For Alyana Gutierrez, a Certified Human Resource Professional, building a productive workforce isn’t just about performance—it’s about culture, connection, and care.
“I approach people management and workplace culture with a positive outlook,” she shared with Financial Adviser PH. “I firmly believe in the importance of culture fit.”
As the Legal Services and Human Capital Management Officer at Guanzon Group of Companies, Alyana has a front-row seat to what drives teams forward—and it’s not just policies or perks. It’s purpose, alignment, and a shared commitment to well-being.
“I strive to create an environment where individuals feel valued, empowered, and aligned with the organization’s values,” she said. “This means fostering a sense of belonging, encouraging open communication, and recognizing the strengths of each team member.”
Alyana believes culture isn’t just a set of values posted on the wall—it’s something built through daily actions and reinforced by trust, collaboration, and leadership. And at the heart of that is feedback.
“One of the most exciting yet challenging trends in HR today is the rise of feedback culture,” she explained. “It strengthens communication, improves performance, and builds trust within teams.”
But she admits that shifting from once-a-year reviews to continuous feedback isn’t easy. “It requires a shift in mindset. The challenge lies in ensuring feedback is both actionable and received in a positive manner.”
Her strategy? Pairing structure with empathy—and leveraging technology when needed. “Organizations must cultivate psychological safety, where employees feel comfortable giving and receiving feedback without fear of judgment,” she said, noting the role of AI tools and pulse surveys to support this transformation.
For Alyana, the most fulfilling part of her work is watching employees grow not just in their roles, but as people. “A thriving workplace culture is built on a strong foundation of balance—ensuring that individuals feel supported not just in their professional aspirations but also in their overall well-being.”
That includes career development programs, wellness initiatives, and leadership that truly listens.
“Seeing individuals grow and feel genuinely valued is what makes this role truly rewarding,” she said.
Her approach is simple, but powerful: start with culture, stay consistent with feedback, and always put well-being at the center. The result? A workplace where people don’t just perform—they thrive.
