Investment in People Phils CEO Speaks at Southville’s Business Forum

“Your hard skills get you to the interview table. Your soft skills get you the job.” These were the words of Mr. Gerry Plana, CEO of Investment in People Philippines, as he addressed students of the College of Business Education and Tourism of Southville International School and Colleges during the 4th Business Lecture – CEO Forum held at the MPH Tropical Campus, October 25, 2017.

Mr. Plana, who has had more than 30 years of experience in the field of Human Resource Management and Organizational Development underscored the importance of developing ones’ soft skills in landing good pasts in any company after graduation. Soft skills include having a positive attitude, being a good team player, having good communication skills among others.

Further expounding on the theme: “Investing in People: What Employers look for in their Employees,” Mr. Plana addressed future managers and emphasized the importance of leadership over management in developing quality employees and providing them opportunities to grow professionally.

“Managing is all about control” he stressed. “Leading is all about direction. Strive to lead more than manage.”

Now on its 4th year, the Business Lecture – CEO Forum provides an avenue for students of Southville to gain insights on critical concerns and issues of the corporate world through a dialogue with experts, business practitioners and managers.

“The CEO forum is just one of the many activities embedded in the academic programs of the College,” shared by Dr. Victor Manabat, Dean of the College of Business Education and Tourism. “Through the ideas and experiences of such individuals as Mr. Plana, we are able to widen the business perspective of our students and inspire them to discover their potentials as future managers and entrepreneurs.”