ABOUT THE GENERAL MANAGER
Barry Lee
What’s your superhero origin story? How did you become the General Manager at Advice2Talent?
My journey to becoming the General Manager at Advice2Talent is anything but conventional. Back in my university days, I was on a path to becoming a nurse, with dreams of one day pursuing a career as a physician. But somewhere along the way, my passion for the medical field began to wane, and I found myself drawn to the dynamic world of business.
In 2009, I took my first step into the corporate world as a BPO agent. It was a completely new environment, but I was eager to learn and grow. I immersed myself in the industry, attending countless training sessions—some funded by the companies I worked for, others that I sought out and invested in myself. I discovered a deep love for leadership and self-improvement, and I made it my mission to apply these lessons to the teams I managed.
As the years went by, I became increasingly aware of the inequities in the industry, particularly when it came to fair wages for Filipino workers. I saw firsthand how many employees were working tirelessly, yet struggling to provide for their families. This realization became a driving force for me.
Barry Lee
General Manager
When I joined Advice2Talent, I found an opportunity to make a difference. I made it my personal mission to ensure that the Filipino workforce is fairly compensated for their hard work and talent. Today, as General Manager, I am proud to lead a team that is not only dedicated to delivering excellence but also committed to creating meaningful change in the industry.
What’s your secret sauce for keeping everything running smoothly? Any quirky rituals or go-to productivity hacks?
My secret sauce for keeping everything running smoothly lies in fostering open communication. I believe that when everyone has access to the right resources at the right time, it empowers them to perform their best. I make it a priority to be approachable and available whenever my team needs support. This open-door approach encourages staff to share their concerns freely and enables me to provide timely and constructive feedback. By creating an environment of trust and collaboration, we can overcome challenges together and keep everything on track.
Highlight your unique methods and tips for staying organized and efficient.
My secret sauce for keeping everything running smoothly lies in fostering open communication. I believe that when everyone has access to the right resources at the right time, it empowers them to perform their best. I make it a priority to be approachable and available whenever my team needs support. This open-door approach encourages staff to share their concerns freely and enables me to provide timely and constructive feedback. By creating an environment of trust and collaboration, we can overcome challenges together and keep everything on track.
If your job came with a theme song, what would it be and why?
If my job came with a theme song, it would be “Hakuna Matata.” The song perfectly reflects my approach to challenges—no matter what problem arises, I firmly believe there’s always a solution. It’s a reminder to stay calm, focus on the positive, and tackle issues with confidence and creativity.
How did you get started in the virtual assistant industry, and what drew you to it?
My journey into the virtual assistant industry began with a referral from a family member who introduced me to this dynamic field. Together, we started the business from the ground up, treating it as if it were our own. From the beginning, our focus was on creating a culture that stood in stark contrast to the ones we had experienced in traditional corporate environments. By prioritizing inclusivity, support, and innovation, we built a foundation that not only fosters growth but also reflects the values we truly believe in.
What’s one unexpected skill or talent you bring to the team that people might not know about?
One unexpected skill I bring to the team is my ability to “move mountains for breakfast.” What this means is that I approach challenges with unwavering resilience and determination. No matter the obstacle, I stay composed and focused, ensuring that I’m always available to support my team members whenever they need me. My commitment to problem-solving and helping others is a strength I take pride in and one that keeps the team moving forward.