Embracing Passion, Competency, and Sustainability: An Interview with Betul Genc, SVP and Head of ASEAN at Adecco

In the fast-paced and ever-evolving world of work, it is crucial to stay ahead of the curve and adapt to changing trends and demands. In this exclusive interview, we had the privilege of speaking with Betul Genc, the Senior Vice President and Head of ASEAN at Adecco, a leading global workforce solutions provider. To expand the scope of the interview, we invited students to submit questions they have Betul via Instagram. With over 30 years of professional experience, Genc shares her insights on leadership principles, sustainability, and tips for students interested in joining the dynamic industry of workforce solutions. 

Adecco, as a Fortune 500 company, recognizes that its most valuable assets are its people.

Building a Career with Adecco

Betul Genc began her professional journey more than 30 years ago after studying hospitality and management in school. While she initially found success in the hospitality industry, she realized the challenges faced by female leaders, particularly when balancing family commitments with demanding work hours. Seeking a change that aligns with her strengths and allowed her to make a meaningful impact, Genc joined Adecco after being inspired by a colleague who worked as a recruiter at the company. She fell in love with Adecco's purpose of “Making the Future Work for Everyone” and found that the industry allowed her to leverage her strengths whilst build new skills. She found meaning in helping individuals change careers and explore new opportunities. 

Adecco, as a Fortune 500 company, recognizes that its most valuable assets are its people. Genc emphasizes the importance of remaining focused on talent needs and ensuring a dedicated approach, to be able to offer the best service in the market. By continually providing meaningful solutions and maintaining a customer-centric focus, Adecco builds strong relationships and remains a trusted partner for both clients and candidates.

Compassion and Competency in Leadership

When asked by Camille Dael, a student studying Human Resource Management with Psychology at Singapore Polytechnic, about the importance of compassion versus competency in leadership, Genc emphasizes the significance of striking a balance. Drawing from her extensive experience, she believes that while competency is crucial, Genc highlights that leaders should also play their role to support and empower their teams, connecting their own purpose with that of their employees. By creating a safe space to address challenges, concerns and opportunities, leaders foster an environment where both compassion and competency can thrive. 

 As Genc states, “There might be times where you step in and have very little information of what people do from a technical perspective, however that does not change you as a leader and how you want to position yourself as a leader because you are there to help and support your people, connect your purpose and their purpose and this is where leadership lies."

 Adecco hosts a bi-weekly casual coffee chat session where Heads of each department gather in the morning to share about anything under the sun. This allows the deepening of trust and support between each department, creating a comfortable environment where leaders can grow together. 

If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.

Living by Quotes and Values

Genc shares that she lives by several quotes that have guided her throughout her career. One quote that resonates with her is "If you fail to plan, you plan to fail." Planning has been integral to her approach, ensuring that she sets clear goals and objectives for herself and her teams. Another fundamental principle she believes in, is accountability and ownership. Genc emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions and decisions, fostering a sense of accountability within individuals and teams.

Achieving Work-Life Balance

The truth is that as a leader with extensive professional commitments, Genc acknowledges the challenges of balancing work and family life. To work towards balancing work and home commitments, Genc emphasizes the need to be agile and adaptable. Prioritizing family is crucial, and when she spends time with her loved ones, she strives to be fully present. Genc shares that she wakes up early to create personal time for activities such as listening to podcasts or reading. By reviewing her calendar in the morning and identifying available slots, she effectively plans her day, ensuring a balance between work and personal life.

 Adecco recognizes the need to define sustainability within the industry, focusing not only on aspects such as carbon emissions but also on social impact. 

Sustainability in the Future of Work

Addressing the importance of sustainability through a question posed by Sebastian Phang, student studying Business Administration at National University of Singapore, Genc highlights that Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices are essential components for all companies. Adecco recognizes the need to define sustainability within the industry, focusing not only on aspects such as carbon emissions but also on social impact. 

 Genc is passionate in the creation of lifelong employability and advocating for vulnerable groups, to ensure that everyone has access to opportunities within the workforce. Genc acknowledges that sustainability requires collaboration and responsibility, not only within organizations but also throughout supply chains.

Aspiring leaders should focus not only on making decisions but also on taking care of those they lead.

Joining Adecco and Career Tips

On a question posed by Benjamin, from Institute of Technical Education on how can students aspire to join a Fortune 500 company like Adecco, Genc advises being passionate about the work they do and emphasizes the importance of aligning the brain, heart, and hands in their careers. Regardless of the industry or position, coordination between passion and competence is crucial. 

Aspiring leaders should focus not only on making decisions but also on taking care of those they lead. Genc encourages the creation of an inclusive workplace where different ideas and perspectives are welcomed, fostering an environment of accountability and support. She suggests approaching Adecco with enthusiasm and exploring the internship opportunities available to gain first-hand experience in the dynamic industry of workforce solutions.

Conclusion

In this engaging interview, Betul Genc shared her experiences and insights on building a successful career, effective leadership and sustainability in the future of work. Genc's journey exemplifies the importance of aligning passion and competence while fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment. As Adecco continues to shape the future of work, it remains a compelling choice for individuals seeking to make a meaningful impact in the world of workforce solutions.