Career-ready communication skills highlighted in PEP Talk session

Communication goes beyond speaking—it is about connecting with purpose and confidence. This was emphasized during the PEP Talk Series session titled “More than Just Talking: Communication That Connects.” 

Participants found the session highly relevant to their own experiences, particularly in navigating academic and work environments. Blue Pascual, a student from the Institute of Accounts, Business and Finance, shared how the session reinforced the value of communication in his journey as a senior doing his internship.

“Always bring your best self at work and be prepared—that message really stuck with me,” said Pascual. “The session emphasized how critical communication is in the corporate world, and I realized it has been one of my biggest advantages. It has helped me grow, become more confident, and stay open to learning in every situation.”

He added that his experience working in a corporate setting has further strengthened his appreciation for effective communication. “Because I value clear and effective communication, I feel more prepared to handle challenges. It pushes me to stay open-minded, be more confident, and continue growing in my career,” he said

Another student participant highlighted how the workshop format deepened their learning. “We learn about communication in our classes, but this session allowed us to actually practice it,” the student said. “The activities helped us see how communication works in real situations, especially in building connections and expressing ideas clearly.”

The session last April 14 at the University Conference Center was conducted as part of BDO Unibank, Inc.’s Career Readiness Bootcamp, “Meet BDO: Find Your Way from Campus to Your Future Career,” gathering Far Eastern University students for an afternoon of interactive learning focused on strengthening communication skills for professional success. The session was led by Jaily Escobal, Senior Assistant Vice President for Training and Development, and Princess Geraldine Sansolis, Assistant Vice President for Training and Development, who shared insights grounded in real-world corporate experience.

As one of the largest banks in the Philippines, BDO Unibank, Inc. plays a significant role in developing future professionals through initiatives that bridge academic learning and industry expectations. Its Career Readiness Bootcamp reflects the company’s commitment to equipping students with essential workplace competencies, particularly in communication, professionalism, and adaptability.

As industries continue to hire professionals who can articulate ideas clearly and collaborate effectively, the discussion emphasized that communication is not merely about speaking, but about creating meaningful connections. Drawing from real-world corporate scenarios, the speakers underscored the importance of intentional, clear, and confident communication in navigating workplace dynamics. 

Escobal reinforced this by referencing a well-known insight from Steve Jobs, noting that “great things in life are never done by one person,” and emphasizing that effective communication is essential in achieving shared goals within organizations.

Beyond the discussions, the session was designed as an interactive, workshop-style experience where students actively participated in activities that tested and enhanced their communication skills. Through guided exercises, simulations, and real-time feedback, participants were able to apply the concepts being discussed, allowing them to better understand how effective communication works in actual workplace scenarios. These hands-on activities reinforced the importance of clarity, confidence, and intentionality in both verbal and non-verbal communication.

The session reflects the growing importance of communication as a core competency across industries, particularly as workplaces become more collaborative, fast-paced, and diverse. The ability to connect ideas with clarity and purpose is increasingly seen as a key factor in professional success. This collaboration prepares students for the transition from academic life to professional careers. By providing platforms that integrate industry insights with practical, hands-on skill development, FEU ensures that Tamaraws are equipped not only with technical knowledge but also with the communication skills necessary to thrive in dynamic workplace environments.

To learn more about the programs offered by the Institute of Accounts, Business and Finance, please visit this link: https://www.feu.edu.ph/institute-of-accounts-business-and-finance/