In today’s fast-changing job market, staying competitive isn’t about holding the most impressive title or the longest résumé—it’s about continuously building skills that keep you relevant.
Mariecielo Pamaylaon, Certified Management Accountant, lives by one rule: never stop learning.
“To stay competitive, continuous learning is important to equip myself with the latest tools, technologies, and standards,” Pamaylaon tells Financial Adviser PH.
For her, professional growth isn’t just a career advantage—it’s a survival strategy.
Why learning never stops
Pamaylaon works in an industry where change is constant, and adaptability is non-negotiable. Regulations shift, technologies evolve, and client expectations grow more complex.
“To succeed in my industry, an individual should be adaptable to any situation and circumstances. Change is inevitable, so we should always be prepared,” she says.
That preparation comes from actively seeking knowledge—whether through formal training, online learning platforms, or hands-on experience in new roles.
From accountant to global project leader
Her own career journey illustrates this philosophy. Pamaylaon transitioned from a full-time accountant role to project management, leading finance-related initiatives and change programs that span multiple countries.
“Yes, I did make a career shift,” she says. “Some of the challenges I faced are (1) time zone differences and (2) communication, as I need to engage with different people across the globe.”
Rather than being discouraged by these obstacles, she embraced them as learning opportunities—gaining cultural fluency, improving cross-border communication skills, and mastering tools that make remote collaboration more effective.
The best career advice she’s ever received
Part of staying competitive, she notes, is taking care of yourself so you’re ready to rise to new challenges.
“Stay healthy and happy always! This is true; sometimes we almost forget ourselves when we are 100% laser-focused on work. There is always life after work,” she says.
For Pamaylaon, professional growth is sustainable only when paired with personal well-being. A clear mind and a healthy body make it easier to absorb new knowledge and adapt to change.
Why attitude matters as much as skills
In competitive industries, the right mindset can be just as valuable as technical expertise.
“A standout job candidate is one who shows a good working attitude,” she says. “Any job can be learned through hard work, but an individual’s attitude is not something that you can learn overnight. It is based on one’s character and passion towards work.”
Employers, she adds, are drawn to people who don’t just meet requirements but also bring curiosity, positivity, and commitment to the table.
Preparing for the unknown
Pamaylaon believes future-proofing your career means being proactive about your development. Waiting for change to force you to learn new skills is too risky.
“Allow yourself to grow through various training and development courses that will help you prepare for any challenges,” she says.
That might mean earning certifications, expanding digital literacy, or taking on stretch assignments that push you outside your comfort zone.
The bigger picture
Pamaylaon’s rule—keep learning, keep growing—isn’t just theory. It’s how she’s navigated shifts in roles, industries, and responsibilities without losing momentum.
Her approach blends adaptability, curiosity, and discipline, proving that staying competitive isn’t about reacting to change—it’s about being ready for it before it arrives.
“Change is inevitable,” she says again. “So we should always be prepared.”
For professionals looking to maintain an edge, her advice is clear: your greatest career insurance is the skill you haven’t learned yet—but are willing to master.
