![\"Keynote](\"https://mercurylabsmarketing.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Speaker-talks-about-Mental-Health.webp\")
ILOILO CITY \u2013 In celebration of two decades of service since 2004, Mercury Labs hosted a two-part event for its leaders, the Leaders Summit 2024 on July 4th and July 5th. With the theme “Set the Next,” this challenge urged Callboxers to stay one step ahead and embrace the journey with unwavering determination.
\n\n\n\nThrough a series of challenging yet rewarding activities, participants were encouraged to think outside the box, leverage their strengths, and solidify their commitment to achieving industry-leading excellence.
\n\n\n\nThe first part of the event was a talk entitled “Empowered Leadership: Mindfulness and Self-Care for Sustainable Success,” with Rona Esther Banlasan-Suizo, a Registered Guidance Counselor and Psychometrician, as the keynote speaker. The session highlighted the importance of mental wellness in effective leadership and emphasized how mindfulness and self-care practices contribute to sustainable professional success.
\n\n\n\nStarting with a 42-item psychological test, the session continued with discussions on Mindfulness, States of Mind, Middle Path Skills, Coping Statements, Emotion Regulation, Practice Tips on Validation, and Self-Kindness Practices.
\n\n\n\nThe event concluded with a Q&A session between the speaker and attendees. Afterward, a Fellowship Brunch provided a relaxed setting for Callboxers to network and socialize with colleagues. This free time also included a unique activity: an interactive illustration project where attendees could paint and mingle.
\n\n\n\nThis was followed by a discussion of the Mercury Labs Emerging Leaders Development Program (CELDP) led by Mark Stephen Garlitos, Recruitment Coordinator, and Emerald Tiong Uy, Head of Training and Leadership Development.
\n\n\n\nLaunched on March 7 this year, the Mercury Labs Emerging Leaders Development Program (CELDP) aims to build a strong pipeline of future leaders through both recruitment and internal development. The program targets high-potential hires and current employees with leadership aspirations, offering a structured three-month course that includes bi-weekly and weekly theoretical training sessions, one-on-one mentorship, hands-on assignments, and regular feedback and evaluation.
\n\n\n\nThe initial launch included 21 participants, with a high completion rate of 17. Among the graduates, 8 are now advancing into leadership roles.
\n\n\n\n![\"Mercury](\"https://mercurylabsmarketing.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Callbox-Leaders-Group-Picture.webp\")
The discussion was followed by a panel on Effective Client and Program Management, moderated by Operations Managers Melisa Timbol and Eunice Basicong.
\n\n\n\nThe panelists included Louis Largo (CSM), James De Guzman (CSM), Carlos Gonzales (CSM), Michaela Miller (CSM), and Cyren Haba\u00f1a (Operations Manager). The session covered client relationship strategies and program management insights for sustainable growth, followed by a Q&A session for attendees.
\n\n\n\nOne of the questions asked in the discussion was, \u201cWhat strategies can we implement to maintain above 40% client retention and win back former clients?\u201d
\n\n\n\nCarlos Gonzales (CSM), highlighted the importance of maintaining good relationships with clients even outside work. Strong client relationships are built on consistent communication, even extending beyond work-related matters. A simple gesture like a birthday or graduation message can solidify these connections.
\n\n\n\n![\"What](\"https://mercurylabsmarketing.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/What-Callboxs-Leaders-Have-in-Mind.webp\")
Louis Largo (CSM) emphasized that client success goes beyond professional interaction. Building rapport requires open communication, setting clear expectations, and adding a touch of personalization.
\n\n\n\nThis insightful panel discussion was followed by the presentation of the CEO\u2019s vision for the company, given this year\u2019s theme, \u201cSet The Next,\u201d facilitated by Ben-Larry Belgica, Marketing Manager, and Mitos Aguadera, VP for Sales and Marketing.
\n\n\n\nInspired by diverse leadership voices, the “Set the Next” theme is an action-oriented approach urging Callboxers and clients to shed outdated ideas and actively seek innovation. The focus shifts from merely following trends to building a better future. This involves developing new skills and tools, both personally and for leading teams, ultimately surpassing existing limitations and shaping a truly groundbreaking “next.”
\n\n\n\n![\"CEO](\"https://mercurylabsmarketing.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Rom-Agustins-vision-for-the-company.webp\")
CEO Rom Agustin, in his vision for the company, stated, \u201cWe\u2019re not just about lead generation; we\u2019re revolutionizing it. We\u2019ll equip our clients with the best data, talent, and strategies, all powered by AI. We\u2019re more than a BPO – we\u2019re a strategic marketing and sales partner.\u201d
\n\n\n\n\u201cWe\u2019re committed to becoming the #1 employer in the Philippines, investing in your upskilling, and ensuring you\u2019re well-rewarded,\u201d he added.
\n\n\n\n![\"Rebecca](\"https://mercurylabsmarketing.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Rebecca-Matias-take-on-Setting-the-Next.webp\")
Rebecca Matias, COO, stated that \u201cSetting the Next\u201d isn\u2019t just about doing something new; it\u2019s about taking what we excel at and doing it even better. But we can\u2019t do this as passive participants. We\u2019re all leaders – catalysts for change, not just implementers. Let\u2019s approach this with unwavering optimism and remember the incredible team we\u2019ve built. This isn\u2019t just a professional pursuit; it\u2019s a chance to build something special with the people who feel like family.\u201d
\n\n\n\nLeaders were asked, \u201cWhat will you ‘Set Next’ in your leadership journey?\u201d The responses emphasized adaptation and continuous improvement. The rise of AI demands brainstorming for a competitive edge, while marketing needs proactive innovation. Leaders themselves should “Set the Next Bar” with higher goals. Whatever the future brings, Mercury Labs will adapt and use it to its advantage.
\n\n\n\nSome of them also shared valuable pieces of advice for those who aspire to \u201cSet the Next\u201d:
\n\n\n\n![\"Diana](\"https://mercurylabsmarketing.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Diana-Carolina-Sanabria-BDM.webp\")
\u201cContinue learning; it\u2019s something we should do every single day. In that way, we become better people and better workers, and we can give our best to our teams,\u201d said Diana Carolina Sanabria, Business Development Manager.
\n\n\n\n\u201cHaving been at Mercury Labs for a while, I think the best advice I could give is to never be afraid of change. Our CEO has been a champion of moving forward. Always have a vision of the future,\u201d shared Nick Salinog, Senior Production Manager.
\n\n\n\nAll in all, Mercury Labs leadership charts a future-focused course. Mitos Aguadera envisions a thriving client community in Singapore, leading in industry trends, and cultivating champions and influencers for continued success.
\n\n\n\nThe summit concluded with photo ops, summarizing key takeaways and reminders for the team-building activity set for the next day, along with the Mercury Labs Anniversary on July 6th.
\n\n\n\nFollowing the insightful sessions and best practice sharing, leaders were ready for action and fun at the Leaders Team Building at Andana Resort on Guimaras Island the following day.
\n\n\n\nThis immersive activity tested leadership skills, encouraged collaboration, and tackled challenges collectively. It aimed to strengthen the bonds that drive the company\u2019s success while giving attendees a chance to unwind and build more meaningful connections in a relaxed setting.
\n\n\n\nThe activity kicked off with inspiring messages from the CEO and COO, setting the stage for a day of engagement and connection. Icebreaker activities like the “Hammer Hand” and a fun twist on the classic Filipino game “Bato Bato Pick Battle Royale” got the energy flowing. Participants also bonded through a “Getting to Know You” activity, where they were grouped by the first initial of their names.
\n\n\n\n![\"Mercury](\"https://mercurylabsmarketing.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Callbox-Leaders-Team-Building-2024.webp\")
The highlight of the day was the Mini Amazing Race. Divided into five teams (Orange, Brown, Pink, Blue, and Yellow), the leaders tackled a series of challenges that tested their teamwork and spirit. These included the Marble Pass, Pool Relay, FULL me once, Raise Your Flag, and a celebratory Groupie Time! to cap the games. The Orange team emerged as the winner.
\n\n\n\nAll participants enjoyed a sumptuous lunch featuring Filipino cuisine, including lechon and sun-ripened Guimaras mangoes. This was followed by a recap of the previous day\u2019s take-home activity, where the leaders were asked what they want to \u201cSet the Next.\u201d The afternoon activities were then announced.
\n\n\n\nAttendees who felt extra adventurous had the option to explore hidden coves and beaches on an island-hopping trip. Those looking to cool off and wind down had the choice to take a refreshing dip in the pool. Those who preferred delightful conversations had the chance to build connections over drinks. Those who wanted to explore enjoyed taking pictures around the resort. No matter the preference, there was an activity for everyone.
\n\n\n\nThe team-building session concluded promptly at 4 PM, with everyone either returning to Iloilo City or opting to stay overnight at the resort.
\n\n\n\nMarking 20 years of B2B leadership and breakthroughs, Mercury Labs stands at the forefront of global outsourcing solutions, revolutionizing sales and marketing strategies for businesses worldwide. Using AI-driven account-based marketing, Mercury Labs taps into a global database of over 35 million business contacts. This strategy enables companies to expand their market reach by engaging potential clients across six lead generation channels: voice, email, social media, chat, web, and webinars.
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