Extending Beyond Boundaries: Thriving in Multiple Roles

by Chuck Manansala | June 29, 2023

Employee Journals

I’ve been proudly part of the RareJob Philippines, Inc. family since April 2019, initially stepping in as a Training and Performance Specialist and later donning the cape of Supervisor. Now, I get to be, as they say, a fatherly figure leading two incredible teams: the Training and Performance Management Team and the Talent Acquisition Team within the lively Human Resources Department. Before my journey with RareJob, I had the pleasure of working in the food industry. Picture me as a floor captain, guiding the crew with a mix of warmth and firmness. It was during this time that I discovered my true calling – nurturing and developing others. Training became my passion, and it sparked a fire within me that continues to burn bright.

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Fast forward to the present, a typical day with my teams is nothing short of an adventure! In the Training and Performance Management Team, we’re on a mission to unlock the hidden potential in each employee. From mapping out plans to cheering them on as they conquer new heights, it’s a constant journey of growth and empowerment. Our team meetings become heartwarming gatherings, where we share stories, laugh together, and build a bond that feels like family.

Over in the Talent Acquisition Team, we embark on an epic quest to discover the most exceptional talents out there. Crafting ads that grab attention, seeking out hidden gems, and engaging in interviews that feel like meaningful conversations – it’s like being a scout for superheroes. And let me tell you, staying up to date with industry trends and cultivating genuine connections with candidates is an ace up our sleeves.

My leadership style is all about being approachable, relatable, and injecting a dose of fun. I’m not the kind of superior who stands on a pedestal; I’m right there in the trenches, getting to know my team members as individuals. Collaboration is our superpower, and decision-making is a team dance where every voice counts. Of course, there are moments when I need to don the invisible cape and make those tough decisions behind the scenes, but the heart of our success lies in the unity and camaraderie we cultivate.

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Remembering the transition from the office hustle to the work-from-home wonderland, let me tell you, it was like stepping into a whole new dimension. Suddenly, our daily routines transformed from office banter and high-fives to virtual chats and pixelated video calls. It was a wild ride, but I’ll let you in on a little secret: challenges are just opportunities in disguise. Now, building connections without being physically present? That was a head-scratcher. I mean, let’s be honest, it’s way easier to bond with someone when you can see them, give ’em a wave, or share a laugh over a cup of coffee or tea. But hey, we’re not ones to back down from a challenge.

We hopped on the technology train, embraced online chats, and mastered the art of virtual high-fives. Sure, there were hurdles along the way. Sometimes, conveying messages through chat felt like decoding secret agent jargon. So, I made the deliberate choice that whenever there is an urgent matter that requires discussion, it’s best to handle it through engaging voice calls. Hearing each other’s voices and having real-time conversations made all the difference. It was like injecting a burst of energy into our virtual world.

And you know what? The transition brought about new beginnings. We put on our thinking caps and unleashed our inner innovators. We brainstormed ideas to keep that team spirit alive, even from our cozy home offices. Virtual team-building activities, online social gatherings, and spontaneous coffee breaks during video calls became our secret sauce. We even became tech wizards, exploring new digital tools and platforms to supercharge our communication and collaboration. So, while the transition from WFO to WFH had its share of challenges, it didn’t stop us from creating a work environment that felt like a family reunion on Zoom or Google Meet. We laughed, we shared stories, and we proved that distance couldn’t dampen our connection. Together, we transformed the virtual landscape and showed the world that a team can thrive, no matter the circumstances.

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Now, let’s talk about after a long, tiring work day. How do I destress? Well, it’s all about finding that perfect balance. I dive into the world of gaming, where virtual adventures help me unwind and escape the stresses of the day. And here’s a little secret: I have a mischievous side too. I lovingly annoy my furry companion, my cat, Benny. There’s something oddly therapeutic about their reactions (and maybe a few scratches too!). And when inspiration strikes, you’ll find me exploring the realms of art. It’s all about finding those activities that spark joy and bring a sense of peace to my personal time.

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They say I’m a father figure of two teams… Let me tell you, it’s been quite the journey. Now, being a father figure might sound like a tall order, but hey, I strive to live up to the essence of it. Just like a dad, I aim to provide guidance, support, and a listening ear to my teams. Having the privilege of overseeing two roles in the department comes with its benefits and challenges. On the bright side, I get to learn from a diverse range of personalities. It’s like having a treasure trove of ideas and inputs. With more heads in the game, we can tackle challenges from different angles and foster faster growth, not just for me, but for the entire team. It’s like a merry gathering of minds, where inspiration flows freely. Of course, every father figure needs a supportive team, and I’m grateful for the unwavering support I receive from my members and the department. I believe in getting to know my team members on a personal level, understanding their perspectives, and relating to their experiences. By building this connection, we create a trusting and collaborative environment, where everyone feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and seeing things from my perspective too.

So, as the father figure of these two teams, I embrace the role with open arms, cherishing the opportunities for growth, fostering a supportive environment, and finding those delightful moments of relaxation amidst the daily hustle. In my journey, I’ve learned valuable lessons that extend beyond the boundaries of the workplace. And here’s a not-so-secret secret: be yourself. Embrace your uniqueness, be open to your team, fellow supervisors, and superiors. Building a foundation of open communication is key. But remember, it’s all about balance. Strive for wins both for the company and the staff.

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Now, for all the aspiring leaders out there, my advice is simple: have an open mind. Embrace new ideas, perspectives, and possibilities. Stay curious, and never stop learning. And if you’re considering a career in Human Resources, buckle up for a rewarding adventure. You have the power to impact the lives of individuals, nurture their growth, and shape a positive work culture. So, step into the HR world with passion, empathy, and a commitment to making a difference. Remember, leadership is a journey of continuous growth and self-discovery. Embrace your authenticity, keep an open mind, and strive for that perfect balance!

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