”Contest| International Labour Day|Importance of Labour"
I'd like to share some insights about the workplace, drawing from my experiences across different industries and job roles. Over the years, I've come to realize that while salary is important, the overall work environment holds even more significance. Allow me to elaborate on this through three key aspects I've encountered:
Work Environment Over Pay:
During my tenure in various industries, I've found that the workplace culture and atmosphere greatly impact job satisfaction. Despite starting off with minimum wage jobs in malls, I found fulfillment in the work environment. However, as responsibilities grew with age, financial stability became crucial. This led me to transition to the BPO industry, seeking better compensation.Challenges in the BPO Industry:
Initially, the transition to the BPO sector presented challenges, particularly regarding language restrictions. One company enforced strict policies, mandating the use of English on the floor. While initially daunting, this emphasis on language proficiency ultimately enhanced my communication skills and professionalism.Balancing Pay with Work Environment:
Joining a BPO company with attractive pay and benefits seemed like a dream come true. However, the reality of handling irate customers in a TelCo role made me reassess my priorities. The toxic nature of the job took a toll on my well-being, emphasizing the importance of a supportive work environment and management.Finding Stability at Optum Philippines
Despite the challenges, I've found a sense of belonging at Optum Philippines, marking my longest tenure yet. This longevity speaks volumes about the positive work culture and supportive management at Optum. Unlike my previous experiences, where I struggled to surpass the two-year mark, Optum has provided a conducive environment for professional growth and job satisfaction.
I realize, that while competitive pay is essential, the overall work environment, supportive management, and positive culture play pivotal roles in fostering employee retention and satisfaction. Opting for a workplace that values its employees' well-being can lead to long-term career fulfillment and success.
LGBTQ Month
At Optum, respect is non-negotiable, and discrimination of any kind, including racism, is simply not tolerated. Recognizing the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, we uphold a culture of inclusivity and acceptance. It's heartening to note that a significant portion of our workforce in the BPO industry identifies as members of the LGBT community. Moreover, our office actively supports various advocacy initiatives, including those championed by our LGBT colleagues. This commitment to diversity and equality is one of the many reasons why Optum stands out as an exemplary workplace.
At Optum, our dedication to employees' well-being extends to their mental health. Recognizing the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, we offer paid time off (PTO) and encourage employees to take breaks when experiencing burnout. Additionally, we prioritize mental health by providing access to support resources, including a dedicated hotline for confidential conversations. Furthermore, our comprehensive insurance benefits include coverage for antidepressant medication when necessary, ensuring that employees have access to the care they need to thrive both personally and professionally.
One of the most exciting aspects of our workplace at Optum is the opportunity for a Work At Home (WAH) setup. Optum goes above and beyond by providing employees with laptops and peripherals, enabling seamless remote work. The flexibility is remarkable; employees have the choice to either work from the office or from the comfort of their homes, depending on the requirements of their account. Personally, I find the option to work in the office appealing, especially with perks like free air conditioning—it's the small comforts that make a difference! Working from the office truly feels like my zone of productivity and comfort.
Regards,