In the rapidly evolving global economy, the rise of Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) has become a significant driver of economic growth and job creation, especially in developing countries. In the Philippines, homegrown BPOs are not only generating employment but are also empowering local entrepreneurs to create sustainable economic ecosystems. This transformative impact is vividly discussed by Cris, a prominent figure in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, in his recent interview on the Scale You Podcast.
The Journey of Cris: From MLM to Digital Entrepreneurship
Cris’s entrepreneurial journey began in the chaotic public schools of the Philippines, where he experienced firsthand the stark contrast between affluent private schools and the under-resourced public education system. This early exposure to social disparities fueled his desire to create opportunities for himself and others. His foray into entrepreneurship started unexpectedly through a chance encounter with a Multi-Level Marketing (MLM) company at the age of 14. Despite the pitfalls and eventual collapse of the MLM scheme, Cris’s experience laid the foundation for his future endeavors in business and social entrepreneurship.
The Role of Social Entrepreneurship
A pivotal moment in Cris’s journey was his involvement with Junior Chamber International (JCI), where he learned the principles of social entrepreneurship and design thinking. This experience taught him how to solve problems creatively with minimal resources, a skill that proved invaluable in his later ventures. Cris emphasized that while MLM gave him confidence, JCI provided the framework to create sustainable social movements without substantial capital.
The Rise of Homegrown BPOs
In the Philippines, the BPO industry has traditionally been dominated by large multinational companies. However, the emergence of homegrown BPOs has marked a significant shift. These local enterprises are uniquely positioned to understand and address the specific needs of their communities, creating a more inclusive economic environment. Cris's ventures, such as Prime Media Hub and Civvy, exemplify this trend. By leveraging his expertise in online sales funnels and digital marketing, Cris has helped scale businesses to seven and eight figures, simultaneously fostering local talent and creating jobs.
Challenges and Lessons Learned
Cris candidly discussed the challenges he faced in building his businesses, including dealing with dishonest partners and managing the complexities of scaling operations. He highlighted the importance of resilience and adaptability in overcoming these obstacles. One of the recurring patterns he noticed was the tendency to “rescue” individuals who were not genuinely interested in growth. This realization prompted him to be more discerning in his mentorship and partnerships, focusing on those who truly wanted to seize the opportunities presented to them.
Future Vision: Sustainable Digitization
Looking ahead, Cris envisions a future where sustainable digitization plays a central role in the Philippines' economic landscape. He is particularly concerned about the potential displacement of workers in the BPO industry due to advancements in AI and automation. To address this, Cris is spearheading initiatives to upskill the local workforce and promote digital entrepreneurship. Through programs like the Work Anywhere Master Class, he aims to equip individuals with the skills needed to thrive in the digital economy, from single mothers and ex-convicts to other marginalized groups.
Building a Resilient Economic Ecosystem
Cris’s approach to economic empowerment is multifaceted. By training individuals to start their own digital agencies and creating infrastructures to support these enterprises, he hopes to build a resilient economic ecosystem. His goal is not only to create jobs but also to foster a culture of entrepreneurship that can adapt to the changing economic landscape.
The impact of homegrown BPOs on economic growth and job creation in the Philippines is profound. Entrepreneurs like Cris are at the forefront of this transformation, leveraging their experiences and expertise to build sustainable businesses that empower their communities. As the global economy continues to evolve, the lessons from Cris’s journey underscore the importance of adaptability, resilience, and a commitment to social entrepreneurship in creating inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
Watch the full episode here.
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