All in 2 weeks’ work

This is very different from the IT industry. I had to justify my need for a computer before they give me one. I have been bringing my laptop for 2 weeks now since I couldn’t stand not having my own computer (By the way, I got a Toshiba Satellite instead. Cheaper, more practical, same color as my Visor Prism and with all the features I need!).

Isn’t a computer a staple office equipment?

Sigh.

Despite the fact that my company is still in the Jurassic era in terms of computers and the Internet, my 2 weeks here have so far been very productive.

On my first day at work, I found out that a Filipina buys an average of 8 lipsticks in a year.

On my 3rd day, I was eating financial models and statements for lunch with my CEO. Now I know what those ROI, RRI and PNL stand for. And hey, I now know how to make them, too!

They flew me to a conference on my 4th and 5th day so I could learn the ropes of the new business channel I am supposed to develop.

Yes, they do not scrimp on the education and training of employees.

I have been spending a lot of time attending product trainings and store exposures. Half of it had been fun, the other half stressful, what with all the business and operation plans I need to write!

But ask me about those body butter and dry oil mist stuff – I know! Thanks to the product and training managers.

After 2 weeks, I have also developed a higher regard and deeper respect for store clerks, merchandisers and staff. They are more commonly known as dispachadoras – as popularized by that Annie Batungbakal song of the ‘80s.

You don’t know how tiring it is to stand all day and put up with the shit that some customers give them. If they break something in the store or an inventory gets lost because of shoplifting, they pay for it. And these are minimum wage earners.

Last Saturday, I went shopping for a new pair of shoes again. I was nicer to the guy clerk. Even went out of my way to look at his ID to know his name. I thanked him and addressed him by his first name.

He was surprised – but smiled sincerely – flattered that I did call him by his name.

Simple lang, di ba? Pero nakakaalis ng pagod kahit papano.

So if you guys think it’s all about kakikayan or how glamorous it is to work for a popular cosmetics, health and beauty company, think again. There’s a lot of brainpower, hard work and patience that come along with that lipstick or eu de toilette you just bought.