Liezel Gaslang – Executive Virtual Assistant, Social Media Manager
Hello, my name is Liezel Gaslang, but you can call me Zel. As a single mother of two children, my journey through life and career has been far from ordinary. I pursued a degree in Information Technology from Negros Oriental State University in Dumaguete City, which prepared me for my future endeavors.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, I transitioned to remote work, which was a domain I had never envisioned for myself. However, this change brought unexpected fulfillment, freedom, and a significant improvement in my work-life balance.
My career began as a Technical Support Specialist at PLDT, a leading internet provider in the Philippines, where I developed my skills in troubleshooting and customer service for three years. This experience was crucial in dealing with local clients and efficiently addressing their internet concerns. I then became a Customer Support representative for an international account at Uber Eats, a prominent food delivery business. This job required me to manage inbound and outbound communications, which showcased my adaptability and commitment to excellence.
The pandemic in 2020 marked a turning point. I had planned to transition to a new company in Manila as a customer service representative, but lockdowns and the subsequent closure of the intended account halted those plans. However, I returned to my previous company, CNX, albeit in a different capacity – this time in a healthcare account. The remote setup during this period illuminated the advantages of working from home, which increased my productivity and allowed for more time with my children.
When I moved back to Mindanao with my children, I resigned from my job, but another remote opportunity soon presented itself. I worked as a virtual interviewer with Dynata, engaging with US voters during the elections. This seasonal position was followed by a role as an Onboarding Specialist at Fleetsmarts, a US-based company, where I scheduled appointments with potential clients interested in fuel cards.
Remote work, despite its challenges, such as autonomy and minimal supervision, has proven to be a rewarding and liberating experience. It allows for a flexible schedule, savings on commute costs, and the comfort of working in casual attire. I pursued knowledge through online courses in freelancing, virtual assistance, and more before the pandemic, which underscored my ambition to excel in the virtual domain. Engaging in internships as a virtual assistant and social media manager further refined my skills and solidified my commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.
As a virtual assistant, understanding a company’s ethos, objectives, and requirements is crucial. Attributes such as a positive attitude, integrity, and accountability are fundamental to achieving success and fostering client satisfaction.
The transition to remote work has not only been beneficial for my career but has also improved my family life, allowing me to spend quality time with my children. My goal is to continuously grow and acquire new skills, ensuring that I remain an invaluable asset to my clients.
For a copy of Liezel’s resume please click here.