Home - The Iwan F. Salim Library & Newspaper

2012-01-31T13:10:00.002+07:00

I’m going to talk a little bit about my friend, his time in Shell.

I have a mixed feeling standing in front of you here tonight. On the one hand, I am sad to see my friend go but I am glad he has gotten a very good deal as he leaves us. When I was informed of his position , it is clear that he has treated Abu Dhabi as an extension of the SEA Cluster. An example of cooperations across clusters !

Let me say that after you leave Shell, a number of things happen to you. Trust me, I know what happened after leaving Shell. Actually, another person here also knows what happened after leaving Shell. But that’s a subject for a different dinner.
First of all, you will get less emails from me, and that the first ten emails every morning won’t be from me. It’s dissappointing, really. For me, not for you. Are you sure ?

Secondly, the requests for help from others get less as well. No more plea for help on fixing a printer, or that. Though I am not sure if you’re going to be really dissappointed with that.

Despite the emails and requests, it has not been fun all the time in Shell. You will recall that he has recently been ill, along with others . I bought all of them books to read. Two days later, he resigned. I hope the books won’t have the same impact on them.

Colleagues have a tendency to become friends. There’s an inescapable bond that binds together all who have worked in S&D Indonesia. Though we hail from different backgrounds , we are singularly unique.
His qualities will serve him well in accomplishing the goals awaiting for him in the deserts of Arabia. Of course there will be challenges there. But he knows a little thing or two about them. As a planning manager and later as a C&N team lead, he brought wisdom and determination to bear on the issues that he addressed. He is a leader who motivated other people to go beyond what they thought were their own limits to join him in accomplishing great goals.

Everytime he got knocked down, he got right back up. And therein lies the greatest lesson offered for all of us in S&D. Never give up, never give in, keep on fighting.

So , tonight we thank you for your friendship and your contributions to Shell and S&D specifically. We wish you farewell, congratulations on your next role and all the best.

Vice President Iwan Salim is looking forward to the summer

2010-06-11T08:19:00.002+07:00

Former vice-president Iwan Salim is planning to spend the weekend searching for the right spot for the summer holidays

Farewell, Gus

2009-12-31T11:08:00.002+07:00

He was "the accidental President" but he arguably will be remembered not for how he became the 4th leader of the Republic but for the freedoms he unleashed in his short and interrupted two years tenure.

He was the "compromised candidate" that the 1999 election can agree with, and the parliament gave him a rough ride when it became clear that Gus Dur is anything but compromise. Everything about him is unconventional from his inauguration (his aide-de-camp whispered the oath of office, because he was probably half blind) to his administration (he fired and rotate cabinet ministers, including a certain Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono who is accused of treason).

Because of his special needs, for some he is an embarassing embodiment of the presidency. Not surprisingly some people tried to take advantage of him resulting in the so-called Buloggate. Some of his less than traditional appointments of cabinet ministers were. attributed to the groups of hangers on around him.

But people loved him. Reporters who knew he had a fondness of making hyperbolic remarks after the weekly Friday prayers (The Indonesian stockmarket nervously await his comments every week making faint-hearted investors staying away). Indonesians of chinese descent were given their long deserved official recognition during his administration.

Indonesians of a certain age knew of him when he became the head of the Nahdhatul Ulama. This no small feat although it is an organization long dominated by his family (both his grandfather and father had been founder and heads respectively). His fame also reached unusual quarters. It is believed that he was the inspiration behind the character of an Indonesian president in NBC's " The West Wing", a drama series about an American presidency (curiously the character is named "Bambang").

He was a president of unrivalled source of one-liners for foes and friends. His famous quip that MPs are like children of kindergarten age struck a chord to the general public and aroused enmity from that group of lawmakers.

When news broke of his death, foes and friends rushed to the hospital and swarmed his house. Leaders of the breakaway faction of his party (who are also his nephews and people who worked for him) wept openly. Both the remaining living ex presidents (Megawati and Habibie) , President Yudhoyono, and at least two living ex vice-presidents visited his house to pay their last respects. People of all ages lined up along the funeral route procession to the Halim military airport before the C-130 Military Transport Aircraft (tailgate number A 1341, the same aircraft carrying the remains of former President Soeharto for his burial) take him on his last flight to be buried in Jombang, East Java.

In life, he attracted widespread respect. In death, his followers and admirers followed his steps and broke another tradition. He became the first Indonesian ex-President whose death sparked tributes in Facebook.

Farewell 2009, Fare well 2010 !

2009-12-28T18:27:00.001+07:00

Yeah !

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Speech at Talent Week, October 5th, 2009

2009-10-02T08:04:00.008+07:00

Hello everybody,
Ibu Emylia and the Committee asked me to share about my career journeys so far

You know, like all of you, I have had my ups and downs in my professional life.There were occassions where I was really excited about my job, where I enjoy the people that I worked with and where I am satisfied when I delivered my commitments.

But there were also times when I wasn't sure if I made the right decision. Should I remain in my job? Should I move on and look for another job? What to do?

But I realized that it is pointless to grumble. I remember an advice from my first manager. He said to me.. "Iwan, if you are successful, you may not be a happy man. But if you are happy, you could be successful "

So that is my approach. I have come to accept that I may not always be comfortable in my job from the start. Nowadays I tend to look at a longer term perspective. It's a bit like life. Life is not always fair. You deal with the cards that you are given. Overtime, you will get what is your right The trick is how to optimize the current situation

My experience is start engaging. Be very very clear about what you want; whether a higher job group; or a move to another class of business or a change of location ; my experience is we are all reasonable people. You will be listened to

What I think we all must learn - me included- is how to disagree without being disagreeable. This is a true mark of a gentleman or lady. In other words don't give your boss a hardtime. Unless you really have to, but that is another story for another time

One other thing which we need to be better at. Myself included as well. Very often we focus on what's in it for us. Very rarely did we think what is it for the organization

We know what we want but it is not clear what the benefits are for the organization
So that is what I have done

Have a career plan
Have a mentor
Have a buddy
You know, speaking of buddies. The world's best known buddy is Bobby Kennedy. If you think you are JFK, find your Bobby.
Trust him
Trust her
Have a solid IDP discussion
Have an open mind

I know

I have an aspiration of where I want to be

I have some people I am comfortable to be mentored

I have my Bobby

I am always looking forward to my IDP discussion

As a result, thrown a bit of luck and an open mind, I have been fortunate in my career to be blessed with challenging jobs

Four classes of business, eight roles

Sales, Marketing, Management Consultant, Business Development, Supply Manager

But good IDPs don't guarantee you good jobs. You'll need more

Now ... you'll notice earlier that I mentioned about how to disagree without being disagreeable
In Shell I found that it is useful to have more people supporting you to find a good career than you have people blocking you for your next job. I call this "the baloon theory"

There are plenty of ways to build this coalition of the willing

Impress senior people.

Make them support you for that job that you always wanted. For that expat job you are dying for. For that promotion you deserve.

Accept difficult jobs

Get out of your comfort zone

Achieve something you never thought possible

Surprise yourself

I know.

In fact you and I know

All of us were part of the team challenged with delivering GSAP and Growth. People thought we were crazy.

You know what?

We delivered.

Difficult times bring the best out of Shell people. Leaders lead but in the end it is the people that deliver. Without the talent and the dedication of all of you, we would not be able to achieve anything. Never let anybody tell you that you are not talented !

As you probably guess by now, by the words I have chosen, by the stories I have given, I have a long history with this company. If you discount my self imposed exile in GE, I have now been working for 13 years, 8 months and 2 days (approximately).

Long time.

So long in fact that this is the second time I am a speaker in talent week. I hope next year, one of you will take my place. It will be your turn, the younger generation.

And in the words of Blair, who seem appropriate

"So it's up to you
You can take my advice
You don't take it. It's your choice.
But in the years to come, wherever you are, whatever you do, if we can help you, we will
Wishing you well, wanting you to succeed
All of you are the future
Make the most of it"

Thank you.

Statement on the 5th birthday of Muhammad Zaky Salim

2009-08-17T07:22:00.003+07:00

Today I celebrate the birthday of our son, M. Zaky Salim. He has been a joy to us and have provided personal inspiration to all of us. Zaky is a kind soul and loved by his father, mother, two sisters, grandfathers and grandmothers and primary caregivers.
In his 5th birthday, we offer our prayers for him, so he can continue his progress. We also ask for your prayers so Zaky can grow to be a wonderful person that he is.

Happy Birthday, Son.

With eternal love,
Mom and Dad.

Memories of the Monza Trip in 1999

2009-08-12T15:47:00.002+07:00

In 1999, whilst being a marketing manager in Shell UK, I participated in a trip to see a Superbike round in Monza. Part of the entourage was two winners of a Shell competition. His recollections of the trip are recorded in his website
http://users.breathe.com/ducatiman/monz99.htm

Iwan F. Salim
President, Iwan F. Salim Foundation

Statement on Michael Schumacher's cancellation of returning to F-1

2009-08-12T07:49:00.004+07:00

I am deeply distraught with the news that Michael is not able to return to Formula 1. His comeback would have enlivened the sport and thrill millions of fans around the globe. I continue to hope that as time progresses, he recuperates from his injuries and he continues to monitor his well being. I am not giving up the prospect of the King returning to track yet.

Iwan F. Salim

President, Iwan F. Salim Foundation

To wait

2009-08-10T21:34:00.002+07:00

My fellow Indonesians,

Let us patiently wait.

Statement on the capture of a terrorist

2009-08-08T14:06:00.002+07:00

My fellow Indonesians,

From my situation room I have watched the capture of the person believed to be Noordin M. Top. I wish to convey my congratulations to our Police force , in particular to the men and women of the anti terror unit, Detasemen Khusus 88.
This is a clear evidence of our country's commitment to capture the perpetrators of the attacks on the Marriott and Ritz Carlton in Jakarta on July 17th.
However let us not be complacent. The danger remains and while we have captured the current mastermind, I ask your help to continue work together to ensure no future mastermind can inspire the cadres. For today however let us celebrate this great news.

Statement on Police activities in Temanggung

2009-08-08T08:07:00.003+07:00

My fellow Indonesians,
This morning the Indonesian police force are surrounding a hut in Temenggung believed to be a transit point for Noordin M. Top. This is an outcome of intensive intelligence activities and must continue to be supported. Whilst waiting for the conclusion of this on-going drama, let us continue to be vigilant and on the look out for potential threats for the safe and well being of our own lives.
In the meantime let us continue to support our Indonesian police in their efforts and pray for their safety.

On The Intranet

2009-08-06T11:10:00.001+07:00

Iwan rejoins Shell in 2006, after previously working for ten years in various role in Lubricants , Downstream Business Development Consultancy (OMC) and Shell Global Solutions. Most of his career has been in marketing and business development roles .He had worked as Lubricants marketing manager both in Shell Indonesia and Shell UK Ltd. In his OMC role, he was involved in various projects such as Retail Market Entry, Global Commercial Review, Retail - Lubricants Interface, Global Solutions-Global Lubricants Interface and Global Marketing Effectiveness, most of which he spent in Shell Centre. After a 2 1/2 years role as Indonesia & Pertamina Business Development Manager for Shell Global Solutions, Iwan was appointed as the Indonesia Supply Manager in July 2006. He is now transitioning into a new role of Supply Contracts & Negotiation Manager for Southeast Asia from October 2009 onwards.

How do you balance between work and personal time (work life balance)?
I had planned to persuade myself to take up Golf in my sparetime. However I almost always end up chaffeuring the children around town, which I terribly love. I suspect my fellow Golf beginners would feel the same.

What are your long term aspirations professionally?
I would like to contribute to the best of my ability to my work and people who are dear to me. If allowed, I want to help everyone in the company get to their maximum potential.

Who do you admire the most and why?
I admire people who have done outstanding things - be it in Science, the Arts, Sports, Politics or Business, but I do not have any specific leaders in mind. However I have the greatest admiration and respect for people who have to brave adversity in life and came out from it a stronger and a better person. Examples which come to mind are those who have to fight against potentially fatal ilness or were born with disabilities. You really need to put yourselves in their shoes to appreciate the discrimination or ignorance that they have to overcome. Only after going through this experience, did you realize that most of us are, indeed, lucky.

What is your motto in life?
"Trust, but Verify".

What is the best advise you have ever received?
It was "If you want to be successful, you may not be happy. However, if you are happy, it is likely that you will be successful". To put this into context, at one point in my career, I had sent some angst-riddent notes to my mentor and he coached me on my career decisions. He asked me to put less focus on short term success and more on long term objectives. In retrospect, I think some of us, some time, do fall prey to this temptation. Hope it is as useful to you as it is to me.

Any advise for future leaders of Shell Indonesia?
Seek to understand how your role fits into Shell and the overall market, take the initiative and build your network. Each and everyone of us need to work out what are our contributions to the success of the organization. When we have identified what these contributions , do focus on delivering them. In fact, aim to deliver more than you are asked to do. One way of achieving this is to continue to build your network, so you can accept ever more challenging assignments. When you take on tough roles, you equip yourself with competencies and skills required to attain more senior positions in the organization.

On The Web

2009-08-05T11:36:00.002+07:00

The first time I joined Shell was upon finalizing my bachelor’s thesis in June of 1995. In those days, readers of economics from University of Indonesia (like I am) have a tendency to join accounting firms and investment banks. So yes , I did compare Shell with offers from banks, but clearly I felt more ‘at home’ with Shell.

A family friend worked for Shell and he encouraged me to join the company. Prior to that though, I had known about Shell because our family had lived in the Netherlands for a few years. I remember all my Dutch friends in The Hague complimented me when they learned that I was joining Shell. In their view, Shell only recruit the best people.

It has been a long and interesting journey. In total, I have been in Shell for 12 years. Nearly half of that was spent in Lubricants, in Shell Indonesia and Shell UK Ltd, both in sales and marketing, in all the 3 class of markets: consumer, industry and transport. I was also in Shell International’s Business Development Consultancy (OMC) for Downstream for a year, before moving on to Shell Global Solutions for 3 years. I am now starting my third year in Supply.

My experience in Shell - the different business units & roles I have worked in, the different countries I have lived, the different cultures I have encountered – have molded me to become a person who have a higher appreciation of the uniqueness of the cultures and the tremendous riches they brought.

Note this is from http://www.shell.com/home/content/id-en/careers_recruitment/exp_professionals/xp_iwan_salim.html

Statement on the return of the King

2009-08-05T11:31:00.002+07:00

I am excited with the announcement of Michael's return to Formula One and especially to Ferrari. I am confident he will bring much attraction to the support and boost to Ferrari's prospects.

Another one for the road

2009-08-05T11:27:00.000+07:00

Isn't she a beauty ...

Statement on the 6th Birthday of Amira Zahra Salim

2009-08-02T12:13:00.000+07:00

Zahra - "yaya" as we and herself call her- turns 6 years today. This lovable and loving angel continue to mesmerize those that know her, even those who know her from a distance. Her radiant beauty and intelligence is noticed and appreciated by all, and her dedication to her family, to her brother in particular is heart warming.

So Yaya, happy birthday and thank you for your kindness. We are all praying for good health, your luck and well being.
With eternal Love ,
Mom and Dad.

Zaky's update

2009-08-01T12:53:00.001+07:00

Meanwhile, back at the Rumah Sakit Pondok Indah .. Zaky's third day at the hospital. His USG tests came back pretty good. All well for his kidney and liver. So it looks like the IV and medication blended in it has done the deed..

He looks better than last night, too. The eye bags are slowly dissappearing too. Now we're trying to get him to sleep preparing him for his inhalation but he's humming some song ..

It will be Zahra's 6th birthday tomorrow. However it will have to be a quiet bash because Zaky won't be able to party. The doctor decides to watch his progress again today and tomorrow to ensure he doesn't experience any fever again.

Statement on the July 17th Bomb Blasts

2009-07-17T11:14:00.001+07:00

I condemned the bomb blasts in the Jakarta J.W. Marriott and the Ritz Carlton this morning and implore our security forces to deploy resources to bring the perpetrators to justice. This regretful incident tarnish our solid reputation, gained deservedly hard over the last four years. My thoughts and prayers goes to the families and especially children who had to lose their parents as an outcome of this senseless act.

Statement on the electoral victory of President Yudhoyono

2009-07-08T23:09:00.000+07:00

I am delighted by the apparent victory of our current president and along with the rest of the citizens of Indonesia, I offer him my congratulations and support for his continued success in the betterment of this well deserved country

een patates met mayonnaise

2009-06-06T17:16:00.001+07:00

Mau ?

One for the road

2009-06-06T11:22:00.000+07:00

Me and an Audi TT just outside of Andy's Utrecht apartment in June 2009

Filial responsibility

2009-04-25T10:40:00.001+07:00

One could not but feel a more august parental responsibility for special needs children. With uncertainties around the children's capability to be an independent mature adult, the need for a special financial planning for the children is more urgent.

My dearest wish is that the future needs of such children becomes recognized by all the stakeholders, government and private organizations alike. It is my understanding that in some western countries, there exists a special insurance policy designed to provide some financial security for the children when they grow up.
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Of perosotan

2009-03-27T17:40:00.001+07:00

Looking at price of a perosotan, slightly above Rp. 1 million. To be installed at the front yard. Made of steel of course..

Should be good for Zaky .. Gives him an exercise area .. Improve his sensory ability ..
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Of Hubris and Diana

2009-03-26T19:59:00.001+07:00

Bought plenty of hardcover and kids' books this morning. Stopped by at Periplus at Pondok Indah Mall 1 and enjoy the up to 80% discount there.. Had earlier, a few weeks ago, bought "bon voyage" a very revealing collection of black and white photo essays of holidays in years past.

Believe that the programme will end in March.. Now if only they also discount those Merc magazines :)
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A Walk in the Park

2009-03-26T18:22:00.001+07:00

We went to the city park at Bumi Serpong Damai this morning. Zaky was initially sleepy but quickly picked up pace the moment the W-202 hit the toll way. He was a little bit reluctant to hit the park but later enjoyed the experience, I think. He ran often without encouragement and we can see in his eyes that he is enjoying himself. There is also that intent of demonstrating to us, a feedback loop, regretfuly not always existing with autistic children.

On the way back, stopped over at Ibu Ani's. Her observation brought less than good tidings. She suspected that Zaky may have a little too much venol, hence his black eye bags..

A roller coaster ride of emotion, today.
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Schooling options

2009-03-23T21:14:00.001+07:00

We're now studying school options for my autistic son. There are a few in Jakarta who proclaimed themselves as school, but I have just been informed that it is unlikely any of the school are properly certified by the education ministry.

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Blackberry users are not "autistic"

2009-03-19T21:29:00.000+07:00

I often hear people hear illustrating as "autistic", those who are fascinated with certain electronic gadgets, the blackberry amongst them. Can I just say that this is an insult to autistic people and parents with autistic children. Please use the term sparingly and do not denigrate its meaning by confusing it with blackberry users.

It is heartbreaking that -as I found out today- educated people are still not aware of what autisms are and what challenges are being faced by autistic children and parents and also siblings of autistic children. Our lives are already difficult enough. Please do not make it more by your ignorance and disrespect.
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2009-02-17T18:51:00.003+07:00

My only son was diagnosed with autistic spectrum disorder a couple of years ago. It was a devastating news to swallow and we continue to try figuring out how to live with it and how to ensure the best possible future for him.
I am writing to seek some ideas from the readers as to what do they know as the practical and realistic expectations for a special needs children's future, and for autistic children in particular. Is anybody out there aware of vocations most suited for autistic adults ? Realistically, what can be expected in terms of independence once the children reaches adulthood ? What skills should be taught and what are the challenges which need to be overcome ?

Thank You

All the President's Men

2009-01-10T16:37:00.002+07:00

As the ranks of the unemployed widened, one person is more prepared and more protected by American regulation than, say, Joe the Plumber. As Barack Obama takes the oath of office on January 20th, George W. Bush receives his pink slip and join his fellow countryfellows. If one needs further evidence of his august stature , look no further than his transport immediately after the inauguration. The Toxic Texan will be traveling back to Dallas onboard USAF 29000, the VC-25 aircraft which -if he were still an american president, will receive the call sign "Air Force One"- is hardly sitting in coach with his legs pressed by the passenger in front and fearing he will lose his luggage.

When your last job was "leader of the free world", life could be a lot worse. Unlike the common people who had to be vigilant to thieves and the odd house burglars, former US presidents are accorded Secret Service protection (George W. Bush becomes the first former president who does not receive life-time protection. A new bill was passed recently, limiting protection only up to 10 years after living office). Unlike the average Americans who may have to find a new smaller house (after their McMansion was foreclosured), Mr. Bush can raise donations from the public to build his presidential library (where as tradition is a fairly big complex and where tradition dictates, he gets to build a replica of the Oval Office). The federal government also pays him an estimated USD 200k per annum plus expenses to run his office and pay for his staff. Some presidents even get to keep their daily transport (Reagan, his Air Force One and Marine One , plus his motorcade; Clinton his Cadillac One).

It does not stop there. Unlike their normal compatriots though, when it comes to future employment, the group is spoilt for choice. No "work" (of the traditional definition is involved). Presidents easily are paid a minimum USD 50k for making speeches. Then there are also directorships or other board appointments in well known companies.

What is the point of all this, you may ask. Stick around, more will be revealed.

The Facebookers

2009-01-10T08:12:00.003+07:00

I still remember that moment when I realized the intrusion of Facebook, a social-network website, on my life. It was the moment when a Friend I haven't met for five years (but was on my facebook list of friends) knew my day-to-day, event-by-event , whereabouts- and recited every details when we met. It inadvertently felt I have a stalker- a compulsory accessory for being a celebrity- but hardly the nicest feeling in the world.

If you wish to become stalked as well, there is a way. Join Facebook ! For an-obviously- laudable purpose of writing this article, your correspondent decided to sign up and become a facebooker approximately six months ago.

If anything, becoming a facebooker has notified your correspondent that we are all equal : equally liking to do the same stuffs (can't wait for the weekends and long weekends is a common "status update") ; equally whining about the same problem (getting stuck in traffic, the rain pouring down). It is also enabling your correspondent to confirm one of his suspicion: that those non working ibu-ibu arisan are using their BlackBerry for facebooking !

Your correspondent could be wrong, but it does appear slightly unlikely that the ibu-ibu arisan will become BlackBerry's celebrity pitchman, advertising their product (a recent article in the New York Times discussed how President Obama is currently BlackBerry's best marketing spokesperson, for embodying the values of a great communicator and a networker. Imagine the slogan: "The President has to have this to keep in touch").

Indeed there is anecdotal evidence - I just like this expression, remnant of the old days as a management consultant-that the increasing visibility of BlackBerry devotees in Indonesia is linked to the willingness to keep connected and networked, to be able to find out what friends, colleagues are doing; to satisfy the seemingly insatiable appetite to find old friends (and old flames?). Plenty high school and university reunions have been facilitated by Facebook. It looks like that BlackBerry have suddenly found , in Facebook, the ideal partner to expand their market in Indonesia, well beyond the standard "surgically attached to their hip" professionals. Facebookers of the world, unite !

Fare well 2009, may you be better than 2008

2008-12-24T18:10:00.003+07:00

Anybody who has been reading up on next year's forecasts- issued by the members of the commentariat- is unlikely to feel optimistic about 2009. A recent Rabobank forecast, for example, believes that the UK economy will shrink by 1.5 % and that unemployment will reach as high as 8.5 % (at the time this newspaper went to press, it is not certain whether the predicted unemployed include Gordon Brown).

The Indonesians amongst us old enough to remember the infamous Krismon surely now have that sinking feel of how familiar all of this is. However - there are probably lesser number of Indonesians now who remain optimistic that somehow, all of the doomsday scenario will come to naught.

Of course there is some basis for being a tad optimistic about the situation. In a survey by The Economist issued for the 10th anniversary of the Asian Economic Crisis in June of this year, it is quite robust in the assessments that our banks are stronger than before; that our foreign reserves are more plentiful ; and that our economy is not as reliant on foreign investment as before. In addition - in the words of a former ambassador of the court of St. James's to Indonesia - "Indonesia is a dissappointing country; it dissappoints the pessimists, but it also dissappoints the optimists".

For all our sake, may Indonesia be a very dissappointing country in 2009.

A View to A Kill

2008-11-10T07:10:00.002+07:00

If the world is remotely like " Quantum of Solace", then Ford would not be reporting a loss in their latest quarterly report. In such a world, every secret agent drives an Aston Martin, every police force employs a Land Rover and every sinister character prefers the rugged Range Rover as the Bad Mobile.

Such is the power of product placement these days that your correspondent fails to find the Bond-ness of "Quantum". Afterall, none of the old formula remains. Gone are Q, Moneypenny and even the trusted "Bond, James Bond" routine. The ol' boy is no longer the last bastion of the upper class. He goes mass market by driving the - no surprise - Ford Focus and Ford Fiesta.

If this were not a 007 movie , would your correspondent even bothered? The sad answer is : probably not. Take out the franchise and what we have is pure and simple an action movie. And not a good one at that. The story are nowhere as good as Bourne trilogy for example (come to think of it, does the scene of our MI6 man chasing agent Mitchell over rooftops remind you of a similar scene in the last Bourne movie?).

If the direction continues like this, it is likely the License to Thrill need to be revoked. The franchise need to say No but with sufficient verbal dexterity to learn Never Say Never in coping with commercial pressures. After all, The World is Not Enough for too many changes On Her Majesty's Secret Service. One view of this movie is enough to kill the franchise.

Perhaps to make the point, the original 007 , Sean Connery makes an appearance as the Louis Vitton advert in the same week that "Quantum" makes its debut. Coincidence? I expect you to think, 007.

Yes, He Did

2008-11-05T19:38:00.003+07:00

In the annals of The Economist, "The World in 2008" would not feature high in the powers of prediction. In the publication - published towards the end of last year- it strongly predicted that next president of the United States would be .. Senator Hillary Clinton.
President-elect Obama's victory has been received - rightly - with plenty of good will. Kenya declared a day of national holiday. Your correspondent just happens to believe the RI government can now feel proud to have one of its former students become "the leader of the free world" (and Hardiknas now have a living mascot).
It will really be interesting to observe the next days ahead. Some will know that one of the names being considered for the White House Chief of Staff is Rep. Rahm Emmanuel. Incidentally - for some of us who are political hacks, and we do exist- he is the model for the character of "Josh Lyman" in the NBC series "The West Wing". It is widely believed that the White House chief of staff is the 2nd most powerful job. It is tasked with giving recommendations for the President and in charge to ensure the cabinet toes the party line.
Other key appointments will be Treasury. Arguably this is one of the rarer moments of history whereby the post is probably more important than State.
As Indonesians, we should observe the extremly gracious concession speech as a model for our own 2009 election.

And the Winner is ...

2008-11-03T07:37:00.000+07:00

Car? What Car?

2008-10-31T08:43:00.001+07:00

Fully accessorized car....

Till Debt Do Us Part

2008-10-28T20:20:00.002+07:00

The last time the words "crisis", "cabinet reshuffle", "drastic depreciation" were deployed in Indonesian politics, a president fell from grace. Ten years and four presidents later, my fellow correspondents might be waiting with glee for a chance to employ these in their lexicons again.
But this article is not about that rumour of a senior minister plotting to deport another senior minister (whose welfare not as equal). It is however about the current crisis , once thought only will engulf the U.S. Of A but not WOUSA (world outside the USA). In particular, this crisis is about whether indeed in our case, capitalism is at bay.
Unless you have been staying in a deserted island since early October, you would have heard whispers of pure poison about the rise and fall of capitalism and that the time of socialism is upon you. The Economist, that bastion of free market and democratic reform has predictably put a case arguing that infact capitalism should still be the preferred model, because it has been responsible for all the wealth creation that the world has ever seen. It has also argued that speculators , the favourite bad guy making the rounds these days are in fact not responsible at all for this crisis.
So should we in Indonesia flog capitalism at the next market and try our luck with Cooperatives?
Cooperatives in Indonesia - much to its acknowledged "father", co-proclamator Hatta's dismay- never really found the market equilibrium.
Even in the bad old days of the Krismon, we never looked back and continue to worship at the temple of capitalism...

Back to the Future

2008-10-24T11:16:00.002+07:00

One more way to reduce pollution ...

Great Expectations

2008-10-19T18:57:00.003+07:00

Jakarta, on one of the more beautiful days. My dearest wish is that this picture does not create such high expectations, bound to dissappoint would-be visitors ...

A change in the climate ?

2008-10-16T20:09:00.005+07:00

Will the recent global market rout mean less money for the climate change fighting efforts ? At least this question was felt to be important enough that Messr. Sarkozy felt needed to be laid to rest at Thursday's announcement in Brussels.

The impact of the rout should not be understated. A recent special report suggested that a staggering USD 10 trillion of value could be wiped out between now and 2009. For comparison, this is 10 % of the annual US ' Gross Domestic Product.

There is a temptation to focus on wealth maintenance rather than health maintenance. Indeed your correspondent felt compelled to understand the answer to this question.

Though Mr. Sarkozy have confirmed that the funds earmarked to save the laissez fare economy will not result in less fund available to fight climate change, the details have not been immediately available. It is difficult though to comprehend that there won't be an impact. By now, the US have added USD 700 billion to their USD 435 trillion budget deficit, all in the name of saving the US economy. The UK have confirmed that it will spend GBP 250 billion to nationalize household names such as Lloyd's TSB and HBOS. The EU - old and new - does not want to be left behind and have pledged EUR 350 billion, also to nationalise troubled banks.

Our dear government meanwhile have indeed taken some steps. However at the time this newspaper went to press, there has been no discussion with regards to if less funds will be made available to fend off climate change. Upon closer inspection however - given the very low number of projects planned-the impact appreared to be unsurprisingly negligible.

The crux of the activities have not been expected to be funded or coming by the government. They have been expected to be a result of a change in the behaviour of each and every individual's. Plenty of these also did not require investment.

Therefore please continue to
* B2W (less pollution)
* Switch off the lights when you leave the room (less coal being burnt)
* Convert those energy guzzler light bulbs (ditto)
* Be as paperless at work as possible (be a tree hugger)
* Continue to print on used paper
* Don't send unnecessarily large attachments with your email (less use of your bandwidth, therefore less energy consumed)
* Design those houses who are easy on the sunlights
* Set those aircons on timers

Keep those ideas flowing in ...

The Week From Hell

2008-10-10T17:35:00.004+07:00

A week is a long time in politics, but apparently it was even longer in world finance. This was the week that your correspondent had planned to be a week filled with leisurely walk with the missus and the kids at malls, trialing that new oma fiets recently bought and perhaps even a sip or two of the nouvoeu vines bought recently. Alas that did not exactly happen.

As would become rather obvious by now, instead the week was spent glued to the telly and or surfing that bastion of western newsmedia, CNN.com. The last time your correspondent formed such attachments to the twin tubes of tv and internet was during the September 11 attacks. Though the causes are markedly different, the sinking feeling is oddly similar.

To make things worse, there does not seem to be light at the end of the tunnel. The worrying thing is that this crisis seems to have a life of its own. The oft-cited "the index has hit its lowest level since somany years" well hit a new low the day after. Why buy now when you can buy it cheaper tomorrow?

Such is the life of the monster though that the governments seemed powerlesss to put a stop to it. It is also frustrating to see that the governments have even gone to the extend of nationalizing insurance companies, investment banks and building society. At least this has not been the tactic chosen by our dear president and let's hope he is not tempted. Governments across the world don't have a good track record of running insurance companies for example. Is this the time for them to dabble their hands into the companies ?

Friends I spoke to have advised to keep our seatbelts on. Most seemed to agree that though this situation maybe a holding pattern, the ground is not visible yet. A thick fog of uncertainty and panic is blanketing the situation and the best thing to do may well be not to make any rush decisions. Alas the irrational exuberance of panic investors may well be the fitting match to the same irrational exuberance which started this giddying crisis in the first place.

Laugh at First Sight

2008-10-09T21:24:00.003+07:00

If your insurance company have just received USD 85 billion from the government, and in return, the government nationalized your company, what is the first thing you would do? Well -naturally - you would take your best sales reps to a resort, celebrate what a good year it has been so far and spend the better part of USD 400, 000।

That , at any rate, was apparently what American Insurance Group (AIG), an insurance company, was doing around last week. At this point let me declare a potential conflict of interest : I own an AIA Life Insurance policy, so I do have an interest in seeing the company is still around when my policy expires.

I am guessing there were plenty of glee around the table of business ethics wonks when news of this sales conference spread. They have a new set of ammunition when this morning it was reported AIG would receive an additional USD 35 billion. It is this correspondent's feverish hope that AIG would not be tempted to splash it on another junket trip (not even on a smaller resort, just because the new funds is less than the first injection).

Given the barrage of less than good news , it is quite likely that the AIG sales reps in the holiday resort will be joined by central bankers , ex employees of Lehman Brothers and the common people like you and me (though by this time - with all these people - the resort should be rather full)।

This turn of events is a big pity for the development of the insurance market for Indonesia. There are plenty of my fellow citizens who must be wishing they bought more handbags than insurance policies. But the reality is more and more people were gambling their future on insurance.

I remember a close friend of mine who is working on the sideline as an insurance agent. He laughed outloud when he knew how small my policy was. He immediately offered me a policy which would have meant I need to pay Rp. 3.5 million per month. Strangely enough I have never heard from him again since the last time we spoke , which was ,er, just before the crisis begin

I don't think he is still laughing at me now. But I also am not laughing either. On paper , I am not sure what is the return on my stock market-linked policy. But at least my portfolio is not all in insurance.

For all our sakes, this downturn had better be not too severe and not too long. However as we know we did not get to where we are overnight. Getting out won't be an overnight trip either, though spending it in a resort might ease the pain.

Nightmare on our Street

2008-10-05T18:39:00.004+07:00

Within days of your correspondent's "House of Cards" feature being published in this newspaper, a number of Indonesian cabinet ministers and renowned economists began to fret about the same topic : what is the impact of the US Economic Crisis on our own economy. Though on one hand it is gratifying to note other, more established experts have the same train of thought, on the other hand, it is unnerving to read on their comments and feels a lack of confidence in the preparation level.

We do not have the time to go through the usual motion resulting in the nation back to square one after, say, 3 months. All the usual players, legislators, policymakers and the commentariat ranks need to start from the same page. The stakes are frankly too high to continue play politics as usual. If there is a time to play as a team, this is it. Where is the Lembaga Penjamin? Where is the DPP Real Estate Indonesia ?

The reality is though that with the elections around the corner, there is a possibility that , in fact, it will be politics as usual. The MPs will play safe and not taking any risks with a potentially budget busting policies. The central bank and the financial institutions are probably reluctant to support any monetary expansion by a (potentially) lameduck administration.

Short of suggesting all the stakeholders is in need of changes of their living organ inside of their cranial, it does not appear there is much that can be done overnight.

So what is there that can be done ? This newspaper has a few suggestions :
1)The central bank to impose a new policy disincentivising the banking industry to extend loans to the people who can not have a mortgage. This newspaper does not have access to the extent to which mortgage accounts for banking loans but it may be quite significant.

2)The central bank to increase the industry's capital adequacy ratio (CAR) for a definite period of time. This additional breathing space can be used for the central bank either to nudge banks to conduct self audit or if forced to externally audit the suspected banks.

3)Commission a quick study to get a feel of the interconnectedness between the local portfolio and those of the now infamous CDs and all the other exotic acronyms spewn by the U.S.

It is your correspondent's fervent hope and wishes that our country and tax payers like you and me do not need to bear the burden of a bailout to help the fat cats who were grossly overpaid and grossly incompetent.

Selamat Lebaran

2008-10-01T06:50:00.005+07:00

Your correspondent would like to wish the readers a Selamat Lebaran. May your lives become more meaningful, may you found your trueself and may you always be protected under the auspices of the creator.

House of Cards

2008-09-30T17:17:00.003+07:00

For the first time in a long, long, time , President Bush will have quite a few people to agree with him. Quite. I am of course referring to last night's congressional rejection of the USD 700 bn package. He had said that rejection is a doomsday scenario. At this moment, not too many writings have been devoted to the (potential) side effect to our economy, so allow me to sketch a few broadbrush ideas.

It is commonly known that despite talk of a "decoupling", the fact of the matter is that Asian economies are growing less than predicted. There is therefore a strong base to believe that our economy will be quite affected by this latest development.

Our exports to the U.S. would most likely be slowing down , impacting our trade balance. Remember that as late as August of this year, our own president had tabled a budget of Rp. 1,000 trillion. This reduction in export receipts will impact the government's spending plans, of which the main feature was the already earmarked 20 % for education. This maybe one of the first to be impacted.

Speaking about budget, it is useful to speak about the middle class' budget. Jakartans will notice the web of sky rise office buildings and apartments currently blanketing Jakarta's skies. As the economy slows down, money becomes scarce and banks , real estate companies are relying ever more on the monthly mortgage payments. So long as the people still have jobs, this is not an issue. However the moment unemployment picks up, the probability of failure to keep up with the mortgage payment becomes higher. Assuming the houses/apartments were reposessed and offload into the market, such act will depress the property markt and may result in a negative valuation for the remaining owners. Banks become even more depressed, funds to invest or to cover liabilities become even scarcer. Overnight rates shot up, the central bank might have to step in. Sound familiar so far ?

The major difference (I think) between our economy and those of Uncle Sam's is that our mortgage market aren't as influential. Quite a few couples still live with their parents. Irrational exuberance did not have too many card-carrying members. The other - potentially more lethal- difference is quite a few property investments are speculative in nature. Either it is not being occupied or it is leased. The jury is still out on the strength of the buy-to-lease market but employment of young professionals would be a key factor.

As can be ascertained , thus far, the silver lining has not appeared in the horizon. However, as one former Ambassador of the Court of St. James to the country memorably said, "Indonesia is a country for the optimistic pessimist". This pessimist would more than prefer to be proven wrong.

A Safer Exodus

2008-09-28T16:30:00.003+07:00

Frequent readers of this newspaper would recall a recent article supporting the development of the Trans Java highway. Given the expected headlines in the newspapers about the oh so long time it takes to reach one's kampong during the Lebaran period, it seems more daft for the government not to shift construction to the fifth gear.

The case is strengthened by the serial unreliability of the alternative modus of road transport, especially that of the trains. Derailed trains, accidents involving the daredevil passengers sitting on top of the coaches are a common occurence. It is feared that as the train activities pick up, the incidents become more frequent.

Therefore if the government still doubts about the return on their investment of the highway, they should start with a good feeling that by doing so, they have saved the lives of their citizens. Should this not be sufficient, surely a moral bancruptcy has occured.

Return of a more hedonistic nature are obviously still can be expected. If you look at the developed highway system of Europe for example, where your correspondent is mildly acquainted with, hotels, amusement parks, theme parks, petrol stations , all sprang up like mushroom in the wet season. These bring investment which begets employment and tax revenues. These in turn create the multiplier effect in both the national and the local economies. At the same time it encourages entrepreneurs to be more innovative in adjusting to this new phenomenon and compete for customers. So everybody wins, right ?

But the biggest winner will be people like you and me. Our travels will be safer, more relaxing and - hopefully- will spawn an industry of local winnebagos / RVs !

The Rainbow Warriors

2008-09-27T21:07:00.004+07:00

This time next week, Jakarta will be able to take a breath of fresh air resulting from a virtual absence of cars, pollution generator buses and Valentino Rossi wannabes motorcyclists. Alas this heavenly period only lasts for one week before the well-travelled permanent visitors headback to the nation's capital.

Anybody who was in Pondok Indah Mall tonight must have been wishing for an early Lebaran. The place was jammed with cars , bumper to bumper. It took as long to leave the underground parking lot as it does to travel from Kebayoran Lama to the mall itself. The heat and pollution underground was unbearable and I felt really sorry for the security team and the parking attendants who were still there and could not escape from the netherworlds.

Of course this being one of Saturday night plays a factor for this additional hot air but I wonder if the other reason is the showing of Laskar Pelangi, based on an acclaimed best seller about the travails of two idealistic teachers and their students in Belitong ("Biliton").

Your correspondent, generally speaking, is not a big fan of local movies. But I am making an exception for this wonderfuly touching movie. The story is well known therefore it is not repeated here.

All sorts of emotions came up. Childhood memories, emotional attachment and perhaps even social cohesion.

Childhood memories

Watching the movie brings back your correspondent's childhood memories of the situation around 1979. The products, newspapers, cars, music. Did anybody see the blue Datsun Pick up ?

Emotional attachment

The more emotionally accomplished might feel blessed that despite their problems living in Jakarta, all their whinings are nothing compared to the very basic needs of education that those very brave children in Belitong were fighting for.

It also reminds me of all my teachers from my SD years. I have lost touch of all of my SD friends and I wonder what happened to them. I am now 37 years old so it has been 25 years since the last time I saw them.

Social cohesion

But perhaps the real message of this narrative is further proof of Indonesian diversity and that Indonesians of all background can and should forget their differences and focus on how to make the most of it. The children are malays, chinese; moslem, mysticists and buddhists. And yet , despite the odds stacked against them, they blended into a solid, close and loyal team.

In preparation for the maelstrom of bad economic news from the US and the politics for the parliamentary and presidential elections of next year, this spirit would really come in handy inside each and everyone of us, Indonesians.

Coming to an election near you

2008-08-23T21:27:00.005+07:00

The general election is scheduled for 2009 but understandably some parties have begun to buy advertisements. It is these advertisements which have attracted attention to a candidate called Rizal Mallarangeng.

Discussions at wedding parties and dinner table often mention the Rizal phenomenon. It is not widely known how he has been funding one full page full colour ad in the country's largest dailies. Recently however it is noticed that a private tv station displayed its logo in a billboard of Rizal's.

What is also not clear is Dr. Mallarangeng's objectives. He has not come out and say what his plans are, whether it involves running as an independent or jumping into bed with some of the 38 political parties which will be contesting next year's election.

Therefore people like your correspondent is at a loss in understanding his motives. Some people believe that Dr. Malarangeng is a proxy of elements of the Golongan Karya (GOLKAR) political party who wanted to disrupt the progress Mr. Soetrisno Bachir, a one-time client of Dr. Mallarangeng (he created Mr. Bachir's ads and bought airtime to play them. In fact there are large similarities between the themes of Dr. Mallarangeng's ads and Mr. Bachir's).

All this is purely speculation. However indeed the private tv station associating itself with Dr. Mallarangeng is owned by the head of GOLKAR's supervisory board. That , your correspondent believes, started the speculation about GOLKAR aligning itself with Dr. Mallarangeng.

What does all this mean for the voters? Against this background, one must also consider the recent barrage of stories alleging how MPs have been taking facilitation payments. Your correspondent believes all this builds a picture which is not rosy for the political establishment. In essence these stories highlight that all MPs are created equal; ie no matter what parties they belong to, they all took the money when offered.

Arguably this reduces voters' trust in the parties. It can either lead to support for "independent" with no visible political associations , like Dr. Mallarangeng. Or, the second possibility is that the as voters distrust the parties, they decide to boycott the election and not vote at all.

If the second possibility were to be realized, it will be a pity for Indonesian democracy. The right to vote is a precious right and should not be waved on a whim. Granted 'not voting' is also a vote but it should be taken as a last resort.

Have a winnebago ?

2008-08-22T15:17:00.004+07:00

The last time I took the Pantura road during the Lebaran "Mudik" period was, well, never, actually. In fact I have always spent my Lebaran at home, be it Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Den Haag or Manchester. Any self respecting petrol head would never be seen crawling 1 kph for hours on end as they criss cross Java from one end to another.

Why am I writing about this at all. Ah but in today's KOMPAS, the respected daily appear to argue for a rethink of the Trans Java motorway to be built on 1,200 km of road between Merak and Banyuwangi. By building on its current grote postweg expedition it warns policy makers about making the same mistake that governor general Daendels made when he built that road 200 years ago.

To be brutaly frank this is just about the most daft analysis I read and from Kompas it is even more annoying. Of course the grote postweg did not benefit the people. Did the Kompas reporter remember that Indonesia was ruled by a band of well armed Dutch traders? Hello anybody home?

The piece was directed to policy makers so that they took into considerations such aspects as potential damage to the environment, displacement of people etc. It even interviewed Emil Salim (alas not a relative) who basically cautioned the government to ensure all that is in place.

Ok so it is not all daft in this morning's piece. I completely agree with the observation about potential destructions to rice fields. And I don't understand how an executive plans to "replace" the affected fields with a similar one in another island. Is he talking about transmigration? Ow my gawd ...

Ah but wouldn't it be cool that Trans Java actually becomes a reality ? I have visions of a flotilla of R.V (recreational vehicles) filling up a wide motorway from Jakarta to Surabaya, passing through scenic locations and with plenty of rest areas complete with motels, restaurants (ah obviously need to put up gas stations), swimming pool for the kids ...

Ow this idea is so good I think I won't cancel my lifelong subscription to Kompas despite reading the silly piece ...

But will Trans Java actually be realized? I think the idea has been bandied about for a long time so if it is going to be built, it is about time. If any of you have a spare cash these days (as you do), you might want to quickly grab a strategic land, get talking to a motelier and restaurateur and a fuel marketing company. It may just be an investment which will pay handsomely ...

On Vacation

2008-08-19T20:55:00.003+07:00

After working at some weekends since January, traveling in challenging roads to remote places and generally busy, your corrrespondent decided to take 10 days off and chill out.

So what does your correspondent do on vacation? Well not too much this time. So far, your correspondent is becoming a full time taxi driver for the kids, becoming well-versed in trying (focus is on trying) to restore a 1996 C-Class Mercedes Benz and balancing his financial condition.

Before starting off, it should be mentioned that the bbq on Sunday was a good one. Families came along and he thinks he managed to convert a few to succumb to the temptations of wines and cigars :)

The taxi run so far is quite taxing. In the process, he noticed that maybe he needs to wean Stuttgart's finest off the 88R and go back to 92R. Today he was told that the retail price of 92R has dipped just below Rp. 9,000 again. The gap has closed...

He is also building a checklist of the improvements which he is keen to do on his W 202. The car is beginning to have that nice smooth and shiny feel to the body. Guess all those biweekly trips to Medicars at Pondok Indah Mall begins to pay off.

Has your correspondent managed to escape the shackles of work? Well he is quite proud to admit that he only read and replied to four work-related emails on his first official leave day. The phone is switched off so he is not immediately contactable.

So far so good, let's see what other "homeworks" your correspondent will get tomorrow ...

The forgotten "father" of the Republic

2008-08-16T20:40:00.003+07:00

He travels well and often uses secret and different identities, depending on which country he is on. At each country, his secret mission is often compromised and he has to use all at his disposal to escape from his nemesis. In every mission, there are often attractive female "friends" who is sympathetic with him. There are times when he was caught and thrown into prisons but he always escaped.

This is not a fictional biography of James Bond but rather the non-fictional history of Tan Malaka. In the folklore of the new order, Tan Malaka is he-whose name-should-not-be- mentioned. He occupies this place along with other politicians , who, deemed dangerous by both the 'old' and the 'new' orders, who found that there was a systematic cleansing of collective memory. This purge was achieved through a combination of a ban on their publications, their relatives shun by their neighbours and employment opportunities (especially the civil service) for relatives suddenly closed shut before their eyes.

But, thankfully, through the works of both established media (the respected newsweekly "Tempo" recently ran a special edition of Tan Malaka, titling the edition "the forgotten father of the Republic") and the alternative press (it's difficult to name them all) , the young-ish generation starts to hear an alternative version of the story of Tan Malaka.

At the risk of a spoiler effect, your correspondent decides not to divulge the details of the special edition. Needless to say it does seem a pity that Tempo appears to focus solely on Tan Malaka's side of the story and less on the 'establishment' side of the story. Understandbly there are reasons behind this, not least is probably that Tempo could have felt that sufficient time has been allocated to give the "official" version.

Your correspondent obviously is not a historian but in the process of reading the special edition, he obtains the impression that maybe Ibrahim (which is Tan Malaka' s real name; Datuk Tan Malaka is a title passed to him by his Clan) is a normal politician after all.

More to follow ...

Absolute power, corrupts absolutely

2008-08-15T14:20:00.002+07:00

News , by definition, are information which had hitherto been unknown or not made public. When a former Indonesian MP accused his past and current colleagues of accepting funds for passing legislation, arguably this could not be accepted as news. The fact that the stories remained at the forefront as this newspaper hit the press, even attracting the president to call in his two MPs-turned-cabinet members, suggests otherwise.

There have been accusations of MPs receiving facilitation payments in the past. Some have been convicted. Unfortunately those have been the exception rather than the rule.

The rule unfortunately is the cases were lost in the maze also known as the Indonesian legal system. The cynics have termed this system the case trading system. This newspaper's recent report on deputy attorney generals caught on record as receiving payments from lobbyists was but a recent example of just how corrupt the 3rd branch of government is.

So is there hope for a corrupt-free society and a just, fair legal system? Or is it like waiting for Godot?

More to follow ...

Light at the end of the Tunnel ?

2008-07-14T19:30:00.005+07:00

As crisis goes, the inability of Indonesia's PLN to supply sufficient electricity, is not as life-threating as , say, the financial meltdown in the late 1990s. Put it simply, the probability of this "Power Crisis" to follow THAT meltdown into standard Economics textbooks are rather low. Nevertheless, hardly a day goes by this week without the front pages screaming one powerful headline after another.

Faisal Basri, a respected Economist, noted that the problem has been identified for some period of time. It is therefore a bit of a mystery why has this issue seen the light of day only in the last week or so.

Mysterious as it is, the problem is quite serious. Every other day, a small section on the respected Kompas daily carried a list of areas which will experience black outs. Both household and industrial customers are affected by the scheduled black outs. The area where your correspondent lives was supposed to have the pleasure of black out experience today, Monday July 14th. Through a stroke of good luck or otherwise, no black out has occured. Such is the nature of the crisis that while visiting an advisor who is ill in Singapore, the president arranged a meeting with an unnamed group of nine Singapore-based businessmen, that his administration is on the case.

In this newspaper's opinion, there is one additional solution that the country must consider. I am of course refering to Nuclear Power.

If Nuclear Power were a brand name, its reputation is quite radioactive. What with Chernobyl and the Three Mile Island "incidents" entering the folklore, it is understandable why governments around the world aren't automatically warming about it. And yet the facts speak for themselves. The current Nuclear power plants are state-of-the art and have received a lot of improvements. France is oft quoted as a shining example where nuclear works: its citizens enjoy one of the lowest electricity bills in the world, and its air is not mixed with CO2.

Of course there are drawbacks. Cost of building a nuclear plant is not exactly cheap. Then there is the age-old question of where to store the waste fuel.

Against these negatives is the ace card. Unlike power plants running on fossil fuels , whose supply as we know are located in suspect governments, nuclear runs on plutonium. Australia , which arguably is more stable than, say, Russia or Kazakhstan, control among the world's largest deposit of plutonium. Supply to Indonesia. This newspaper contends that the government should look into Nuclear, along with Biofuels, Wind and other alternative form of energy.

Book review : The Man from Pare Pare

2008-07-05T17:46:00.004+07:00

Presidential memoirs are not exactly on the list of endangered species. A recent visit to a local bookstore chain resulted in no less than 50 titles, dominated by the Soeharto presidency. With this kind of competition, one might wonder if there is a place for one biography of the "accidental president", B.J. Habibie.

Surprisingly (or not ?) , his 512 days in office has so far proved to be less than popular, as measured by the number of books about it. The president himself penned the notable "Detik Detik yang Menentukan" in late 2005, a book which was well received. To latest addition to this slim compendium so far is written by A. Makmur Makka, a former aide.

Reading this work, one feels as if one is watching the "coming soon" clips while waiting for the main feature in a cinema. One only gets to see glimpses , not details. Unfortunately, the clip can't help since the movie is less than watchable.

This memoir appear to be targeted at archivists (did I see anybody raising their hands ?) who may have lost plenty of official documents. For that is surely one's perception , since a majority of this work is a list of government policies and statistics. This is rather surprising, considering memoirs are supposed to give the readers an insight into the subject's thoughts and personalities.

The author skims through arguably most of the subject's life (also a surprising choice, considering a memoir is commonly used to share the subject's life, from childhood onwards). Not too many new , previously unknown details emerged.

More critical reviewers (in case readers have not noticed, your correspondent is not one of them) is likely to judge this work as a mea culpa. Plenty of pages are devoted to the objectives, background and benefits of why Indonesia had to be able to produce the CN-235 and the N-250. Practically no airspace was allocated to why the precious state budget should not have been spent building more bridges, paying higher salaries for teachers and professors or others of that ilk.

In the end, this book tells something else about us as a nation. Our leaders' memoirs focus on what they did while they were in power. It unwittingly gives away the conclusion that after reaching the top, our leaders are not doing anything useful. In your correspondent's view, they should consider devoting their time for the improvement of Indonesia's situation. In this, your correspondent applauds President Habibie's Centre who is consistently pleading the case for democracy and human rights in Indonesia.

(The book is "The True Life of Habibie: Cerita di balik kesuksesan", A. Makmur Makka, IMAN 2008)

Change we can believe in

2008-07-04T17:41:00.002+07:00

In the campaign for the presidency , he is a young-ish politician with a message for change. He garnered large sway of support, even as he is fighting against a candidate, coming from arguably one of the most famous political dynasty in the country . In his quest for the presidency, his opponents lashed out charges a plenty yet he remained calm and managed to sooth raw nerves with his eloquent speeches.

Barrack Obama? Hardly. How about SBY. Four years later, he has arguably done a good job in increasing the international standing of Indonesia.

So can speeches make a good leader? Can Obama deliver ? Is SBY delivering on his promises ? Arguably some of the best speech ever dellivered were made by exceptional leaders. Winston Churchill's speeches (or sections of them) are oft quoted and emulated even to this day and age. He is near-universally accepted as a great leader. More recently, President Reagan earned a reputation as "the great communicator" and he is credited with bringing the US out of a long recession , as well as effectively ending the cold war. Closer to home, President Soekarno is known as a stirring orator , a skill at present appears to be lacking in his familial successors.

Of course delivering good speeches are but a small trait every good leader should never leave home without. The other traits are experience, street credibility and that most elusive of them all, the ability to lead his/her charges.

Arguably, Obama lacks experience in running big size organizations (running between aisles of the U.S. Senate, especially for four years, is not exactly comparable to running a country). SBY scores better on this, considering he actually commanded big group of soldiers up to provincial level). Winston Churchill is an odd outlier, having led man in battle (a soldier in the Boer war) and led men in the posh party also known as the Tory party. Reagan's experience in leading the actor's union arguably helped him when he had to fight against other politicians (a species known to be prone to having more than one face).

Street credibility is rather a loose term but it is influenced by past successes or the perception of actually knowing what needs to be done and how to do it.

Finally, that final test, the success in leading the people. At least SBY had 3 years of actually leading a country and not 8 months of running for president. For better or for worse, the act of actually doing " it" , is the best way to answer how successful or not a leader is. The jury is still out for SBY but the jury has not even sat for Obama. Perhaps Obama is best served to return to his childhood city and have a word with its president.

Bombs Away

2008-07-04T13:03:00.001+07:00

The recent arrest of bomb makers in Palembang, South Sumatera, was an implosion in your correspondent's confidence level of the security situation in the country. In an ironic twist of development, the Australian government had earlier in the same week, declared the situation in Indonesia to be safer and had modified their travel advisory accordingly.

As this newspaper went to press, the details about the bomber and their deadly devices were still pouring out. Fingers are already being pointed towards cells of JI and links with OBL appear to exist.

While this newspaper applauds the dilligence of the SAS-trained 88th detachment special unit, questions linger on how successful have pre-emptive actions and policies been.

As it stands, clearly there appears to be similarities between people arrested in Palembang with other arrests in the rest of the world. These would be young-ish people disillussioned with the general condition surrounding them.

The root cause of such conditions are unemployment and a tendency to surrender to promises to leave behind the ills of the material world for in exchange for eternal happiness.

Clearly this is a classic textbook case normally outlined in standard texts on Economic Development for instance Michael Todaro's authoritative book with the same title. And as even more made clear, there is no one size fits all solution for the issue.

Nevertheless it pays for the government to be vigilant in identifying the trigger points early on and mitigate them accordingly. One of the best gift that the current administration can give to the incoming 2009 winner will be to ensure that the issue does not blow up in their face.

Book Review : Family Ties

2008-06-26T20:16:00.003+07:00

Don Corleone was probably right after all. So was JFK. Every family must have its concigliere, every leader must have his/her "Bobby". Anybody watching the U.S. Democratic primaries between Obama and Clinton (Hillary, not Bill), would by now be watching who would get the VP nod. Long time Obamaistas (I believe there is even a Jakarta chapter ?) would probably pray that their anointed leader wouldn't take the "Change" message to heart and change mindset to have Clinton as his running mate.

Are there many "JFK and Bobby" pairs out there ? Leaders who - despite being brothers, even the two Kennedys are poles apart- can trust each other and can almost finish each other' sentences ? Does this partnership work ?

Answering these questions are better done using empirical data. Unfortunately, there aren't that many studies that I know of which can explain this. Frequent readers of this newspaper would have guessed by now that your correspondent has a particular fascination with presidencies. Having just finished two more books on presidencies and those people close to them, a common theme running through them are that gifted politicians definitely have their conciglieres and their bobbies. JFK has of course set the gold standard by having his Bobby who is , well, Bobby.

So what should you look for in finding your "Bobby" ? Here are some personal observations from Evan Thomas' biography of Robert F. Kennedy :

1)Somebody you can trust completely to overlook your failings as a normal human being
2)Somebody that when he /she speak his/her mind has your best interest at heart, and not their own'
3)Somebody that you can be sure will get the job done. Also known as "the enforcer"
4)Somebody that in carrying out your order, will not have too many questions asked
5)Somebody that you can groom to take over your role and you know he/she will not stab you in the back in the process

More to follow

A Convenient Truth

2008-06-25T06:09:00.002+07:00

Indonesia's leaders hosted the UN Climate Change Conference in Bali. They probably would prefer to be remembered for that, rather than for being publicly associated with an "invention" to convert water into oil.

In case readers of this newspaper have not noticed by now, your correspondent is a cynical sort.

Laudable as it is, relying on a magic wand (how else do you explain converting water into oil) , is hardly the stuff of first class government in action. Neither is the government attitude that they can walk on water and not expect the voters to remember these magical events.

But the truth of the matter is that global warming is not an easy matter to be resolved. It takes as much scientific innovation as much as political leadership.

But as a nation, for us , "scientific innovation" means Blue Energy (they even have a brand for aqua conversion) and "political leadership" means creation of a taskforce (after a while, the task is ill-defined but "may the force be with you" blessing was given by the leader anyway.

This is one of the reason for my earlier posting , where I urged us to act as individuals and tackle the problem starting from ourselves. As that icon from a bygone era put it , "As each man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others ..he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope ..and by creating millions of energy ...creating a strong current to crush the mightiest walls ..of resistance"

Oh and just in case you were wondering, water apparently was mixed with gasoil to come up with "water conversion".

The Presidents

2008-06-18T11:50:00.004+07:00

It is commonly known that "the world's most exclusive club" will soon add another "George Bush" to its list, therefore increasing the total membership into four. It is less commonly known that the club of living ex Indonesian presidents actually have less member (three) and therefore arguably more exclusive.
It is possible that this is due to the stature of the two clubs being markedly different.Bill Clinton set up a foundation to fight obesity, AIDS in africa and climate change. Jimmy Carter also set up a foundation, won a Nobel Peace prize in the process but remained a thorn in the side of his successors - on issues like North Korea and lately, the Middle East. On the other side of the world, an ex Indonesian president also set a foundation and also visited S. Korea at the request of the S. Korean presideny, to 'wage peace' in the Korean peninsula.
Whilst it will be a long time before Indonesia will have her own "41st" and "43rd" father and son presidents (George Bush and, er, George Bush), presidential politics in Indonesia have already been a family affair. Indonesia already have father and daughter presidents (Indonesia's 5th president, Megawati, is the daughter of the first, Soekarno). Megawati has already been nominated as her party's nominee for next year's election (she failed to win a second term in 2004 and was not elected for her "first" term).
Whilst waiting for elections, it is not uniformly common what Indonesian ex presidents do. President Habibie has wrote a book (2006), polishing his Mercedes classic cars collection in Hamburg and met with incumbent President Yudhoyono on June 13th. President Wahid , or Gus Dur as he is more commonly known, has kept his "Presiden Republic Indonesia" hat despite being thrown out by parliament, and has also fought for religious freedoms ( a very noble clause). President Megawati, who served as president Wahid's vice-president has made some eyebrow raising visits to South and North Korea.
Until his death in January of 2008, president Soeharto spent his days cocooned in his Jakarta home before finally succumbing to ill health.
Could and Should they do more in their "sparetime" ? The first question will be answered "maybe" and the second will be answered "yes".

Hello, Is It Me You're Looking For ?

2008-06-15T19:53:00.002+07:00

The key characters in the narrative had no idea that their phone calls are being recorded. One protagonist, Untung, who's a deputy attorney general, received a call from a middle-aged female lobbyist. The lobbyist (Artalyta) was panicking because Udin, a senior prosecutor (who is working for the deputy AG), had been arrested by the anti corruption agency barely minutes earlier. Artalyta was asking Untung to release Udin , fearing that he will drag her into the case. The call ended with the Untung assuring Artalyta that she will be 'arrested' by his office, therefore preventing the anti corruption agency from arresting her too.

Unfortunately, although it has all the makings of a detective novel or political thriller , the event actually did happen. The case involved the alleged pay off of USD 600,000 from Artalyta to Udin who is leading the state's case against her associate, Sjamsul Nursalim, a well known conglomerate in the bad old Soeharto days. Foreign observers or Indonesians growing up on the diet of the Nixon White House's stories of secret recordings (not too many were seen raising their hands filtered with these categories) are somewhat surprised that there is a tap in the first place.

In your correspondent's knowledge of recent cases, the use of phone taps is the first of its kind. It is not yet known who authorized the recording, whether it is illegal and why is it only started to be used now. These questions are critical because if the evidence using the phone taps are accepted - as they appear to be for the moment - it is possible that these will be used for future cases where 'hard evidence' are likely to be hard to find. These may help the government's stated drive to root out corruption at all levels.

Arguably, the disclosure that a deputy AG (who is tasked with bringing to court all those serial corruptors) is actually striking some kind of deal with a lobbyist, will impact how successful the government will be in rooting out corruption ( with or without the phone taps). This is actually the second time that a deputy AG is implicated in the same case in the last three months (the recording also mentioned the name of a third deputy AG), so there is an impression that the AG's office has been compromised.

What is even more exciting is (and so far no journalists have picked this up) is why it took so long for the tapes to surface (the arrest took place a few months ago, which means that the recording has been sitting idily. Or was it a conscious decision that it only now saw the light of day ?) One potential reason is to further embarass the administration of President S.B. Yudhoyono. On the day of the revelation, Australian PM Kevin Rudd paid his first official visit to Jakarta. This may explain why in the same evening, Vice President Jusuf Kalla went on an offensive and turned the news cycle around by suggesting that this is further evidence of how serious the government is, pointing out that senior government officials are not immune and not above the law.

There is truths to this. In that same week, a former chief of national police, was sentenced for alleged corruption during his ambassadorship to Malaysia. A recent visitor to the Jakarta police office's detention house witnessed a former governor and a former regent being detained (albeit in a nice "cell" , said ). As we hit the press, the president has ordered for a full investigation to the case. What ever the result, it appears that the mobile phone will not be a favourite gadget in prison.

Picture Perfect

2008-06-14T21:18:00.002+07:00

Indonesia's worst kept secret these days was reflected when an Indonesian oil executive joked to his Pakistani colleague that the Pakistani got the wrong picture of the Indonesian president (in the Pakistani slide pack, it was the picture of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono). Indeed the Vice Presidency is widely perceived to be the one calling the shot these days. The latest rumor mill is that Vice President Jusuf Kalla, who heads Golkar Party, may well split the ticket and run separately from his nominal boss in the 2009 presidential election.

What started the latest bout of speculation is Golkar's miraculous discovery that their political interests are not served by the president's cabinet. In two recent cases, Golkar's candidates for provincial governors lost their appeal of the election results. Golkar's 'chief whip' in the House of Representatives (DPR) have publicly threatened to withdraw parliamentary support to the government and claimed that the majority of Golkar's executive board shared this view.

Publicly at least, the vice president have always maintained that his top priority will be to serve out his five year term together with the president. Privately it will be another miracle if a seasoned politician such as MJK (as the VP is known) did not think of occupying the grander presidential palace after a term in the less grander vice presidential palace (the lawns are markedly bigger in the former).

But the series of miracles are not an unusual occurence with Golkar. After 30 odd years as the ruling party under the late President Soeharto, most people and political hacks wrote Golkar off the scene following Soeharto's timely demise from power. However two presidents later, Golkar emerged as the second biggest party in parliament and its chief becomes the vice president.

So what will happen next year ? One scenario is indeed Golkar is pressuring MJK to split and aim for the RI-1 spot. It is possible that following results in other non disputable election results (where Golkar's candidates also lost), Golkar felt its association with an unpopular administration - already , President SBY presided over two fuels price increases, an economy of ever increasing food prices, and an unending series of corruption scandals - would end up hurting its electoral prospects.

Another scenario is that some people believe that MJK is acutely aware that he will not make President. There is an unwritten rule that Indonesian presidents must be Javanese. MJK comes from South Sulawesi and may well decide that he is better off to throw his lot with President SBY.

But in case MJK changes his mind, he has a precedent. President B.J. Habibie who was in charge for two years serving out Soeharto's term was the only non Javanese; he also hails from South Sulawesi. In such an event, the Pakistani executive would be well served to change his slides once and for all.

Winds of Change

2008-06-13T20:30:00.001+07:00

If you're reading this, it is a fair guess that you first stumbled upon the Library's web address at a recent series of columns I wrote for a free magazine. So it may make sense to focus my scribblings on career advise, for indeed, that was the topic of my monthly column.

Alas, I have had to cancel my column and so I am now in a dilemma as to what should I focus my writing on.

At one hand, I have had fairly positive responses to my columns and to my previous writings on the same subject when it appeared at a national newspaper in 2005. On the other hand, I feel that I am keen to share some thoughts about one or two other things as well.

And so I will now also start writing about life as Indonesian in these times. My objective is to take the mantle of the mission of Walter Bagehot when he set up The Economist " to take part in a severe contest between intelligence, which presses forward, and an unworthy, timid ignorance obstructing our progress"

And so my writings will probably be focusing on politics, and leadership in politics in Indonesian, on the Economy and dare I say on business.

I hope to hear direct feedback from you as reader soon.

Moral Hazard

2008-06-13T07:53:00.000+07:00

In my previous blog post, I had mentioned about Global Warning. Of course I meant that as a word play on the global warming phenomenon now engulfing the world.

What I will now say is also a bit of a word play, albeit of another one.

For the economists among you (they do exist), the term moral hazard is likely to bring back memories of reading a chapter either on Lipsey Steiner "Principles of Economics" or Paul Samuelson's "Economics". Of course I am refering to the case of the central bank rescue of a failed lender , arguably with the good intention of saving the savers, but in effect resulting in providing an incentive for other lenders to be reckless (because they know they will be bailed out by the central bank).

So I hear you say what does this have to do with anything? Well I beg to differ. This moral hazard as it turns out are prevalent in other institutions as well. So my plea is for the managers among you (o ye they also exist) to be wary if you are at the receiving end. Do not be easily accept a request such as these which will reflect poorly in your function's performance.

So the morale of the story is have an wider view of the situation prior to making a commitment which you may regret later. This is hardly rocket science, but sometimes this view gets lost in the jungle of exotic terms we face these days.

Global Warning

2008-06-12T16:34:00.002+07:00

It has been sometime that I have contributed to this and my apologies for those of you who asked me about it. I have been detained on pressing issues and only now can find the time to put pen into paper.

I would like to take this opportunity to share some observations on the matter of “ Global Warming”. I believe we find ourselves (as Indonesians) at a very important time in our history. We have been as a nation for 60 + years and we have not played a part in, and if not the, definitely one of the most difficult challenges we as humans have faced.

Of course, I hear you say, that it is blindingly obvious. But how many times have we hear lately that all the right things have been said at the strategy level, but nothing is happening at the operational level.

And so I firmly believe that we are poor in execution. Politics aside, we tend to hear more people identifying what is wrong but we tend to see less people actually suggesting good solutions for a problem.

And so , true to my own critiques, here are my suggestions :

* Change light bulbs in all houses including presidential palaces and government buildings into energy saver light bulbs
* Open window curtains in the morning so not all lamps need to be turned on
* Timer on aircondition, so it is only when the weather is unbearably hot
* Adopt efficient driving techniques
* Identify activities which are adding to CO2 emissions and find ways to do less of them

I know they are not original, so let me know your tricks that you are currently doing. We can share them to others...

Mentoring

2007-03-11T18:38:00.000+07:00

by : Iwan Fuad Salim (email to : iwanfuadsalim@gmail.com)

Baru-baru seorang rekan saya dengan nada bersemangat menelefon saya. Setelah sedikit chit chat ia bercerita bahwa perusahaan akan menunjuk seorang mentor resmi yang akan menjadi tempat saya dapat mengasah leadership skills saya. Tentu saya berterima kasih dan merasa senang atas perhatian yang telah diberikan oleh perusahaan. Minggu lalu, untuk pertama kalinya, saya bertemu untuk mentoring session dengan mentor saya tadi.

Sebenarnya saya mengenal mentor saya dengan baik. Malah saya yang meminta rekan saya untuk melakukan pendekatan terhadap senior saya ini, dan untuk menanyakan apakah ia bersedia menjadi mentor saya. Pertama kali saya bertemu dengan mentor saya ini- sebut saja Mr. Lee- adalah lima tahun yang lalu di dalam pesawat KLM ketika saya dalam perjalanan pulang dari Amsterdam ke Jakarta untuk sebuah presentasi kepada senior management.

Saya sangat terkesan dengan humbleness dan pleasantness dari Mr. Lee terhadap saya yang jika dibandingkan dari segi kepangkatan notabene perbedaannya antara Jenderal bintang dua dan seorang Letnan Satu. Ia adalah CEO salah satu anak perusahaan tempat saya bekerja dan sekaligus seorang regional Vice PresidenSejak kami pertama kali bertemu saya selalu keep in touch dengan Mr. Lee sampai sampai ia akhirnya menarik saya untuk bekerja pada dirinya (lihat entry saya mengenai The Balloon Theory).

Anyway akhirnya kami bertemu kembali minggu lalu. Rencana saya adalah saya akan menshare setiap mentoring session saya dengan anda semua, mudah2xan akan ada manfaatnya. Walaupun mungkin anda bekerja pada industry yang berbeda dengan saya, rasanya masalah masalah manajerial yang saya hadapi sehari hari tidak akan jauh berbeda dengan yang anda hadapi.

Menarik sekali bahwa dalam sesi mentoring pertama kami, Mr. Lee mengakui bahwa dari beberapa orang yang ia mentorkan, ada yang 'berhasil' tetapi ada juga yang 'kurang berhasil'. Kesuksesan sebuah hubungan antara mentor dan 'mentee', bergantung atas beberapa hal, antara lain harapan kedua belah pihak dan tingkat kepercayaan yang ada antara mentor dan mentee. Mr. Lee mengatakan bahwa saya tidak boleh berharap bahwa Mr. Lee adalah orang yang akan selalu dapat memecahkan semua permasalahan yang saya hadapi. Saya katakan padanya bahwa harapan saya adalah bahwa ia dapat membagi pengalaman nya kepada saya dengan cara memberikan kerangka kerangka pemikiran alternatif; mengenalkan saya kepada senior management lain dan membantu saya untuk lebih cepat menapak tangga karir dalam perusahaan. Ternyata ia cukup lega dengan harapan harapan saya dan bersedia untuk membantu saya dalam mencapai ketiga hal diatas. Mr. Lee meminta saya untuk selalu berhasil karena pada akhirnya , katanya kepada saya, ".... Your success is My success.... ".

Setelah menyetujui ground rules diatas, kami juga menyetujui ground rules yang lain. Karena saya based di Jakarta, sementara ia based di Singapura, kami setuju untuk selalu memberitahu satu sama lain mengenai travelling schedule masing-masing. Jika saya sedang bekerja di Singapura, saya harus memberitahu sekretarisnya dan kami akan berusaha untuk bertemu, baik di kantor maupun di suasana suasana informal seperti makan malam atau lunch. Untuk bulan bulan pertama, kami berjanji untuk bertemu sesering mungkin dengan face to face. Seiring dengan perjalanan waktu, jika kami sudah menemukan 'irama' mentoring kami, mungkin frekuensi pertemuan akan dikurangi atau kami akan lebih banyak melakukan mentoring session melalui teleconference.

Saya diminta untuk menentukan topik yang akan dibahas, dan setelah berpikir selama satu minggu, akhirnya saya mengajukan tiga topik :
1)Career Paths: Generalist atau Specialist
2)Managing Work Life Balance as we go up the career ladder
3) Challenges in multihats roles at senior management level

Dalam minggu-minggu mendatang saya akan share dengan anda mengenai sesi-sesi mentoring saya dengan Mr. Lee

Growing Pains

2007-02-08T14:01:00.000+07:00

If you’ve worked for say more than ten years -as I have- you’ve probably had your share of people coming and going from one company to another. If you’re currently an HR professional, you probably are more concerned than people in the business. Your concern stems from the fact that high turnover can’t be good for any business.

As a company expands, high turnover is acutely worse than when the company is at a stabile state. When people left, they create a vacuum in their jobs. Unless the company actively carry out Succession Planning (unlikely- even the best run companies only place succession planning on the top jobs, not at all levels of the organization) then the vacuum will be bigger as more people leave.

These are part of growing pains, the painful process that a lot of organizations went through as they grow from a small organization to a bigger organization.

But the growing pains not only stems from people leaving. It also comes when people join the company. New people bring on their own values and cultures. Sometimes these are different the values and cultures in the existing organization. If the onboarding is not handled well, a clash of culturs and values may result. Gossipping, smear campaign and backstabbing are the common symptomps normally experienced by the new recruits.

The responsibility to reduce the pains lies with the Lifers, the people who have been in the company long. They should take under their wings, both new recruits and potential jumshippers. Guide them through the debacle with the kinds of wisdom and maturity which comes from years of service.

Rogue Managers : A common enemy in the Industry

2006-11-10T10:09:00.000+07:00

By Iwan Fuad Salim(Iwanfuadsalim@yahoo.com)

The conventional wisdom is if you land a job at a well known multinational company, you will be working with the world’s finest managers. Sadly this has become the exception rather than the norm. Take the case of a colleague who left a renowned multinational company because he is deeply concerned with the management incompetency at the top, which amongst other things, could not even manage their own departments, let alone make major decisions with far reaching consequences for the benefit of the company.

At this particular company, the management, on paper, is rather solid. Board members have long experience in the industry, and in lots of different roles at different companies. It is not uncommon for the board members to have 20++ experiences in 3 or more companies, although most of them locally. Directors will be either in late 30s or early 40s, so again on paper, quite mature, quite experienced.

But the company is in a dire situation. From a profit of USD 20 million two years ago, it is forecasted to make a loss of USD 10 milion this year. Financial results are not the only area that could be better. Staff are leaving in alarming numbers and alarming frequencies. Morale for the staff that remains are depressingly low and there is a sense of disaster waiting to happen.

It can be argued that all of these can be traced back to the organization’s failure to groom responsible managers and inspiring leaders. Responsible managers are not created, they earn their stripes during their professional work. Inspiring leaders do not come out of School, they are most likely born with the charisma that made people look up to them. All this takes time and when people arrive at the Top too soon, they become rogue managers. Rogue managers have the grand titles but they don’t have the maturity and the gut to say it as it is. Rogue managers value speed of decision rather than quality of decision. Fire fighting becomes the norm rather than the exception. All of the resources of the organization are focused towards putting out fire- a poor allocation of resources.

The morale of the story is do your homework better. Just because it is a multinational company does not necessarily mean it is run well. Talk to people who are still working there. Find people who left the company, ask them their experience. By doing this , you will get a balanced perspective on things.

Watch out for tell-tale signs of Rogue Managers, when you ask these questions.
Don’t get trapped !

The Dream Shall Never Die

2006-08-31T07:49:00.000+07:00

"... And may it be said of Us, both in dark passages and in bright days, in the words of Tennyson ... and that have special meaning for me now:

I am part of all that I have met

Tho' much is taken , much abides

That which we are, we are

One equal temper of heroic hearts

Strong in Will

To Strive, To Seek, To Find, and Not to Yield

For .. this came to an end... For .. the work goes on, the cause endures , the hope still lives, and the Dream Shall Never Die ... "

Sen.Edward M.Kennedy (D-Massachusets).Democratic Party Convention, New York, August 12th, 1980

Irish Poem

2006-08-02T13:26:00.000+07:00

May the road rise to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
The rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of his hand.

May God be with you and bless you:
May you see your children's children.
May you be poor in misfortune,
Rich in blessings.
May you know nothing but happiness
From this day forward.

May the road rise up to meet you
May the wind be always at your back
May the warm rays of sun fall upon your home
And may the hand of a friend always be near.

May green be the grass you walk on,
May blue be the skies above you,
May pure be the joys that surround you,
May true be the hearts that love you.

Farewell

2006-07-28T16:30:00.001+07:00

Dear all,

As some of you will have known, today is my last day with GEFI. As you
know my time with you has not been too long, however I have come to
admire the kindness and patience you have extended to a newcomer to the
Industry. I wish to express my appreciation for the cooperation and the
teamwork which you have kindly given to me during my eight months of
being part of the GE organization. I would also like to thank the

Management for the rare opportunity given to a non Finance person like me to
join you on this important moment in GE's presence in Indonesia. I was
delighted to join GE and will continue to wish GE well.

On a personal note I would like again to express my gratitude for
taking care of me and my family during the recent unfortunate event.

Farewell and until we meet again.

From a grateful friend ,

Cheers,
Iwan.

Personal Note

2006-07-24T10:23:00.000+07:00

We Suffer Because We Are Giving More than We Receive. Paulo Coelho

Announcement

2006-07-19T11:22:00.000+07:00

Dear All,

Following is sent on behalf of EUGENE TAN and BOB MORAN

We are pleased to announce the appointment of Iwan Salim to the position of Supply Manager, Indonesia with effect from 19th July 2006. Most of you already know Iwan from his previous stints with Shell, both globally and in Indonesia, most recently with Shell Global Solutions. He has had extensive experience in Lubricants marketing and development and Business consultancy (with Downstream Management Consultants). He left Shell to join GE Finance in Indonesia last year, but has decided to return to Shell and resume his career here with this appointment.

The position is a new position that is required as our fuels business expands with Retail's growth and Commercial Fuels about to start-up. We have further aspirations in other fuels businesses (e.g. Aviation and Marine) as well as in exploring possible synergies with third parties. All these will require more focused and coordinated management of Supply and Distribution in country. A separate notice will be sent in due course on the organizational structure of this team.

Please join me in welcoming Iwan back to Shell and in wishing him all the success in this new and important role.

Bob Moran, Country Chairman/LSDR
Eugene Tan, Supply Projects Manager East

Personal Note

2006-07-15T17:30:00.000+07:00

Dear All,
I would like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation for your support and your continued prayers during the recent unfortunate event. Such expression of kindness and solidarity are most appreciated. As you know I made a rather quick recovery and have left the hospital. A number of factors have been contributed to this, but for me, the most important one have been the steady and strong stream of support: your visits, your calls, your emails and sms, your cards, your books and your flowers. These I thank you- and more. > I look forward to meeting with you again soon, albeit with an arm sling and a new hairstyle- so be warned:)> Cheers from a grateful friend

Personal Note

2006-07-15T11:00:00.000+07:00

... And Then, Adding Insult To Injury ...

IFS Series#6: Manager, Leader, Mentor

2006-04-27T08:45:00.000+07:00

oleh Iwan Fuad Salim (email to : iwanfuadsalim@yahoo.com)

Seorang kolega saya mengundang saya lunch baru baru ini. Saya memang ingin bertemu dengan dia karena tertarik untuk mendengar pengalamannya di tempat kerjanya yang baru. Kolega saya ini agak unik karena ia sangat loyal.Setelah sepuluh tahun bekerja, perusahaan tempatnya bekerja adalah perusahaannya yang kedua.

Setelah basa basi sebentar saya bertanya kepadanya bagaimana kesan kesannya setelah pindah ke perusahaan yang baru ini. Jawaban yang diberikannya cukup mengejutkan karena ia mengeluh bahwa ia tidak menemukan figur pemimpin di perusahaan yang baru ini.Menurut kolega saya ini para 'petinggi' perusahaannya tidak di respect oleh staff ; tidak ada petinggi yang memiliki leadership dan karisma yang memukau karyawan karyawan; yang paling parah adalah petinggi petinggi tersebut dianggap tidak berkompeten dalam bidangnya masing masing. Sangat mengherankan sekali padahal perusahaan tempatnya bekerja adalah salah satu perusahaan yang sangat dihormati di dunia internasional.

Ketika saya mendengar kolega saya mengeluarkan keluh kesahnya ingatan saya langsung teringat pada percakapan saya dengan salah seorang mentor saya tentang perbedaan seorang Manager, Mentor dan Leader.Memang benar apa yang dikatakan mentor saya bahwa tidak banyak petinggi yang sekaligus merupakan manager.mentor dan leader.

Pertanyaan pertama tentu apa bedanya antara manajer, mentor dan leader ? Umumnya seorang manajer yang baik adalah seorang manajer yang doing the things right, sementara seorang leader adalah orang yang melakukan the right things. Mentor umumnya dikatakan sebagai seorang yang banyak memberikan bimbingan berupa coaching dan guidance bagi orang yang lebih junior, biasanya bawahannya.

Saya tidak tahu pengalaman anda, tapi pengalaman saya bekerja adalah bahwa susah untuk memperoleh ketiga kualitas diatas di dalam satu orang. Biasanya ada atasan yang good manager dan good leader tapi ia pelit membagi ilmu atau tidak bisa dikatakan sebagai good mentor. Lain kali ada atasan yang good leader dan good mentor tapi tidak becus dalam melaksanakan tugasnya sebagai manajer. Dan yang terakhir adalah atasan kita adalah good mentor dan good manajer tapi ia tidak menimbulkan keinginan loyalitas dari anak buahnya atau bukan good leader.

Seorang Mentor yang baik dapat anda langsung kenal.Jika tanpa diminta ia membagi ilmu dan insight yang dimilikinya maka kemungkinan besar anda sudah menemui mentor anda. Biasanya para mentor ini merupakan individu individu yang sangat sukses dalam bidangnya dan tidak merasa terancam kedudukannnya jika ia membagi ilmu dan pengalamannya kepada karyawan karyawan lainnya apalagi karyawan lang jauh lebih junior.

Selama saya bekerja saya memiliki dua orang mentor.Jika saya ingin minta nasihat dari mereka maka yang perlu saya lakukan hanyalah mengirim email kepada mereka dan mereka pasti akan menjawab pertanyaan saya. Saya tahu mereka sibuk tapi entah bagaimana caranya mereka pasti meluangkan waktu jika saya yang bertanya.Kadang kadang mereka menyempatkan diri menelefon langsung padahal mereka hampir dipastikan selalu berada di Eropa.

Di dalam tulisan berikutnya saya akan bahas mengenai Manager dan Leader.

All Rights Reserved © Iwan Fuad Salim,2006. Penulis adalah seorang professional di sebuah perusahaan keuangan multinasional dan pernah bekerja dan tinggal di beberapa negara di Asia

IFS Series# 5 : More on Career Planning

2006-03-13T09:54:00.000+07:00

oleh: Iwan F.Salim (email:iwanfuadsalim@yahoo.com)

Saya diberi kesempatan berbicara di almamater saya yaitu Universitas Indonesia. Kesempatan yang diberikan adalah sebagai pembicara tamu pada mata kuliah Kapita Selekta di Fakultas Teknik. Topik yang saya bawakan adalah Career Planning , berhubungan dengan salah satu artikel saya yang pernah dimuat di sebuah harian nasional. Berikut adalah beberapa subject yang menjadi fokus pertanyaan para mahasiswa.

1.Kapan saat yang paling tepat untuk menentukan Career Objectives?

Lebih awal , Lebih baik. Memang benar bahwa di masa masa awal bekerja banyak orang yang masih belum pasti rencananya dua atau tiga tahun mendatang, apalagi rencana dengan horizon waktu yang lebih panjang seperti tujuan karir. Karena itu hendaknya masa masa dua atau tiga tahun pertama tersebut digunakan sebaik mungkin untuk mengenal diri dengan baik.Temukan apa yang menjadi strengths dan weaknesses anda dan jadikan hal tersebut menjadi input menentukan tujuan karir anda.

2.Apakah hambatan-hambatan yang akan dihadapi dalam pencapaian tujuan karir seseorang ?

Tentu banyak dan di situlah pentingnya disiplin untuk selalu membandingkan rencana karir dan kenyataan yang terjadi. Lakukan analisa apakah anda sudah berada dalam jalur yang benar dalam perjalanan mencapai tujuan karir anda. Jika analisa anda menunjukkan perkembangan karir anda sesuai dengan rencana maka anda tidak usah melakukan apa apa.Sebaliknya jika ternyata karir anda tidak berkembang maka anda harus mempertimbangkan tindakan korektif apa yang harus anda ambil.

3.Apa yang harus dilakukan jika tujuan karir harus diubah ?

Beberapa faktor atau peristiwa yang dialami mungkin mengakibatkan adanya perubahan atas tujuan karir yang hendak dicapai. Perubahan tujuan karir dapat berupa perubahan usia pencapaian jenjang karir tertentu tapi dapat pula berupa jenjang karir yang diinginkan berubah. Rencana awal mungkin menjadi Finance Manager di usia 30 tahun tetapi perusahaan menginginkan anda lebih lama dalam posisi asisten manajer.Atau perusahaan meminta anda untuk pindah jalur dari bidang sales ke bidang Personel.
Lagi lagi anda sebaiknya memikir masak-masak bagaimana menyikapi perkembangan yang sedang anda alami.Apakah anda bersikap menerima bahwa jenjang karir anda tidak persis seperti yang anda inginkan. Jika anda tidak ingin menerima kondisi yang anda maka anda harus siap dengan Plan B dan implementasikan hal itu.
Dalam tulisan berikutnya saya akan lanjutkan dengan beberapa hal lain yang menjadi perhatian rekan-rekan mahasiswa.

Iwan Salim, seorang professional pada perusahaan consumer finance multinasional.Pernah bekerja di sebuah perusahaan minyak multinasional dan bekerja dan tinggal di beberapa negara di Eropa.

Hak Cipta ada pada Penulis.2006

IFS Series # 4: Career Planning: Should You Accept the Job Offer ?

2006-03-11T19:31:00.000+07:00

Oleh : Iwan F.Salim
(email to : iwanfuadsalim@yahoo.com)

Beberapa waktu yang lalu saya bertemu seorang kolega lama. Sudah lama saya tidak bertemu dengannya . Kami bertemu karena saya ingin minta pendapatnya mengenai sebuah job offer yang baru-baru ini saya terima.

Kolega saya ini-sebut saja namanya Andy- kemudian membagi pengalamannya dalam malang melintang selama lebih dari 10 tahun sebagai professional bekerja baik di dalam maupun di luar negeri , baik sebagai professional di tingkatan lokal, regional maupun Global.

Pertama, Jangan mengambil keputusan karena alasan-alasan emosional. Apa yang dikatakan sebagai alasan-alasan emosional ? Singkatnya anda harus yakin bahwa anda pindah karena perusahaan yang menawarkan job baru tersebut lebih baik dibandingkan dengan perusahaan anda yang lama, dalam segala bidang. Ini merupakan alasan-alasan yang rasional. Tetapi jika anda menerima job tersebut karena sudah lama anda tidak menyukai atasan anda di perusahaan sekarang, atau anda merasa diperlakukan tidak adil oleh perusahaan sekarang, sebaiknya anda mempertimbangkan keputusan anda dengan masak-masak.

Tidak ada yang abadi di dunia ini. Demikian juga tidak selamanya atasan yang anda tidak sukai tadi akan menjadi atasan anda. Akan datang saatnya dimana dia akan menjabat pekerjaan lain dan tiba giliran Anda yang menjadi atasan.

Jadi kalau istilah bahasa Inggrisnya, ‘Sleep on It’. Jangan ambil keputusan dalam keadaan emosional.

Hal yang Kedua yang menurutnya harus menjadi pertimbangan adalah bahwa kita harus yakin bahwa tujuan karir kita akan lebih cepat tercapai dengan pindah ke perusahaan yang baru.Anda tentu pertama tama harus lebih dahulu tentukan career objectives anda.Apakah anda ingin retire sebagai CEO atau sebagai Finance Director pada 5 tahun mendatang? Anda harus dapat memperkirakan dimana anda akan lebih cepat menyampai tujuan tersebut.Apakah dengan tetap berada dalam pekerjaan anda saat ini atau dengan pindah pekerjaan ? Jika anda yakin yang Pertama adalah jawabannya maka anda tidak usah pindah pekerjaan. Jika sebaliknya maka anda harus pindah pekerjaan.

Dan yang Ketiga - dan mungkin yang paling penting- adalah bahwa selalu tinggalkan perusahaan yang lama dengan baik baik. Dunia adalah tempat yang sangat kecil, siapa tahu kita tidak suka di tempat kerja yang baru ...akan sangat berguna jika kita masih dapat kembali ke perusahaan yang lama, walaupun mungkin tidak di pekerjaan yang sama dengan pekerjaan yang kita tinggalkan. Tentu yang lebih baik adalah jika perusahaan anda yang lama menghubungi anda dan meminta anda untuk kembali pada posisi yang lebih senior. Memang kadang-kadang ada baiknya meninggalkan perusahaan anda untuk beberapa lama dan kemudian kembali lagi dengan melakukan ‘big jump’ dan menduduki posisi yang lebih senior , yang tidak mungkin ada tempati jika anda tidak memutuskan untuk pindah perusahaan.

Semoga Bermanfaat !

All Rights Reserved. Iwan Fuad Salim, 2006.

2006-02-19T08:13:00.000+07:00

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Farewell to Shell, Till We Meet Again

2005-11-28T17:01:00.000+07:00

To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.
A time to be born, and a time to die;
A time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted...
A time to get , and a time to lose;
A time to keep and a time to cast away...
A time of war, and a time of peace...

Dear All,

In my 10+ years with Shell, I have been fortunate to have visited 20+ cities in 15 countries (and lived in 2 of them) , worked in 2 continents, held 6 roles, worked for 3 global businesses, and clocked up 500,000 Air Miles in one particular year....

Some of you may be aware that those times are coming to an end. With mixed feelings, I will be leaving Shell effective from this Friday, November 25th 2005. Regretfully I was not able to inform you sooner. I will be doing something completely different with another multinational company who will be expanding its banking operations. I will be part of the business development team and will continue to be based in Jakarta.

People ask me how I feel about leaving. Parting is such sweet sorrow. The sweet is the new road I will be taking with its exciting and new challenges; new people to see, new places to go. The sorrow is leaving behind what makes Shell a great company to work for : You. You have all treated me as if I am already who you think I ought to be. By doing this you guided me to what I am capable of doing.

To my colleagues in Jakarta, few of us on our own will have the greatness to move Shell . But as each of us work harder and smarter, it sends forth a tiny ripple of hope, each bigger than before and in that will be written the history of the Shell Companies in Indonesia. As you travel the road ahead, my fondest hope is that your collective wisdom will be the lamp guiding your steps and opportunity's arm will be steadying your way.

As for me, I have miles to go before I can sleep. Miles to go...

I plan to finish my masters' degree and eventually earn my PhD. Along the way I hope to persuade my almamater to give me a teaching position. When I am old and gray and teach Strategy to my students, I will be thinking of you all.

Finally, I would like to express my deep appreciation to Ad de Visscher and Bob Moran who have provided me with advise, guidance, kindness, superior coaching and support not only throughout my last role , but even more so in the last couple of weeks. Mike Pitt, my new boss, it would have been a real pleasure to work for you.

Thank you all, Thank you for your Friendship throughout my time in Shell. Working with you has been an absolute pleasure and a treasured privilege.

God bless you, Farewell, and till we meet again.

From a grateful Friend.
Cheers, Iwan.

Announcement

2005-11-24T23:34:00.000+07:00

ANNOUNCEMENT FROM BOB MORAN AND AD DE VISSCHER

Dear colleagues,

Iwan Salim is leaving Shell to pursue a new career with General Electric Consumer Finance in Jakarta as Vice President for Business Development. Iwan decided on this move in close communication with Shell. He made his final decision today and tomorrow will be his last day with Shell.

Over his 10 years with us, Iwan has been very valuable to Shell in Indonesia and globally in his roles in Lubricants Marketing, Oil Products Business Consultancy (OMC) and Shell Global Solutions, for which we are very grateful and appreciative. He has been wonderful to work with, always professional, positive and supportive. Iwan in fact was a talented individual who Shell had hoped to develop for key leadership roles in Indonesia and the region. Nevertheless, we respect his decision to make this career change and accept a challenging leadership role in a reputable and profitable company with high aspirations as well for Indonesia.

With respect to his current responsibilities, those projects related to our key client Pertamina will be handled by Wally Saleh. The AKR account will be taken up by Johan Hazejager whereas TPPI will be dealt with by Harry van Dijk and Mike Pitt.

Kind regards,
Bob Moran and Ad de Visscher

Quote of the Week: Ralph Emerson

2005-10-21T10:45:00.000+07:00

It was a high counsel that I heard once given to a young person, 'Always do what you are afraid to do'. Ralph Waldo Emerson in Plays.

Quote of the Week

2005-09-16T14:03:00.000+07:00

Life is an adventure, perilous indeed, but men are not made for safe heavens.
Unanimous

Quote of the Week:Aeschylus

2005-09-16T13:57:00.000+07:00

In Agony, Learn Wisdom.
Aeschylus in Promotheus

Career Planning

2005-09-14T11:00:00.000+07:00

oleh Iwan F. Salim

(email:iwanfuadsalim@yahoo.com)

Seorang kolega saya baru-baru ini hengkang dari perusahaannya yang lama dan mendapat posisi sebagai salah seorang vice president perusahaan keuangan multinasional. Saya sempat heran karena perusahaannya yang lama bergerak di bidang energi jadi tidak ada hubungannya sama sekali dengan pekerjaannya yang baru. Tidak lama kemudian saya sempat bincang bincang dengan dirinya dan saya tanyakan apa yang menyebabkan perusahaannya yang baru mau menerima dirinya yang nota bene tidak memiliki pengalaman relevan. Jawabannya adalah bahwa career planning yang proaktif dilakukannya menyebabkan ia memiliki pengalaman dan skills yang relevan dengan pekerjaannya yang baru.

Career planning proaktif memang mungkin belum banyak dilakukan.Anda ingin 'laris' seperti kolega saya tadi? Berikut beberapa petunjuk praktis yang dapat Anda pertimbangkan.

1. Tentukan tujuan akhir karir anda: Posisi apa yang anda ingin capai pada saat anda pensiun ? Presiden Direktur ? Direktur Keuangan? Jika anda sudah tahu aspirasi anda, lakukan survey untuk melihat pekerjaan atau jenis pekerjaan apa yang pernah dilalui oleh para pemegang jabatan tersebut. Misalnya posisi presiden direktur di perusaaan marketing hampir selalu dipegang oleh eksekutif yang pernah memegang berbagai posisi di sales dan marketing dan biasanya ditunjang dengan pengalaman beberapa tahun di bagian supply and distribution. Profile presiden direktur di setiap perusahaan tentu berbeda, jadi anda harus melakukan survey di atas.

2. Identifikasi skills dan experience apa yang diperlukan untuk sampai pada tujuan akhir anda. Tentukan pekerjaan pekerjaaan apa yang dapat memberikan skills dan experience yang telah diidentifikasi tadi. Setiap kali anda sudah harus merasa mencari pekerjaan baru, pastikan bahwa pekerjaan anda sesuai dengan rencana jangka panjang anda. Yakini diri anda bahwa pekerjaan tersebut akan memberikan skills, responsibility dan breadth of experience yang anda butuhkan untuk sampai pada posisi yang anda inginkan.

3. Tentukan pada usia berapa anda ingin mencapai posisi tersebut. Anda juga harus masukkan faktor senioritas anda (pangkat) dalam perusahaan. Jika anda relatif masih muda dan target anda mencapai posisi yang anda inginkan dalam 10 tahun maka tentu job job yang harus anda lakukan lebih banyak dibanding jika anda memberi target 5 tahun. Jika anda sudah mencapai posisi yang relatif senior maka pasti jalan ke puncak lebih landai dibanding jika anda masih seorang fresh graduate peserta program management trainee.

Seorang kolega saya memiliki tools sederhana. Ia membuat sebuah diagram sederhana yang menggambarkan usia berapa ia harus naik pangkat dan jabatan apa yang harus diembannya pada usia usia tertentu. Ini memudahkannya untuk mereview progress perkembangan karirnya apakah sudah sesuai dengan rencana atau tidak dan mengambil tindakan korektif yang diperlukan.

4. Lihat sekeliling anda dan identifikasikan siapa pesaing anda. Tentu pesaing internal lebih mudah diidentikasikan ketimbang pesaing eksternal. Pastikan bahwa anda memiliki profile , relationship dan visibility yang lebih baik dibanding pesaing pesaing internal anda.

5. Cari pengalaman bekerja di luar negeri. Selain menambah pengalaman,bekerja di luar negeri juga akan memperluas network anda. Kalau tadinya mungkin anda hanya kenal dengan orang orang di kantor Jakarta saja , dengan bekerja di luar negeri akan menambah pergaulan anda dan memperluas sumber informasi untuk membantu karir anda.

6. Tingkatkan visibilitas anda : Jangan ragu mengambil posisi pemimpin dalam inisiatif inisiatif strategis perusahaan anda. Misalnya ada gugus tugas penghematan biaya maka jangan ragu menawarkan diri untuk menjadi ketua. Kegiatan kegiatan seperti ini sangat diperhatikan oleh top manajemen dan biasanya memungkinkan anda presentasi atau bekerja langsung diawasi oleh top manajemen.Artinya jika top manajemen menyukai hasil kerja anda terbuka luas kemungkinan anda dipromosikan ke posisi yang lebih tinggi.

7. Cari Mentor atau 'godfather': Di banyak perusahaan, peran mentor khususnya dalam hal memberikan rekomendasi yang baik masih sangat penting. Di beberapa perusahaan juga dikenal istilah 'godfather' yang dengan aktif mencarikan posisi bagi para 'anak anak angkatnya'. Jika anda tahu siapa para ‘godfather’ ini maka anda harus pintar-pintar membangun aliansi politis dengan mereka sehingga kelak dikemudian hari mereka dapat menolong anda.

Semoga bermanfaat

Quote of the Week: President Clinton

2005-08-30T08:20:00.001+07:00

One of life’s greatest curse is the answered prayer

To Zaky

2005-08-17T17:03:00.000+07:00

We wish to the new child
A heart that can be beguiled
By a flower

That the wind lifts
As it passes.

If the storms break for him
May the trees shake for him
Their blossoms down.

In the night that he is troubled
May a friend wake for him
So that his time may be doubled,

And at the end of all loving and love,
May the Man above
Give him a crown.

Irish Poem.

Quote of the Week: William Shakespeare

2005-08-15T08:58:00.000+07:00

"When he shall die take him and cut him out into stars and he shall make the face of heaven so fine that all the world will be in love with night and pay no worship to the garish sun." Romeo and Juliet.

Personal Note from Iwan Salim

2005-08-15T08:51:00.000+07:00

Salah satu artikel saya dimuat di harian Republika edisi minggu, 14 Agustus 2005. Artikel yang dimuat adalah "Learning, Earning, Giving" dan artikel ini dimuat di rubrik Vacancy. Artikel yang sama pertama kali terbit di blog ini pada tanggal 12 Juli 2005.
Terima kasih kepada mas Bambang Danardono sebagai pengelola rubrik Vacancy ini yang telah mengirimkan artikel saya ke Republika.
Salam,
Iwan.

Quote of the Week:Aeschylus

2005-08-09T13:09:00.000+07:00

He who learns must suffer. And in our sleep, pain which cannot forget falls drop by drop upon the heart until, in our own despair, against our will, comes wisdom through the awful grace of God. Aeschylus

IFS Series#2 "The Balloon Theory"

2005-08-09T09:53:00.000+07:00

"Your career is like a baloon. You have to make sure that there are more forces to keep it Up than forces to keep it Down."

Iwan F.Salim

email to iwanfuadsalim@yahoo.com

Diterbitkan di Harian Republika Minggu , 28 Agustus 2005

Suatu hari saya dan kolega saya sedang makan siang di sebuah cafe di London. Kami sedang berbincang-bincang mengenai karir kami berdua. Kami berusia awal 30an, dia orang Inggris, saya tentunya orang Indonesia. Dia sedikit lebih muda dari saya, namun secara pangkat, dia lebih tinggi satu tingkat dibanding saya.

Karena saya kenal kolega saya ini, sebut saja namanya Tom, dengan baik maka saya tidak segan-segan bertanya apa kira-kira yang membuat dia lebih sukses dibanding saya.

Apa jawabnya ? Menurutnya, karir seseorang harus dianggap seperti balon. Di dalam balon ada gas yang mengakibatkannya melayang-melayang di udara. Jika balon tersebut bocor, maka gas akan keluar dan akibatnya balon tersebut akan kempes dan balon tersebut akan jatuh ke tanah.

Saya tertawa mendengar jawabannya. Lo bagaimana ini Tom, saya bertanya dengan serius kok dijawab dengan 'teori balon'. Dia tertawa dan langsung menjelaskan teorinya ini. Setelah berbincang-bincang lebih lanjut akhirnya saya paham bahwa ada benarnya Tom dan teori balon nya ini.

Setiap perusahaan memiliki budaya yang berbeda. Karir seseorang dalam perusahaan tergantung tentunya dari hal-hal seperti kemampuan diri, tingkat persaingan, besar atau kecilnya perusahaan dan 'visibility'. Lalu dimana posisi balloon theory yang diajukan oleh Tom ? Jawabnya ialah antara kemampuan diri dan visibility. Mari kita lihat apa yang dimaksud Tom dengan hal ini.

Karir kita tentu ditentukan antara lain oleh kemampuan diri kita, oleh kompetensi kita dalam menjalankan tugas-tugas yang diberikan oleh perusahaan. Semakin baik kita dalam melakukan tugas, semakin besar kemungkinan perusahaan akan semakin mempercaya kita dan memberikan promosi untuk melakukan tugas-tugas yang semakin senior.

Disamping itu, ada faktor 'visibility', khususnya faktor 'dikenal' oleh top management.

Lalu apa hubungannya dengan teori balon tadi? Hampir semua top management di semua perusahaan memiliki kekuasaan yang cukup kuat untuk menentukan posisi-posisi di bawah mereka. Tentu normal jika mereka akan menempatkan orang-orang yang mereka kenal, atau yang sudah visible di mata mereka. Jadi anda harus selalu memastikan bahwa top management memiliki kesan yang baik tentang anda di mata mereka. Bagaimana menimbulkan kesan yang baik ?

"Don't piss off too many senior management too often"

Kadang-kadang kita sering tidak setuju dengan keinginan atau keputusan dari top management. Menurut Tom, kalau sekali-sekali kita menyatakan ketidak setujuan kita dengan vokal, tidak apa-apa. Tapi jangan terlalu sering menjadi vokalis, dengan kata lain jangan terlalu sering 'cari masalah' dengan top management.

Seorang kolega saya punya pengalaman pribadi mengenai hal ini. Suatu waktu dalam perjalanan karirnya, ia 'dipaksa' pindah dari pekerjaan yang sangat ia senangi ke pekerjaan yang tidak ia sukai sama sekali. 'Paksaan' ini datang dari seorang Vice President yang bertanggung jawab untuk Asia Pasifik, jadi bukan dari orang sembarangan. Mula-mula ia menolak untuk pindah, dan ia mengatakan hal ini kepada sang Vice President tadi. Kolega saya mengira bahwa sang VP tadi akan mengiyakan keputusan ini. Karena itu ia menjadi sangat terkejut ketika VP itu memintanya untuk mempertimbangkan keputusannya itu. Setelah berkonsultasi dengan atasannya saat itu, maka kolega saya akhirnya menerima tawaran untuk pindah bekerja. Ketika saya tanya kepadanya kenapa akhirnya ia mau, jawabannya adalah bahwa ia merasa jika ia terlalu sering menolak, maka sang VP akan memiliki kesan yang buruk dan mungkin dimasa depan tidak akan memberikan rekomendasi atau referensi yang baik. Padahal kolega saya ini masih ingin berkarir dan ia tahu bahwa sang VP Asia Pasifik ini merupakan salah satu top management yang sering diminta pendapat untuk penempatan posisi-posisi penting.

Kini kolega saya sedang mempersiapkan langkah-langkah untuk posisi berikutnya dan for sure ia akan minta rekomendasi dari VP Asia Pasifik tadi. Mudah-mudahan dengan prestasinya selama ini dan good visibility yang ia miliki, rekomendasi tersebut (forces to keep it Up) akan jauh lebih besar dibanding hal-hal lain (forces to keep it Down).

Mudah-mudahan bermanfaat.

Iwan F. Salim adalah seorang professional pada sebuah perusahaan minyak multinasional. Ia pernah bekerja beberapa kali di luar negeri pada beberapa negara. Alumni FEUI ini kini sedang menempuh pendidikan pascasarjana di fakultas yang sama.

Management Series#1 "Company Restructuring"

2005-08-06T16:52:00.000+07:00

Oleh Iwan F. Salim
(email to iwanfuadsalim@yahoo.com)

(Dimuat di Republika, Minggu 21 Agustus 2005)

Kalau anda adalah seorang professional yang sudah bekerja selama beberapa lama pasti anda familiar sekali dengan terminologi di atas. Hampir setiap beberapa tahun , semua perusahaan dikatakan sedang mengalami ‘restrukturisasi’. Beberapa perusahaan menggunakan kata-kata 'strategic review' atau terminologi-terminologi lainnya yang tidak begitu jauh berbeda.

Seorang kolega saya berkeluh kesah bahwa ia dijadikan korban office politics. Tempatnya bekerja beranggapan bahwa aspirasi perusahaan yang semakin tinggi mengakibatkan bahwa perusahaan memerlukan lebih banyak staff baru. Staff lama dikatakan kurang cocok dengan aspirasi perusahaan sehingga perusahaan harus merekrut staff lain yang dianggap lebih 'cocok'. Oleh perusahaannya, kolega saya ini tidak dipecat, tetapi di reposisikan , masih dalam departemen yang sama, namun diberikan tanggung jawab yang berbeda dan otomatis job title yang berbeda pula. Enak bukan ? Tidak juga ....

Kolega saya ini rupanya tetap merasa disingkirkan, karena di pekerjaan yang baru, ia merasa tidak memiliki pekerjaan yang penting , tidak seperti pekerjaan nya yang sebelumnya. Ia juga merasa bahwa penggantinya tidak kompeten untuk melakukan pekerjaan yang sebelumnya ia pegang. Ia juga masih kesal dengan cara penggantian dirinya, dimana presiden direktur sudah mengumumkan penggantian dirinya, padahal ketika itu ia belum mendapat pekerjaan yang baru. Intinya ia merasa bahwa perusahaan tidak memperlakukan dirinya secara fair.

Apa kira-kira yang perlu anda lakukan agar selalu survive dalam setiap company restructuring ? Berikut beberapa tips-tips praktis yang mungkin dapat digunakan.

1. Bangun jejaring (network) atasan, kolega, bawahan: Berapa jumlah orang di kantor anda yang dapat anda angggap sebagai Teman ? Dari jumlah tersebut, berapa orang yang merupakan atasan /bekas atasan anda? berapa orang yang merupakan kolega ? berapa orang yang merupakan bawahan/bekas bawahan anda ? Network adalah sarana yang sangat powerful untuk memperoleh sumber informasi. Anda harus bisa memperoleh berbagai informasi termasuk informasi mengenai restrukturisasi perusahaan. Yang lebih baik adalah anda orang pertama yang mengetahui bahwa perusahaan akan melakukan restrukturisasi sehingga anda memiliki advantage dibandingkan dengan orang lain. Yang paling penting tentunya bahwa anda lebih dulu mengetahui bahwa anda akan diganti , dan bukan orang lain yang memberitahukan kepada anda.

2. Adakan review secara reguler, apakah anda telah memenuhi performance contract : Di perusahaan tempat saya bekerja , setiap awal tahun, seluruh staff menandatangani 'performance contract' yaitu sehelai kertas yang berisi apa yang akan diberikan kepada perusahaan untuk tahun bersangkutan. Misalnya untuk staff di bagian penjualan maka yang tertera di performance contract nya adalah target penjualan, baik volume maupun margin. Tentu staff di bagian non penjualan memiliki indikator yang berbeda. Biasanya, dalam restrukturisasi, 'korban' pertama adalah orang-orang yang dianggap tidak memenuhi performance contractnya. Karena itu , sebelum ditegur oleh perusahaan, lebih baik anda sendiri yang melakukan review secara dini dan mengambil tindakan-tindakan korektif, sehingga anda tidak dimasukkan dalam golongan 'non performing staff'.

3. Monitor kondisi perusahaan, perhatikan jika ada tanda-tanda klasik Restrukturisasi : masing-masing perusahaan memiliki budayanya sendiri. Di beberapa perusahaan , jika 'tiba-tiba' muncul segerombolan konsultan manajemen, ini merupakan tanda pasti bahwa manajemen puncak sedang dalam proses melakukan restrukturisasi. Para konsultan disewa sebagai pihak yang independen untuk melakukan analisa, merumuskan permasalahan, memikirkan alternatif solusi , mensosialisasikan solusi tersebut dan membuat rekomendasi final kepada perusahaan.

Mudah-mudahan hal-hal di atas dapat membantu kita semua untuk lebih mengetahui apakah akan terjadi restrukturisasi dan apakah kita termasuk 'korban' atau sebaliknya.

Iwan F. Salim adalah professional pada sebuah perusahaan minyak multinasional yang pernah beberapa kali bekerja di luar negeri di beberapa negara. Alumni FEUI ini kini sedang menempuh pendidikan pascasarjana di fakultas yang sama.

Quote of the Week: President Reagan

2005-07-26T09:02:00.000+07:00

For while we make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give

IFS Series#1:"Learning, Earning, Giving"

2005-07-12T13:28:00.000+07:00

Iwan F.Salim

Email: Iwanfuadsalim@yahoo.com

(artikel ini dimuat di Republika Minggu, 14 Agustus 2005)

Seorang bekas atasan saya baru-baru ini mengambil keputusan yang mengejutkan. Setelah bekerja selama 25 tahun di perusahaan yang sama akhirnya ia mengambil keputusan untuk mengundurkan diri. Posisi nya terakhir adalah sebagai Vice President. Saya pribadi cukup dekat dengannya, karena ketika saya masuk ke perusahaan ini, ia adalah atasan saya yang pertama. Biarpun kami berbeda nationality dan latar belakang pendidikan, namun saya merasa dia adalah salah satu atasan saya yang merupakan manager , leader dan mentor yang baik.

Setelah saya berhasil mengatasi rasa keterkejutan saya, saya telefon dia dan saya tanya mengapa dia akhirnya resign. Kepada saya ia mengatakan bahwa ia telah mencapai tujuan hidupnya yang ia inginkan. Selain itu, perusahaan tidak lagi dapat memberikan pekerjaan yang menurutnya memberikan tantangan yang cukup. Saya terkesan sekali dengan bagaimana ia membagi perjalanan hidupnya selama 50 tahun menjadi tiga 'fase'.

Learning : Fase pertama ini adalah fase ketika ia berumur 25 tahunan. Seperti namanya, maka fase ini adalah fase dimana ia belajar dari bangku sekolah dasar sampai di bangku perguruan tinggi. Mantan atasan saya ini pada usia 25 tahun sudah berhasil meraih gelar Doktor di bidang kimia. Tetapi di masa learning, ia tidak hanya belajar hard skills tapi juga soft skills. Di masa-masa ini , ia belajar pengetahuan dan keterampilan dalam berorganisasi, memahami pendapat orang lain, dan skills lain yang akan diperlukannya kelak, baik di dunia pekerjaan maupun di dunia sosial. Di masa-masa ini sedikit sekali pendapatan moneter yang diperolehnya. Ia mengeluarkan uang yang besar untuk mendapat pendidikan yang terbaik yang dapat diperolehnya.
Earning: Setelah lewat dengan fase pembelajaran, maka fase berikutnya adalah fase memperoleh pendapatan. Biasanya fase ini mulai dari umur 25 tahun hingga umur 50 tahun. Fase ini merupakan fase terpanjang dari kehidupan seseorang. Fase ini sama dengan masa kerja seorang usia produktif. Dalam masa earning ini ia mulai berpacaran, menikah, memiliki anak dan mengumpulkan aset. Ia berhasil mendapatkan beberapa pekerjaan di luar negeri yang berarti remunerasi yang didapatkan jauh lebih baik dibanding jika ia bekerja di dalam negeri. Dari tabungan yang dikumpulkannya, ia mulai membeli aset-aset produktif seperti instrumen keuangan dan properti. Ia membeli flat (apartment) kecil di kotanya dan disewakannya. Ia juga memiliki beberapa properti lain seperti rumah. Semua properti ini menghasilkan pendapatan karena ia berada di luar negeri selama kurang lebih 15 tahun. Jika anda menggunakan strategi yang baik dan anda jeli melihat peluang pasar, maka anda dapat mencapai financial freedom antara usia 25 hingga 5o tahun.
Giving : Setelah usia 50 tahun, ia sudah tidak mempunyai tanggungan yang banyak lagi. Anak-anaknya sudah berumur 20-25 tahun. Mereka sudah menikmati tabungan pendidikan yang ia isikan tiap bulan ketika ia berada dalam fase Earning di atas. Untuk dirinya dan pasangannya, ia sedang menikmati tabungan 'hari tua' dari hasil sewa propertinya dan hasil reksadana saham yang dibelinya 25 tahun yang lalu. Dari perusahaannya, ia juga tinggal menikmati dana pensiun yang jumlahnya cukup untuk anda menikmati hari tua misalnya dengan berjalan-jalan keliling dunia bersama pasangannya. Tapi apa ia hanya menikmati hidup saja ? Dalam fase ini, Ia telah mencapai financial freedom dan karena itu ia merasa sudah 'cukup' untuk bekerja. Tujuan hidupnya telah tercapai. Karena itu ia memutuskan untuk melakukan sesuatu yang sama sekali berbeda. Ia memutuskan untuk resign dan menjadi freelance instructor untuk leadership courses dan juga menjadi professional mountaineer di kota kelahirannya di Skotlandia. Seperti yang ia katakan pada saya, "Saya ingin memberikan kontribusi kepada masyarakat. Saya ingin menshare pengetahuan yang saya peroleh selama ini untuk memajukan masyarakat sekitar saya".

Saya salut atas wisdom dan integrity dari bekas atasan saya ini. Tapi saya paling salut atas pola pikirnya yang masih sempat ingin membaktikan dirinya pada komunitas masyarakat tempat ia berada. Hari-hari nya saat ini ia habiskan dengan memberikan pelatihan kepemimpinan Boy Scouts (semacam pramuka). Selama satu bulan ia habiskan dengan belajar menjadi pendaki gunung professional, jadi ia bisa menikmati indahnya alam di hari tua nya.

Mudah-mudahan ada yang bisa kita tiru dari cerita di atas. Di tengah kesibukan kita sehari-hari bekerja, kita masih sempat membuat rencana untuk membahagiakan tidak hanya keluarga , tapi juga komunitas masyarakat tempat kita tinggal.

Semoga.

Penulis adalah seorang profesional pada sebuah perusahaan minyak multinasional dan pernah bekerja di luar negeri pada beberapa negara Alumni FEUI ini kini menempuh pendidikan pascasarjana di fakultas yang sama.

Quote of the Week:Robert Kennedy

2005-07-11T10:32:00.001+07:00

"This world demands the qualities of youth: not a time of life but a state of mind; a temper of the will;a quality of imagination; a predominance of courage over timidity; of the appetite for adventure over the life of ease. Few will have the greatness to bend history; but each of us can work to change a small portion of the events, and in the total of all these acts will be written the history of this generation. Each time a man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope, and crossing each other from a million different centers of energy and daring those ripples build a current which can sweep down the mightiest walls of oppression and resistance".

Senator Robert F.Kennedy

June 6th, 1966
Day of Affirmation Address, South Africa.

Quote of the Week:Tennyson

2005-07-06T16:46:00.001+07:00

Come my friends, ‘tis not too late to seek a newer world. Tennyson (Ulysses)

Human Resources Series#3 "Kaderisasi Pemimpin"

2005-07-06T09:59:00.000+07:00

oleh Iwan F. Salim

Bayangkan perusahaan anda tiba tiba mengalami krisis kepemimpinan, ketika sang presdir tiba tiba dianggap tidak layak memimpin perusahaan lagi karena berbagai sebab. Misalnya saja ia terlibat skandal kredit macet sehingga harus dijebloskan ke penjara. Siapa yang harus menggantikan ? Apakah diambil dari internal perusahaan ? Atau anda harus buru buru angkat telefon dan menghubungi headhunter executive search?

Asumsikan saja anda sebagai HR Director diminta pendapat oleh anggota direksi yang lain dan mereka mengamini ketika anda mengusulkan agar pengganti diambil dari dalam. Kini tugas anda lah merekomendasikan beberapa senior executives yang anda lihat layak menjadi presdir yang baru.

Dalam realitanya, skenario di atas mungkin tidak terlalu sering terjadi. Nyatanya sudah ada deal deal politik tertentu antara faksi faksi yang berkepentingan untuk menggolkan jagonya masing masing. Tetapi apakah anda sebagai pemimpin perusahaan sudah mengkader pemimpin pemimpin generasi berikutnya?

Di perusahaan tempat saya bekerja, kaderisasi dilakukan dengan beberapa cara, misalnya shadowing eksekutif senior, career planning, dan beberapa cara lain. Diantaranya adalah dengan mendirikan sebuah unit khusus business development consultancy. Unit ini adalah sebuah global organization yang memiliki criteria seleksi yang cukup ketat. Staff yang diterima harus melalui proses seleksi case study mengenai business strategy yang harus direkomendasikan kepada seorang country manager. Data yang diberikan adalah laporan keuangan, laporan market intelligence, guntingan koran, laporan marketing dan beberapa informasi lainnya. Calon consultant diberikan waktu 30 menit untuk membaca keseluruhan data ini dan diminta memberikan presentasi singkat kepada consultancy manager. Kemudian ia akan di interview oleh seorang consultancy manager lain yang akan menentukan apakah staff tersebut dapat diterima atau tidak.

Unit ini terkenal hanya akan menerima staff yang diidentifikasi memiliki potensi menduduki posisi puncak dalam beberapa tahun kedepan. Selama bekerja di unit ini, para kader pemimpin diberikan assignment berupa masalah yang dihadapi perusahaan kami dan diminta bekerja sebagai management consultant dan memberikan rekomendasi penyelesaian masalah kepada board of directors yang berkedudukan di London.

Masalah yang dihadapi berskala global dan biasanya berupa review atas business unit yang sedang merugi, atau rencana untuk membuka operations di negara baru dan masalah-masalah lainnya.

Unit ini terdiri dari sekitar 50 orang konsultan dan dipimpin oleh seorang vice president. Konsultan-konsultan ini berasal dari berbagai latar belakang dan sering disebut sebagai mini united nations karena terdiri dari bangsa-bangsa di seluruh dunia. Unit ini sangat menarik sekali untuk masuk karena project-project yang harus dikerjakan tidak harus berlokasi di London, tapi bisa berlokasi di banyak tempat. Hampir tidak ada benua di dunia dimana para konsultan ini belum bekerja, kecuali mungkin Kutub Utara dan Kutub Selatan !

Skills apa atau knowledge apa yang diperoleh dalam melaksanakan project-project di atas sehingga unit business development ini dianggap sebgai tepat dijadikan kawah candradimuka bagi pemimpin - pemimpin masa depan di perusahaan kami ? Nah dengan melaksanakan project-project diatas, skill yang pertama adalah melihat perusahaan atau suatu business unit tertentu sewcara strategic, atau yang populer dengan 'having a helicopter view'. Skills berikutnya adalah stakeholder engagement alias mengadakan komunikasi atau diskusi dengan para stakeholder yang mayoritas adalah senior management di masing masing business atau negara yang bersangkutan.

Di tulisan berikutnya saya akan membagi pengalaman tentang bagaimana kedua skills diatas berguna untuk bekal seorang kader pemimpin organisasi.

Iwan Salim, seorang professional pada perusahaan minyak multinasional yang pernah beberapa kali bekerja di luar negeri pada beberapa negara. Ia juga mahasiswa pada Program Pascasarjana Ilmu Manajemen, FEUI.

All Rights Reserved. Copyrights (c) Iwan Salim 2005

Human Resources Series#2 "Menghadapi Atasan Berkebangsaaan Asing"

2005-07-05T15:37:00.000+07:00

Oleh Iwan Salim

Ketika saya baru masuk kerja sepuluh tahun yang lalu di sebuah perusahaan minyak multinasional, atasan saya adalah orang Skotlandia. Sejak itu saya memilki atasan orang Indonesia, orang Malaysia, orang Wales, orang Inggris dan orang Belanda. Pasti anda juga pernah mengalami kondisi ini dimana anda pernah memiliki atasan yang bukan orang Indonesia dan mungkin juga anda pernah mengalami masalah-masalah yang timbul karena perbedaan budaya dan perbedaan latar belakang.

Mungkin seperti juga yang saya alami, anda pernah beberapa kali mengalami masalah dengan atasan-atasan Asing ini. Baik dari cara mengemukakan pendapat, cara berargumentasi, etika dalam rapat, diskusi-diskusi di luar kantor, dan beberapa kondisi lainnya. Logisnya dengan semakin lama kita bekerja maka kita akan semakin tahu bagaimana menghadapi atasan dengan berbagai macam budaya. Sayangnya seperti kita juga ketahui, cara menghadapi atasan dari Inggris belum tentu bias diterapkan untuk atasan dari Belanda, walaupun mereka berusia sama dan memegang posisi yang sama. Setiap kali ada atasan baru kita harus belajar lagi budaya bekerja atasan baru tadi.

Sayangnya hal ini sukar dihindari. Kita sama-sama tahu bahwa semakin banyak perusahaan yang beroperasi di Indonesia merupakan perusahaan yang dimiliki asing. Karenanya pasti ada tenaga kerja yang tidak berkewarganegaraan Indonesia. Mereka umumnya menempati posisi manajerial dan memiliki staff berkebangsaan Indonesia. Kadang-kadang bentrokan antara budaya Indonesia dan budaya asing menimbulkan masalah di dalam kantor.

Tulisan berikut ini akan mencoba menyediakan beberapa tips-tips praktis.

1. Jangan takut untuk berbeda pendapat.

Terutama jika atasan anda orang Barat, jangan merasa sungkan atau risi untuk berbeda pendapat. Ingat bahwa budaya Barat lebih menghargai perbedaan pendapat dan diskusi dibanding budaya Timur. Dari sudut pandang budaya Barat , orang yang tidak mengemukakan pendapat (baik pendapat yang sama maupun berbeda) dianggap tidak tahu apa-apa.

Dalam kehidupan kantor, atasan Asing akan menghargai orang yang sering mengemukakan pendapatnya dibanding staff yang diam-diam saja. Karena itu jangan heran jika rekan anda yang sering 'ngomong' lebih cepat maju karirnya dibanding Anda yang lebih hemat dengan kata-kata.
Anda pasti pernah punya atasan yang tidak begitu menguasai masalah, atau ‘Expat tidak selalu lebih pandai dibanding orang Indonesia’. Anda sebagai orang Indonesia pasti lebih menguasai masalah dan harus berani mengemukakan pendapat anda kepada atasan. Jika anda berhasil meyakinkan atasan bahwa pendapatnya salah dan pendapat anda yang benar maka atasan anda akan ‘selamat’ karena tidak mengambil keputusan yang keliru. Akhirnya atasan anda akan ingat ‘jasa’ anda ini, dan anda akan menjadi orang kepercayaannya.

Tapi karena atasan Asing anda juga akan melihat kualitas dari materi yang dibicarakan, maka ingat juga bahwa anda jangan Asbun alias Asal Bunyi.

Satu hal yang agak sukar dipelajari mungkin bukan memiliki pendapat yang berbeda, tapi bagaimana mengemukakan pendapat tersebut tanpa menyinggung perasaan atasan. Untuk hal ini memang tidak ada solusi yang berlaku untuk semua situasi. Ingat saja bahwa beberapa atasan lebih suka jika ia tidak ‘dipermalukan’ di depan umum , tetapi ada juga atasan yang tidak keberatan jika anda memprotes pendapatnya di muka anak buahnya yang lain. Jika anda ingin berbeda pendapat, ada baiknya ada coba dulu dengan mengirim e-mail , sehingga anda dapat memilih kata-kata bahasa Inggris yang tepat. Berikan waktu kepada atasan anda untuk mengolah alasan anda dan menerima pendapat anda. Kemudian baru anda telefon atau bertemu langsung dengan atasan anda. Pada saat pertemuan face to face ini baik atasan anda maupun anda sendiri tidak lagi berbicara mengenai detail , tetapi lebih kepada masalah-masalah prinsipil.

2. Kalau tidak tahu, nyatakan.

Sebenarnya tip di atas berlaku untuk anda yang memiliki atasan orang Indonesia maupun yang memiliki atasan orang Asing. Namun demikian, lagi-lagi karena masalah budaya yang berbeda, maka jangan ragu ragu menyatakan ketidaktahuan kita dan bertanya kepada atasan jika kita tidak tahu maksud perintah sang atasan.

Sang atasan pasti merasa senang jika anda menanyakan sesuatu kepadanya karena ia merasa bahwa anda mendengarkan kata-katanya. Sebaliknya ia akan merasa heran jika Anda salah mengerjakan tugas, karena saebelumnya Anda tidak pernah bertanya sama sekali (sekali lagi, dalam pikiran mereka, jika tidak ada pertanyaan pasti Anda sudah mengerti!).
Yang harus kita hindari adalah ekpektasi atasan yang tidak tepat. Karena anda tidak pernah mengatakan bahwa anda tidak tahu mengenai pekerjaan yang harus anda lakukan, maka atasan anda menganggap bahwa anda mampu melaksanakan tugas tersebut sesuai dengan waktu yang sudah ditentukan. Jadi kalau ternyata nantinya anda tidak mampu, maka ia tidak percaya dengan alasan anda.

Memang lebih baik nyatakan saja jika anda tidak tahu. Dengan cara ini maka atasan anda dapat memberikan penjelasan yang lebih teliti atau memerintahkan kolega anda untuk mengajarkan hal tersebut kepada anda.

Saya ingat pengalaman saya beberapa waktu yang lalu. Saya dipindahkan menjadi account manager untuk perusahaan IT, padahal latar belakang pendidikan saya adalah sarjana ekonomi. Hal yang pertama saya lakukan adalah mengingatkan atasan saya bahwa saya bukan orang dengan latar belakang IT. Karena saya ingatkan hal ini maka atasan saya langsung memerintahkan kolega saya untuk ‘membimbing’ saya ,sehingga akhirnya setelah beberapa bulan saya bisa berdiskusi dengan klien seakan-akan saya sudah lama masuk ke industri IT.

3. Kalau tidak setuju, nyatakan.

Seperti dibahas di awal tulisan ini, jika atasan kita bukan orang Indonesia, ada kemungkinan besar ia lebih menghargai orang yang berbeda pendapat dibandingkan jika atasan anda adalah orang Indonesia. Saya tidak serta merta menyatakan bahwa semua atasan Indonesia tidak menyukai perbedaan pendapat tetapi pengalaman saya memiliki atasan eks BUMN adalah bahwa ia tidak suka jika saya tidak setuju dengan pendapatnya, apalagi jika ketidak setujuan itu saya sampaikan di muka umum.

Jangan lupa bahwa jika Anda tidak setuju dengan atasan anda, maka anda harus memiliki alas an yang logis. Yang paling tidak disukai oleh atasan, baik atasan Indonesia maupun atasan Asing, adalah jika anda tidak memiliki alasan yang jelas mengenai pendapat anda. Sekali lagi, jangan sekedar asal bunyi atau asbun, pastikan ada memiliki pendapat yang berbeda karena anda memiliki sebab-sebab yang jelas, logis dan relevan dengan pembicaraan yang sedang dibicarakan.

4. Hargai waktu, tepati janji anda.

Bangsa kita terkenal dengan sebutan bangsa jam karet. Nyaris tidak ada acara atau meeting yang start on time, apalagi finish on time. Hal ini sangat kontras dengan kebiasaan di Negara-negara lain. Seingat saya , bangsa yang memiliki kebiasaaan seperti kita tidak banyak, mungkin hanya bangsa-bangsa di Amerika Latin , Italia dan Spanyol.

Memang benar bahwa orang Asing yang sudah lama tinggal di Indonesia akan ‘menyesuaikan diri’ dengan situasi ini. Gunakan ini untuk membuat atasan Anda semakin respect pada anda. Bagaimana caranya ? Seperti dikemukakan di atas, kemungkinan besar ekspektasi atasan anda adalah bahwa anda pun tidak menghargai waktu, seperti kebanyakan staff Indonesia lainnya. Karena itu jika anda justru tepat waktu , selalu menyerahkan tugas pada saat yang di janjikan, maka atasan anda akan positively surprised sehingga ia akan lebih percaya pada anda dibanding kepada staff lainnya.

5. Hindari menanyakan hal-hal yang bersifat pribadi, kecuali kalau anda sudah mengenalnya sudah lama dan dengan baik.

Saya sering tertawa dalam hati jika ada kolega yang bertanya kepada atasan saya yang kebetulan orang Asing, pertanyaan pertanyaan yang sifatnya agak pribadi seperti : berapa anak anda; hobby anda apa; istri/suami anda dimana ; dan lain lain.

Biasanya raut muka atasan saya langsung berubah dari relax menjadi agak tegang atau agak formal. Bagi sebagian orang Asing, pertanyaan seperti di atas bukanlah pertanyaan yang diajukan pada pertemuan pertama. Kadang-kadang pertanyaan pertanyaan seperti ini lebih cocok ditanyakan di pertemuan pertemuan informal misalnya sambil minum bir atau sambil makan siang. Jadi hindari mengeluarkan pertanyaan pertanyaan seperti itu jika Anda baru kenal untuk pertama kalinya.

Yang lebih wajar biasanya adalah tunggu sehingga ia yang mulai bertanya kepada anda. Biasanya dia akan bertanya apakah anda sudah berkeluarga atau belum dan kemudian ia akan bertanya hal-hal yang lain.

Iwan Salim, seorang professional pada perusahaan minyak multinasional yang pernah beberapa kali bekerja di luar negeri pada beberapa negara.

Human Resources Series #1 "After being the Top in HR : What Next ?"

2005-07-05T14:32:00.000+07:00

oleh
Iwan Salim

Seorang kerabat dekat saya memiliki pengalaman kerja yang bagi saya cukup mengagumkan. Saat ini ia baru ditunjuk sebagai presiden direktur dari sebuah perusahaan nasional yang merupakan joint venture Asing dengan partner lokal yang bergerak di bidang penjualan, pemasaran dan distribusi consumer goods (FMCG) tertentu.

Jika anda baru kenal dengannya , anda akan mengira bahwa dia sudah bertahun-tahun bergerak di bidang Sales dan Marketing. Nyatanya, dalam dua puluh tahun karirnya sebagai professional, ia pernah menggapai posisi top manajemen puncak di bidang yang sangat berbeda: Ia adalah mantan Direktur Human Resources sebelum akhirnya ia memutuskan untuk pindah ke divisi penjualan pada sebuah perusahaan FMCG yang berkantor pusat di Amerika Serikat. Sebelum ia keluar menjadi presiden direktur, posisinya terakhir adalah sebagai Direktur Penjualan di perusahaan tersebut. Apa rahasianya, sehingga ia bisa sukses di HR dan juga sukses di Sales & Marketing ?

Di mata saya, sang kerabat saya ini merupakan seorang pribadi yang mengesankan. Saya ingin mengetahui bagaimana dan mengapa akhirnya ia mengambil keputusan untuk ‘keluar jalur’ dari Human Resources pindah menuju Sales & Marketing. Saya juga ‘penasaran’ bagaimana ia berjuang menggeluti Sales dan Marketing sampai akhirnya kembali mencapai posisi puncak sebagai Direktur Penjualan.

Baru-baru ini saya berkesempatan minum-minum kopi dengan dirinya di sebuah cafe dan saya berhasil menanyakan hal diatas kepada dirinya.

Di pertengahan tahun 1980an ia pulang dari Amerika Serikat dengan gelar MBA dari sebuah universitas ternama. Sewaktu di AS ia sempat bekerja di sebuah perusahaan minyak multinasional yang berkedudukan di Texas. Pulang dari AS ia langsung pindah ke perusahaan minyak lain karena ia ditawari posisi yang lebih senior , yaitu sebagai Head of Resourcing. Tapi di perusahaan minyak ini ia juga tidak ‘tahan’ lama. Setelah kurang lebih 5 tahun, ia merasa ‘mentok’. Ia mendiskusikan hal ini dengan atasannya.

Atasannya menawarkan posisi di kantor pusat di sebuah negara Eropa tapi peluang ini ditolaknya. Setelah menerima beberapa tawaran sebagai HR manager dari beberapa perusahaan baik lokal maupun multinasional, akhirnya ia memutuskan untuk keluar dari perusahaan minyak tersebut dan pindah ke sebuah perusahaan soft drink multinasional.

Di perusahaan ini ia mengulangi lagi reputasinya sebagai seorang professional yang ambisius, berintegritas tinggi, cerdas dan selalu berhasil melaksanakan tugas-tugasnya dengan baik. Selain itu, ia pun dikenal populer di mata semua orang, baik atasan, kolega maupun bawahan. Ia dikenal sebagai seorang people person tetapi juga dikenal sebagai orang yang tegas dan berani mengambil keputusan-keputusan yang tidak populer, misalnya melakukan PHK terhadap temannya yang diketahui melakukan tindakan korupsi.

Pelan tapi pasti karirnya menanjak. Sebagai seorang HR Director, tugas pertama yang dilakukannya adalah mengunjungi operations perusahaan sehingga ia memahami seluk beluk perusahaan. Dengan mengetahui tantangan-tantangan perusahaan, maka ia akan dapat menentukan kontribusi HR dalam membantu sales dan marketing mencapai tujuan perusahaan.
Dalam kegiatan sehari-hari, hal ini dilakukannya dengan banyak mengajukan pertanyaan dalam rapat-rapat direksi, walaupun tidak ketika sedang membahas mengenai masalah human resources. Jika sedang membahas tentang bisnis maka ia biasanya akan bertanya detail tentang masalah tersebut dan mencari tahu 'angle' dari human resources. Misalnya apakah dengan memberikan training kepada staff yang bersangkutan, maka masalah yang terjadi dapat diselesaikan.

Dengan memulai dari business requirement maka ada beberapa keunggulan yang dapat dicapai. Yang paling utama adalah bahwa solusi yang akan disampaikan oleh HR pasti akan diterima /mendapat buy-in dari business managers. Selain itu, ia memiliki credibility karena para business managers akan menaruh respect orang yang memahami business mereka. Bagaimana ia melakukan hal ini ? Ia travelling 5 hari setiap minggu sepanjang tahun, ia kunjungi operations perusahaan di daerah. Bertemu dengan para GM, staff dan yang paling penting tentunya adalah bertemu dengan konsumen.

Dalam waktu kurang dari 3 tahun ia dipromosikan menjadi Direktur Human Resources di perusahaan tersebut. Rupanya setelah dalam posisi ini selama kurang lebih 2 tahun, ia kembali merasa bahwa ia telah mencapai situasi levelling out, dimana ia tidak dapat lagi mencapai posisi yang lebih tinggi.

Setelah melihat peluang-peluang yang ada, akhirnya ia mengajukan suatu usulan yang cukup radikal kepada manajemen. Ia mengusulkan untuk dipindahkan ke posisi senior di Sales & Marketing. Mula-mula usulan ini ditolak oleh manajemen. Manajemen menganggap ia lebih baik tetap pada posisinya dan ia ditawarkan untuk menjadi HR Director di negara lain, walaupun masih pada perusahaan yang sama.

Karena ia cukup keras kepala maka akhirnya manajemen setuju untuk memindahkannya dari posisinya yang lama sebagai HR Director. Sebagai bagian dari ‘keras kepalanya’ itu, ia bahkan sempat menantang manajemen. “Jika saya tidak bisa mencapai target penjualan, kan mudah saja. Silakan pecat saya, saya akan terima dengan fair dan no hard feelings”. Rupanya ia memang bukan tipe orang yang suka dengan kemapanan. Ia ingin selalu mencoba tantangan baru, mencari kondisi yang lebih baik dibanding dengan yang dihadapinya saat itu.

Tingginya kepercayaan manajemen atas dirinya membuat ia pertama tama dipindahkan sebagai GM Sales sebuah area yang relatif kecil namun tetap memiliki berbagai tantangan. Ia dipindahkan sebagai GM Sales lebih karena senioritas pangkatnya sebagai mantan anggota direksi dan bukan sebagai tanda kemahirannya dalam bidang yang baru ditekuninya ini.

Di posisi yang baru ini ia mengkombinasikan pendekatan human resources dengan pendekatan marketing dalam memajukan perusahaan. Mungkin di sinilah ia berbeda dengan rekan-rekannya GM yang lain. Kerabat saya ini menyadari bahwa semua permasalahan dalam organisasi, jika ditarik benang merahnya, maka akan bermuara pada Manusia. Sebaik apapun strategi atau sehebat apapun organisasi yang mengimplementasikan strategi tersebut, tetapi jika tidak didukung oleh staf yang memiliki motivasi yang tinggi, rasa ‘belonging’ kepada organisasi dan keinginan untuk selalu berbuat lebih baik setiap hari, maka mustahil organisasi tersebut akan semakin maju.

Dengan pendekatan ini, ia berhasil menuang sukses dengan peningkatan penjualan yang luar biasa. Untuk pertama kalinya dalam sejarah perusahaan, daerah operasi yang dipimpinnya berhasil memenangkan berbagai penghargaan prestasi penjualan. Tim manajemen yang dipimpinnya dikenal sebagai tim yang sangat solid dan kompak dan ia dikenal sebagai atasan yang disegani oleh bawahan dan juga oleh manajemen di kantor pusat.

Tidaklah mengherankan jika ia dianggap berhasil dalam tugasnya ini. Sebagai imbalannya maka manajemen kantor pusat memindahkannya ke daerah di Pulau Jawa yang lebih besar dan merupakan pasar ketiga terbesar setelah Jakarta. Lagi-lagi di penempatan yang baru ini ia mengkombinasikan pengalaman sales dan marketing nya yang semakin matang dengan pendekatan human resources yang sudah mendarah daging. Setelah menghabiskan waktu dua tahun maka akhirnya ia ditarik ke kantor pusat dan ‘kembali’ ke posisi dewan direksi, yaitu sebagai Direktur Penjualan Regional Luar Jawa. Setelah hanya satu tahun di posisi ini, ia kembali dipromosikan menjadi Direktur Penjualan Nasional. Dan itulah posisinya yang terakhir sebelum akhirnya ia memutuskan untuk keluar dari perusahaan itu dan menjadi presiden direktur di perusahaan nya yang sekarang.

Jadi, apakah ‘moral of the story’ dari paparan saya diatas ? Menurut saya, jika anda sekarang berkarir di HR, tidak berarti anda tidak bisa pindah ke bagian lain dengan hasil yang sama ataupun malah lebih baik. Mungkin saya harus lebih eksplisit lagi : Jika anda merasa sudah ‘mentok’ dalam posisi anda sekarang (dan tidak harus di HR) , mengapa anda tidak mempertimbangkan untuk ‘putar haluan’ sekaligus dan mencoba berkarir di fungsi lain. Kerabat saya bisa melakukannya, jadi andapun pasti bisa juga.
Selamat mencoba !

Iwan Salim, seorang professional pada perusahaan minyak multinasional yang pernah beberapa kali bekerja di luar negeri pada beberapa negara. Ia juga mahasiswa pada Program Pascasarjana Ilmu Manajemen, FEUI.

Hak Cipta pada Iwan Fuad Salim 2005. Dilarang menyalin, memperbanyak, menggandakan dalam bentuk apapun untuk maksud apapun tanpa izin tertulis dari Iwan Fuad Salim.

Why do I have a Blog ?

2005-07-04T16:59:00.000+07:00

There are a number of things which I want to share with other people and I thought that the easier way to reach more people is through creating a blog. Here are a number of things which I would like to share :

Iwan Salim's Human Resources Series
Iwan Salim's Fictional Works (a novellette based on Indonesian Politics is a work in progress)
My experience as a young-ish management consultant travelling around the world for 12 months, leaving a wife and a daughter at home, coming home once every 4 or 5 weeks.
Other works, which are yet to be confirmed

I hope you enjoy reading them as much I enjoy writing them.

Regards,

Iwan.

Welcome to the Iwan Fuad Salim Memorial Library

2005-07-04T16:49:00.000+07:00

Hello and a warm welcome.

Thank you very much for visiting my Library.
I will be updating the Library frequently and look forward to further improvements as a result of feedback from visitors such as yourself.
Regards,
Iwan.