Partners and associates of SyCipLaw recently welcomed to the Firm's Makati Office Ms. Grace Vera Cruz, Country Head of Grab Philippines, for a legal staff meeting that focused on enhancing people skills in the workplace.
Drawing from her years of experience in management, consulting, and operations roles, Ms. Vera Cruz engaged in a spirited discussion with the SyCipLaw lawyers about mentoring, giving and receiving constructive feedback, and taking part in difficult conversations in the workplace.
On mentoring, Ms. Vera Cruz encouraged associates to seek out mentors and cultivate meaningful connections. She emphasized that mentors and mentees need to get to know and understand each other to make the relationship work. "I think that the mentor's job is to make sure that the strengths of your mentee are amplified, and their weaknesses are covered. My job as a mentor is to increase the effect of [my mentee's] strengths," she added. Ms. Vera Cruz also gave insights into what clients expect from their lawyers and the dynamics of lawyer-client relationships.
SyCipLaw partner Jose Florante M. Pamfilo moderated the session with support from Easter Princess U. Castro-Ty. The legal staff meeting was organized by the firm's Associate Engagement Committee.