Our cooperative's recent investment in its people, through initiatives like the special sit-down discussion with the President and General Manager (PGM), Chief Finance Officer (CFO), and other directors, is a testament to our commitment to a people-first culture. The second batch of SEED trainees had the privilege of hearing firsthand from our top leaders, who shared their personal and professional journeys to inspire the next generation of cooperative leaders. The discussion went beyond simple career advice, offering a comprehensive and synthesized view of leadership, resilience, and the cooperative's ambitious future.
Leadership: A Journey of Influence and Empathy
The PGM's insights on leadership were a recurring theme throughout the discussion. He emphasized that leadership isn't a position to be sought, but an influence to be earned. Aspiring for a title, he noted, is a "kiss of death." Instead, individuals should focus on developing their skills and character to the point where the position seeks them out. This philosophy was exemplified by his own experience of rejecting a high-level position until he felt he could truly make a difference.
A crucial element of this leadership style is empathy and understanding. He shared that a true leader must know their team's motivations, potential, and what makes each person shine. This approach, a far cry from the old-school "boss" mentality, is about nurturing individual strengths and creating an environment where everyone feels valued. He candidly shared how he evolved from a "judgmental" person to one who appreciates the value in every individual, learning that those once deemed "useless" often become the most vital assets in challenging situations.
Resiliency and Personal Growth: The Building Blocks of Success
The leaders also addressed the realities of burnout and setbacks, offering practical wisdom for navigating professional life. They stressed that there are no failures, only setbacks, and the key is to find the opportunity within every problem. The PGM shared his personal story of multitasking with two jobs early in his career, which prepared his mind to handle greater responsibilities. To combat burnout, he advised a proactive approach: actively seeking mental well-being, reading regularly, and embracing the challenge of doing "more with less" by working smarter and using all available resources. This mindset is about continuous self-improvement and emotional intelligence, which he wishes he had invested in more when he was younger.
A Bold Vision for a Global Cooperative
The discussion painted a picture of a cooperative with a bold future, one that goes beyond its current role. The leaders envision the organization not just as a manpower provider but as a conglomerate that owns and operates businesses nationwide. The ultimate goal is to go global, not for the sake of expansion alone, but to generate more capital for the members and provide them with opportunities to work abroad. This vision underscores the cooperative's dedication to its members' welfare and its ambition to create a lasting legacy.
The leaders concluded with a powerful message for the SEED trainees: they are an investment. They are expected to be worth the money and time poured into their development. Their actions and dedication will determine their path, whether they become a manager or a "cog in the organization." The call to action was clear: to look inward, find their unique shine, and to "go, grow, and glow." This message highlights that the organization is not just looking for workers, but for future leaders who will continue to build on its foundation of people-first values.
