Arlen Andres: Achieving Greater Heights and Giving Good Vibes

Arlen is definitely one of ASW Global’s G.O.A.T. Joining ASW in 2020, she hit the ground running and is now a 3-time, back-to-back Client Spotlight awardee. Read about what motivates her, the woman she admires the most, and the Dolly Parton quote that she lives by.

1. Hi Arlen! Please introduce yourself. What is your role and responsibilities at ASW?

I started working at ASW as an assistant broker administrator in September 2020. Recently, I was promoted to Senior Broker Administrator.

2. Can you share a brief overview of your professional journey and how you ended up in your current role?

Since early school, I have been inclined to subjects and topics about math and accounting. I have been working with Australian clients for years. An opportunity came from an Australian lending company, but unfortunately (or fortunately), the company shut down during the COVID lockdown. Now, I am very blessed to have been with ASW for over three years.

3. Outside of work, what are your interests, hobbies, or activities that you are passionate about?

I like travelling, going to the beach, exploring new restaurants, trying out different blends of coffee, and playing with my furbabies.

4. You’re a 3-time Client Spotlight awardee! Congratulations! Can you share with us how you achieved this amazing feat?

Thank you! Every day, I aim not only to accomplish the task but exceed my client’s expectations. Also, working for the best client and loving what you do makes everything enjoyable at work.

5. Can you describe a challenging situation you faced at work and how you overcame it?

At first, I found it challenging to be working alone in my account. But now, I am enjoying it every day. It has been a blessing in disguise since this allowed me to develop time management, cope with work frustrations independently, and work at my own pace.

6. What motivates or inspires you in your personal and professional life?

I want to live the life I want and enjoy. I am blessed to have a generous client. With my current compensation and work-from-home setup, I can provide for my needs and enjoy the things that I like doing the most. I remember my client telling me this in one of our conversations. We work hard to earn and have the best quality of life possible. It is not enough that we love our job. It must also compensate for our needs and sustain an enjoyable and comfortable life outside work.

7. Who are your role models or mentors that have made a significant impact on your life?

Regarding my career, I am blessed to be surrounded by friends who have worked in the BPO industry for several years. My partner Alvin, who is senior to me in this sector, often advises me on how to deal with matters professionally. I also see the hard work and dedication of my client Josh (Director of Finicky Finance, one of ASW’s client partners) in our endeavours.

In my personal life, I greatly admire my aunt Lorelei who guided me. My mom died when I was only ten, and my dad is an overseas worker. She acted as my parent and took the responsibility of raising me as her own.

8. How do you practise work-life balance?

I make sure I enjoy my days off and free time doing the things I love and being with people I enjoy having adventures with. I like watching psychological thrillers and true crime series during my free time.

9. What personal values or beliefs guide your approach to work and life?

When I was younger, I was a people pleaser and wanted to control everything. Now that I have matured, I have learned not to pay attention to people who will not contribute to my growth and drain my energy and good vibes. I have also learned not to dwell and get stressed by things beyond my control.

10. What would you like people to know about where you’re from?

People from the Philippines are very hospitable and accommodating. This reflects why we are in demand in the health and BPO industry.

11. What advice/inspiring words would you like to share with your colleagues at ASW?

My professional milestones in ASW have been made possible with the help of my Senior Account Manager, Account Manager, the friends I met, and especially my client Josh. Let us continue to grow together and achieve greater heights.

Lastly, as Dolly Parton said, “Don’t get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life“.