Source the right TEAM

One critical choice from several candidates to choose from. This May, Filipinos will troop to polling precincts to select a leader who can effec-tively steer the economy from its woes. With the investment community watching, it’s every-one’s wish to obtain an affirma-tive rating for the Philippines at the end of this political exercise. Rather than take this discussion at length as to who the rightful pick should be, let’s look more closely at how each of us can contribute in getting an "A-ffirmative" rating for the Philippines.

Whether in the corporate or political arena, leaders need a competent and coherent TEAM. Not everyone can lead, that’s why it is always expected that leaders need to be supported by good followers. This way, goals are achieved and conflicts are resolved quickly, especially if we emphasize the core essentials of TEAM formation – T for Turning Points, E for Entrepreneurship, A for Action and M for Morale.

Turning Points refer to strategic directions. In the eMarketplace that we operate, SourcePilipinas’ 1,700 companies (and growing!) have adopted a specific direction to adopt a full-cycle e-Procurement approach, to help them become more transparent in their operations, realize savings and/or avoid unnecessary cost and bring bigger business opportunities. Turning Points help decision-makers achieve improved numbers, and flexibility in contract negotiations, among other things. The goal is to find better ways to improve the revenue stream and achieve savings to boost cash flow that can be funneled to additional expansion and employment.

Joining eMarketplaces also hones entrepreneurship, or a sense of "belongingness" or co-ownership of business undertakings. Nothing empowers a single or relatively small group of buyers than having to tie up with account managers and administrators to get each single requirement going. Exchanges like SourcePilipinas are empowered with dedicated players who work to complement your team’s functions and resolve issues. This value is likewise essential in fortifying partnerships, especially when the vision is to go the long haul.

Entrepreneurship also means widening horizons and market scope. eMarketplaces help businessmen fill in business gaps more aptly, especially with the advent of regional and global competition. For example, the bird flu scare that struck most countries in Asia opened export opportunities for Philippine poultry producers. These entities can tap eMarketplaces’ external linkages to simplify their approach and accreditation. Simply put, select an eMarketplace that is not one-sided on the cost side, but can handle the selling process as well.

Rather than be passive, participation in exchanges calls for Action. More than getting items delivered on time, SourcePilipinas pro-actively responds to changes within the investment environment so you get results done. Action means not having to replicate functionalities and activities present in eMarketplaces, so you can move ahead with larger plans. This commitment needs to be in place to facilitate swifter commerce and trade. Action likewise calls for swifter decisions, in a scheme that will not jeopardize transparency. These decisions go through an outlined process where objective assessments are made.

Finally, TEAM can help build confidence or morale. Successes are reaped when each player practices accountability for every defeat or challenges that circumstances may bring. Rephrased, the fault of one is that of the whole. The easiest approach is having to take credit when things turn out to be good, and point fingers when things go bad. Strong performers need to suggest approaches to help team members identify key weaknesses and work on how these can be properly addressed. This means each player must embody a deeper spirit and wider mindset to withstand pressures, and come up with strategies as well as counter-approaches to forward the company’s goal.

All told, candidate selection should come in hand with the roles we play as team members. Remember, affirmative votes from external sources reflect the TEAM Filipinos support.

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Grace Crisostomo-Cerdenia is the general manager of SourcePilipinas.com and chief operating officer of 2TradeAsia. For your comments or queries, e-mail her at [email protected].