The Coercive Power of the Mam/Ser Culture in the Philippines: A Reflection on Titles and Communication

In my journey through the professional and leadership landscapes of the Philippines, I’ve been deeply immersed in a culture that places significant emphasis on titles and formal respect. This tradition, while rooted in valuing hierarchy and authority, often casts a shadow over the potential for open and genuine communication within teams and organizations. Reflecting on…

Invest in Strengthening the Minds of Your Leaders

The strength of an organization does not solely rely on its financial health or technological advancements but significantly on the cognitive and emotional competencies of its leaders. The hallmark of exceptional leadership transcends traditional management skills, venturing into the realm of self-mastery, learning agility, resilience, and various forms of thinking such as logical, critical, creative,…

Candidate “Ghosting”: Understanding the Causes and Strategies for Prevention

In the Philippine job market, recruiters are increasingly facing the challenge of “ghosting” — when candidates abruptly cease communication without explanation. This issue not only disrupts the hiring process but also reflects on the company’s ability to attract and retain the right talent. To address this, companies must delve into the reasons behind ghosting and…

Grit to Greatness: Rock Lee’s Unyielding Pursuit of Excellence

In the vast and captivating world of anime, there are characters who transcend the boundaries of fiction and inspire us with their unwavering determination. One such character is Rock Lee from the beloved animated series, Naruto. Rock Lee’s life story is a testament to the pursuit of excellence, showcasing resilience, hard work, and the relentless…

Performance Appraisal is Not Performance Management

In the corporate world of the Philippines, a common misconception prevails, equating performance management with performance appraisal. However, this view is limited and misses the broader scope of performance management. While performance appraisal is a significant component, it is not the entirety of performance management. The Role of Performance Appraisal Performance appraisal is often seen…