Losing some, winning some


I am taking a break from the marketing plan I am drafting for my Korean client. And what better way to spend it but to blog after several weeks!


The worst job of my life

August 11-15: one of the worst weeks of my life. After working so hard writing copy after copy of the print ads and presentations for my CEO, our pay check was delayed. Two weeks after being the Project Manager of my team, he also fired one of the web designers I am working with.

There was a big incident in the office when the web designer mass-mailed everyone new in the office, divulging how the company delayed people’s salaries and imposed unreasonable office policies. The CEO found out about this but didn’t address the issue.

Restless and very concerned, I had to respond to the email, copy furnished to everyone, demanding for a dialogue between management and the employees.

We were assured that our paycheck will not get delayed and that the employee was disgruntled – thus the poison email.

Talk is cheap.

The test was for them to deliver the promise.

Unfortunately, it was all lip service. We didn’t get our pay.

I resigned right then and there – something that I didn’t regret doing since other employees are still running after their paychecks up until now. And to no avail.

What I have to say about it: what goes around comes around, man. And in full circle, it does.

If I was as evil as I was a few years back, I could have written all my friends both in the advertising and IT industry to spread the word on their horrendous labor practice, their inability to deliver the promised services to clients due to bankruptcy and incompetence and the questionable character of the owners.

I’m not gonna do it just yet. But I will if they don’t pay up all the employees’ back wages.


The sweetest triumph as redemption

I was so angry when this happened, knowing that I worked so hard and did my best.

But redemption came a week after. My DREAM JOB called me. The HR said I was scheduled to meet with the CEO and the President.

The interview with the CEO was very cordial and friendly. The President was another story. He grilled me and made sure I was put to the test – what with the 7am appointment and a 3.5 hours interview with him in the office.

Afterwards, I had to run in the restroom to break down. I’ve never felt so stupid in my life up until that time. I also felt that my integrity was being questioned, what with the bombardment of questions pertaining to my professionalism and values.

In fairness, he was an upright and intelligent man. The questions were reasonable but very hard-hitting. I had to really prove myself.

After the interview, I was so frustrated and almost sure that I didn’t make it – after what I’ve been through during the application process (6-7 stages!).

Two days after, I got another phone call from HR, asking me when I can report for work. I have an appointment with the HR director and the CEO tomorrow to discuss my package, terms and the date I can start working.

HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA-LLELUJAH!

True enough, the Powers That Be made this triumph a lot sweeter for me. I really hope this is it.