the top of everyone else, but got the insult that bruised me for years, only because I failed to memorize the graduates’ motto during rehearsals. No, I was actually too nervous with the other class’ adviser around. Her own bet for valedictorian was only a fraction of points behind me.
In high school, I failed in science but topped the class in general info quizzes.
I almost failed to enter Accountancy because of low grades in UP High. So they let me take an IQ test. The guidance counselor assigned to interview me revealed that I got excellent scores, and had the potential of graduating summa. Summa, I wish! I think I was just fortunate to have plenty of correctly guessed answers.
In college, my essay got a rare praise from an English teacher when she lectured the 6Cs in writing. I feared the expectations that followed. The essay I submitted during the final exams obviously lacked the qualities of my first one. And she talked to me about it, her reaction showing dismay.
In auditing subjects, I have not really correctly solved any of the problems in the quizzes during undergrad. But I got almost perfect scores in the pre-board and in the actual board. That was all that mattered.
In my post last week, I enumerated ways to curb my internet addiction. Honestly, I have not really acted on it. And here I am, after not posting any entry for seven days, flooded my blog with four posts on a Sunday. I really shouldn't be here in my cubicle.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Relocation
We're having a hard time hiring personnel for our Manila office. Most of the key personnel were hired in Cebu and eventually relocated to Manila. Some agreed, some didn't. For those who've spent most of their lives in Cebu would agree: Cebu is such a wonderful place to live in.
But what if I'd be relocated?
There was once a time, in my previous employer, when I was almost relocated. They said that it was necessary for promotion. A return was not guaranteed, though. But they said that it would be a rich experience.
There was a sudden rush of plans played in my head. Plan A would be to proceed until promoted. Plan B was to proceed, and then jump train at the right opportunity. Plan C was to remain stubborn. And plan D was to quit, which was my initial plan though.
I opted for plan D. Though relocation was not the main issue. Perhaps it was something of a quarter-life crisis.
Just a couple of hours ago, a co-manager and I joked about relocation. "Would you agree if our boss tell us to relocate to Manila? Would you and your wife agree?"
"Probably not" was his reply.
"Me, I'd rather work abroad than agree on a relocation anywhere in the Philippines."
But I was able to convince a few young bunch here to relocate to Manila. It's easier said than done.
But what if I'd be relocated?
There was once a time, in my previous employer, when I was almost relocated. They said that it was necessary for promotion. A return was not guaranteed, though. But they said that it would be a rich experience.
There was a sudden rush of plans played in my head. Plan A would be to proceed until promoted. Plan B was to proceed, and then jump train at the right opportunity. Plan C was to remain stubborn. And plan D was to quit, which was my initial plan though.
I opted for plan D. Though relocation was not the main issue. Perhaps it was something of a quarter-life crisis.
Just a couple of hours ago, a co-manager and I joked about relocation. "Would you agree if our boss tell us to relocate to Manila? Would you and your wife agree?"
"Probably not" was his reply.
"Me, I'd rather work abroad than agree on a relocation anywhere in the Philippines."
But I was able to convince a few young bunch here to relocate to Manila. It's easier said than done.
Monday, June 04, 2007
Post 101: 15 Tips for School
Today is the first day of class for most students. I remember my own fist time in the university. There was this certain feeling of awe and fear when I first passed the halls and entered the classroom. Good thing there was this pretty girl seated not far from me. And she smiled at me too. It already made my day.
To all freshies, here are 15 tips of what you should do on the first day and on the first week. Remember, first impressions last. You can be famous.
1. Befriend the best-looking girl/boy in class. If you think you’re the best-looking girl/boy in class, befriend everyone.
2. Befriend the nerds and the geniuses, or even the genius-looking. You can borrow some of their brains.
3. Study well on your first few exams. Top it as much as possible. Then everyone else will recognize you. When you’re already on top, you’d be forced to maintain your lofty status. So, you’ll probably graduate with honors.
4. Volunteer to lead small groups. Everyone else is just scared.
5. Avoid those who belittled you in high school. They’re a hindrance to your goals.
6. Create a new image.
7. Buy new clothes, perfumes, bags, ballpens and notebooks.
8. Make sure your teacher recognize you. Correct him of any mispronunciation of your name, and then wink at the best-looking girl/boy in class.
9. Recite, ask questions and defend a classmate in a debate.
10. Don’t pretend to know everything. Just throw back the question.
11. Speak louder on topics you know very well.
12. Join a reputable campus organization.
13. If you choose to be an activist, look like an intellectual, not a peasant.
14. Don’t be too attached to anybody or any group. Hang out with all groups, if possible.
15. Eat where the masses eat. Like in the famous carenderia outside school. But visit the canteen once in a while.
I love college better than high school because of the above. I was almost famous.
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Career Talk
Last Saturday, I was invited by my wife to speak to some 60 youths sponsored by Compassion. It was a sort of a career talk, and I was just so eager to do that. Five of us were invited, representing various professions. One is our former Pastor, then his wife who is a social worker. Then, our Sunday School Superintendent whose full-time job is a teacher at a National High School. The other one is a computer engineer who is also an alumnus of Compassion. Then me: A CPA.
As a background, these kids (youths actually) came from indigent families and were supported by Compassion since they were still 4-9 years old. Most are enrolled in public schools. My wife is also a Compassion alumna. She was a sponsored child till she reached 18. Now, she volunteers as a teacher and a health coordinator.
I arrived late, as in very late (sorry). The first three speakers already finished their talk. I sat at the back as I listened to the Engineer. But after a few minutes, I remembered I have not prepared my speech. I asked for a pen and paper and scribbled my outline. There’s no reason to panic here, because all I have to do is repeat what I have said in a previous career talk, though that was a year ago.
Then my time came. I started narrating about my childhood dreams. They were wild actually; like wanting to become an astronaut, or a scientist. Then my aspirations when I was in high school: I wanted to take up Agriculture in UPLB. Then I told them how God closed the door for UPLB, and so I was left with 3 more options when I finally set foot at USC. I had the enrollment money but still praying for wisdom. I said to myself that there would be no turning back for whatever choice I’ll make that day. In the end, I chose Accountancy. There was a feeling of relief and lightness as I walked home to report to my parents my chosen course. They were glad that I chose Accountancy as it was also on their mind for me.
But it did not end there. I told the youths that in order to finish the course and achieve my dream of becoming a CPA, I need to constantly ask for God’s wisdom. I also need the passion and the perseverance. There were so many boring moments, boring accounting teachers, and other diversions. But I have to maintain my focus in order to achieve my goal. I concluded my short talk with some familiar phrases: Always ask wisdom from God, study hard, dream big dreams and aim higher.
Then the question and answer portion. Two questions struck me. First, how do you know that the course you are planning to take is God’s will for you? Second, since God wants us to obey our parents, do we really have to obey them if they insist on a particular course which we do not like?
I responded first to the former. God’s general will is for all to be saved. As to the specific course, we do the choosing, but we have to ask God for wisdom. This was also supported by the Pastor when he said that whatever course you take it is God’s will for you, as long as you do good and do not disobey Him. I have always taken this position ever since I can remember.
For the second question, all other speakers responded as parents concerned for their children. One suggested that she should openly talk to her parents about her planned course. But it won’t be easy for her.
I had my cases for disobedience. First, it was my father. He disobeyed his parents by not helping them in the farm and in the sea. He escaped to school. In the end, he was the only one who got a college diploma among nine siblings. He was also able to support his parents and send his younger brothers and sisters to school. Second, it was me. My father wanted me to enroll in a newly opened technical school which was supported by the Italian government and some large corporations. It was supposed to be tuition-free and assured job after 3 years. But I disobeyed and did not apply. I didn’t want to become a technician. I did break his heart at that time. But I promised him that I will do better in another profession.
After the career talk, I looked at the youths again. I saw the enthusiasm in their eyes. I heard that plenty of them are honor students, but I also heard that there were some who were forced by their parents to quit school. I asked my wife about the girl who asked the second question. She said that her parents wanted her to stop studying after high school and look for a job. But she really aspired to become a teacher someday.
So, if by any chance you want to sponsor a child to school, you can do so by starting with your own neighbors or relatives. Or you can sponsor thru Compassion. There are so many children out there who need help.
As a background, these kids (youths actually) came from indigent families and were supported by Compassion since they were still 4-9 years old. Most are enrolled in public schools. My wife is also a Compassion alumna. She was a sponsored child till she reached 18. Now, she volunteers as a teacher and a health coordinator.
I arrived late, as in very late (sorry). The first three speakers already finished their talk. I sat at the back as I listened to the Engineer. But after a few minutes, I remembered I have not prepared my speech. I asked for a pen and paper and scribbled my outline. There’s no reason to panic here, because all I have to do is repeat what I have said in a previous career talk, though that was a year ago.
Then my time came. I started narrating about my childhood dreams. They were wild actually; like wanting to become an astronaut, or a scientist. Then my aspirations when I was in high school: I wanted to take up Agriculture in UPLB. Then I told them how God closed the door for UPLB, and so I was left with 3 more options when I finally set foot at USC. I had the enrollment money but still praying for wisdom. I said to myself that there would be no turning back for whatever choice I’ll make that day. In the end, I chose Accountancy. There was a feeling of relief and lightness as I walked home to report to my parents my chosen course. They were glad that I chose Accountancy as it was also on their mind for me.
But it did not end there. I told the youths that in order to finish the course and achieve my dream of becoming a CPA, I need to constantly ask for God’s wisdom. I also need the passion and the perseverance. There were so many boring moments, boring accounting teachers, and other diversions. But I have to maintain my focus in order to achieve my goal. I concluded my short talk with some familiar phrases: Always ask wisdom from God, study hard, dream big dreams and aim higher.
Then the question and answer portion. Two questions struck me. First, how do you know that the course you are planning to take is God’s will for you? Second, since God wants us to obey our parents, do we really have to obey them if they insist on a particular course which we do not like?
I responded first to the former. God’s general will is for all to be saved. As to the specific course, we do the choosing, but we have to ask God for wisdom. This was also supported by the Pastor when he said that whatever course you take it is God’s will for you, as long as you do good and do not disobey Him. I have always taken this position ever since I can remember.
For the second question, all other speakers responded as parents concerned for their children. One suggested that she should openly talk to her parents about her planned course. But it won’t be easy for her.
I had my cases for disobedience. First, it was my father. He disobeyed his parents by not helping them in the farm and in the sea. He escaped to school. In the end, he was the only one who got a college diploma among nine siblings. He was also able to support his parents and send his younger brothers and sisters to school. Second, it was me. My father wanted me to enroll in a newly opened technical school which was supported by the Italian government and some large corporations. It was supposed to be tuition-free and assured job after 3 years. But I disobeyed and did not apply. I didn’t want to become a technician. I did break his heart at that time. But I promised him that I will do better in another profession.
After the career talk, I looked at the youths again. I saw the enthusiasm in their eyes. I heard that plenty of them are honor students, but I also heard that there were some who were forced by their parents to quit school. I asked my wife about the girl who asked the second question. She said that her parents wanted her to stop studying after high school and look for a job. But she really aspired to become a teacher someday.
So, if by any chance you want to sponsor a child to school, you can do so by starting with your own neighbors or relatives. Or you can sponsor thru Compassion. There are so many children out there who need help.
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Of changing profession..
I have often wondered about changing profession. Actually, this was not my first choice when I took some aptitude test back in high school. I was determined to enroll in Agriculture without the backing of my parents. But in the end, I chose the convenient – BS Accountancy. And it made my parents smile a bit. At least, I won’t be leaving home for 4 years or so.
Four years in college is a breeze. In and out of the dean’s list, but in the end, there’s was no “laude” in my diploma. But I’m proud to say that I haven’t cheated in exams, nor got drunk, nor ran naked in a crowd, nor made any other serious violations.
So, I am a CPA alright. I passed the board on my first take, an envy of my other batch mates who made it a semester later. 3 days after my 20th birthday, I got accepted at the local PWC office. Whew! It completed what I thought was my career plan. So what was my career plan?
Pass the board, work in a big accounting firm, stay till I become a senior associate, transfer to another company in a managerial capacity, etc…
I am just right within target. But what now? I am 30, and in the eyes of those on top - in the pool of future leaders of the company. I’ve been in this managerial position for 5 years. I’ve seen changes, good and bad. I’ve seen bosses leave in disgrace after quite long years. So, what’s next?
My wife, who is a nurse, has a current application for an immigrant visa in the US. Perhaps it would be the best time to change profession. But the demand for accountants in the US is very high this time. My former boss in the accounting firm told me to apply in the US coz with my experience, I’d be in demand. I jokingly told him that I’d perhaps work as a driver or apply at PWC as a janitor or a courier.
Four years in college is a breeze. In and out of the dean’s list, but in the end, there’s was no “laude” in my diploma. But I’m proud to say that I haven’t cheated in exams, nor got drunk, nor ran naked in a crowd, nor made any other serious violations.
So, I am a CPA alright. I passed the board on my first take, an envy of my other batch mates who made it a semester later. 3 days after my 20th birthday, I got accepted at the local PWC office. Whew! It completed what I thought was my career plan. So what was my career plan?
Pass the board, work in a big accounting firm, stay till I become a senior associate, transfer to another company in a managerial capacity, etc…
I am just right within target. But what now? I am 30, and in the eyes of those on top - in the pool of future leaders of the company. I’ve been in this managerial position for 5 years. I’ve seen changes, good and bad. I’ve seen bosses leave in disgrace after quite long years. So, what’s next?
My wife, who is a nurse, has a current application for an immigrant visa in the US. Perhaps it would be the best time to change profession. But the demand for accountants in the US is very high this time. My former boss in the accounting firm told me to apply in the US coz with my experience, I’d be in demand. I jokingly told him that I’d perhaps work as a driver or apply at PWC as a janitor or a courier.
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