HR WORK: A LIFELONG ENGAGEMENT

While studying for her BS Psychology degree at Assumption College in Makati, Susie P.M. Amistoso  realized that she really wanted to be in a field where she could deal with people, especially the youth.

After graduation, she remembers sending copies of her resumé to a number of companies she wanted to explore. Among those that responded was John Clements Inc., an executive search firm where she completed part of her college practicum requirements. She thought she was being called for a possible job placement but instead, she was pleasantly surprised to learn that John Clements wanted her to be part of its  Recruitment team. After  one and a half years. Susie was invited in 1980 to work for Pepsi Cola Bottling Co. Inc., where she rose from the ranks during her 10-year stint. After gaining experience in the beverage industry, she considered moving to another  industry. That opportunity came when she joined Metro Drug Corporation, one of the country’s biggest distribution companies. Eventually, she moved to the pharmaceutical industry, where she thrived for a total of twenty years; first at Sandoz Phils. Inc.and finally at Bayer Phils.  Inc.,   from which she opted to  retire after fifteen years.

Nowadays,  aside from  assisting  her husband Joey in his architectural firm, she  remains engaged with people development through   her HR consulting projects both in the private and public sectors, and by mentoring young girls from a public high school in Las Piñas City.

Today, Susie with her husband Arch. Joey Amistoso

In "Pointers for New College Graduates," Susie shares her pieces of advice  for new college graduates:

·   Take a break. Take some time off after graduation. You need to recharge after all the stresses of exams, projects and paperworks. This vacation may take months but it must be productive. Find companies that pique your interest and send out resumés.

·   Be patient. Your heart and your mind need to agree on where you want to go. Discernment in your career choices may not come immediately after college so you have to be keen in doing your work well.

·   Be real. Seasoned interviewers can see through you. Communicate confidently and research well on the company you are applying to.

Read more about Susie’s pointers for college graduates, specifically  for those  aspiring to join the Human Resource Industry.

"Pointers for New College Graduates," by Gerry P. Siquijor. Available at Fully Booked,  St. Pauls, Pauline Bookstores and branches of Catholic Book Center.