By way of introduction, what’s your background story?
I am Gabriela Alexandra N. Olaño from Baao, Camarines Sur. I am a working girl by day and law student by night.
What course did you study in uni? Where?
I studied BA Journalism at Bicol University in Legazpi City, Albay.
Where have you worked in the past?
I have no prior working experience.
Where are you working now?
I am currently working as a PR Accounts Associate in ABS-CBN Corporation.
For those who’ve never heard of ABS-CBN, what do they actually do? (Explain it to me like I'm seven years old!)
ABS-CBN is a media company that creates amazing shows, movies, music, and events for everyone to enjoy. ABS-CBN is also the home of favorite Filipino artists such as Kathryn Bernardo, Vice Ganda, and many more.
What makes your organisation unique?
ABS-CBN is unique because it makes people feel that they belong in one big family. All of the viewers share collective experiences in loving (or hating) characters and kontrabidas in the shows or movies.
What is your organisation best known for?
For producing the most beloved shows and movies in the Philippines and for making the biggest stars in the showbiz industry then and now.
What does PR Accounts Associate actually do all day?
As a PR Accounts Associate, I draft press releases and art cards for new shows, programs, movies, etc. I am also one of the people who manage the social media account of ABS-CBN PR. I assist my PR Manager during press or media conferences, show announcements, contract signings, etc.
What’s the coolest thing you’ve worked on so far at ABS-CBN?
Working for the PR team during the ABS-CBN Ball. All of the artists that I could only watch on TV are gathered in one place and I got to do short interviews with them at the press rooms.
How did you first find out about your job opening?
I found out about the job opening when I opened the careers website of ABS-CBN.
What was it that first interested you in applying and working for ABS-CBN?
I was interested In applying because of the job description. I thought that it fit perfectly with what I knew and what I was skilled in during that time. Plus ABS-CBN is the biggest and most prestigious media company in the country.
How long does the entire application process take? How long does it take them to get back to you after an interview?
It was relatively fast. HR contacted me a week or two after I submitted my application. They scheduled an interview for me and it took only a couple of days to proceed with the other stuff. After the interview, the job offer, acceptance, etc. all happened in a week as far as I can remember.
What was the hardest part of the application process?
The exam and interview.
What’s your single best piece of advice for anyone wanting to nail the grad application process at ABS-CBN?
Be yourself. Be confident in answering questions during the interview process.
What did your initial first few days, and the training and onboarding process look like?
It was good. HR was quick to answer my queries. My teammates were helping me a lot during my first few days, even well over my first month. They were helping me step by step in learning the tasks and guiding me throughout the process of transitioning from a fresh grad to an employee.
What learning and development opportunities do you have access to at ABS-CBN?
My supervisors include me in meetings and events that would make me understand the job more. They would give me tasks that test my ability and make me hone my skills more.
How are junior employees supported and mentored by senior team members?
They would make us learn the step by step process of the task at hand. When we make mistakes, they don’t scold us. Rather, they explain what could’ve been done better or differently. They encourage us to be better individuals.
What kind of career development opportunities are available for junior employees?
More skills to be developed. More connections with people inside and outside the company.
What does the work/life balance look like for someone in your role?
In our division, we have a once in a month GA wherein we usually talk about work related things but also I think it’s an opportunity for us to bond, to eat lunch or merienda together, to talk about anything under the sun. We also have get togethers outside once during summer and Christmas.
What’s your workload like?
Not that heavy usually. But when we have a lot of new shows or movies to promote, it gets a little hectic at times. But we help each other to make our work a lot easier.
What kinds of support systems are in place? (e.g. Are there any wellness programs, mental health support or resources offered?)
I believe the company has free mental health checks. But I personally do not avail because I don’t need it.
Can you walk us through the typical career path for your role at your company? Where does your role lead to in the future?
I could be promoted to a PR officer or manager if there is a vacancy and if I already have the experience and skills to fit into that role.
What happens if you do well (e.g. promotions)?
I get commended by my superiors.
What happens if you’re doing poorly (e.g. ‘up or out’ policy? Transition to another department?)
Mentoring from my supervisor to make me learn how to correct my mistakes and make me a better employee.
Any final advice you’d share with new graduates starting out at ABS-CBN? Anything students should be aware of before making the jump
Just enjoy the process of making mistakes and learning. We are not expected to be perfect at once. The great thing about people in ABS-CBN, at least in my division, is that they are very considerate when it comes to the newbies and junior employees. Instead of making them feel inferior, our seniors and supervisors help us improve more. They also create a bond that makes us feel comfortable in asking for help when we need it.