Work and Play: What I learned about TeamAsia during my very first GeTAway

by Patrick de Jesus, Marketing & Accounts Department

Coming in as a new Accounts Manager in TeamAsia, I immediately noticed how the culture is a great combination of work and play. I enjoy the fact that working overtime is not encouraged, even though it’s a trend among agencies. Because my personality is a mix of serious and quirky, I realized that getting along with the team would be a breeze.

This is why when they announced the summer outing, I was sure that it would be an unforgettable experience even though Laiya, Batangas is a familiar place. The theme was Summer TAmbayan–very characteristic of the fun and laid back TeamAsia culture. In fact, we were given the liberty to do what we wanted upon arrival. I for one enjoyed the morning sunshine by the beach with my awesome teammates from the Marketing and Accounts department.

Being a new member of the TeamAsia family, I had reservations about spending time with the other departments; but everyone’s warm welcome and easygoing manner quickly washed away that feeling. The team activities especially helped me warm up with the others, as we were grouped in random. It was a great chance for me to get to know them better.

The “The Longest Waste Line” was a highlight for me. The goal of the game was to collect as much trash in the resort and beach front as we can to make the longest line of trash possible. Aside from honing our competitive spirit and uniting us as teams, the activity also served as an opportunity for everyone to take part in conserving the environment. It was a memorable experience that made an impact in the way I see the trash we leave behind.

Upon sunset, we concluded the day with a bonfire and a heartfelt speech by our principals. Afterwards, a handful of people decided to stay up to hang out or take a dip in the pool with music and some drinks. As I chatted and talked about life with my new colleagues under the stars, I realized that they are the bunch I want to stick around with. 

Even though I’ve only been with TeamAsia for over a month, people treated me as if they knew me so well. What’s more, it was interesting to see how everyone took the activities seriously all while having fun. It was a clear picture of how everyone is able to balance work and play–a culture that I personally look for in a company. It’s no fun when your colleagues treat you as merely colleagues, so I’m glad that in TeamAsia I feel like I am part of a family.