April 24, 2023
Last April 20, Thursday, Grab, in partnership with WeWork, hosted a Panel Discussion titled Engaging in Uncertainty: Engaging People in 2023 at WeWork Uptown Bonifacio Tower Three, Taguig City.
The event was a gathering of experts from various fields who discussed pressing issues on how to engage and motivate people amidst times of uncertainty.
(Louise “Lulu” Meriguet moderating the panel discussion)
Moderated by Louise Sarah Meriguet, Senior Regional Key Accounts Manager at GFB, the panelists included Charles Anthony P. Suarez, RPh, Lead, Clinical Trial Support Services, PiVOT; Leera Lauverne Alcaraz, Community Senior Manager, Lizardbear Tasking/ TaskUs BPO; Angelica Medrano, Partner Manager, Siemens; and Franz Josef Magallanes, HR Business Partner, Merkle DACH Philippines.
The panel discussion focused on questions that have been a concern for businesses and individuals alike, such as how employees face numerous challenges inside and outside the workplace, impacting their well-being and mental health.
(Charles Suarez from PiVOT)
The first question asked what areas of concern teams should manage this year, such as mental well-being and reduced motivation to stay. Despite these challenges, Charles Suarez responded that PiVOT thrived during the pandemic by taking advantage of the increase in clinical trial studies, like vaccine studies, which led to a significant workforce expansion by hiring Clinical Research Associates. However, one of the downsides of the pandemic was the difficulty in differentiating personalities online, which made it challenging for employees to reconnect when they returned to work.
(Franz Magallanes from Merkle DACH Philippines)
Franz Magallanes from Merkle DACH Philippines further explains how the pandemic has impacted employees’ social skills, with some struggling to balance work and personal life while working from home.
(Angelica Medrano from Siemens)
The second question asked whether it is essential for leaders to address these concerns and uncertainties. The panelists unanimously agreed that leaders must acknowledge and address these issues. Angelica Medrano from Siemens emphasized that leaders play a significant role in setting the tone for the organization, and their actions and words can make a significant impact on the well-being and motivation of employees.
(Leera Lauverne Alcaraz, Community Senior Manager, Lizardbear Tasking/ TaskUs BPO)
The third question focused on what companies can do to keep engagement up during times of uncertainty and how they can address employee concerns during an economic downturn. Leera Alcaraz from TaskUs highlighted the importance of tailor-fitting communication to each individual. She suggested that communication should vary depending on whether it’s leader to leader or leader to those below the line, as some employees may not fully understand the reason behind certain decisions. Alcaraz emphasized that it’s crucial to know your employees’ love language, inviting them for a one-on-one session and keeping them informed about the company’s plans. By doing so, companies can ensure that their employees feel valued, informed, and engaged during times of uncertainty.
Charles Suarez emphasized that PiVOT fosters a strong sense of community among employees. The company understands the importance of collaboration and teamwork, so we organize social events such as General Assembly and celebrate even small wins by treating everyone with a refreshing cup of Coco milk tea. By encouraging the employees to connect and communicate with one another, PiVOT is able to create a supportive environment that allows for effective collaboration and a successful team.
In the midst of all these challenges, PiVOT has been taking proactive measures to address these concerns and uncertainties. As the leading and largest local Contract Research Organization in the Philippines, PiVOT understands the importance of providing a supportive work environment for its employees. The company has implemented various initiatives to promote mental well-being and work-life balance, such as flexible work arrangements and employee engagement activities. Additionally, PiVOT also provides its employees with access to mental health resources and support services.
(From L-R, Angelica Medrano, Partner Manager, Siemens; Franz Josef Magallanes, HR Business Partner, Merkle DACH Philippines; Louise Sarah Meriguet, Senior Regional Key Accounts Manager at GFB; Leera Lauverne Alcaraz, Community Senior Manager, Lizardbear Tasking/ TaskUs BPO; and Charles Anthony P. Suarez, RPh, Lead, Clinical Trial Support Services, PiVOT)
In conclusion, the panel discussion highlighted the importance of addressing concerns and uncertainties in today’s rapidly changing world. The pandemic has brought about significant changes in how we work, and leaders and organizations must adapt and find new ways to engage and motivate their employees. PiVOT has shown that by prioritizing the well-being of its employees, it can continue to provide high-quality services to its clients while maintaining a supportive work environment.
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