gradsingapore How to Get Hired 2025

HOW TO GET HIRED 2025

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How To Use This Guide How To Use This Guide

Whether you’re fresh out of school and diving into the working world, or job-hunting armed with a few years of work experience, gradsingapore’s How to Get Hired Guide is here to provide you with the relevant tips, quick hacks and advice on how to get started!

1. Developing Your

Career Game Plan

Transitioning from student to working adult may seem like a natural progression in life, yet the journey itself can be overwhelming. With so many possibilities, it’s not always easy to figure out where or how you should embark on your career. Rest assured, you’re not the only one. In this section, we help you to ask yourself the right questions when it comes to envisioning your career path. Ultimately, you possess all the answers you need.

2. Starting Your Job Search

It goes without saying that getting a job isn’t as straightforward as choosing your dinner off the menu. Different employers use different platforms and require different information for their job applications. How do you even know how to get started? This section covers the important steps in making your first job application, from managing your LinkedIn profile to cover letter writing.

3. Making a Great Impression

Congratulations, you’ve got an invitation for a job interview, so what’s next? This section is all about winning over your potential employer to get your foot through the door. From impressing in your panel interview to excelling in group exercises, this is the final step that either leads you to a job offer or a rejection.

Ultimately, the world is your oyster. There are no wrong steps or actions. Even if you decide to change your career two months into your first job, it’s a learning experience about yourself. Be professional regardless of anything that comes your way at work. As long as you’re earnest and honest in everything you do, be confident that you’re on the right track. Embrace the unknown and delve into the next stage of your life with positivity. You won’t regret it.

Developing Your Career Game Plan Developing Your Career Game Plan

Begin by understanding your strengths, weaknesses, interests, and values. This self-reflection will help you align your career aspirations with your skills and passions.

How do you start

Planning Your Career? Planning Your Career?

Before taking the leap into the workforce, think about where you envision yourself to be in both the long- and short-term.

While goals may change and it may take years to find yourself in your desired role and industry, your first step in job hunting should be a solid understanding of what you can currently bring to the table.

The best time to do this is straight after graduation, so begin looking at potential jobs and career paths as something you want to actively pursue rather than as something you have to do in exchange for a living. After all, if the prospect of getting to work in the morning doesn’t get you moving and your job isn’t a role you can see yourself persevering in – especially when the going gets tough – there’s really no point in staying in a role or industry where you are unhappy.

Finding your raison d’être – your reason for being – can give you the hope you need to find something you love and are good at – while getting paid and being what the world needs.

But even if you find it, you will quickly understand that it isn’t just about finding out what fulfils you on a personal level, but instead going on a journey to become who you want to be. As your skills will lead you to your choice of profession and facilitate your entry to an industry or trade full of other like-minded people, make a choice that satisfies you far more than just allowing you to support yourself.

To that end, here are a few questions you can ask yourself to help guide you along as you cross over to the working world.

1

What are you good at?

Consider your best skill sets and strengths. List down your personality traits and technical skills. Ask yourself if you prefer to specialise in a certain area or if you prefer a multi-tasking job.

Take your temperament into consideration as well. Figure out if you work better when left alone at your desk or when you are around others, such as interacting or negotiating with them. Work out if you’re more comfortable working with strict office hours and rigid structures, or have a preference for flexible working hours that need plenty of self-discipline.

Understanding yourself will help you work more efficiently, but even before that, it’ll give you the boost you need to fathom where you should be professionally, and also get you one step closer to your dream job.

2

What do you care about?

Don’t underestimate your heart. Make sure your career goals are in line with your personal morals and values; they will go a long way in ensuring success.

For example, if you care deeply about animal welfare, consider joining a non-profit organisation to do your part, or go into veterinary science.

3

What are your hobbies?

Alternatively, think about your hobbies and what you like doing in your free time; they could be a good indicator of what you might enjoy in a career. For example, if you enjoy writing in your spare time, a job as a copywriter or journalist could be something to consider while looking through job listings. Moreover, it’s worth developing abilities and skills in the areas that can catch and hold your interest.

In some cases, you can even turn your favourite hobby into a full-blown career, whether that means starting your own business as a baker, offering freelance programming services or more!

What does the world need? 4

Your choice of profession will, in a way, serve your community as well as the world at large, so exploring potential career paths is a way of unwrapping your gifts and finding out how they can help you give back.

Despite challenging economic prospects, think about how you can best use your skills to contribute. While you will have to think in terms of short-term economic trends and market forecasts, don’t forget to consider how you would like to grow both professionally and personally in the long term as well!

What types of work environments will help you grow? 5

Do your research on the common types of office cultures, then reflect on your personality to assess the type of work environments that will help you thrive. For example, if you prefer a more structured working style, then perhaps you should consider applying to multinational corporations, rather than startups.

It’s easy to thrive and prosper if you’re in your element, so take your comfort zone into consideration too. For instance, if you prefer interacting with others, you can think about pursuing a career in sales and marketing. On the other hand, if you like working alone, you can consider going into IT and technology.

What kind of impact do you want to make? 6

The quest for personal fulfilment often intertwines with the desire to make a meaningful impact at work. It’s not merely about completing tasks or achieving career milestones; it’s about leaving an imprint that transcends routine duties. Consider the impact you yearn to create – is it fostering an atmosphere of collaboration and growth? Or perhaps championing initiatives that address societal challenges?

Reflecting on these questions can help you gain clarity about your career preferences and guide you toward job roles or industries that align with your interests, strengths, and values. Additionally, talking to mentors, and career counsellors, or taking career assessment tests can further assist in narrowing down suitable job options.

Is your salary expectation for your first job realistic? Food for thought...

Passion or pragmatism

Choosing What Works For You Choosing What Works For You

When it comes to your career, should you follow your heart, or just settle for any job for money? In these turbulent times, it can be a difficult decision to make.

Growing up, you may be encouraged by your parents and teachers that you could do anything if you set your minds to it. From being a worldfamous dancer to becoming a renowned baker, with hard work and passion, you can achieve your dreams if you put your mind to it. Or so they say.

Whether you’re still working your way through university, freshly graduated with a degree in hand, or manoeuvring your first job, you’ve probably realised by now that things aren’t quite as simple as they were as a kid. There might be times when you wonder if what you’ve been working for up till now is exactly what you want after all. Worse, you might be slowly sliding into a full-blown quarter-life crisis.

Having second thoughts

Firstly, take a deep breath. It’s okay to be overwhelmed at times, and if you’re reconsidering your career path, you’re definitely not alone. According to a survey by the CFA Institute, it was found that 45 per cent of current university students and fresh graduates were rethinking their career paths. Whether about choosing a job that makes them happy, or settling for a position for monetary reasons, many have to deal with the dilemma of choosing between passion and pragmatism. But just because others choose one particular path doesn’t necessarily mean that you should follow suit – rather, give it some considerable thought before proceeding with anything else.

The case for both sides

In truth, both pragmatism and passion do have their own merits, as well as demerits.

Regarding passion

Pick a job you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life. Yes, as much as there will never be such a thing as a perfect job, there’s no denying that the phrase still has some truth to it. By pursuing a job out of passion, you’re likely to feel motivated to get work done and keep going. And while the monetary rewards may be smaller, the positive, internal rewards will often make up for it.

On the other hand, while it can be a well-worth endeavour, your efforts may not always bear fruit, especially if you come to find that the industry you’re pursuing isn’t doing as well as you hoped. Worse, the mounting stress and deadlines may cause you to turn against what you initially loved.

Regarding pragmatism

With that in mind, it may seem safer to take the road of pragmatism. After all, while money may not be able to buy happiness, it can certainly alleviate a lot of concerns. Indeed, this is a common path for many, who choose to put their passions on the back burner and settle for a stable job.

The flipside here is that because you’re settling for what you can, it can be difficult to find enjoyment in a career that you don’t really have a vested interest in, which can lead to a lot of issues down the line, such as decreased work performance and increased boredom.

Balancing (and managing) both sides

So, should you try and settle for a promising career without much passion, or should you risk it for a job that you love and fulfil you?

In truth, there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ answer to this age-old dilemma, but it’s not an impossible question to answer if you study your options and your current situation. For example, if you need to prioritise your financial situation for any reason, or if the industry you want to enter isn’t doing well, it’s fine to put your passions on the back burner for the time being.

From passion to profit

Alternatively, if you’re capable of doing so, you can consider monetising your passion as a freelancing gig as a sideline. It doesn’t only help bolster your income, but also provides a taste of what working in that industry could be like. If you decide to focus on it full-time, do your research on the current market environment first, as well as any challenges you may need to anticipate. Don’t feel pressured to invest in a side hustle though if you need to focus on other priorities.

Whether it’s money and stability or happiness and fulfilment, be sure to look into all of the advantages and disadvantages of each path. Moreover, if you find yourself taking the pragmatic road, keep in mind that it doesn’t have to be permanent, and you’re free to switch gears whenever you feel more secure in doing so.

Additionally, a little digging and introspection can help you discover aspects of your current job situation that you find meaningful. Who knows, you might even find new passions right at your current desk.

Can't turn your passion into a career?

You can still find meaning in your job.

How important is

Saving The World To You? Saving The World To You?

Or rather, how important are sustainability values to you? Choosing an eco-friendly job can come with perks that can feed both your heart and wallet.

Ever spent hours doing something like gardening or a recycling programme and thought: “I wouldn’t mind doing this as a job”? Well, for those who did, you’re in luck, because you can, in fact, make sustainability your full-time job with good career prospects.

Even if you haven’t thought about it before, there’s merit to joining this industry, such as the ambitious Singapore Green Plan 2030 is currently being actively promoted by the government. With plenty of prospects, opportunities, and projects ongoing right now, now is the perfect time to think about ditching the grey shades of an office cubicle for something a little greener.

Clearing the air

Before delving into the different jobs in this area, let’s dispel some myths and get some misconceptions out of the way. The first major myth is that all jobs in the sustainable sector are “dirty”, or require you to get your hands dirty, which is completely untrue.

It's more than just a job...

Do you know that going green can also help you save money?

On the contrary, there are a ton of different eco-friendly jobs that are more traditionally corporate like an ESG analyst or a sustainability specialist that mainly deals with paperwork and planning. In fact, one of the best parts about the green sector is that applicants can choose if they want to work within the more familiar professional structure, or want a more hands-on approach.

The second myth is the assumption that any skills that you learn in the green sector stay in the green sector. Not true: with sustainability now a major global topic (thanks to climate change), many

industries are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint. In turn, there will always be eco-friendly occupations in different industries where you least expect them to be, making such skills highly transferable.

Lastly, there’s the myth that jobs in sustainability aren’t as financially stable as more conventional jobs. In fact, the increased concern about climate change has led to the introduction of the Green Economy, which is focused on creating a lifestyle around being environmentally friendly.

As such, there’s a heavy emphasis on growing this industry, which also drives the demand for people with green skills, knowledge and experience. In doing so, employers are willing to pay more to secure the best candidates, which can lead to an increase in salaries as well as financial stability.

POSSIBLE ROLES

Ecologist

One possible route you can consider is that of an ecologist. Known as the “doctors” of the natural world, they’re in charge of safeguarding the environment from human impact.

You’ll get to study all manner of flora and fauna in order to understand how each element interacts with one another. You’ll get a chance to consult for multiple agencies, both private and government, across different sectors like construction and civil engineering when it comes to environmental impact.

While you might still deal with paperwork and meetings, there’s also fieldwork involved. Ecologists use a variety of equipment from high-tech night vision goggles and electronics for observation to old school techniques like setting bait and traps for active surveillance. Once the relevant samples or information have been collected, they bring it back to a laboratory to map out ecological changes in the environment.

This means that not only will you be dealing with a variety of people on the job, you’ll be working in many different settings both indoors and outdoors; something that is both exciting and unique.

Plus, you’ll also have a hand in presenting the information to various stakeholders and proposing new solutions or changes to existing eco-regulations. This puts your sustainability efforts at the forefront of regulatory work, which has a huge impact on how other organisations operate as well.

Farmer

This does not refer to the kind of farmer seen on the television or in the movies that stands ankle-deep in muddy water, and is surrounded by water buffaloes. In Singapore, being an urban farmer means relying on technology and cutting-edge innovation instead of animals and backbreaking manual labour.

As Singapore is a land-scarce nation, the government adapted to this by reformatting farming from a horizontal to a vertical activity, relying on technology like hydroponics and aeroponics to get the job done.

This means that as an urban farmer, you can control key elements like light, air and water, to cultivate the most nutritious produce without using fertilisers or pesticides, which can be difficult to do outdoors. You can also cultivate crops all year round, without any concern about the natural environment threatening your yield.

Aside from the satisfaction of growing your own food, you’ll also know that your efforts are going to ensure that our country is both self-sufficient and reduce the potential for waste that typically results from traditional farming techniques.

Environmental Engineer

For the maths whizzes out there, you can consider taking the less conventional approach to applied sciences and try environmental engineering. It’s basically the same job, but done with a sustainability context in mind. One of the biggest effects that humans have on the environment is our ever-increasing need for domesticated spaces for things like housing, play and work.

As a result of that, large portions of natural landscapes have to be cleared out and repurposed accordingly. Such works can be incredibly devastating for things like wildlife and the ecosystem at large, and this is where environmental engineers come into play.

They are specialists in assessing and managing the human footprint on the biosphere by combining environmental sciences and engineering together. Like the previous two jobs, there’s usually a good mix of office work and fieldwork, covering everything from pollution and waste management to large-scale renewable energy projects. This offers you plenty of variety in terms of work and keeps things interesting!

However, you’ll also be tasked to come up with new innovations to help manage the human impact on the environment. This means you’ll need to have a strong mathematical base and a keen mind for problem-solving from the get-go, so don’t forget to bring your scientific calculator along.

NParks Officer

Lastly, you can opt to apply for one of NPark’s many roles. They’re the governing body that manages and cares for the numerous parks that are scattered throughout the island. These include the Botanic Gardens, Gardens By The Bay, and the extensive network of park connectors that create a green route across the country.

The best part about this is that there are a bunch of different occupations that are related to sustainability, which you can pick based on your area of expertise and interest.

For example, if you’re interested in helping to maintain Singapore’s parks and want to do outreach and community events, you can apply to be a park officer. They are the keepers of all the parks and take care of operations and facilities management within the reserves. Those with green thumbs or just simply plant enthusiasts, why not try your hand at being a part of their arboriculture team? You’ll be charged with the inspection and maintenance of trees, so naturally much of your work will be outdoors and potentially high off the ground.

For animal lovers, NParks also has a veterinarian division that oversees the welfare and responds to calls regarding wildlife like the famous otter families that roam the country. You’ll also have a chance to help shape policy when it comes to legislation regarding animal health and the sector; a key facet when it comes to ensuring the safety of both wildlife and humans who regularly share spaces like parks.

If going green is at the top of your list of values, there are plenty of jobs that you can pursue. Being a country that prides itself on being green, there are more than a few opportunities across all sectors for you to join when it comes to eco-friendly jobs.

You’ll be laying the foundation for a more sustainable future, which is an incredibly meaningful thing to spend most of your adult life doing. Plus, you’ll get the chance to work outside of the office, which is a win if you’re not into the cubicle life.

Which career suits YOUR

Personality Type? Personality Type?

Whether you’re creative or practical, a social butterfly or an introvert, there is a job type that’s almost perfect for you.

It can be stressful when it’s time to decide on your career path. Sure, you can match your future job to something you excel at (e.g. becoming a scientist because you’re good in science) or you can choose a career based on a trendy industry now (e.g. technology and healthcare), but some experts find that people are typically happier and more productive when working in jobs that match their personality type.

Renowned researcher, John Holland, believes that people placed in jobs that are tailored to how they work best tend to achieve higher job fulfilment, produce better quality of work and contribute to happier working environments. While there are several personality tests available, Holland’s Theory of Career Choice narrowed down the personalities of the modern worker into six main categories. The theory classifies people into their respective categories by evaluating how a person approaches life situations.

Read on and find out which personality type resonates with you the most and its corresponding suitable jobs. Maybe you’ll figure out your true calling.

The Creator (Artistic)

If you’re expressive and constantly creating some sort of content (e.g. music and writing), chances are you’re a creator. You value the freedom of expression and prefer original materials. This may also mean you avoid repetitive or highly structured activities. You enjoy sharing your ideas and love to inspire and be inspired.

Personality traits

• Enjoys exploring new ideas and possibilities

• Gift for original thinking

• Love to create, inspire and be inspired

• Value freedom of expression

The Doer (Realistic)

Best suited jobs

• Actor, Artist, Dancer, Editor, Film and Video Producer, Graphic Designer, Make-up Artist, Musician

Do you enjoy building up Lego sets during your downtime? Or do you see assembling computer parts together as a hobby? Then it’s possible you’re a doer – someone who enjoys working mainly with their hands by creating and fixing things, assembling or operating equipment. You’re highly likely to be a practical, systematic and independent individual.

Personality traits

• Independent

• Likes to work with machines and tools

• Practical

• Straightforward

• Systematic

Best suited jobs

• Carpenter, Electrician, Mechanical/Electrical Engineer, Mechanic, Pilot, Project, Manager, Radiographer, Senior Software Developer

The Helper (Social)

Everyone has that one friend who is always there when you need them; maybe the person is you in the group. The helper is the most common category of the six, and many people have traits of this category

Personality traits

• Able to work with anyone from other categories

• Find meaning in caring for others and providing services

• Love to work closely with others

among others. As a helper, you may particularly value providing services for others, and enjoy working closely with people.

The Persuader (Enterprising)

There’s always someone who’s known to be the life of the party, and they most likely have a persuasive personality. Born to sell and tend to value business or politics, the persuader knows how

to argue persuasively to change someone’s mind. As a persuader, you may be ambitious and a social butterfly. Chances are, while others complain about it, you’re likely drawn to working in groups.

Best suited jobs

• Counsellor, Librarian, Nurse, Physical Therapist, Police Officer, Social Worker, Teacher

The Organiser (Conventional)

If you find fulfilment in working with numbers, records or machines, then perhaps you’re an organiser. You enjoy carrying out repetitive tasks in a methodical manner and avoid vague activities. You

Personality traits

• Conscientious and meticulous

• Good with details and facts

• Likes clearly defined procedures

• Likely to be perfectionists

• Prefers working indoors

are good at keeping things in order and following procedures to the T.

Best suited jobs

• Bank Teller, Bookkeeper, Financial Analyst, Financial Services Consultant, HR Consultant, Mail Carrier, Risk Manager, Secretary, Senior Audit Associate

Personality traits

• A natural leader

• Ability to tell compelling stories

• Influential

• Know how to argue persuasively

• Likes to meet new people

Best suited jobs

• Attorney, Hotel Manager, Politician, Real Estate Agent, Sales Manager, School Principal

The Thinker (Investigative)

For those who love to learn and solve math or science-related problems, they’re most likely thinkers. If you’re a thinker, you may enjoy researching and discovering new theories. You’re likely one of those students who greatly love doing scientific experiments, and looking to pursue a career in STEM.

Personality traits

• Adept at understanding theories and solving problems

• Analytical

• Critical thinker

• Logical

• Observant

• Scholarly and can think abstractly

Best suited jobs

• Biologist, Computer Programmer, Java Developer, Mathematician, Pharmacist, Research Scientist, Senior Lab Analyst, Surveyor, Systems Analyst

It goes without saying that your career planning should take multiple other matters into account, like your capabilities, job market demands and internship experience. Otherwise, the world would likely be filled with social media influencers.

Questions to ask yourself before

Making A Career Switch Making A Career Switch

Making your next career move takes careful consideration and preparation.

It doesn’t matter whether you’ve started work only a couple of months ago, or you’re already two years into your first role – at some point, you’ll come to a crossroads in your career journey. There, you’ll have to make a choice: stay in your present role, make a job switch, or see through a complete career change.

How do you know when it’s time to leave? Here are some questions for you to reflect on that may nudge you in the right direction.

Question #1: Am I fulfilled by what I’m doing now?

The job you’re in now might’ve been your dream job as a fresh graduate, or the result of trying to figure out what you want. But no matter the reason why you stepped into the role, you have to consider that the you who first accepted the job is different from the you in the present time.

There’s nothing wrong in admitting that you’re no longer fulfilled by what you’re doing everyday – whether it’s coming up with new internal company policies for the benefit of co-workers or creating a positive impact among consumers. In fact, it’ll be good for your mental health and career journey to admit that it might be time to make a change.

Question #2: What about my work brings me the most joy and satisfaction?

Feelings of satisfaction can come from a number of places, from a job well done, to knowing that your work can leave a positive impact. More in-depth reasons may even include enjoying the adrenaline rush you get when you meet tight deadlines, or the intense motivation needed to reach a single goal.

On the other hand, if the feeling you get reminds you of hollow victories, something’s wrong. If you can no longer derive joy and satisfaction from your work, it may be a sign you need to acknowledge that work has become something mundane to pay the bills.

Question #3: What’s my present job outlook?

While layoff news continues to dominate the tech industry, other sectors, such as aviation and hospitality, are experiencing exponential growth. The state of the industry you’re in has an overall effect on your job outlook, so if the forecast isn’t good, you can think about moving into another company that may be able to continue weathering the tough times well. On the more extreme end, you may even want to consider either a complete career or an industry switch.

Question #4: Why do I want change?

There’s no right answer when you ask yourself why you want change. Some want change because they’ve mastered what they wanted to do, and are either bored or in a rut. Others need the change in order to keep up with their career aspirations and plans. On the other hand, if you simply can’t see a future for yourself in the industry, whether in terms of impact or benefits, like pay, you may need to change too.

Whatever your reason for wanting (or not wanting) change is, the general consensus is that it’s good, even if it feels a little scary – after all, you’ll have the opportunity to learn something new in a new environment.

Question #5:

What do I want to learn?

Now that you’re in the early stages of your career, you likely understand that life is a learning journey that never stops. In fact, it’s the learning that makes life fun for you! But here’s the thing: there will come a time when you feel like you’ve learnt all you want to learn at your present company and role.

As you figure out what new things you want to learn, don’t forget to ask yourself how far you’re willing to go to learn something new. For example, if you feel like you’ve learnt all you can from your present role, but not the company, don’t be afraid to bring up an internal job switch to your supervisor. But take note that some positions, such as programming, may require additional certifications.

On the other hand, if you want to learn something completely unrelated to what you’re doing now, you may have to consider switching industries and roles.

Question #6: What is my “career walk away” point?

As Sun Tzu said in the Art of War, “The general who wins the battle makes many calculations in his temple before the battle is fought.”

Similarly, if you’ve decided that switching companies is the most suitable solution for you, be sure to create (and stick to) a “career walk away” point before you start sending out resumes. Walk away points can cover a myriad of topics, ranging from salary and benefits, to even job scope and days of leave afforded.

Question #7:

Is this move in line with my career plan and goals?

This is one of the most important questions you should ask yourself, as you definitely don’t want to invest the time and resources needed to make a shift only to discover that your new role isn’t aligned with your career plan and long-term goals! So, to be sure, pull out the career plan you created earlier before your graduation, and use it as a guide.

All these questions don’t even cover the most important one of all – whether you’ll be happy with your career move. Because even if all your answers point to you moving on from your present company, you don’t have to if you’re not ready. All this shows is that figuring out your next career move isn’t easy, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to any of the questions asked above. But what we can tell you is that it’s definitely worth the trouble, as you continue to realise your goals and accomplish targets set out for yourself!

Is being a

Graduate Intern For You? Graduate Intern For You?

Before taking up that graduate internship, take some time to reflect on these pros and cons.

If you missed the chance to complete an internship while you were still in school, or are still unsure about where you should go after graduation, a graduate internship could be for you.

After all, completing a graduate internship in the company or industry you hope to launch your career in is a valid strategy for working towards a permanent position. Furthermore, it’s also an excellent chance for you to pick up new skills and realign your career goals – especially if you’re looking to enter a sector you have no experience in. But before you decide to take this step, make sure you consider these pros and cons.

1. To get your foot in the door

An internship can be used as part of a long-term strategy to get into the company you want to work in – apply as a graduate intern and give the role your all to make an exceptional impression on your employer. If your manager likes you, you may get an offer for a full-time position at the end!

But even if it doesn’t work out, the experience will still look great on your resume, and you can use it as a stepping stone to explore opportunities with other firms in the same industry.

2. To expand your professional network

Regardless of the next step in your career, you should still prioritise your professional development. Still on the fence?

Take this golden opportunity to grow your professional network. During an internship, you’ll get to work alongside professionals in the industry you’re interested in, and you might even get the chance to make them personal friends. This can benefit you in the future! Put the best version of yourself forward during company or office events; someone you’ve introduced yourself to may be looking for a person to fill a full-time role in their department – you never know!

3. To get insider insights

If you’re still trying to figure out which roles in the industry match your personality and skills the best, a graduate internship can be very useful for gaining valuable insights. It’s also a great way to learn about the inner workings of the organisation and grasp what’s expected of the different roles there.

As an intern, you can leverage on the resources available and speak to your assigned mentor or manager to learn more about the sector and business. This can go a long way in helping you make an informed decision regarding your planned career path.

4. To bulk up your resume

If you didn’t spend enough time on extracurricular activities or gathering other work experience that can help reinforce your resume with relevant points while you were still in school, it’s not too late to start after graduation. An internship is the perfect way to develop the required skills and gain the necessary experience to make your resume attractive to recruiters.

1. The pay

It’s no secret that as an intern, you’ll be paid significantly less than your peers who hold permanent jobs. As such, if you have significant financial obligations, it may not be a good idea to pursue one. However, if you truly need the additional experience, don’t let this discourage you. After all, it’s a good investment in your future career!

2. The role

It’s unlikely for your role as an intern to be as focused and specific as that of a graduate recruit in a training programme. Instead, you’ll be given a variety of tasks that seem insignificant, and you may find it difficult to develop key industry skills. On the other hand, you can use this as an opportunity to showcase your initiative by asking for higher-level responsibilities that’ll also help you grow professionally. More than that, it can improve your chances of being offered a permanent role at the company.

Should You Be

Your Own Boss? Your Own Boss?

Before hanging up your corporate boots, explore the realities of starting your own business and assess whether it’s the right path for you.

Have you ever wondered if there are other career options you can explore? If you’re curious about what lies beyond the 9-to-5 job and want the opportunity to plan your work schedule, entrepreneurship might be the way to go. Transitioning to the working world can be stressful, but even as you navigate your way, remember that it’s all right to break the mould and explore other options that may better fit you and your aspirations.

Overcoming obstacles...

Knowing how to manage your challenges is a key trait of a successful entrepreneur. Do you have what it takes?

Pros of entrepreneurship Risks you should consider

Being an entrepreneur is no easy feat, but here are some reasons why you might want to consider this path.

• You’ll have the freedom and flexibility to work at your own pace

• You’ll be able to pick up and hone essential business skills, such as bookkeeping, collecting debts, marketing and filing tax returns

• You have unconventional ideas and enjoy thinking outside of the box

• You prefer working without a strict hierarchy

• You are motivated to make a change in society, or want to solve a problem that conventional organisations might not be focusing on

All entrepreneurs face the same risks with uncertain market conditions and financial struggles, especially when working within tight budgets. As a result, a lack of funds and market volatility can make it difficult for a business to run smoothly and effectively. This drives home the importance of having a good and effective business plan and conducting thorough research before taking the plunge to be an entrepreneur.

• You’ll have to wear many hats, and be responsible for all aspects of your business. This ranges from administrative work to finding new clients

• You may experience difficulty maintaining a work-life balance, and may need to sacrifice sleep and relationships for work

• Resilience and determination are qualities you’ll need in the face of building your business. If you don’t have the attitude to remain positive throughout, this may not be the path for you.

Before jumping into this career path, it’s a good idea to understand the level of commitment needed. One way to gauge this is to get in touch with other entrepreneurs. Whether they’ve succeeded or failed themselves, their experience and advice will give you valuable insights and context into your endeavour to become a successful business owner.

What should you consider

Before Working Abroad? Before Working Abroad?

The idea of working overseas might sound like a dream come true, but there’s a lot of planning involved before you can take that leap of faith.

Maybe you’ve heard stories from friends or family members about overseas job opportunities, or even felt the lure of a certain culture you’ve dreamed of experiencing. Either way, being able to work overseas can sound like a dream come true, and comes with plenty of benefits.

For one, having overseas exposure can add value to your personal development and career progression. Venturing out of your comfort zone allows you to gain a global perspective on the world, and, potentially, your home country as well.

Plus, it’s also an open door for you to experience a new country with a clean slate, along with experiencing new cultures, meeting people from different backgrounds, and a brand-new environment. You’ll also be able to meet and work with colleagues from diverse backgrounds, and ultimately build up a global professional network (and perhaps future travel companions) that could be beneficial in the future.

In turn, your foray overseas can nurture your independence as well as grow your global awareness. The overall experience is a definite plus point on your resume. Employers tend to favour candidates who are adaptable and comfortable engaging with others from different backgrounds, things that you’ll likely pick up as you work abroad. The abundance of hard and soft skills learnt can also complement your existing technical skills.

Preparations before considering a career overseas

1. Understand your skills

First, it’s important to remember that as an almost-graduate, your current major may or may not determine your career progression in the future, which can also influence your odds of being able to travel for work. Moreover, even if you’ve built a strong portfolio of work for yourself, the best way to prepare yourself for working abroad is to get some hands-on experience.

2. Recognise opportunities around you

An option to consider is to start with the openings around you. Most universities allow their graduates to utilise part of their credits for an overseas internship placement. Such placements might occur either mid-year or at the end of the year depending on the curriculum, and if you succeed in getting one that’s relevant to your desired industry, you’re already one foot in the door.

The preparation process

• Look into companies and organisations that align with your career needs

• Utilise university resources and check to see if they have any guides on starting careers abroad

• Jump at opportunities to do your final semester overseas, be it with an internship or just to clear module credits

• Research online for remote work with overseas companies

Although final semester internships may be quite short, the experience will allow you to truly digest whether working overseas fits you, acting as a trial run before you take the leap and commit to migrating for work. Following this, it’s highly likely that your school will walk you through the step-by-step process in preparation for your internship.

3. Branching out and looking for alternatives

On the other hand, if the circumstances aren’t in your favour, you can still research online for companies that you could do remote work for, though the downside is that you’ll have to work with the time difference depending on which country you’ve applied to.

As for graduates whose hearts are set on going overseas, here are some practical aspects that you need to look into before you proceed with job applications.

Prioritising practical and final decisions

Visas and work permits

• High on the priority list

• Takes a significant amount of time and money

• Research visas and work permits to ensure you’re applying for the right one. Different visas and work permits cater for different lengths of stay, and work hours

Cost of living vs offered salary

• Research the industry average

• Figure out what the offered salary covers (i.e. medical, lodging etc), based on the job listing

Healthcare and insurance

• Depending on the company and the country, healthcare coverage is usually included for employees, though its range varies

• If healthcare is not a part of your contract coverage, ensure that you’ve done your research on the country’s healthcare providers to see how much you need to set aside

Among these, researching visas and work permits should be at the top of your priority list. Consider the exchange rates and cost of living, and compare the expenses against your offered salary. These factors might be additional costs you need to fork out.

Once you’ve done exhaustive research on costs, visas and work permits, scoured the net for potential job opportunities, and perhaps even received offers, lodging is a main factor that you have to consider, and should be your next step.

Weighing out your financial and practical options will help you make better decisions when it comes to considering overseas employment.

Research the job market

• Identify high-demand occupations across countries you might be interested in working in

• Understand your skill set and whether it will be beneficial to the company you’re applying for

• Larger firms are more likely to have the budget and resources to fully sponsor your overseas work experience

Prioritising the planning process –preferably during your final year in university – is critical. Not only should you ensure that you can support yourself financially before receiving your first paycheck, but you’ll need to have a strong understanding of how overseas employment works in the respective countries.

Starting with an overseas internship placement as a final-year student can increase your chances of being converted to a full-time position with the internship company. It also eases you into unfamiliar territory, allowing you to transition better during the overseas stint. However, it also limits your ability to take risks, and you’ll tend to gravitate towards your comfort zone more often.

Although choosing to ride solo leaves you susceptible to the risk of forking out more than you can afford, it allows you to learn adaptability and independence much quicker. You will have to oversee multiple things on your own with little to no guidance, and learn to problem-solve much quicker without any help to fall back on. These skills will translate well into the job market.

Ideally, your next step after considering the overall cost of the above factors, is to research the companies that might be open to sponsoring your work overseas.

Finding an ideal home away from home

• University internships typically provide student housing for their placements, though others may require you to find your own

• Check with potential employers whether lodging is provided, or whether there is a budget that they can work with for lodging sponsorship

Applying out-of-pocket

• Factor in location and distance from your workplace

• Do research on the neighbourhood, such as its convenience (supermarkets, etc), safety and apartment security

• Rental cost and the renting process for foreigners (Some agents require guarantors especially if you don’t have a fulltime job before renting)

Finding a suitable and safe location for renting is paramount, especially if you’re looking to feel at home. While some employers do provide accommodation options that fall within their hiring budget, other employers may require you to search for your own place.

One of the more affordable and common options is renting a room with housemates. Keep a lookout for Facebook groups and leasing websites for anyone who is looking to rent out their spare room. If you require a more private option, opt for a full studio apartment with around-the-clock security for yourself.

In short, chasing your career dreams and goals isn’t impossible, but they should be done systematically to help make your overseas work experience a seamless one.

travelling

Can It Help Your Career? Can It Help Your Career? :

Aside from having some time off and making memories, travelling after graduation can prepare you with the necessary skills to excel in your first job.

After graduation, what comes next? While some might jump right into looking for a job, taking a gap year is also an option you can take if you so desire. However, setting aside the monetary costs of doing so, there are valid concerns of whether this will hurt your job-hunting prospects in an already uncertain job market. So, is it worth it?

If you’re able to, travelling can provide more than just fun and great memories – it can count as an invaluable experience that can give you a leg up in the professional world.

Sometimes, travelling can be the answer to your mid-year slump. It's more than just for fun...

Equipping yourself with international opportunities

As the world becomes more interconnected, the job market today is more diverse than ever. With that in mind, having cultural sensitivity has become vital, especially if the job you’re gunning for offers opportunity for global interaction.

While you don’t really need to leave the country to appreciate other cultures, by being well-travelled, it not only further heightens your cultural awareness, but also sets you up to be more emotionally intelligent. That will help you better communicate with those around you, especially if they come from different backgrounds.

You might even pick up on skills such as learning other languages, which can be a valuable asset among some employers.

Growing on a personal level

As cliché as it sounds, travelling can indeed be helpful in terms of ‘finding yourself’, as well as a golden opportunity for growing as a person as well. Being in a new place, with different people, who hold different values and go about life differently strips all that familiarity away and forces you to learn how to adapt to it. And it could be that those situations are where you learn the most, not just about the world around you but about yourself as well.

Leveraging it on your resume and interviews

So where should you put travel in your resume? It depends, actually. If the experiences you had while travelling are relevant to the job you’re after, then you can consider putting them in the main body of your resume, like your work experience. On the other hand, if it isn’t as clear, you should put it in another section, such as under ‘Other Activities’.

The same applies to skills that you’ve learned too. If the language skills you’ve picked up are closely linked to the job role, such as in marketing or teaching, then you should definitely highlight it more in your resume. But do be honest about your fluency – exaggerating it can lead to some embarrassing situations for you down the road.

Of course, you shouldn’t just drop everything and hop on a flight willy-nilly. If you’re intrigued by the thought of travelling but are nervous that taking time off will hurt your chances of finding a job in the future, don’t be. Not only does it give you some well-deserved time off, but depending on where you go and what you do, it can open the doors for professional growth and opportunity as well.

WHAT ELSE

Can You Do? Can You Do?

Not everyone wants to immediately start working after graduation, and that’s perfectly acceptable.

Take a break

Taking some “time out” – or a “gap year” – after your studies is a common route for many graduates in the West, and it’s becoming increasingly popular here in Asia. This option is generally favoured by those who are still trying to work out who they want to be or simply need a break for the benefit of their mental health. There are many great opportunities during a gap year to boost your confidence and experience besides travelling, all while improving your resume in the process. Most tend to fall into one of the following areas:

Voluntary work

You can find opportunities both locally and overseas, and these can range from working with your local social work organisations to global entities.

But one of the biggest benefits of volunteering is the contacts you’ll make; you may even be surprised by the people you run into. Moreover, the connections you make with fellow volunteers and supervisors may come in handy when you begin job hunting.

On top of that, in some cases, voluntary work can be included in your resume as professional experience, depending on the nature of the work and the skills the role you’re applying for requires.

• Your gap year may help you work out what you want to do or improve your mental health

• It’ll give you the experience you need to stand out from other job candidates

• It’ll help you develop career management skills, such as adaptability, flexibility and problem-solving

Short courses

There’s also the option to gain new skills or brush up on existing ones. Learning a new language is a popular choice, as are IT-related courses like applications development and web design.

While this may only appeal to graduates who are looking to be more competitive in the job market, having a new skill under your belt will impress employers, and can also help you meet the technical requirements for a position you may be interested in.

• You may find yourself out of sync with the recruitment cycle when you return from your travels

• You’re worried about competing with new graduates after your time out

• You don’t have sufficient financial resources

Continue with postgraduate studies

A postgraduate qualification may improve your career prospects, but you’ll need to consider your options carefully. For one, postgraduate study is both time-consuming and costly, so make sure you are clear about your reasons for pursuing further education instead of jumping in prematurely.

Seek out good advice. Prepare a shortlist of courses you’re considering and then book an appointment with an advisor at your career services centre. A career advisor can help you work through the key considerations involved and give you advice on preparing a strong application. When choosing a course, you will need to consider:

The

content and mode of study

The content of your course should align with your motivations for pursuing a postgraduate qualification.

If you’re looking to add value to your undergraduate qualification for a specific career field, consider the relevance of the course’s content to the industry you aim to work in.

You’ll also have to consider the mode of study – universities typically offer a choice between full-time and part-time courses.

While part-time studying will let you spread the cost of the course as well as offers a better balance between work and school, the level of your engagement with a part-time course won’t be as high as that of a full-time one.

Funding

Finding a source of funds is the most difficult hurdle for most postgraduate students. If your parents are willing to help you out, then good for you! If not, a bank loan may be a viable option.

However, if you’ve already taken up a loan for your undergraduate studies, you may need to seriously consider if you want to add on to that debt – or if you even qualify for the additional loan.

Alternatively, you can take the course on a part-time basis and work a full-time job to service the tuition fees.

Also, don’t just limit yourself to just a Master’s or PhD! If pursuing a postgraduate degree seems like overkill, you can always consider making the transition to your desired career sector through a postgraduate conversion course instead

Is it for me?

• The course will add value to your undergraduate degree

• It’ll make you more employable in your preferred sector

• A conversion course will qualify you for a different area of work

• You’re doing it purely for future salary benefits; most employers don’t pay candidates with postgraduate qualifications with no prior work experience more, except in a specialised field

• You’re doing this because you’re not sure about what career path to pursue and want more time to figure things out

Starting Your Job Search Starting Your Job Search

Tailor your applications, network strategically, and stay persistent. The right opportunity may be closer than you think.

Where

Do You Start? Do You Start?

Knowing the different job portals and application routes can help you decide how to kickstart your job search journey.

There is a number of paths you can explore when looking for a job as a graduate. Undoubtedly, one of the most common methods is through the Internet. Regardless, you shouldn’t confine yourself to just the jobs available online. Instead, make use of the other options available and don’t place limits on your search.

Go online

There is a multitude of career portals online. Ensure that the ones you join and subscribe to are the most suited to what you are looking for.

For instance, gradsingapore.com curates both jobs and internships, and is thus considered a beneficial and holistic resource for those who are in the early stages of their career or are fresh graduates.

Alternatively, employers may post available positions and vacancies on their websites and social media pages. If there’s an employer you have your eye on, you should consider following them on social media. Not only will you be immediately informed of upcoming hiring opportunities and news, but these pages also offer a peek into their work culture as well.

It’s equally important to remain up-to-date on the current hiring trends around the world. They may give you an idea of a more alternative job search route and prepare you for what to expect as you hunt for a job.

Going old school

Don’t underestimate the relevance of offline or traditional media. Some employers still place job advertisements in newspapers and magazines, and even announce career fairs over the radio. On top of that, graduate hiring schemes are also occasionally featured in these publications.

Consider looking at specialised publications — such as gradsingapore’s STEM and Finance guides — which feature internship programmes and the type of job roles available in the market that are specific to an industry or sector.

Career services on campus

It might be daunting to approach your career centre on campus; however, these centres boast a wide range of contacts and resources you’ll be able to leverage. These resources may be more specific and targeted to your course of study, and might also connect to employers in these areas.

When speaking to your career counsellors, make your aspirations and career goals clear and known so they have a better idea of how to help you. If you’re facing any challenges concerning your job hunt, they can offer you the guidance you need. Some career service centres even offer networking sessions, virtual or otherwise, for graduates to get to know employers, as well as find a mentor.

Career fairs

Whether they are held virtually or in person, career fairs are beneficial to a graduate’s job hunt and overall experience. Turn up for such events with a strategy in mind, find out which employers are going to be attending prior to the fair itself, and prepare some questions you’d like to ask them.

Bring copies of your resume to hand out to prospective employers, as well as name cards, if you have any. As for virtual fairs, you’ll still be able to send over a softcopy of your resume, so make sure it has been prepared and updated. After the event ends, follow up with an email to your new contacts to establish your connection with them.

In the note, include any interesting points of conversation you might have had to help the recruiter remember you out of the many faces they’ve met that day.

Send your resume one more time over the email, and add the links to your online portfolio or LinkedIn profile as well.

While it’s normal to feel stressed..

...do you know how to manage your job search anxiety?

Recruitment services

Another way to get suitable job offers is to engage in recruitment consultation services. Although you’ll have to fork out some cash, you’ll be able to meet up with them for consultations to discuss your professional goals and use their connections to potential employers. Moreover, you can use them as a source of information to prepare for prospective assessments and interviews.

Networking

Many young job seekers and graduates benefit from networks, both personal and professional, when looking for their first job. It’s not just about what you know, it’s also about who you know. Keep in touch with old contacts, make new ones, avoid burning bridges, and never turn down a chance to network, whether it’s in a professional or personal setting.

Internships

Work placements and internships can lead to full-time positions, especially if you have proven to be a good fit for the company, and you get along well with your co-workers.

Apply speculatively

Writing to prospective employers to enquire about available job opportunities — even if they aren’t advertising vacancies — is known as applying speculatively.

This potentially demonstrates your interest in a company. However, you’ll also need to impress them with your understanding of their field and why you’re exactly what they’re looking for. Although there might not be available vacancies at that moment, they may keep your file and consider you for suitable job roles in the future.

BABY STEPS TO

Your Dream Job Your Dream Job

Drawing up a plan ahead of time is key to hitting the ground running when applying for jobs after graduation.

When you try to craft a dozen well-thought-out applications for prospective employers while also submitting school assignments on time, do you find yourself all over the place?

It’s not surprising if you do. But while balancing your time in school and planning ahead for your career isn’t easy, it’s not impossible to achieve.

So instead of running everywhere all at once, start with a solid plan of action –though you’ll still need to put in the effort to follow through – to better manage your time and priorities to reach your goals.

Here are some things you should put into your action plan to better prepare yourself when it comes to job applications!

Prepare an “All-About-Me” document

This is a simple, useful document that holds information about you. The concept’s more like an idea bank – a place you can revisit after crafting your resume and cover letters. Even better, there’s no need to kick up a fuss about making this document pleasing to the eye – it’s for your reference only. You can even keep it unformatted if you like! Here are some things you should jot down on this document:

• Your skills, both technical and soft

• Your qualifications and grades

• Your experiences (both professional and extracurricular)

• Your school and/or personal projects

• Your career goals

• Any other skills and courses you’ve taken up

• Your volunteer experience, if any It’s best to review this document every few weeks to keep your details up-to-date.

How do I use it?

For a basic application template

• Add in your qualifications, grades and work experience For customised applications

• Add in experiences that are relevant to the job applied

• Emphasise the points in your document that will highlight your strengths

Update often

Never stop polishing your various forms of written applications so you won’t be left panicking when the time comes to submit them. Although many often leave applications to the last minute, if you rush through, you have a higher chance of making mistakes.

If you have 10 minutes:

• Make a priority list

• Read over your All-About-Me document; you may have something new to add

If you have 20 minutes:

• Update your resume with your AllAbout-Me document right next to you

• Proofread and fine-tune an existing application if you have already started on one

• Start with employer research, which will not only be useful at the application stage, but will also help you later when you get called in for an interview. Take note that it is reasonable enough to start with employers who provide the most information about themselves

STEP

If you have 30 minutes:

• Draft a cover letter, but try not to copy a generic template –employers can spot these letters a mile away. Write a new one for each position, and your application will be received more positively

• Take time to read up about your chosen career sector in the news. Understanding more about the industry will help you get the hang of tailoring your applications to fit a desired position

• Use the time to thoroughly proofread your resume

If you have an hour:

• Visit your career services centre and attend a session with your advisor that can help you increase your employability

• Begin an application from scratch. If you do not have the time to finish it, save it to complete later. Avoid trying to rush through it as you’ll be more prone to making mistakes or leaving out something important

Be positive and keep applying

Remain upbeat when applying for jobs even if you have a high chance of rejection – you aren’t the only one applying! Do your best in any interview session, and remember there’s no need to feel disappointed if it isn’t followed by an offer letter. Keep in mind that at the end of the day, you’ll be able to get a job that’ll suit your personality and skill set!

Get a foot in

It can be frustrating if you don’t get an offer letter from your desired company, but if another job in the same industry comes your way – perhaps from a company or for a position you’re not particularly enthusiastic about – what do you do?

Gaining experience is definitely high on the priority list, but at the same time, nothing about the job might actually be your cup of tea.

One solution to this is to take the offer that comes your way. As difficult as it may sound, it’s not so bad when you realise that you’ll be able to pick up or hone skills.

For instance, if you’ve applied for a business development position but end up getting a marketing role, grab it! You’ll not only pick up tech-savvy skills such as creating online marketing brochures to sell a particular product, but you’ll also have the opportunity to build your network, something which can come in useful later in your career.

STEP 3

STEP 4

Standing out with

Your Resume Your Resume

Crafting a standout resume is crucial in catching the eye of potential employers.

1) Customise your resume for each application

You need to catch recruiters’ attention from the very beginning of your resume and reel them in as it goes along. Be sincere and genuine in each tailored document sent out instead of sending the same version out over and over again. Understand what each company is looking for and think about what you have that would meet their needs and make you the best candidate.

At the top of your resume, indicate your career objectives, a key summary of your skill sets, or both. One of the best ways to customise your resume is to ensure your career objectives and summary of skill sets are set according to what the company needs so that it is more relevant and targeted.

2) Highlight your skill sets and areas of expertise

Hiring managers don’t have the time to look through what you did in your previous position in detail, but they do shortlist resumes based on specific skill sets. If you don’t have a summary of your skill sets at the top of your resume, be sure to write a few lines at the start of each work experience to summarise the core skill sets in each position.

For instance, if you’re applying for a business development position, use a line or two to highlight some key skills such as business analysis, communication and client management.

On the other hand, if you’re looking at the role of a talent acquisition specialist, then the relevant areas of expertise would be recruiting talents, conducting talent assessments and managing employee profiles.

3) Add relevant experiences

Don’t limit your experiences to just work-related matters. Any short projects you’ve worked on or beneficial courses you’ve attended can be listed down as well. These gigs may not necessarily relate to your course of study, but they do relate to other sectors such as volunteering, poverty alleviation, communication and even crossculture fluency.

On a similar note, a part-time job in a service industry or teaching role can indicate your willingness to serve and cater to the needs of clients, including managing others’ expectations, things that are important for any young professional.

4) Show the numbers

Impacts can be measured in numbers and later elaborated on in detail. Think of any differences you’ve made in previous companies or how you’ve grown through each academic and professional experience.

If you helped expand a client pool in your previous role, be specific about the number of clients you brought in during that time. Similarly, if you tutored students part-time, you can indicate how you helped your students grow in specific areas, such as encouraging them to read more.

This lets the employer know that you’re both a doer and a thinker, and that you’re also a self-starter willing to come up with your own strategies.

5) Showcase your strengths and interests

Here’s where you can make yourself stand out among other candidates – what are some of your unique skills and areas of interest that can help you professionally and allow you to contribute to the company?

These strengths and interests can range from your mastery of a second or third language to your interest and knowledge of a specific geographic market. When you include this information in your resume, you help your prospective employer get to know you better and draw them into thinking about how else they can further tap into your talents.

IT and technology skills are greatly valued these days, so if you have a keen interest in coding or programming, take up online courses to further your interest – and don’t forget to state the certificates which you’ve attained.

Apart from highlighting your educational and extracurricular awards, achievements and leadership qualities, briefly include your personal interests at the end of your resume too. Participation in team sports is of particular interest to employers as it indicates a high measure of success in a corporate environment. The ability to play a musical instrument goes the same way; it demonstrates your focus and discipline.

6) Submit on time

Last but not least, remember that time is short. Try not to wait till the last minute to submit your job application! Not only will you need time to proofread your resume, but some companies may choose to bring forward submission deadlines due to overwhelming responses.

First impressions may not be everything, but they do make a difference. Likewise, submitting a top-notch resume will help you stand out!

Sample Resume Sample Resume

JONATHAN WONG

Mobile: 8765 8903

E-mail: jonathan.wong@gmail.com

CAREER OBJECTIVE

To develop and engineer alternative and cost-effective solutions that benefit existing company products.

SKILL SET SUMMARY

Able to work effectively under pressure, commercial awareness, interpersonal skills and problem-solving skills.

EDUCATION

Singapore University

• Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical Engineering), Honours

• Graduating GPA: 3.7

• Expected date of graduation: May 2025

RELEVANT PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Research Assistant, Fibre Optics Lab, Singapore University

Assisted with research on power fibre laser systems and their practical industrial applications.

• Set up, maintained, and catalogued equipment used in research experiments.

Aug 2021 – present

Aug – Dec 2024

• Coded programmes to filter and analyse gathered data, in order to assist with interpretation of research findings.

Future Electronics Singapore, Intern

May – July 2023

• Actively sourced for potential Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) suppliers of key components in Malaysia.

• Identified more cost-effective alternatives to key components used in company products. Theoretically reduced production costs by 5% as a result.

• Communicated directly with senior management during the sourcing process and submitted report of findings to them.

OTHER EXPERIENCE

Two Geeks, Raffles Square store, Sales Representative

May – July 2022

• Successfully promoted digital products and was awarded “Best Sales Person” within first month on the job for exceeding sales target by 15%.

• Assisted customers with relevant queries on hardware and software products.

• Reconciled cash at daily close of business.

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Chairman, Public Relations, Engineering Society

Aug 2023 – Aug 2024

Led a group of eight committee members to publicise club events, which successfully increased club membership by 20%.

• Encouraged club members to actively participate and help out in club events.

Soccer Team Captain, Singapore University

Jan 2024 – Present

• Currently playing on university team’s first division. Led team to win the inter-university Lion Cup in 2018.

• Responsible for selecting and motivating team members, and organising and conducting bi-weekly training sessions.

• Liaised with team captains at other universities to coordinate practice matches.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Proficient in Microsoft Office, Java, and C/C++ programming.

• Languages: Fluent in English and Mandarin (both spoken and written)

• Enjoys outdoor sports, particularly soccer and ultimate frisbee.

• Regularly participates in volunteer work.

REFERENCES

Dr Edwin Wong

Senior Lecturer

Faculty of Engineering, Singapore University

Tel: 9085 6721

Email: edwin.wong@su.edu.sg

Mr Thomas Kumar

Operations Manager

Future Electronics Singapore

Tel: 9983 7832

Email: thomas.kumar@future-e.com

Refining

Your Resume Further Your Resume Further

Fine-tuning your resume can make a big difference in presenting your best self to employers. Tweak your resume strategically for each application so that it’s directed and relevant to the role in question, thus increasing your chances of being shortlisted for the next round of the recruitment process.

Successful job applications lie in customising your resume to suit each role you’re applying for! 1 1 2

Take keywords from the job description

Job descriptions for roles tend to contain keywords that encompass desired qualities and skill sets. Your resume would need to show that you have the necessary academic qualifications, personality traits and professional experiences – whether from part-time jobs or internships – to fit the role.

As such, make use of the job description and use the relevant keywords there to hook and reel in the recruiter with your resume.

2

Refine your career objective

Before you begin jotting down your academic and work experience in your resume, carve one to three lines about your career objectives at the very top.

Ensure that your career goals and areas of expertise are eye-catching enough to pull the recruiters in to read on.

Moreover, recruiters and hiring managers often have to wade through thick stacks of resumes for any one position, so take the initiative to make their lives easier by making sure that the career objective is written in clear and simple language, showcasing why you’re exactly what the company needs.

Show off your achievements

Don’t be afraid of showing off your skills and experience in your resume; it won’t exactly come across as bragging if you’re merely stating your skills and experience. Keep in mind that employers are always keeping an eye out for talented candidates and award winners who’ve made their mark in any field.

Include all noteworthy achievements, skills and experiences so that you can get a chance to talk about them during the interview if you’re called in. Let your awards and experiences be the shining leads in your resume!

Maximise your experiences and transferable skills

Recruiters and hiring managers have a preference for candidates who already have training and experiences relevant to the position they’ve posted. As such, take a shot at maximising your chances of getting an interview by stating your exposure in the areas of work you’re applying for.

For instance, if you’re a fresh graduate applying for a role in business development, make sure you include any experience you have that shows your interpersonal skills and resourcefulness in your resume. This can range from leading a sports team to achieving goals set out, securing a grant for a final-year project, or even receiving compliments from customers during a part-time job.

Demonstrate your perfect fit for the role

On top of professional and academic pursuits, every new hire comes with their respective passions and interests that usually influence their career performance. If you have a calling for a particular role or feel a connection to it, show it clearly in your resume; employers want to know if your personal values are aligned with the company’s mission and vision.

For example, non-profit organisations will keep a lookout for candidates with voluntary experience as it speaks of their personal inclination to social causes.

Trim the fat

Finally, clean up any clutter in your resume. Leave out any information not related to the role you’re gunning for, and ensure each fact and detail mentioned is highly relevant.

How important are references on your resume? Be good to your referees!

The basics of

Cover Letter Writing Cover Letter Writing

Acover letter may not be strictly required for all applications, but it’s still a good-to-have document, especially for graduates looking for an advantage. After all, a well-crafted cover letter shows hiring managers your sincerity, all while also informing them of your strengths and suitability for the role.

Be succinct and specific

Be clear on the specific position you’re applying for. Explain why it’s of interest to you and convince the hiring manager that you’re a good fit.

The brief introduction of yourself at this point should also contain relevant experiences and interest in the job scope advertised, as well as your highest educational qualification.

Along with your resume, your cover letter gives recruiters their first impression of you. 2 3 4

You don’t have to ramble on too much about your personality, detailed academic background and skills – these are already on your resume. Also, be sure to avoid describing yourself with words such as “passionate” or “ambitious”; these qualities are better exuded in person during the interview.

Demonstrate your competence

Read the job description as advertised and treat it like the holy grail. As such, your cover letter needs to address the selection criteria by highlighting relevant experiences. In the same vein, explain how your skills could be put to good use in the specific role.

For example, state how your keen interest in, and knowledge of, current affairs can help in a political risk advisory role where clients appreciate swift and actionable insights.

Show your enthusiasm

Spend some time doing comprehensive research about your potential employer. After that, use the information you have to mention specific aspects of the company operations and culture that appeal to you in the cover letter.

For example, if you have attended networking events organised by the firm or visited its booth at a career fair, you can mention it in your cover letter.

If you’re in contact with someone in the company whom you met through these events, you can mention his or her name. Showing your enthusiasm could score an advantage over other candidates.

Vet your cover letter thoroughly

Last but not least, take a break from your cover letter and check it again later. You’re more likely to spot any mistakes with fresh eyes.

If this is the first time you’re writing a cover letter, you may also want to get someone with a strong command of the English language to help you proofread it.

You can also explore the option of using a spellchecker to prevent grammar mistakes as errors reveal a lack of attention to detail. Keep in mind that recruiters are on the lookout for effective communicators.

Sample cover letter

Dear Mr Lim,

I am writing to apply for the Programming Executive role with the Design Museum.

My conversations with current employees at your networking session in June this year have reinforced my interest in the museum and cemented my belief that I have the expertise and skills that you are looking for.

Through my three years of study at the School of Design at Singapore University, which included a 10-week professional attachment with Art and Design Outreach, I developed an understanding of creating impactful programmes for art and design institutions.

In addition, I underwent a 6-month internship at the Taylor Print Institute where I gained valuable experience in putting together a year-long public programme to attract different visitors through various platforms, including online media. I also promoted the exhibitions and events to the press, and ensured live events ran smoothly and drew sufficient crowd sizes.

My resume is enclosed for your consideration. I am keen to discuss any opportunity in person and am available for an interview at any time. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Yours sincerely,

Serene Tan

How Social Media Platforms can

Boost Your Job Hunt Boost Your Job Hunt

Recruiters and prospective employers have turned to social media platforms to suss out jobseekers, hence the increased importance of keeping it professional online.

LinkedIn might be the essential tool for professionals to discover job postings and for prospective employers to look at your work experience. However, other social media platforms such as X (formerly known as Twitter), TikTok, and even Instagram can help boost your job hunt if professionally

Professional Platforms

LinkedIn is usually the first thing that comes to mind, but there are other platforms, forums, niche sites and alternatives such as Opportunity and Xing. While these platforms can be

1. Your profile

Using the right words for your profile and summary can be enough to make it stand out from the rest. Additionally, you’ll need to use common keywords as well so your profile comes up when recruiters search for prospective candidates.

Take note

Keep your profile and career goals clean and clear with simple terms rather than something fancy or vague. For example, instead of using “tech maverick”, use “full-stack developer”.

2. Your picture

Choose a headshot that looks professional and shows your face clearly. Depending on the industry you’re applying for, your headshot doesn’t necessarily have to be formal, but it’s preferable that your background is clear and not too cluttered.

Take note

In industries such as law, finance, and banking, keep your headshots formal. However, for other sectors like tech and media, feel free to explore more creative options.

maintained. What are some things you should take note of, and more importantly, how you can strike a balance between being personal and professional on popular platforms? Here are a few pointers to help you.

easier to handle because they’re devoted to business and professional networking, there are still a few crucial points to take note of.

3. Connecting

If possible, get a mutual friend to introduce you to another person over the platform, and tell them who you are and how both parties would benefit from the connection. However, if you don’t have a mutual friend to pave the way, customise a message that explains how you came across their profile and why you want to reach out to them.

Take note

Wait patiently for a response - don’t chase after or harass those you want to connect with.

4. Communicating

How you comment and respond to queries gives recruiters a peek into your personality, morals, ethics, and values, so be sure to steer away from negative comments to keep your reputation intact. Keep in mind that recruiters are also known to look through comments left on other people’s posts on top of your own.

Personal Platforms

Platforms such as Facebook and Instagram take precedence over LinkedIn when it comes to personal networking. However, because they are more personal, the delicate balance between personal and professional is even more precarious.

1. Your profile

While it’s alright to keep your personal profiles casual, include some common keywords regarding your career goals or aspirations in summaries about yourself. These will appear when employers search for potential employees. This will also allow them to have a glance at your professional identity too.

Take note

Give special attention to your name and handle, and use your real name as much as possible to give an impression of trustworthiness and reliability. For instance, if a media personality named “Beryl Tan” uses @beryltan, it sounds more authentic and dependable than @theBer.

2. Your picture

While your picture should take creative licence when it comes to your pictures on your personal sites, remember to choose those that show your face clearly.

Moreover, to secure a good first impression, don’t post an image of yourself in a possibly embarrassing setting for the world and prospective employers to see.

Take note

Be wary of picture tags - either disable the option or untag yourself as you see fit.

Despite the struggle to balance the two, don’t privatise your accounts or overlook them. Recruiters have been known to look out for potential candidates on these platforms, so clean these possible resources up rather than completely discounting them.

3. Control your image

By customising your “friends” list, you’ll be able to control who gets to see what posts you make online but also regulate who gets to view your content. This lets you remain honest to your personal identity, while also still maintaining a professional appearance.

Take note

Make sure to go through your settings regularly, especially when the platforms are updated.

4. @tags and #hashtags

Tags and hashtags are useful in getting your content to the right audience, however, be mindful not to abuse them. Use them to reach out to certain individuals, or start a discussion.

Take note

If you plan to start a discussion, share and tag an industry update on an employer’s page. Many employers take note of these posts, so this is one way to make yourself known to them.

Craft your image!

Do you know how to build your personal brand?

How to use

LinkedIn Strategically LinkedIn Strategically

Many social networking platforms cater to businesses and professionals, but LinkedIn remains the premium site for this target audience.

LinkedIn is a multi-use platform for many. It’s a place to showcase your resume, build your network, and search for jobs that suit your skill set among other functions. Essentially, it is a valuable resource for anyone looking to start their career.

1

Constructing your profile

Profiles on LinkedIn act like online resumes. They allow you to carve your personal brand. Choose a profile picture that adequately reflects the industry you’re already in, or looking to enter. Include a conspicuous yet explanatory headline on top of a powerful summary of your skills and career inspirations.

Depending on your sector of choice, weave links into your resume that lead to some of your best work. This is so employers can get a peek into your portfolio. You should also make sure your career moves in line with your career aspirations, starting with what recruiters would be interested in.

2 Growing your online network

Actively make connections on LinkedIn by adding friends and co-workers, and don’t forget to promote your skill sets to get endorsements. Endorsements are popular among employers, so get your connections to write recommendations for you.

Moreover, as a professional networking platform, LinkedIn keeps you updated on your contacts’ work anniversaries and promotions. Don’t hesitate to use these opportunities to keep in touch with them.

As you grow and compile your network on LinkedIn, use judgment and discernment on this site just as much as you might on Facebook and Instagram.

3 Finding the best fit

After carefully crafting your profile on LinkedIn, clicking on the “Jobs” tab will bring you to a page where a list has been shortlisted for you. The shortlisted jobs are based on your biography and are generally relevant to the skills mentioned in your profile. You’ll also be able to check out who among your contacts works with these companies, so if you decide to go for some of these positions, you can ask your connections to endorse you.

Many job application procedures might require you to upload your resume, though some postings might redirect you to a company’s site or portal. However, some posts only need you to click on the EasyApply button, making the application process much easier.

Most companies allow job seekers to import their LinkedIn profile when applying for positions on their website, cutting down on filling up applications and freeing up time to customise resumes and other relevant documents.

Publicising your interest

Indicate that you’re actively looking for a job to indicate your willingness to allow recruiters to contact you on your LinkedIn profile. This will come in handy when recruiters sift through talent based on keywords as they will likely come across your profile, and reach out to you if you fit the bill.

State your career goals seriously, and work towards a perfect profile to get as many matches that are as pertinent to you as possible.

4 5 6 Applying for positions

Engaging with employers and groups

Employers extensively craft their brand on LinkedIn. Follow your dream companies there and reach out to them on occasion. Potential candidates willing to engage meaningfully with employers are highly sought after, so don’t be afraid to make your presence known.

As it is still a social networking platform, LinkedIn also offers a cache of Pages and Interest Groups overflowing with online communities of professionals, linked by sectors or markets. Based on your field of interest or study, simply use keywords to search for these groups and follow them. You don’t know what opportunities they might yield!

Networking at events

‘

A Beginner s Guide A Beginner s Guide

Networking can be pretty confusing: where to start, what to do, where to go? Here are some ideas for you to explore!

As a graduate job seeker, you’ve probably already heard your fair share of seniors, peers, and career advisors chanting: “Network, network, network if you want to succeed!”

Yet ironically, networking events can be incredibly daunting, turning even the most eloquent of us into awkward stutterers.

After all, aside from the need to obtain information from new acquaintances, you’re also pressured Here are some tips to help you boost your networking skills.

Prepare and Practise

Networking is not something that comes naturally to everyone, even for extroverts. It is, in fact, a learnable skill that requires constant practice. But you can do more than just talk to your reflection in the mirror. Most of your contacts can typically be divided into the following categories:

• Casual networks: Contacts whom you’ve met at open networking events or mixed industry events

• Knowledge networks: Contacts from professional associations that cater to the improvement and regulation of a specific industry

• Strong contact networks: Contacts from groups established exclusively for building professional relationships

• Online networks: Contacts whom you obtain from social media services

Use these categories as a guideline to help you expand your networks, but remember: you don’t necessarily need to build up on all four categories to succeed in your job search. Instead, expand the different categories according to the needs of your desired job. The ability to make small talk, for instance, is a crucial skill that you’ll need to have when networking. You can start by practising with friends, people you

Focus on your V.C.P.

While it’s true that the hidden purpose of networking is for you to obtain a favour or opportunity from your contacts, the sentiment behind the relationships you form is very real.

You need to develop not just familiarity with your contacts, but also trust before you can request anything from them.

In other words, networking is a long-term investment of trust and confidence between individuals. There are three primary components to this:

• Visibility: Your contacts need to know who you are.

• Credibility: Your contact needs to know your intentions, character, and capabilities.

• Profitability: Your contact has to know that they can trust you enough that they’re willing to help you.

Recruiters don’t expect new graduates to be overachievers, but they want to be able to see your interest in them and their company, as well as the sincerity that you have in applying.

Open with an “elevator pitch”

The average person’s attention span while performing a task lasts no more than 10 to 20 seconds (actually, according to the US National Centre for Biotechnology Information, it has dropped down to eight seconds now – even shorter than a goldfish’s).

So remember that you only have a limited time span to highlight your selling points before the other party’s focus turns elsewhere!

Come prepared with a 30-second “elevator pitch” so that when recruiters ask you the ubiquitous “So what do you do?” question, you won’t be floundering around for an answer.

Be sure to include the necessary information – who you are, what you’re studying, where your interests lie or why you’re here –and make sure to keep it concise.

Sustaining conversation with the “ED” rule

Introducing yourself is only the easy part. Once you’re done with that, you’ll be faced with Challenge #2: sustaining a conversation –which can be quite a draining experience in itself.

There are a lot of ways to go about this, but one of the chief suggestions is the “ED” rule. Rather than trying to make yourself interesting, be interested in the other party.

Remember, you’re here to learn, gain information, and build connections – so it’s always advisable to listen to other people instead of talking about yourself.

Talk beyond business

Another way to establish your reputation as a great conversationalist is also by connecting with others on a level beyond business.

Recruiters and company representatives are also people with hobbies and interests, and – like everyone else – are often happy to meet others who share the same passions.

Bond over common interests, such as food, movies, fashion, sports teams, pets, or books. Put your observation skills to use. Distinctive cufflinks, ties, keychains, and jewelleries can evoke interesting topics that leave an impression on your contacts!

It may be a good idea to stay away from touchy subjects like politics and religion too! These are topics reserved for deep discussions over a cup of coffee (or booze) between close-knit friends, not new acquaintances.

Follow up

This is one of the most important aspects of a networking session, and yet the one most often forgotten! Remember, there is really no point in attending a networking session if you’re not going to make the effort to follow up with any new contacts you’ve made.

Remember to put the business cards you’ve collected to good use – especially those from recruiters! Write a proper email thanking them for their time and insights, and sign off with a memorable detail from your conversation so that it leaves an impression on them.

This way, they’ll be less likely to forget you if you bump into them again in the future.

The art of

Speculative Application Speculative Application

This proactive approach empowers individuals to reach out directly to potential employers by showcasing their skills and enthusiasm for a role even when no vacancies are publicly listed.

Did you know that nearly 70 per cent of all available openings aren’t advertised? There are a few reasons behind this, namely that recruiters are tapping into their existing networks for potential candidates first before opening the position up to the public.

This is when submitting a speculative application would put you in the lead for that job. Speculative applications give you the chance to introduce yourself to companies, even when they haven’t publicly announced a job opening. It’s all about taking the initiative, standing out, and creating opportunities where none seem to exist. Mastering this art could be the key to unlocking hidden job prospects and finding your dream role in unexpected places.

Crafting a compelling speculative application, however, involves finesse, strategy, and a keen understanding of how to capture an employer’s attention in a competitive market. Here’s how to start.

1. Draw up a shortlist of employers

When it comes to digging up more information about potential employers, good sources include:

• Their corporate website

• Online business directories

• Specialist business and trade publications

• Magazines and websites by professional associations

• Local publications that target your area of interest

• Newspapers

If you have access to your school’s careers services centre, it’s worth looking through the information they have on local employers, as well as reports from alumni. Remember, personal networks can be useful too! Friends, family members and their connections can all be good contacts to help you get your foot in the door.

2. Be prepared through research

Once you have your list of employers, you need to do your research. Suss out details about the company and get a feel for the kind of work they do. This will help you show genuine interest in the employer and make a convincing speculative application. Tailor your resume and cover letter with the keywords you find associated with the company.

3. Make contact

Finding a named contact is the golden rule of making a speculative application, and letters starting with “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To whom it may concern” have a high chance of being ignored.

It’s easy to make a quick phone call to the company to ask for the name of the person who’s responsible for recruiting, but be tactful about it. It’s unprofessional to just say “Hi, what is the name of the person who does your hiring?” to the person who answers your call.

Instead, explain clearly and politely about your reason for calling with something like “Hello, I would like to apply for a position at your company, and was wondering who I should leave my resume with...”

4. Be open-minded

Be clear about what you’re looking for when getting into contact with employers. It’s not just about selling yourself. Taking a speculative approach can be a great way to:

• Find various permanent, temporary or part-time vacancies, work experience, or work shadowing opportunities

• Arrange a time for a chat on the phone, a brief visit, or the opportunity to meet a recent graduate or employee from the organisation

• Learn which other employers in a similar industry may be hiring, even if the one you’re contacting isn’t interested in having you on board

5. Follow up

To improve your chances of success, follow up your speculative application with a phone call a few days after you send it in. Personal contact can create a good impression and make you more memorable.

Even if the company isn’t hiring at that specific moment, ask them if there are any opportunities coming up. You can also find out how the organisation typically recruits, and where and when you should look out for their advertisements.

Other reasons you should apply speculatively

• You’re trying to find work in a specialised or niche sector such as publishing, pet care, or creative media

• You’re looking to work with a small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) or a startup. Most smaller companies typically don’t allocate a lot of resources to recruitment and advertising, but may still need staff

• You missed the standard recruitment window

Email with

Elegance Elegance

When communicating with recruiters, you should always use effective, simple and natural language.

Use an appropriate email address

If you don’t have a professionalsounding email address hosted on a credible domain, it’s time to create a new account. The new email address will need to contain your initials, either your surname or full name, and be free from references to your favourite puns, cartoons or games.

Write a clear subject line

A good subject line states the purpose of the email with the recipient in mind. An ideal subject line will be “Application for (Role) –(Your Name)”. Make sure you don’t have typos in the subject line as that’ll make a bad first impression!

Address your email to the relevant person

You can find out online who you should address the email to, instead of stating “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To whom it may concern”. Take note that the name of the hiring manager is often on the job description and hiring notice. If it’s not, you can look it up on LinkedIn or the online directory of the organisation you’re applying to. Alternatively, you can also make a phone call to enquire about who you should be addressing the email to before sending it out.

Keep it brief and professional

Your email should be succinct and not lengthy. As excited as you might be able applying for the job, avoid using emoticons, emojis or exclamation marks in your emails. Keep the note brief, respectful and professional. Be sure to also avoid using acronyms like “btw” and “fyi”.

Check for errors

Don’t just rely on autocorrect to spot your typos. Always re-read your email draft for grammatical mistakes and read it out loud. Put yourself in the shoes of the recipient and ensure that your email makes sense. Get help from your peers or school career counsellors as well to review your email.

Manage your email attachments effectively

Don’t forget to enclose your attachments, whether they’re your cover letter, resume or other requested documents! If you find yourself needing to send large attachments, consider placing them in a zip folder, or providing links for them to be downloaded.

Follow up promptly

Besides replying to emails from prospective employers swiftly, you should send them a follow-up note if you haven’t heard from them within the stated period in which you’re expecting a reply. Similarly, you don’t want to miss out on an interview opportunity or potential job offers just because you forgot to check your inbox or spam folder!

Craft an effective signature

Lastly, your email signature should contain a link to your LinkedIn profile or portfolio, if it’s online. Additionally, don’t forget to add your mobile number, especially for your first email to any professional contact!

Job Application Email Example

To: hr@employer-123.com

From: john_lim_liwei@gmail.com

Subject: Application for Marketing Executive - John Lim

Dear Ms Tan,

I am interested in the Marketing Executive position at Animal Welfare Company, as advertised on LinkedIn. I have a 6-month internship experience as a Marketing Intern, and I am an active volunteer at the local animal shelter. My attached resume and cover letter outline my qualifications for the role. Thank you very much for your consideration. I hope to hear from you soon.

Yours sincerely, John +65 9812 0569 @john_lim_liwei

Surviving the

Job Search Process Job Search Process

Take the necessary steps to ensure your job search experience is a positive one – and that includes knowing when to take a break.

While it’s not uncommon for job hunts to drag on longer than expected – especially now with the global pandemic and recovery from recession – you should also keep in mind that there’s no hard-and-fast rule about the process, and it could very well take longer than you first expected.

There’s no need to fret, though, so keep your sanity by acknowledging that it’s perfectly fine for others to have vastly different job search experiences. Attaining your ideal career can be a stressful journey, so if you see your peers miraculously scoring desired positions within a month of graduation, don’t compare yourself to them and let it demotivate you. Shake off that pressure by making your job hunt a positive and productive experience instead!

Planning your job search journey can make the process less arduous and more enjoyable. Right on target

1) Make it bite-sized

How many resumes and cover letters do you think you should send out in a day? How about in a week? Give yourself achievable daily targets and small deadlines to feel more accomplished and driven throughout the process.

2) Keep tabs on your progress

Keep a journal detailing your job search. Alternatively, if you prefer lists, start a file documenting the companies and positions you’ve applied for.

Creating and maintaining your journal or list will not only keep your job hunt organised, but it’ll also drop some hints on which resumes and cover letters are working, and which ones may need a tweak or two.

3) Reward yourself

With your daily goals keeping you on track, and your journal or list recording your journey, there’s little else to do but reward yourself when you hit your targets!

It doesn’t have to be anything big or grand; you can indulge in your favourite game for a few more hours or simply set a date with some friends. This will keep you feeling motivated and ready to meet your next objective.

Pause & play

1) Pick up some activities

Doing the same thing over and over again with no respite and little results is enough to drive even the most patient person up the wall.

One solution is to leave your home for a bit – go for a short walk and take deep breaths of some much-needed fresh air. Just be sure to keep safe distancing measures in mind! The time out will help you regain some perspective. You can also take the time to run some errands, catch up with friends over a cup of coffee and just take your mind off your job search for some time.

If you feel guilty about stepping out for a while, don’t be. Taking breaks is different from slacking – it’s not about avoiding work, but about taking planned breaks to raise productivity!

Get moving, get sweaty

When you exercise, your body releases endorphins, which can trigger an overall positive feeling. Moving and exercising is thus a good way to limber up your body after sitting in front of a screen for hours on end, all while relieving the pressure building up in your body and between your temples.

Tailor your exercise to your level of capability – if you can’t run, take a brisk walk through the park or jump rope in your living room. If the very idea of rock climbing gives you chills, settle for an easy game of badminton with friends or do situps in your bedroom to a music playlist. If you’re looking to rid yourself of some frustration, consider martial arts, such as Muay Thai or Taekwondo.

You can even explore the different versions of yoga available to you – which, contrary to popular belief, isn’t just about stretching.

3) Do some good

Consider volunteering at organisations that align with your interests. Not only will it get you out of your house and moving, it’ll also allow you to think beyond whatever is going on in your job hunt.

You can also consider organising virtual charity drives as well if that’s more up your alley, too.

Recruiters have also been known to keep an eye out for passionate candidates, so committing to a cause close to your heart can help you expand your talking points during job interviews.

Moreover, to make the experience count more, figure out how you can tie in your volunteering stint with your intended area of work.

For instance, non-profit organisations usually have volunteer positions for communications and IT, so aspiring media and tech professionals can gain some experience there before moving on to the corporate world.

While you may not see the need to dive back into classes so soon after graduation, this can help you pick up new skills that may add value to your resume – such as those in languages and coding.

On the other hand, there’s absolutely no harm in taking up leisurely classes in arts and crafts, or even music.

These classes can serve as a good distraction, engaging your mind in an otherwise challenging time, and are also good opportunities to pick up skills you may have always wanted to master (but never found the time to) before you’re bound to a job.

Moreover, the remote nature of living and learning now means that there are many online courses and classes you can register for, with some even for free!

Everything. All your electronic devices. This may be the toughest thing to do, especially in this day and age, but take the time out to recharge and ignore all those Facebook and Instagram updates.

There’s also the added benefit of disregarding any negative feedback passed on through messages or emails that may put a damper on your spirits as you continue on your journey to find a job that suits you!

4) Pick up some classes 5) Switch off

Job hunting burnout

How To Deal With It How To Deal With It

Dealing with a seemingly endless job search can be draining in more ways than one, but you don’t have to suffer through them.

How long has it been since your last application response? You’re slumped over your desk, body heavy and mind unmotivated, wondering if all this effort is even worth it. The thought of touching up your resume or even looking at another job listing makes you want to scream.

Does this sound familiar? If so, you might be slipping into job-hunting burnout. Left unchecked, it can not only affect your job search, but your health as well. So, what can you do to avoid this from happening?

How do you get burnout?

Yes, it’s important to persevere, but we all have our limits. Apart from the already high anxiety piling up due to interviews and assessments, every rejection or lack of response from recruiters comes with frustration and hurt, which can build up over time.

All of that can accumulate to you feeling burnt out, which can hurt your drive towards job-hunting.

Some signs of burnout

• Mental and/or physical fatigue

• Higher irritability and frustration

• Increased cynicism

• Unwillingness to talk about jobhunting

• Decreased social interaction

What to do about it?

1) Pace yourself

It’s one thing to keep up a routine for your job search, and yes you should stick to a routine. But you don’t have to dedicate every waking hour to do just that! Instead, allocate time in the day where you’re most productive – about two to three hours – to focus on just job-hunting. Once time’s up, wrap it up for the day. Treat the search like a job in itself. After all, overworking will only worsen your mood over time, which can in turn affect your productivity. Your applications won’t be as sharp and you’ll be more prone to making mistakes, like forgetting to attach a cover letter with your application!

2) Be sure to take

Playing the waiting game for your applications is agonising, but dwelling on it won’t make it go any faster. Take that brief downtime to take a short break instead.

Some ways you can take breaks include spending time with friends and family, indulging in hobbies, learning something new, or doing physical activities such as exercising. Not only will you give your mental health a boost, but you’ll also keep yourself physically and emotionally healthy!

3) Don’t just keep to yourself

As they say, a burden shared is a burden halved. Talk to someone who cares about you – it can be a close friend or family member (or several, if you want), so you know that there’s at least someone in your corner in this predicament. They can lend you their ears if you need to vent or accompany you on your downtime, be it going to movies or having a fun game of badminton.

You can also turn to your other connections if they can help you during the job search process. They can be a mentor on your journey, a second pair of eyes when reviewing your resume and applications, or even a fresh source of job opportunities and connections.

4)

Be patient, and don’t lose heart

It can be discouraging if you don’t hear from a hiring manager or get a message saying that you weren’t picked for the position. But to keep going, you must shake off this mindset as soon as you can.

Don’t take these setbacks personally. It doesn’t mean that you’re unqualified or not good enough – it could be that you need help beating the application tracking system or writing a more effective email job application.

Remember, job-hunting burnout happens to the best of us, but there are ways to tackle it head-on. It’s fine to take a breather, regroup, and reassess your approach. Be kind to yourself and give yourself the time you need. Whether it’s seeking support from friends, trying new relaxation techniques, or adjusting your job search strategy, find what works best for you. Take small steps, celebrate your achievements, and stay positive. You’ve got this! With patience and perseverance, you’ll bounce back stronger and find the right opportunity that suits you best.

REMINDER!

Reduce negative self-talk with the following tips:

• Listen to what you’re saying about yourself objectively and challenge it – ask yourself if that’s something you would say to your loved ones

• Stay grounded – while your feelings are valid, the negative fantasy in your head probably isn’t as bad as you think it is

• Reframe your thoughts – if you can’t think positively, reword your thoughts instead

Making A Great Impression Making A Great Impression

Be authentic, showcase your enthusiasm, and demonstrate how your unique skills and experiences align with the company’s values to make a memorable impression on your recruiters, employers and colleagues.

Counting down to

Your Interview Day Your Interview Day

If you’re feeling overwhelmed when preparing for your upcoming job interview, breaking down the run-up to the big day into a series of manageable chunks and actions can ease your anxiety.

Face-to-face interview / video interview

One week before Start by getting the dress code right

Objective: Figure out how to look the part of an impressive candidate.

It doesn’t matter if it’s virtual or physical – your interview is a chance to show how you can fit into a company, and this includes your appearance. Look on the recruiter’s website for clues about what the staff at the organisation consider to be appropriate business wear and copy them. Err on the side of formality unless otherwise advised by your interviewers – it’s always better to come overdressed instead of underdressed!

Your clothes should be clean, fitted and pressed. Be sure to cover up any tattoos. If you drink a lot of coffee or smoke, make sure your teeth are stainfree.

The

night before Prepare everything needed in advance

Objective: Have everything you’ll need ready to go so you won’t panic the next day.

Whether your interview will be in-person or over video call, hang your interview outfit out in the open so you won’t have to waste time stressing out about what to wear on the day itself.

If you’ll be going for a face-to-face interview, don’t forget to pick a handy, compartmentalised document bag or folder to store your stuff in! Be sure to organise everything for easy access. Additionally, prepare two additional printed copies of your resume on good, solid paper for additional interviewers who might show up unannounced.

When you’ve completed all that, get a good night’s sleep. You’ll want to be as sharp and alert as possible!

Face-to-face interview

2 hours before Depart for your destination

Objective: Arrive at the interview venue with plenty of time to spare. Traffic generally has a strange way of going against you when you need to get somewhere in a hurry. Leave early to arrive at the location before your appointed time. Remember that when it comes to job interviews, arriving “on time” is tantamount to arriving late.

Quick grooming tips

For gentlemen:

• The clean-shaven look is always a safe bet. Get rid of stubble or wispy facial hair

• Keep your hair neat and make sure that your fringe doesn’t spill past your eyebrows

• Don’t be afraid to accessorise! Go for a solid watch or a simple pair of cufflinks to complement your outfit

• Don’t overdo the cologne and aftershave

For ladies:

• Keep your nails in neutral or natural colours – glaring colours or designs may unnecessarily distract interviewers

• Make sure to style your hair so that it stays in place and out of your face!

• If you plan on wearing jewellery and make-up, keep things subtle and simple. You want your personality – not your accessories – to shine through!

Face-to-face interview / video interview

30 minutes before

Arrive at the premises and get comfortable with your surroundings/Log on to the interview platform and get comfortable with the platform to be used

Objective: Decrease your initial stress and get into a positive frame of mind.

For an in-person interview, arriving 30 minutes early should give you enough time to get to where you need to be.

If your interview is virtual, log onto the chosen platform early to familiarise yourself with its features. Make sure that your connection is strong, and both the camera and microphone are working properly.

At this point, you might be feeling nervous and worried about how the interview will go. While it is valid to feel this way, the best thing you can do for yourself is to calm your nerves. Take as much time as you can to gather your thoughts and if the situation allows it, take a short stroll around.

Face-to-face interview

20 minutes before Introduce yourself to a stranger and break the ice

Objective: Get used to talking in your new surroundings by striking up a conversation with someone who works in the same company, but won’t be interviewing you.

The first person you’ll encounter is likely to be the receptionist expecting your arrival. You may be asked to sign in before entering the visitors’ area.

Be friendly and appreciative of anyone you come into contact with, be it the cleaner or the CEO.

Face-to-face interview / video interview

10 minutes before Meet & greet the interviewers

Objective: From the very start, treat the interview as a meeting between two parties, not a one-way interrogation.

There’s usually a short explanation of how the interview will be structured. Commonly, the interviewers will begin with an overview of the company and the role you’re being interviewed for.

This preamble is the most “non-judgemental” part of the interview, so enjoy it and take the opportunity to ask some smart questions.

Crunch time Demonstrate your skills

Objective: Use your innate skills and experience and put the know-how gained through this magazine and other sources to good effect.

Introductions are usually followed by the most time-consuming part of the interview: questions to find out whether you can do the job and, just as importantly, whether you would have the motivation to do a good job. Finally, you’ll get the chance to ask your own questions.

You may also be given a short test to complete before or after the interview. This could be to establish the level of your skills pertinent to the job, or a more general evaluation of your preferred working style. Follow any instructions carefully, work out how much time to allot to each part of the test and focus your whole attention on the task.

If you’re applying to a graduate scheme, the testing process might be more extensive and carried out separately, such as in an assessment centre (either in-person or virtually).

Perfecting your Elevator Pitch Elevator Pitch

How do you make a good first impression in seconds?

Imagine trying to answer questions such as “What do you do?” and “What is your background?” in less than a minute – while giving an outstanding impression of yourself.

This is the premise the elevator pitch relies on. While mostly associated with entrepreneurs, elevator pitches can be used anywhere and everywhere.

Whether physical or virtual, formal events such as career fairs, networking sessions and interviews are where elevator pitches have the potential to be particularly effective, mostly because they present you as a focused person unafraid of outlining your strengths. This might just be the edge you need to stand out from the crowd.

Take note:

Contrary to most assumptions, an elevator pitch differs from a sales pitch. An elevator pitch is designed to allow you to sell yourself to prospective employers in a short time while a sales pitch is a spoken description of a product or item you are trying to sell. Understand the two and get to know the difference.

60 seconds

A good pitch usually lasts around 60 seconds – a minute – but keep in mind that you shouldn’t just rush through and cram in as many words as possible in that time. Instead, choose your words carefully before including them in the pitch, and practise!

Summarise yourself

How do you summarise yourself when such a question is suddenly thrown at you? Many are left hesitant when they’re given the spotlight and the opportunity to talk about themselves.

Before you start working on your pitch, come up with a rough idea of the kind of topic you want to talk about. For instance, if you’re interested in an engineering position, your theme should revolve around technical and numeral abilities, as well as the current trends in Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) or robotics.

Focus your topic on your modules studied in the classroom, your thesis if you had one, or even your internship and work experience, if any. Recruiters are very invested in your learning takeaways and hobbies related to the work you do. As such, about three-quarters of your pitch should be dedicated to your academic background and work and internship experience.

Remember: don’t pack all your points into a vague statement like the institution you studied in and where you completed your internship or worked! Rather, create a sentence or two about yourself and your background before elaborating on a few experiences – either personal or professional – to tell recruiters a little bit more about yourself.

Be brief but not boastful – your pitch should be like a teaser. Although the person you’re speaking to knows nothing about you, you’re not looking to tell them everything in a minute or less; you’re looking to pique their interest in you as simply and clearly as possible.

It’s also important to portray an image of a competent jobseeker, so clarify your goals and what you’re looking for in a company.

Practice makes perfect

One of the biggest factors in mastering a successful job pitch is how much practice you’re willing to put into it. Practise talking to yourself before you go to bed, or during your lunch breaks if you have the time, and hear yourself out.

Are you still stammering when you talk? If the answer is yes, go through your pitch again, and refer to a script if you have to.

It’s always better to find someone willing to help you identify errors and issues with your flow, so continue practising until you sound natural and not rehearsed. You could ask a friend or volunteer if they can simulate potential situations so you can practise and improvise if the situation ever calls for it.

Some key elements of an effective elevator pitch

• Keep it brief but detailed

• Make it as clear and concise as possible

• Be natural

• Add quick anecdotes

• Rehearse and practise

• Adapt and customise your pitch according to the audience and occasion.

4 Common

Job Interviews Job Interviews

Ready to ace your job interviews? Here are four common types you might face with tips on how to handle them!

One-on-one interviews

Otherwise known as a personal or faceto-face interview, this involves your interviewer asking a series of questions to evaluate your suitability for the job. Some companies prefer using several rounds of one-on-one interviews for different department heads to meet with the potential candidate before deciding on the outcome.

Interview tips

• Show your interviewer that you’re interested in the job by asking relevant questions. Some simple ones include asking about the role’s day-to-day tasks, the work culture, or the role’s career path

Video interviews

Video interviews have become a popular way for companies to meet job candidates remotely. Rather than meeting face-to-face, you chat with your potential employer using a computer or phone camera. They’re convenient and save time, allowing you to showcase your skills from wherever you are. Video interviews can either take place “live” (e.g. through Zoom) or pre-recorded (e.g. video submissions).

Interview tips

• Practice makes perfect. Start by getting used to appearing on-screen. Switch on your computer’s webcam and record yourself as though you’re running through a practice interview

• You should also talk about how the job role matches your aspirations, career plans and relevant interests. Showing your enthusiasm is key!

• Demonstrate specific examples of the skills required for the role you’re applying for and discuss any relevant transferable skills you obtained from any school or work experience

• Body language is just as important as verbal communication. Maintain a decent level of eye contact throughout the interview, sit upright to exude confidence and remember to smile!

• Set the scene by dressing smartly and making the area where you’ll be carrying out the interview look like a professional workplace

• Make sure that your internet connection is strong so that the video conference doesn’t drop midway through the interview. If you’re not sure about how strong the signal is, try streaming a video over YouTube

• If you’re taking the call on a laptop, remember to plug it into a power source – you may be online longer than you think

Panel interviews

Panel interviews typically involve anywhere from three to eight interviewers – usually three for graduate interviews. They’ll likely consist of a mix of HR personnel, business managers and some departmental specialists.

Even if they’re held on video, don’t be lulled into a false sense of security! They tend to be more rigorous and meticulous than individual interviews as you’ll be juggling questions from multiple sources. Although this may sound intimidating, there’s no need to fret. The interviewers are out to find out the same thing as at any other interview: whether you’re a good fit for the company!

Interview tips

• Maintain direct eye contact with the interviewers. If your interview is taking place in-person, answer them while making eye contact. If it’s over video, talk to the camera instead of the video feed on screen

• Address the interviewers by name when speaking to them. If your interview is taking place face-to-face, one little trick is to get their name cards at the beginning of the session, and then arrange them in front of you according to the interviewers’ sitting arrangement

• Stay calm if one of the interviewers looks bored. Given their different backgrounds, not every member of the panel may be interested in your response to a question asked

• You’ll sometimes be asked the same question twice by mistake. Don’t second-guess yourself, and always keep to the same version of your story

A phone interview is often a screening exercise where employers check some basic information before a face-to-face or virtual interview. It’s also used to sift through suitable candidates early in the recruitment process.

The relative anonymity of a phone interview may allow you to speak to your interviewer without the stress of travelling to an unfamiliar place in professional attire, but avoid letting your guard down!

Interview tips

• Much of the impact you make will come through your voice, so sounding attentive and enthusiastic is important

• Take notes of the keywords of the questions asked for reference when responding to your interviewer

• Don’t be distracted by your surroundings or lose track of what you want to say next. Avoid filler words such as “umm” and “uh-huh” or constant requests to repeat the questions

• Have your resume and completed application form next to you in case you need to refer to them during the phone interview

• Choose a conducive, quiet environment for the phone appointment to prevent background noise from ruining your session.

Phone interviews

Dealing with

Live Video Interviews Live Video Interviews

Learn effective strategies and tips for mastering live video interviews to land your dream job.

Live video interviews have become an essential part of the job application process, allowing employers to connect with candidates remotely. However, for many jobseekers, navigating these interviews can be daunting. Understanding how to prepare, present yourself, and handle the technical aspects can significantly impact your success in securing that desired position.

Here are some practical advice and tactics to help jobseekers confidently navigate live video interviews and increase their chances of making a strong impression on prospective employers.

Preparing for your live video interview

Going into a live video interview isn’t just as easy as signing in, turning on your webcam and talking! You’ll want to do a bit of prep work beforehand to ensure you set the right tone. Here are a few pointers:

• Spend some time before the interview familiarising yourself with the platform your interview will be conducted on – whether it’s Zoom, Google Hangouts, Microsoft Teams, or any other video conferencing platform the recruiter prefers

• Research the company you’re interviewing with. Interviewers will know if you haven’t done your homework and are reading stuff online even over the call – it’s very obvious. They can even hear you Googling questions!

• Get comfortable talking formally in front of the camera. Turn your webcam on and try rehearsing some of your possible responses to interview questions. Don’t forget to also pay attention to how you come across on camera! If you can, run through some practice video interviews with friends or career advisors

• Dress the way you would if you’re going for an in-person interview, and that includes the parts of you that are off-camera! Dressing up will help get you into the right headspace, and you also won’t be left embarrassed if you have to move around for an unexpected reason

More help needed!

Do you want to learn about more interview tips and techniques?

• Your interviewer would have agreed on a time slot with you for the interview. As such, block out a quiet spot in your house or room for that time in advance. You don’t want roommates or family members walking in or messing around in the background while you’re on the call!

• When picking a spot for your interview, try and find somewhere reasonably quiet and well-lit, with a tidy background free of clutter. You’ll want to project a professional image, so make sure you don’t have anything too personal or inappropriate lurking around behind you!

How to nail your live video interview

Once the big day comes, it’s time for you to shine! Here are some tips on how to present yourself effectively:

• Before you even get down to your interview, check your Wi-Fi, webcam and microphone. An easy way to check how strong or spotty your Wi-Fi connection is for a video call is to stream a HD YouTube video. Observe how the video loads – does it play smoothly, or does it keep buffering?

• Start off by greeting your interviewer as you would in real life. Just because you’re talking online doesn’t mean that you can drop social niceties!

• Try and get to know your interviewer before jumping into the interview proper. Make some small talk, or ask them a bit about themselves and how they’ve been doing. Video conference calls are always slightly awkward for everyone, so your interviewer may appreciate you trying to break the ice

• When talking, try to speak slightly slower than usual and put extra effort into choosing the right words to get your points across. The biggest difference between a live video interview and a real-life one is that non-verbal communication doesn’t translate as easily. Keep in mind that during a live video interview, your words become your primary means of communication and the key factor upon which you must rely on

• If the call glitches, freezes, or lags, don’t panic! Keep calm, wait for the call quality to be restored, explain that there was a technical issue and check with your interviewer if they heard everything you said before

• Try your best to look at the camera rather than the video feed on the screen. Even though this feels rather awkward, one of the best things you can do in a video interview is to maintain eye contact!

• Most importantly, just like you would do with an inperson interview, don’t forget to follow up with your interviewer afterwards, whether with a thank-you email or by connecting over LinkedIn

Some tough questions to look out for

Just because your interview isn’t done face-to-face doesn’t mean that you’re excused from tricky questions! In fact, you’ll be getting the same level-of-difficulty questions you would get in-person. Some common examples of these questions may include:

• Tell me about a time when you faced a significant challenge at work and how you resolved it.

• Describe a situation where you had to work with a difficult team member or handle a conflict. How did you manage it?

• What’s your greatest weakness, and how have you been working to improve it?

• Where do you see yourself in five years, and how does this position align with your long-term career goals?

• Tell me about a time when you demonstrated leadership skills or took initiative.

Remember, tough job interview questions are opportunities to showcase your strengths and experiences. Embrace these challenges as chances to shine by preparing examples that highlight your skills and problem-solving abilities.

Approach each question with confidence, honesty, and enthusiasm, emphasising how your past experiences have equipped you for the role. Use these questions as a chance to present the best version of yourself and leave a lasting, positive impression on your potential employer. With preparation and a positive mindset, you’re ready to tackle any tough question that comes your way and secure that dream job!

Cracking the Code Behind

Interview Questions Interview Questions

Sometimes, the objectives behind the interview questions aren’t as straightforward as you might think.

While job interviews can be nerve-racking for you, there’s also tremendous pressure on interviewers to get the right candidate for the job.

If you’re worried that they’re analysing your every word, remind yourself that they’re also worried that they can’t read you well enough. The secret is to know the unspoken intentions behind seemingly typical interview questions, and how to answer them accordingly.

1)

“Does the candidate have the potential to get the job done?”

Recruiting and training new staff members can be expensive and time-consuming, so the greater your pool of skills, the greater the chance that you can hit the ground running as soon as you can.

Having the relevant skills for the job is no doubt much more appealing to recruiters than the prospect of grooming you from scratch.

What your interviewer may ask you

• Could you tell me about yourself?

• Tell us about your greatest strengths and weaknesses.

How do I answer this?

When asked to describe yourself, skip the biographical information. Focus on your skill sets, recent workrelated experiences and your most important achievements – and why these make you the best candidate for the position.

When describing your strengths, relate them to the company or position you’re applying for. Promote yourself through specific examples and portfolios.

As for your weaknesses, you should show that you’ve taken steps to counter them. Alternatively, you can express willingness to take opportunities to learn and improve yourself.

2) “How interested is the candidate in this job?”

The last thing employers want is to hire someone who is unenthusiastic about the job and who may leave a few months after starting – or worse, pull out of the work arrangement right before starting work. They also don’t want to employ someone who will be unhappy in their role because the job doesn’t resonate with their passions or interests.

What your interviewer may ask you

• Why do you want this job?

• Where do you see yourself in five years?

How do I answer this?

Share your motivations for pursuing your chosen career path and how you were inspired by the industry and/or organisation. Storytelling adds a human element to your response, making it persuasive and believable.

Questions on your expectations in career progression are typically asked to find out how committed you are to the job. It’s important to research the kind of progression you could realistically expect within the industry and company.

Alternatively, you can also speak about the skills you would like to build upon if you get the job.

3) “Does the candidate have other interviews or job offers lined up?”

Recruiters aren’t just trying to meet their bosses’ expectations; they’re competing with other companies for talent as well.

Interviewers want to know whether you’re being courted by any other organisations so that they can decide how long they can take to evaluate their pool of potential candidates and possibly extend a job offer to you before someone else does.

What your interviewer may ask you

• Which other companies have you applied to?

• What other positions are you currently interviewing for?

How do I answer this?

Don’t be shy about talking about other roles that you’ve applied for. If they’re similar to the one you’re interviewing for, it shows your genuine interest and dedication. Recruiters want to see the consistency of your career aims. However, avoid pitting recruiters against each other just to get a better deal. Instead, admit that you’ve applied to other places as well, and give real examples that are consistent and relevant to the role on offer.

4) “How well will this candidate get along with our colleagues and clients?”

Recruiters want to avoid hiring someone whom they suspect may compromise relationships between colleagues or clients.

To that end, interviewees who come across as rude, cynical, difficult or arrogant will most likely be struck out from the list. Inversely, those with good interpersonal and communication skills will be favoured for the job.

What your interviewer may ask you

• Have you ever disagreed with a senior whose approach you felt was wrong?

• How would you manage conflicts with colleagues who may not agree with your work methods?

How do I answer this?

Instead of denying that you’ve ever been involved in any negative situation, just be as honest and authentic as possible. Conflicts and disagreements are regular workplace occurrences, and what’s important is how you go about resolving and managing such situations.

Describe the situation, the reason for the disagreement, and the outcome as diplomatically as possible. Ideally, you should describe a situation where things ended in a win-win.

However, if things didn’t end on a good note, it’s not the end of the world. Your interviewers are also interested in assessing your ability to maintain your integrity.

5) “Does this candidate fit the company culture?”

Company culture varies from organisation to organisation, and how it resonates with your own values, goals and preferences will affect how comfortable you are in your work environment.

Someone who fits with the company’s culture will more likely be happier in the company, thereby producing better results at work. On the other hand, choosing the wrong candidate may lead to unwanted conflicts in the workplace.

What your interviewer may ask you

• What do you think about our company’s mission statement and values?

• What do you think are the core values an employee should have?

How do I answer this?

Needless to say, for you to respond to such questions, you need to have a good understanding of the values that the organisation stands for, along with its vision and mission.

So be sure to do your research beforehand – even before you apply for the role!

This is also a chance for you to ask the interviewer about the company’s work culture beyond what’s showcased on their website to determine your fit for the role. After the interviewer has answered your questions, take the initiative to describe your interests, beliefs and motivation, and explain how they align with the company’s culture.

Smart Questions for

Your Interviewer Your Interviewer

Making a good impression on your interviewer means not only giving the right answers but also asking the right questions.

Asking smart questions during your interview can make a real difference. Your questions not only show your interest but also help you learn if the job is the right fit for you. Here are some savvy questions that’ll impress your interviewer and set you apart from the crowd.

What should I ask?

Sensible questions

Clarify important details that your research couldn’t cover – it’ll help you make a more informed decision about whether or not you should accept an offer from the company. Some examples include:

• You mentioned that the job involves this task. Could you tell me a bit more about what this entails?

• What sort of training can I expect to receive?

• How do newcomers in this position generally progress? What would be a typical timeline?

Thoughtful questions

Try to ask bigger-picture questions that’ll help you discover new, useful information and demonstrate your intelligence and positive attitude. While it’s alright to bring along a mental list of questions, you may also want to pick up on things that have been mentioned throughout the interview. Some good examples include:

• You mentioned that your company has just signed an agreement to work with a particular client. Is this something that I would be likely to get involved with if I do get this position?

• Will the trend towards X in this market affect the way you work? What are some of the things you’re doing to ride the wave/wait it out?

• Your competitors seem to be doing Y. Is it important for your company to be doing Z?

Questions to avoid

In a nutshell, avoid asking questions that you should already know the answer to as a pleasant, well-read and well-researched interviewee.

Don’t ask for information that is clearly stated on the organisation’s website – this makes it seem like you haven’t done your research. Likewise, don’t ask about something that you’ve just been told in the interview, simply for the sake of something to say – it’ll look as if you weren’t listening carefully.

Also, steer clear of questions that make you sound arrogant. “What’s your company able to offer me?” will give the impression that you’re difficult to work with. The same goes for good questions that aren’t tactfully worded – for instance: “What makes you so different from Company Y? Aren’t they doing the same thing?”

Lastly, steer clear of any talk concerning salaries or remuneration for your first interview unless they mention it first. Focus on finding out as much as you can about your potential jobscopes and role in the company.

TIP!

Other opportunities to ask questions

You may also have the opportunity to talk to other members of the company outside the formal interview – such as an introduction to a recent recruit to have a chat about their job, taken on a tour of the building, or joined by other team members for an informal lunch with your recruiters.

Make the most of these opportunities to ask polite questions when appropriate, and listen carefully to the answers. Good questions include the following:

• What’s your position?

• What type of products/projects/cases do you tend to work on?

• How long have you been with the company? Did you join as a graduate?

• Do you find the company a friendly place to work in?

• What do you enjoy most about working here?

• What are some of the hardest parts of your job?

Keep in mind that while you’re talking, it’s very likely that the recruitment team will be taking feedback from everyone who has spoken with you.

As such, take as much care about what you ask and how you come across in less formal activities as you do in the interview itself. Above all, great questions to ask at the interview often require you to do a bit of research in advance. It’s a big factor in being a hireable candidate.

Use the smart questions funnel

A good tactic is to use the funnel method of questioning. Start by using openended questions such as “How?”, “Why?” and “Who?” before working your way towards close-ended questions that can be answered with a simple “yes” or “no”. This can help the conversation seem more organic.

Since open-ended questions need more than a “yes” or “no” answer, use them if you want to get your interviewers talking. For example, you can ask something like “What is the training process like?”.

Use close-ended questions later to clarify points and show that you’ve been listening, with questions such as “Do you expect your trainees to be ready to work independently within a month?”.

Crucial Communication Skills for

Your Job Interviews Your Job Interviews

How you communicate can greatly impact your interviewer’s perception, so it’s crucial not to underestimate its importance.

As you prepare to showcase your skills and experience, it’s essential to remember that effective communication plays a vital role in making a lasting impression. Beyond qualifications, how you communicate can greatly impact the interviewer’s perception.

From effective communication to active listening skills, here are some strategies that will help you excel and leave a remarkable impression during your job interview.

Effective communication

1. Show off your pearly whites!

Always look directly at your interviewer and smile. If you’re being interviewed by a panel, take the time to look and smile at each interviewer in turn.

2. Break the ice

Don’t be afraid to start a casual conversation with your recruiters – it shows courage and can even help you relax. However, avoid making extremely personal comments such as, “Wow, you’re really beautiful!”

Touch on neutral topics, such as the impressive office, the busy traffic and the beautiful weather.

3. Repeat key facts

Have an important detail you want to highlight? Mention it, and then summarise it again! If you think it deserves another mention later, do so. But be careful not to come across as pedantic.

4. Find equal trade-offs

Don’t be intimidated into accepting a one-sided bargain. Your agreement should outline a win-win scenario where both you and the employer stand to gain, such as them offering training even as you offer commitment.

5. Stay calm and take your time answering

Some recruiters may ask difficult questions, but don’t be pressured into giving an instant response. Instead, buy time by asking the interviewer to clarify the question, or ask for some time to think it through.

6. Ask questions

Show your maturity and enthusiasm by asking questions about the company’s role and the industry. Questions about working at the organisation are also an indication of your desire to fit in.

Active listening

1. Listen without interrupting

Don’t interrupt and form assumptions on what the recruiter might be asking or saying before they finish. After all, you don’t want to spend 15 minutes answering a question only to find that you’ve misunderstood the recruiter!

2. Nod and acknowledge Every once in a while, nod and acknowledge the interviewers. If necessary, make brief comments to indicate that you’re listening, such as “yes” and “uh huh” work.

!If you got…

Well done, you’re a good communicator! You know how to comfortably express yourself in a professional setting.

3. Let your body talk

Mimic the interviewer’s body language to build a connection, but don’t overdo it. Responding with the appropriate facial expressions is important too. Looking bored as you listen is definitely not the way to go.

Checklist

How well do you communicate?

I can look at my interviewer in the eye comfortably

I feel alright talking about my achievements

I’m able to question things when I’m uncertain about them

I’m comfortable saying “I don’t know” or “Sorry, I don’t understand the question”

I’m able to express my honest opinion to the recruiters, even if they might disagree

I feel comfortable referring to my resume for help in the interview room

I’m able to speak confidently in group situations, such as group assessments

I can assert my own needs while working with others without feeling reluctant

I can say “I’m capable of doing this job” or “I don’t want this job” without feeling awkward

I can be honest about the mistakes I’ve made in the past

You sound slightly apprehensive, but with plenty of practice and roleplay, you can further improve your communication skills.

Tips for

Introverts Introverts

If you’re naturally modest, here’s how you can get past your inhibitions and be assertive in your way.

Before Susan Cain published her best-selling book, Quiet, in 2012 and made a persuasive case for introverts, the world is inclined towards extroversion. People habitually associated an outgoing nature with success and various other positive traits, while introverts were seen to be less driven. Susan has a name for this. She calls it the Extrovert Ideal – the belief that “the ideal self is gregarious, alpha and comfortable in the spotlight”.

The Extrovert Ideal is still pretty prevalent in the employment landscape, where many employers feel that extroverts typically give a better first impression during interviews because they’re more comfortable with promoting themselves. Introverts, by contrast, are often seen as uninterested or aloof – even when they’re genuinely excited about the job.

But self-promotion doesn’t have to be painful. There are many ways for introverts to promote themselves comfortably while staying true to themselves.

Answering tricky questions...

Do you know how to answer “what is your greatest weakness?” interview question?

Realise your strengths

The first step to being assertive is to recognise that you have skills and strengths worth talking about. Start by looking at the different day-to-day activities that you engage in, and relate them to the skills employers look for in potential candidates.

Have you written essays and given presentations in school? Those are written and verbal communication skills. Did you play football or hockey in your spare time? That shows teamwork. Extra points if you were team captain, because that shows your organising, leading and motivational skills.

Even successfully juggling coursework, extra-curricular activities, a part-time job and spending time with family and friends can be translated into time management and an ability to prioritise, which are employable skills. Additionally, don’t forget about other qualifications or courses you may have attended outside of school! Mine those for examples of marketable strengths.

Say you’re good without actually saying it

If you aren’t comfortable making statements like “I’m good at managing my time”, try giving examples instead, such as, “There have been times when I’ve had to manage my time carefully to get things done. In my second year, I volunteered two mornings a week at the local SPCA. But in that same week, I also had to hand in two essays and juggle working eight hours at a supermarket. It was tough and I had to swap shifts with colleagues on a couple of occasions, but I made it through.”

See what just happened there? You’re not explicitly saying you’re good at time management, but it’s clear that you are.

Use your portfolio

Alternatively, you can make use of visual aids to help you promote yourself. Consider keeping a portfolio of work samples, photos, graphs or charts, news articles, recommendation and appreciation letters and any other relevant documents that you can display when asked about your accomplishments.

Get the interviewer’s permission to show an example of your work, and you can base your answer on the things you have in your portfolio. Having a portfolio not only makes things easier for you because there’s visual proof of your accomplishments, they can also act as a prompt to jostle your memory. More importantly, it takes the limelight away from you, giving you some breathing space every now and then.

However, be selective about what you want to include in your portfolio. It may be tempting to include every single certificate or work sample, but remember that a portfolio should complement your answers, not substitute it.

Adjust your perspective

If you’re worried about over-selling yourself or coming across as arrogant – don’t be. What you’re doing in your interview isn’t boasting; you’re simply providing recruiters with evidence that you’re the right person for the job!

Recruiters need to be told about your skills or they’ll probably hire someone else who has done a better job of showing it. Approach an interview knowing that you’ll help them make the best hiring decision when you’re able to showcase your skills and relevance for the position on offer.

Make use of testimonies

Another good method to promote yourself without coming across as boastful is by making references to the testimonials of others, such as performance evaluations from your supervisors, lecturers, or managers. You can also obtain testimonials from clients, co-workers and suppliers you’ve worked with.

For instance, when asked about a skill or achievement, you can answer with: “My supervisor commended me on my ability to troubleshoot problems calmly whenever emergencies arise. He made specific mentions about how I had contributed to the company during my performance evaluation.”

Aside from sounding less boastful, it also sounds more credible. To add to this, do your best to bring in testimonials from the referees listed in your resume. This way, employers will be able to verify your claims, which will improve your credibility even more.

BODY LANGUAGE

‘‘ ‘‘

Do s & Don'ts Do s & Don'ts

We’ve always been told that having the right body language is important, but how do we do that?

As much as you prepare the right answers for your upcoming interviews, the way you carry yourself can affect the recruiter’s impression of you much more than you think. Don’t over-rehearse, but remember to be aware of how you’re possibly coming across to your interviewers.

If anything, keep in mind that first impressions matter when it comes to job interviews, virtual or physical. Until you successfully secure the job, that is.

Eyes

• Go for an open, confident gaze, but don’t stare

• Maintain a decent level of eye contact throughout the interview. If your interview is taking place in person, answer while making eye contact. If it’s over video, talk to the camera instead of the video feed onscreen. It’ll look like you’re speaking directly to your interviewers

• In a panel interview, make sure to alternate eye contact with all of your interviewers, but always look back at the person you’re addressing. If your panel interview is taking place over a video call, look into the camera instead

• Don’t wink or flutter your eyelashes at the interviewer!

• Allow yourself to blink naturally

Hands

• Keep your handshakes firm and as dry as possible – especially at the end of the interview, as it’s your last chance to leave a lasting impression

• No flabby handshakes, but don’t go overboard with them either

• Gesture appropriately to emphasise your answers: right hand for giving out info, left hand for receiving info

• Don’t crack your knuckles. It’s a bad habit anyway

• Sign of anxiety: Refrain from tapping your fingers on the table

Mouth

• Smile naturally but don’t overdo or fake it

• In an in-person interview, fresh breath matters, so pop some breath mints before you head in

• Be aware of your tone of voice. There’s no point in saying you’re passionate about something when you sound utterly bored

• Excessive lip-licking is a no-no. Put on some lip balm just before the interview to keep them from cracking if you need to

• Avoid breathing from your mouth. Heavy breathing isn’t particularly presentable. Even over a video call, your microphone can be sensitive enough to pick up your breathing!

• Avoid pursing and biting your lips

Posture

• No slouching! Sit up straight to give recruiters a more confident impression of yourself

• Square your shoulders and raise your head to give a more self-assured and reliable quality

• Don’t be stiff

• Stay comfortable. Don’t be afraid to change positions throughout the interview, but avoid excessive fidgeting

• Although this might be hard over a video interview, mirror your interviewer’s posture from time to time to create solidarity between the both of you

• Lean forward a little to show interest in what your interviewers are saying

A study conducted by Albert Mehrabian tells us that our average communication consists of:

tone of voice body language words

Calm those nerves!

The one thing that affects your body language the most is your nerves. You can mask them slightly by going into an interview well-prepared with positive examples and stories about how you’re undeniably ready for the job. But if you don’t calm yourself before the session starts, your body language will give you away!

You might go into defensive mode and end up crossing your arms, letting all your nervous tics out, or worse, overdo everything and come across as a phoney. Experienced recruiters can tell when you’re faking it, so stay away from that. They’re looking for someone who’ll fit right in with the team, so take a few deep breaths before walking through the door, relax and remember to stay professional.

Read between the lines!

Knowing how to assess your interviewer’s body language can also help you figure out the company’s red flags.

Getting Through the Psychometric Test Psychometric Test

Many graduate employers use psychometric tests as part of the recruitment process. This is what you can expect.

Just when you think you’re finished with tests and exams, out they come again on interview and assessment days in the form of psychometric tests!

Typically used to assess your abilities, aptitudes and personality, psychometric tests may also be used alongside more subjective feedback gained through presentations. Additionally, psychometric tests offer vital level playing fields, and are seen as a fair way of comparing different candidates’ strengths regardless of their educational backgrounds.

However, as with any kind of test, you can improve your performance by knowing what to expect and by practising.

When will I have to take a psychometric test?

Psychometric tests may be used at different stages of the graduate selection process, namely:

• After you submit your online application form

• Alongside a first interview

• At a later stage of the assessment, possibly with a second interview or as part of an assessment centre. You may be re-tested at this point to confirm the results of earlier tests

Types of tests

Ability tests

What

are these?

Ability tests measure the general skills appropriate to your education and experience. Usually conducted under timed, exam-like conditions, these are often combined with aptitude tests.

Examples

• Numerical: Quizzes of this sort assess your basic arithmetic and ability to interpret data, graphs, charts, or statistics

• Verbal reasoning: These tests explore your ability to understand and evaluate written information

• Non-verbal reasoning: Assessments that are geared to reveal your spatial awareness and ability to spot patterns

• Logical reasoning: Evaluations show off your ability to make rational conclusions from basic information

• Problem-solving: These quizzes determine your ability to identify mistakes accurately

Aptitude tests

What are these?

Aptitude tests examine your potential to learn a new skill that’s needed to do the job you’ve applied for. They’re typically conducted under the same conditions as ability tests, and most of these involve multiple-choice or true/ false questions. It’s important to note that aptitude tests aren’t meant to pass or fail you, but to compare your ability levels to a “normal” expectation as chosen by the employer or test provider.

Examples

• If you’re considering a career in IT, you may be asked to complete a programming aptitude test

• In sectors such as finance, you may find that any numerical and verbal reasoning tests given tend to be focused on the kind of information you would come across in your daily work

Personality tests

What are these?

Personality tests assess your typical behaviour when presented with different situations, as well as your preferred way of handling things. They examine how likely you are to fit into your role and the broader company culture. Recruiters want to know if you have the characteristics they need for a particular job. For example, for a sales role, they may want someone who’s very forward, sociable and persuasive.

Practise, practise, practise!

The best way to approach psychometric tests is to practise until you become familiar with the typical formats they come in, and the way questions are asked. It’ll also help you to improve on speed and accuracy, and identify areas in your ability tests that need work. But don’t get over-confident! While practice tests can improve your performance to some degree, remember that each employer’s tests will probably be slightly different.

These are where you can find practice tests:

• Simply do a quick Google search along the lines of “free psychometric practice tests”

• Drop by your school’s career services and ask if they have some available. They may even have a better idea of the kinds of tests specific employers use

Don’t try to second-guess what you think the employer wants to see! Personality questionnaires assess consistency in responses, so just be honest. If you’re right for the job and the employer’s right for you, you’ll do fine.

However, if the job and employer aren’t looking for people with your personality, think about it this way – you may have just made a lucky escape!

Tip!

Surviving Assessment Centres Assessment Centres

Breeze through assessment centres with these tips and tricks.

You’ve been thrust into a room or virtual platform full of strangers, asked to perform specific tasks and then assessed to see whether you get put through to the next round or eliminated.

As much as that sounds like something out of a TV show, it’s not. It’s important to remember that you’re being assessed against the employers’ criteria, not each other, and a criterion for you to succeed is to show off how well you can work in a team.

What to expect

Although assessment centres are used to test for specific skills and aptitudes required for the individual role on offer, most of them typically contain similar elements and exercises.

You can expect to be involved in a combination of the following in most assessment centres:

• Group work exercises

• Presentations

• Aptitude and psychometric tests

• In-tray/e-tray exercises

• Case studies linked to the job function

Recruiters will assess you in several things, including how you demonstrate core skills and competencies such as communication, teamwork and problem-solving. The group setting also makes it much easier to assess how well you work with others, how you influence and persuade, and how others respond to you.

How to behave

Though assessment centres may seem artificial, your goal is to show what you would be like if you got a place in the company. Here are some tips on how you can be your best self on the spot!

Be professional

Arrive on time and look the part. Be friendly but polite. The assessment centre is partly a social exercise, so do participate in both formal and informal discussions during projects, lunch or tea breaks.

If you’re attending online, hop onto the platform early and get to know it. Although it’s tempting to pass your lunch or tea breaks alone in your room, make the effort to get involved in discussions happening over these times!

While you should be prepared to initiate conversations, remember that although it’s fine to make small talk with assessors, avoid being overly casual.

Get your hands dirty

Don’t stand back and turn your nose up. Group exercises are designed to see how well you work with others, so make sure you take part.

Be enthusiastic and make an effort, regardless of the task. Besides, concentrating on the task at hand will help you forget your nerves.

Don’t lose concentration

It’s going to be a long and tiring day, so try to make sure you have a good night’s sleep beforehand as you’ll need to stay alert and engaged. On top of that, even if you’re assured that the informal food and drinks don’t play any part in the selection process, you should be careful not to over-indulge yourself –evaluators know when you’re dozing off from a full belly whether you’re physically there or not!

Be yourself

Instead of feeling the need to act a part, just be the most positive version of yourself. Try to relax and behave naturally. You might even find it possible to enjoy yourself despite the inevitable nerves, and a smile is more likely to make a good impression than a face frozen in fear!

Social etiquette

More often than not, the trickiest part of assessment centres isn’t even the exercises, but the composure that you must maintain throughout the entire day – in both formal and informal settings.

That said, how should you carry yourself during social intervals, such as lunch or tea and coffee breaks?

Many applicants have little experience socialising in a professional context, whether physically or virtually, and this can be a source of stress for them. But there’s no need to fret! Here’s how you should conduct yourself during the social bits of an assessment centre.

Introduce yourself confidently

When you want to start a conversation with a recruiter, be pleasant in the way you approach them – a polite smile and a handshake is the standard introduction practice when in-person, and smiling and speaking clearly if virtual.

You can then get the ball rolling by giving your name and some relevant background information, much like your subject of study.

Ask recruiters questions

Avoid approaching recruiters during social breaks with personal questions. Play safe instead, and ask industryrelated questions to demonstrate your earnestness and determination.

General questions about recruiters’ career backgrounds and time with the company are good conversation starters as well.

Strike a balance between eating and socialising

Don’t forgo eating just because you’re nervous or want to take the opportunity to network! You still have a long day ahead of you, and an empty stomach might jeopardise your subsequent performance, even if it might be easier to hide it virtually.

If you feel like you need some time to eat or compose yourself before the next assessment session begins, don’t be worried about having to move away when attending the event in person, but do so politely! A simple “excuse me” will usually be more than sufficient to free yourself.

If your attendance is virtual, explain that you need some time to yourself, and that you’re going to turn off your camera and mute your microphone.

How do I know if it is going well?

You know you are on track when…

• You’ve achieved a mix of taking charge and taking a back seat

• At the end of the day, you realise you’ve managed to enjoy yourself

Things are not going so well if...

• You didn’t meet anyone – fellow candidates and assessors – whose company you enjoyed

• You walk away feeling suspicious, judged and anxious

Presenting at assessment centres

Speaking in front of a mixed group of candidates and assessors is no easy feat, so give yourself the best chance by following these tips:

• Make sure you have a structure for your presentation

• Practise, practise and practise!

• Use visual aids to guide your audience

• Start only when you’re ready!

Shining in Group Exercises Group Exercises

Whether in-person or over a virtual platform, the group exercise is a key part of the day in an assessment centre, and helps recruiters assess how you may perform in a position.

The ice-breaker

Your assessors may have one to help you relax and warm up to your assigned group for everyone to gel. Ice-breakers typically revolve around completing a task in a set time. For example, recruiters may ask your group to solve a puzzle within a time limit. Don’t forget to watch out for the time as you work with your group mates!

Many applicants make the mistake of spending too much time discussing and planning, causing them to fall short in the execution of the idea. That’s where you can come in – do your best to keep the ball rolling!

The group case study exercise

The group will be given a set time to work together and respond to a case study – often a set of documents based on a real-life situation will be given. The group may also be asked to present their findings as part of the exercise.

Assessors have been known to occasionally shake things up by giving each candidate a different briefing document or role to play, leaving the group to reach a conclusion in spite of the conflicting views each member may have.

Your goal is to show recruiters that you’re capable of working together towards a common target. Your recruiters actually aren’t looking out for the “correct” answer – they want to see the steps you’re willing to take to reach your goal.

The discussion group

You and your group will be given a topic – or multiple topics – to discuss. The nature of the topics can vary, but they usually involve issues of current importance to graduates, or were recently featured in the news.

At the end of the discussion, each candidate may be invited to comment briefly on one of the group’s conclusions, so it’s as vital to speak up as it is to listen.

You’ll have little to no preparation time for this, so it’s a good idea to build up a knowledge bank through quality newspaper and magazine articles in the weeks leading up to your day in the assessment centre. This way, you’ll be able to join in the discussion with a more complete picture of things.

The leaderless task

Each member of a group will be given a separate briefing – which may or may not be similar to others – and a time limit to complete a task as a group.

As no one in the group has a complete set of instructions and there’s no designated leader, everyone will have to work together to come to a decision acceptable to all members.

As before, there’s no “correct” answer, so be patient and try to broker as many compromises as possible. Assessors are more interested in seeing if you’re able to work with people holding different views, as well as how well you can navigate potential conflict.

The leadership task

A complete change from the leaderless task, recruiters occasionally spring this on candidates when they’re interested in testing leadership skills. In this scenario, you may be asked to act as the leader of your group or even chair a meeting.

Once again, there’ll be a set task – only this time, you’ll be expected to lead your group to success. This is what your assessors will be looking for:

• Delegation: A good leader delegates tasks. You can’t do everything alone, so you must divide up the work between the others.

• Using the strengths of others: Identifying strengths in group members and using them in appropriate ways is one of the hallmarks of a good leader.

• If you know what is going on: Sticking to your guns and ignoring feedback aren’t characteristics of good leaders. It’s better to keep an eye on what’s going on and make changes if things don’t work out.

Skills to demonstrate in group exercises

Contribute, but don’t dominate

Don’t be aggressive, but be assertive. If you’re a shy person who doesn’t speak up, keep reminding yourself to participate. Inversely, if you know that you sometimes talk too much, do your best to restrain yourself!

Keep an eye on the time Stay focused on the overall objective. Every now and then, try to summarise the group’s progress to make sure you don’t shoot past the time limit given. Try to keep things on schedule as diplomatically as possible.

Be diplomatic

If a group member seems to be overbearing, don’t shut them down. Instead, make sure everyone has the chance to share their thoughts.

Be prepared to compromise, but don’t bend over backwards –just make sure you can reasonably justify any sacrifices you make.

Be confident and aware

Listen without interrupting. Be aware of what others in your group are contributing and make it a point to invite the quieter ones to the discussion. Assessors notice and appreciate attentive candidates.

Tackling

Case Studies Case Studies

Learn how to excel in case study interviews and impress employers by showcasing your problem-solving skills effectively.

Case study exercises can be used for both individuals and groups. During the exercise, you will usually be given some information about a workrelated scenario and asked to imagine that you’re part of a group of experts giving advice to a client or superior on the basis of the evidence.

This will probably be carried out over a period of a few hours, and you’ll likely have to make a presentation to the assessors at the end. You may also be given additional information to assess at specific intervals throughout the allocated time.

When are case studies necessary?

Case studies are particularly popular in assessment centres for graduate jobs in banking, financial services, accountancy and management consulting. However, they can also be part of assessments for other business sectors and industries.

It’s also important to note that they’re typically based on real-life business developments.

How to approach them

You need to be clear about what you’re being asked to do. Start by reading through the information pack and assessing which parts of the information are relevant.

Understand the problem, your role and your objectives inside out. Don’t be afraid to ask for more information or clarification about something from your assessors if you’re unsure.

If you’re working in a group, you can divide the tasks. For instance, you can nominate someone to assess any new information passed to the group during the course of the exercise. You’ll also need someone to manage the time taken for each task, so ensure that your group has a timekeeper.

Don’t dominate discussions, but do contribute to them – you should articulate what you’re thinking so your assessors can see how you approach problems.

Remember to allocate time to prepare for your final presentation, and be realistic about how much you can fit into it.

Lastly, don’t lose sight of your objectives! Your final presentation should be relevant, clear and concise, and should also include a summary of your conclusions and recommendations.

What

assessors look for in case studies

• Analytical skills

• Problem-solving skills

• Time management

• Teamwork

• Commercial awareness

• Presentation abilities

Case study example

The following example is based on a genuine case study used by a multinational investment bank. It should give you some idea of what to expect:

The scenario

A large publisher of magazines and books is looking to make a significant acquisition. It has identified a target company and approached a number of investment banks for their views on the merits of a potential deal and a target price.

Based on these presentations, the publisher will decide whether to proceed with a bid. If they do, select one bank to act as their advisor.

The task

Your team is one of the investment banks that is bidding to win the mandate. You need to analyse the figures provided to review the marketplace, your potential client – the publisher – and the target company. You must also prepare a five-minute presentation giving your recommendations.

Note

You may either be provided with a wealth of raw data alongside the scenario, or you and your group may have to dig up all the necessary information by yourselves somehow. Either way, you’ll need to crystallise all this information into a workable action plan that you can present to your assessors.

Can I practise for these?

Yes, you can!

Here are some ways you can prepare for case studies:

• Find out about the kind of business decisions the company you’re applying to have to make, or has made, recently

• You’ll need a bird’s-eye view of the current economic environment. Scour the business pages of newspapers or magazines to get a feel for current business activity

• Practise your mental arithmetic, as you may have to demonstrate your quantitative abilities without a calculator

• Talk to any relevant industry contacts or mentors you have to learn more about any new developments. You can also bounce various scenarios off them to see if your recommendations are sound

Dealing with In-Tray Exercises In-Tray Exercises

Recruiters use in-tray exercises to test a potential candidate’s ability to juggle tasks on the job.

No matter how your in-tray exercise is done – virtual or physical – it tests your ability to deal with a typical work situation: the full inbox. This is an individual exercise to see if you can deal with a pressure situation as quickly and efficiently as possible, and how you can go about doing so.

What they look like

In-tray exercises are essentially role-play. You’ll be given a scenario, and you must work through an in-tray – or inbox – full of typical paperwork within a time limit that often ranges between 30 minutes to an hour.

Some examples of items include:

• Emails

• Phone messages

• Documents

• Reports

• Memos or loose notes

• Calendar notes

What you need to know

• Read through the information carefully

• Put it in order of priority for action

• Justify your actions to assessors

• Work within the given time limit, but stay calm through the exercise!

Application example

The scenario

You’re the marketing manager at Sangréal, a company that manufactures and sells cosmetics and female healthcare products.

Sangréal’s head office is in France, and Singapore is its APAC regional headquarters. Your boss is the marketing director, Jonathan Yong, and the managing director of the Singapore division is Christine Ang.

Note:

You’re a manager, so you can delegate responsibilities to others. However, you’re answerable to your directors, so keep that in mind when making important decisions.

The task

You have two emails – one from your company’s legal advisor, and one from your marketing staff – and a post-it note from your supervisor’s PA. You need to decide how you’re going to handle all three within a short time, and justify your actions with the assessors.

Post-it note

From: Your supervisor’s PA FYI: Aero France FR-365 delayed due to airport system blackout. International marketing director only arriving on 5/2/2024 @ 4.30pm.

How to handle it

Priority: Low

Your company’s international marketing director has just had his/her flight to Singapore delayed. Obviously, this isn’t a high priority, but don’t drop the ball – you still have to deal with this.

As the marketing manager, you’ll probably have some meetings with the director, so reschedule any appointments you may already have with him/her. If your planner is already packed with other appointments, you’ll have to shuffle those around as well to make the best use of your time.

From: Your team member

From: alex.yap@sangreal.com.sg

Subject: Printer overheads

Yo, boss.

Email #1

Spoke to our printer in the morning. They insist they want to mark up their prices to print all our billboard ads by 20% next year. Guess this means they won’t be within our marketing budget for the next year anymore.

I know we talked about exploring some new options, and I’ve already found one other company willing to match the price we were previously paying. Problem is, I spoke to one of my buddies from Vivo Tech over the weekend. He has printed with them before, and he insisted these guys have some serious QC issues.

Remember that faded billboard we saw on Orchard Road? Yeah, they did that. You want me to give the green light to these new guys, or do you wanna run that budget by Jonathan again? Let me know.

Cheers, Alex Yap Marketing Executive Sangréal Singapore

From: The company’s legal advisor

From: vanessa.wong@sangreal.com.sg

Subject: URGENT – Impending legal action by Body Food

Email #2

How to handle it

Priority: Medium

This concerns day-to-day operations, so attend to this after you have settled any red flags concerning the business as a whole.

The informal tone gives you a hint of Alex’s background – you’ve probably known him for some time now. It’s safe to assume that you can trust his recommendations as a long-time staff member.

You’ll have to make a judgment call here. Will you print at a lower cost at the risk of compromising the quality of your ads? Or will you ask your supervisor to increase your marketing budget so you can maintain the quality of the materials? You’ll have to decide, and be able to justify your response to your assessors.

How to handle it

Priority: High

I’ve just received an email from Body Food’s legal team. They’re issuing a cease-and-desist order on your recent advertising campaign for our SkinWorks product line here in Singapore.

Body Food’s lawyers are alleging that we have committed copyright infringement with the “What works for your skin, works for you” tagline. They’re saying you ripped that off their company’s slogan: “What works for your body, works for you.”

Body Food is giving us 30 days to retract all material related to this ad campaign or they’ll file a class-action lawsuit. I need your input on this ASAP.

Thanks,

Vanessa Wong Corporate Solicitor Sangréal Singapore

In a nutshell…

Legal action is a serious issue, so prioritise such emails in the exercise. Your supervisors need to know about it, but you should also show that you can deal with problems efficiently. Check your intray for any relevant information which may help this case, and compile all the facts you need.

Remember, you’re only a marketing manager, so you aren’t expected to solve this on your own! A good solution is to reply to Vanessa seeking her legal advice and CC your superiors, Jonathan and Christine.

Fill them in on the facts you’ve dug up, and offer your input on how the company can resolve this issue.

The above example should give you some idea of how to deal with such exercises. Just think logically about the size and importance of the tasks alongside your position within the company. As long as you include the input of others, particularly your superiors, it should put you on the right path!

Bouncing Back From Rejection Back From Rejection

Rejections can be difficult to move on from, but it’s not the end of the world.

Here’s the truth: not getting that position you have pined and prepared so thoroughly for doesn’t make you a failure.

You put in 100 per cent for your grades, somehow made time for an internship or two and even ensured that you did everything perfectly right up to the interview.

But that rejection email made you stop right there in your tracks and question everything – your efforts, capabilities and your future.

Don’t let the words “We regret to inform you” define you as a person. Get through the different stages of rejection and watch as it strengthens your character and enhances your approach to the application process.

Firstly, allow yourself to go through the grief, briefly. Then, with a little positivity, turn your disappointment into motivation, and use it to develop your personality and resilience to find your dream job!

With experience, you’ll understand that job-hunting is unlike the passes and fails that have defined your academic career so far; there’s no clear-cut way of determining the real reason behind your results, and the only person keeping count of the number of rejections is you.

Be patient, humble and trudge on – in time, you’ll get matched with the right job and find yourself safely established in a career you enjoy.

1

Deal with the rejection

The most important rule about dealing with rejection is to not take it personally. Respond professionally and prevent yourself from overthinking the reason behind your unsuccessful application.

Understand that sometimes the odds are just not in your favour – there may have been an overwhelming number of equally excellent candidates applying for the same position. Ultimately, stay confident in your abilities and know that you have plenty to offer.

2

Ask for feedback

When in doubt, ask. If you went through several rounds of interviews and various assessment tests and still come out short, ask the interviewer for feedback and decide how best to tweak your next application.

Was there a better-qualified candidate? Did they think you weren’t the best fit for their company culture? Look for opportunities to gain relevant work experience.

The information you receive may seem vague at times – “we decided to go in another direction” – but ask anyway. You never know if you’ll get something constructive!

However, don’t be overly persistent if recruiters take a while to respond or don’t get back to you at all.

3

Trust the system

The job-hunting process isn’t as straightforward as you might think, so dwelling on something that isn’t within your control will only do you more harm than good. Instead, count every rejection as a learning experience and let it hone your hunting skills.

Remember to respect the recruiter’s decision – it’s possible that you simply weren’t a good match for the role on offer. Don’t forget that paper qualifications and excellent interviewing skills aren’t enough to secure a position with an organisation; it’s also up to the recruiter’s discretion to ascertain if you’re the best possible fit for the company.

Move forward

Once you’ve fully come to terms with your first rejection, work on getting back into the game. At this point, you should be armed with a stronger resume, be more adept at handling interviews, and have a more realistic expectation of the process.

Don’t give up on other applications. Resilience throughout the job-hunting process is necessary as it’s common for an applicant to receive several rejections before securing a job offer.

What are the possible reasons you didn’t get the job?

Be humble and take this as an opportunity to do some realistic self-analysis on the type of role and work environment you’re most suitable for. Once you’ve gained some perspective on the recruitment process and some self-awareness on what you can offer, you’ll be able to better market yourself to recruiters at your next interview.

With a bit of patience, you may end up with the right role for your skill sets and personality.

There’s no fixed rate of success or shortcut, so you might get accepted for a position after the first few tries, or find yourself sending out dozens of applications before finally getting a foot in the door. Have faith that your tenacity will pay off in the long run.

Also, keep in mind that it’s more than likely your friends are going through the same experience –sharing your feelings may help diffuse your frustrations.

Don’t be discouraged if your peers get job offers before you do. Focus your energy on improving your situation instead. If you require guidance, don’t shy away from seeking the counsel of your school’s career advisors. Their pool of resources and expertise may help you move in the right direction.

JOB OFFERS

Q&A Q&A

There’s proper etiquette to handling job offers, regardless of whether you’re accepting or rejecting them.

Question: I’ve been offered Job A, but I’m also still waiting to hear about Job B. What should I do?

Honesty is the best policy here. Contact Employer A and explain that while you’re very pleased to have been offered the job, you’re still waiting to hear from other organisations and would appreciate a little more time before you can make your decision about the offer. There’s no need to name Employer B. Be upfront about your internal struggles about this decision; chances are the employer will be able to relate to your dilemma. Either way, if you’re a strong candidate, it stands to reason that other employers would be interested in you –Employer A shouldn’t hold this against you.

Note

Remember that you could be held in breach of contract if you accept a job in writing but then decide to turn it down. Under no circumstances should you sign the contract with Employer A just as a “safety net”!

Question: Help! I’ve been put “on hold”! What do I do now?

In cases where an employer happens to have an unusually large number of attractive candidates, it may be tough for them to decide on the best candidate for the position. This is where being “put on hold” comes in – recruiters need time to decide and to get their bosses’ input on the matter.

If you find yourself put “on hold”, there are two things you should do:

• Keep in touch with the recruiter to let them know you’re still interested even as you wait for their response.

• Keep applying for other jobs and attending interviews. It’s dangerous to assume that you’ll be the lucky one to get the job – you may miss the cut. Still, here’s a small consolation if an employer puts you “on hold” –it’s because they think that you’re an incredibly desirable candidate, and aren’t keen on letting you slip away.

Question: Should I negotiate the best possible salary?

The reality of landing most graduate jobs is that you’ll be given a set salary with very little choice in the matter. Note that negotiating your starting pay as a fresh graduate will require a lot of diplomacy. Make sure what you ask for is both reasonable and justifiable. Approach your network of contacts for advice, and find out about the range of salaries on offer from your prospective employer.

Moreover, be prepared to explain why you should be placed at the upper end of the pay bracket instead of what you’ve been initially offered. Also, think about what you’re prepared to accept.

Note

Remuneration is often more than just a paycheque. There may be other benefits such as bonuses, flexible working hours, commissions, pension plans, life policies, or generous annual leave entitlements.

Be sure to consider the whole package before you decide whether or not to bring the matter up.

Question: It’s great that I’ve gotten the offer, but I don’t think I want this particular job anymore. What do I do?

Answer

The key is to not burn any bridges. You may need to call on that company in the future – whether as a client, a networking contact, or even for future career opportunities.

Be sure to inform recruiters as soon as you’ve come to a decision. Whenever possible, call up your recruiters, or even better, drop by the company in person and let them know face-to-face. This shows your sincerity and appreciation for the time that the company has blocked out to consider and assess you.

Additionally, be upfront and honest about your reasons for turning down the offer. Maybe you feel that you’re just not a good fit for the company culture, or you realised after the interview that this job isn’t quite what you were expecting – let the company know.

If you’re a strong candidate, recruiters may even discuss ways to restructure the job role to match your expectations or offer you a different position altogether.

Question: What should I look out for before accepting a job offer?

Answer

Even if you’re told verbally that you’ve been offered the job, you should also expect to receive the offer in writing. This will typically be in the form of an offer letter, followed by a formal employment contract.

Before you sign on the dotted line, though, do proper checks to make sure you’re happy and that everything is as you expect. Keep an eye out for:

• Job title

• Salary and benefits (including travelling, phone, and entertainment allowances)

• Additional incentive compensation

• Employee education

• Probation period

• The notice period (the length of time between resigning and your last day of work)

• Hours of work per day or week

• Paid annual leave and sick leave entitlements

• Holiday, sick pay entitlements and insurance

• The starting date

If everything’s good to go and you’re sure you want the job, then go ahead and put your acceptance down in writing!

What do I do if I spot some errors?

If something doesn’t seem right, make sure you contact the employer immediately to clear up any misunderstandings. The employer should send over a revised offer in writing if any changes are agreed upon.

Negotiating a better package For Your New Job For Your New Job

It takes a lot of courage to negotiate money matters with your recruiters, but with enough research and practice, you should be able to engage in an informed discussion to settle on your financial worth.

Just thinking about talking to graduate applicants about negotiating salary, benefits and remuneration packages may lead you to think along the terrified lines of “What if they decide not to hire me because I asked for more?”

Navigating these negotiations can be pretty tricky, especially when you’re a fresh grad applying for a job for the first time. First of all, most are not sure when, how, or how much to push for. Secondly, if done wrong, it can result in an unfavourable position.

In order to negotiate effectively, you’ll have to do some homework and investigation if you want to convince your recruiter to agree with your appeal. Sprouting something like, “Because I’m worth the price” isn’t going to cut it!

What is your price?

Although everyone has their own salary range in mind, remember that you will need to adapt your expectations according to the type of job you’re applying to. For instance, you might want to be more reserved about your negotiation in extremely structured jobs, such as management consulting jobs; or jobs where there is an enormous amount of supply.

Also, take note of the culture of the organisation and industry: How much are most applicants to this company requesting during their negotiations?

Heads up!

• Never discuss remuneration during the first interview, unless the employer brings it up

• Recruiters usually open negotiations deeper into the interview process

• Most recruiters will have a price range they’re willing to pay

Research the employer and the market

During the negotiations, most recruiters usually start off on the lower end of your range, so it is up to you to persuade them to agree to a higher amount. A good trick to use is to quote a figure towards the higher end because it’ll give you some space to negotiate. If recruiters ask you how you arrived at your range, promote your available skill sets and how you can help develop the company better than the other applicants.

Conversely, there are also some recruiters who advertise the salary as a “negotiable” matter, which usually means that you’ll have to propose a number. The

negotiations will then be done based on those numbers instead. Don’t attempt to jack your price up just because you’re given the opportunity to get the ball rolling!

Some avenues where you can begin your research include:

• Online advertisements and job listings

• Family and friends

• Contacts in the industry

• Careers services

• Professional unions

Other things to take note of

Be sure to weigh your remuneration package against your long-term career objectives, the experience that you want to gain and the company culture that you will be working in. Mull over some compensations that you may be offered in return for what could be a lower salary offered. This could include things like private health coverage, the provision of a car, the quality of your technology assistance, or even bonuses. Discuss these in detail, such as about the basis on which the bonuses are paid. If you’re not sure how to go about this, ask experienced family and friends about what to look out for before you go for your interview!

If you’re going to explore the boundaries, however, be prepared to do thorough research on the company’s

needs and objectives. Draw up a basic outline of how you intend to achieve the criteria you set for yourself to help the company realise its goals too. Come prepared with your outline as it indicates preparation on your part. If the recruiters agree to your proposition, then you’ll have to make sure that the information is clearly reflected in your contract of employment.

Also, take note of some common mistakes you should avoid:

• Not finding out the range you can negotiate for

• Bluffing and creating fictional job offers

• Being too eager or coming off as insincere

Steps to figure out your worth

• Familiarise yourself with the company, industry, and regular salary range and compensation packages normally offered or requested

• Figure out the salary range that complements your skills and experiences

• Justify your price

FYI!

• Some recruiters use salary expectations as an early screening criterion

• Discuss salary as late as possible

• Consider other benefits and incentives offered as well

• If you can’t get the salary you want at the start, negotiate the possibility of a pay raise after your probation period

Adulting

Beginning A New Chapter Beginning A New Chapter

Transitioning from school life to adulthood may not be easy, but you don’t need to be a nervous wreck about it.

As you take your first steps into the working world as a young professional fresh out of school, keep this in mind

– you’re entering a new phase in your life. Working life is more than just surviving the day-to-day hustle. There’s no better time than now to take life by the reins and adopt the best

life routines to get the hang of adulting in the working world as quickly as possible.

How do you start? Well, here’s a quick guide on how you can set the foundation to excel in your next stage in life!

Start your career like a boss

1. Prepare your wardrobe

It doesn’t matter whether your first day is going to be physically in the office or over a virtual platform – dress well for work, but do keep in mind that it’s function over form. Depending on the nature of your work, look after your grooming and dressing to ensure it fits your needs and the image you should portray at work, be it in the office, on a virtual platform, or when you’re facing external associates. Think about what your recruiters or future colleagues were wearing during the recruitment process and plan your outfits accordingly. As a general rule, it’s always best to err on the side of formality on your first day.

2. Make a good first impression

Plan your commute to work with the morning rush in mind. Take the time to also get to know what it takes for you to be alert and functioning in the morning, whether it’s a caffeine fix or a power breakfast.

More than that, remain humble and show enthusiasm and commitment to your role and every given task – even if that means compiling documents to be kept in the right folders or manning the photocopier for a while.

Thrive!

3. Respect everyone

Be friendly and approachable to everyone, whether they’re the managing director or janitor. Treat them with respect and kindness even as you get to know them through observation and interaction.

4. Never stop learning

On-the-job training is commonplace, so keep an open mind and be fearless when it comes to picking up new skills and taking on new projects. In this era, job scopes frequently change and employees are expected to be agile in thinking to deliver results.

It’s never too early to consider ongoing professional development. Make it a point to understand what resources are available at your disposal for further training and improvement – who knows, you may even find new professional areas of interest!

Even if you’re working from home, there are ample opportunities to start your career on the right foot. Know what’s expected of you in your new role and ensure you are fulfilling expectations as required, whether it’s for meeting deadlines or working well with your team.

Take care of your finances like an adult

1. Figure out your new budget

Calculate your monthly expenditure and set aside some funds to cover these. That doesn’t mean that the remainder of your finances goes into your next shopping bonanza! Instead, start building your savings in case a rainy day comes by. You’ll be glad for it once it does.

Thrive!

2. Consider taking up insurance

Look through your current health insurance plan if you have one, and ask yourself if you need a more comprehensive one. If you do, conduct thorough research into which plan suits you best, and take steps to buy your new plan.

Alternatively, you can consider long-term investments.

3. Live within your means

Although the struggle is real, especially with common flash sales on shopping platforms, strive to not spend more than you earn! If you don’t build your discipline now, it may be harder to control your spending habits in the future.

As long as you continue to stick to your budget and build your emergency funds while maintaining relevant insurance plans, chances are that you’re on track to being a successful, responsible adult. At the end of the day, the goal is to make the most of your salary so you don’t need to depend on your parents or anyone else financially.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle

1. Find a diet that works for you

If you’re working from home, instead of getting food delivered every other day, consider cooking. If you’re back in the office, you can bring homecooked food instead. A side benefit is that it tends to be easier on the wallet too!

Thrive!

2. Stay active

This is especially important if your role is deskbound. Find a way to stay active and exercise regularly.

If you dislike the very thought of jogging with a mask on, settle for a brisk walk. If you don’t want to go out, you can work out in the comfort of your living room instead with some Zumba classes over Zoom.

3. Keep your friends and family close

As you undergo this life-changing transition, you’ll need your loved ones’ support and encouragement. Make the effort to spend time with them. If they have more experience than you in the area of adulting, don’t be afraid to ask them for advice as well.

Being a working adult doesn’t end at the workplace. If you’re not taking care of your health, finances and mental well-being, it’ll be harder for you to be an excellent employee. Take some time to plan your schedule so you can fit in a fulfilling life outside of your 9-to-5, so once it’s time for work, you feel energised and happy to give your all. That’s when you know you’ve cracked the adulting code!

Industry Sectors Industry Sectors

Explore industries that align with your passion and interests to find a job that utilises your skills and fuels your engagement.

Accounting and Financial Management Accounting and Financial Management

Acareer in accountancy is often rich in opportunity, financially rewarding and globally mobile. Accountancy professionals can be found in many industries and sectors around the world.

Graduates typically start as trainees and work their way towards obtaining the required certifications – a process that takes about three years at a minimum.

Aspiring Chartered Accountants who want to practise in Singapore will also have to complete the Singapore CA Qualification (formerly known as the Singapore Qualification Programme), while all practicing accountants must be registered with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority of Singapore (ACRA).

Attributes needed

• A team player

• Ability to work under pressure

• An interest in business

• Good communication skills

• Numeracy skills

• Problem-solving skills

Types of jobs

• Consultant

• Corporate finance

• Financial accountant

• Internal auditing

• Management accountant

• Tax accountant

Job-hunting tips

• Most employers utilise online application forms and competencybased interviews

• Certifying institutes typically have lists of members and/or recruiting organisations available on their websites

Work experience

Hopefuls can consider internship programmes with the Big Four or some smaller firms. Otherwise, successful applicants can expect to be mentored and trained on the job.

Deadlines

Applications to the top firms, such as the Big Four, typically have deadlines ranging from August to September.

On the other hand, large corporations and financial services groups have deadlines that can run up to October or November. Mid-tier firms and SMEs often accept applications all year-round.

Did you know?

With Singapore facing a 10 per cent decline in students pursuing accounting degrees in the past five years, the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) has launched a proactive $1 million programme to inspire renewed interest in the field.

Most popular employers

1. Deloitte

2. PwC

3. KPMG

4. BDO LLP

5. EY

6. Baker Tilly

7. Mazars

8. General Electric (GE)

9. Ministry of Finance (MOF)

10. SeaGroup

Source: Singapore Graduate Barometer 2024 edition

Working in arts and design is becoming an increasingly popular choice for graduates in Singapore despite the perceived insecurity of a career in this sector.

This sector encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including visual art, design, crafts and performing arts. Artists can also apply their skills to the education and healthcare sectors as teachers or art therapists. On the other hand, designers can work in sectors such as fashion, advertising and marketing.

A less publicised – but just as vital – area of work is arts management. Individuals who prefer a technical and conventional role in this sector may choose to pursue this line of work.

Attributes needed

• Ability to work independently

• Business acumen

• Creativity

• Persistence

• Problem-solving skills

Arts and Design Arts and Design

Types of jobs

• Visual arts: Artist, painter, sculptor, designer, craft worker, photographer

• Performing arts: Actor, musician, dancer, choreographer, conductor, composer

• Design: Graphic designer, interior designer, multimedia artist and animator, fashion designer

• Arts management: Curator, talent management, fundraiser, museum/ gallery/theatre administrator

• Technical: Make-up artist, lighting engineer, sound engineer, cameraperson, production designer

• Writing: Novelist, poet, scriptwriter, arts writer/critic

• Community: Art therapist, art teacher/ lecturer, community arts facilitator

Job-hunting tips

• Networking is key as opportunities here are typically found via word-ofmouth. You can consider freelancing, especially since newcomers can make use of the support and resources from organisations such as the National Arts Council

• For those seeking commercial success, a combination of creativity and professionalism is crucial. Aspiring artists must be able to market and brand themselves effectively to interested parties or paymasters. More enterprising individuals may even consider launching a start-up to monetise their work

Work experience

Certain arts organisations do offer internships or work placement programmes. For developing artists or craftspeople, the traditional practice of being apprenticed to a master or experienced artist is still encouraged, although such an arrangement may be slightly more difficult to negotiate here in Singapore.

Nowadays, however, more artists prefer to let their own works speak for themselves. As such, hopefuls should get involved with arts-related societies or student clubs while still on campus, and work towards building, publishing and publicising their portfolio.

Did you know?

The first university to focus on the arts in Singapore has taken in its inaugural batch of students in August 2024. The University of the Arts (UAS) aims to drive transformation efforts in the arts sector and make the arts more accessible to all Singaporeans.

Aviation, Transport and Supply Chain Aviation, Transport and Supply Chain

Supply chains handle the fast, safe and efficient movement of goods, materials and services while transport planning and management oversee the designing of systems that move people and cargo through land, air and sea.

Singapore’s Industry Transport Map (ITM) for the logistics sector aims to strengthen productivity and innovation through the use of technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and collaborative robotics. Moreover, the emergence of new delivery capabilities, such as autonomous vehicles and 3D printing, is likely to impact logistics and the design of supply chains.

Attributes needed

• A team player

• Analytical skills

• Good negotiation skills

• Interpersonal skills

• Numerical skills

• Problem-solving skills

• Project management skills

• Strategic thinking

Types of employers

• Civil engineering firms

• Courier services

• Logistics and distribution companies

• Retail and consumer goods chains

• Specialist consultancies

• Transport planning companies

• Transport providers

Types of jobs

• Analyst

• Consultant

• Inventory manager

• Logistics engineer

• Purchasing manager

• Supply-chain manager

• Support functions

Job-hunting tips

• Positions are open to applicants from all degree backgrounds for supply chain and logistics roles, though some employers may favour business or supply chain-related degrees. Organisations involved in transport planning may also require a related degree

• Application procedures typically involve online applications and a round of psychometric tests. It may even include a video interview and a day in an assessment centre, so be prepared!

Work experience

There aren’t many formal internships in this sector, so those who wish to enter can look to building experience in other ways, such as getting a part-time, manual job at a warehouse.

Did you know?

With the internet continuously expanding across the globe, the number of online shoppers is still on the rise. An estimate even predicts that by 2040, 95 per cent of all purchases made will be facilitated by e-commerce!

Most popular employers

1. Changi Airport Group

Singapore Airlines

Airbus

Maersk 5. DHL Supply Chain 6. Scoot Tigerair Pte Ltd 7. PSA Corporation Ltd 8. SMRT Corporation Ltd

Thales 10. BP

Source: Singapore Graduate Barometer 2024 edition

Banking and Financial Services Banking and Financial Services

Singapore has established a flourishing financial hub that serves both its domestic economy as well as the wider Asia Pacific region. But with more and more financial institutions now under increased scrutiny by governments in the wake of the global credit crisis, the role of compliance and risk has taken on a more significant role in this sector.

Insurers and banks alike are now on the lookout for talent with experience in operational and business risk.

Attributes needed

• A team player

• Analytical skills

• Client-focused

• Commercial awareness

• Problem-solving skills

Types of employers

• Building societies and credit unions

• Corporate and commercial banks

• Insurance companies

• Investment banks and stockbrokers

• Retail banks

Types of jobs

• Actuaries

• Broking

• Business functions (e.g. IT, marketing, HR)

• Client relationship management

• Corporate banking

• Retail banking

• Risk and compliance

• Trading, equity analysis

Job-hunting tips

• Graduate recruitment programmes within financial services generally use multi-stage recruitment processes that include online applications, psychometric testing, assessment centres and interviews

• Conversely, companies without a structured graduate programme generally rely on interviews for their selection

Work experience

Summer internships and work experience placements are available at larger financial institutions.

Deadlines

Deadlines for formal graduate programmes tend to be from August to September. However, employers recruit for fund accounting and general financial services roles throughout the year.

Did you know?

Banks in Singapore are leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning to streamline routine tasks, analyse customer behaviour, and enhance risk management.

Bank of Singapore

United Overseas Bank (UOB)

Ministry of Finance (MOF)

Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) 9. Citi Singapore

Standard Chartered Bank

Source: Singapore Graduate Barometer 2024 edition

Charities and Social Services Charities and Social Services

This sector includes charities and other organisations that run on a not-for-profit basis, ranging from very small and locally-based bodies to large national and international entities.

Singapore is currently home to around 140 international not-forprofit organisations. These include intergovernmental organisations (IGOs), non-governmental organisations (NGOs) with a social, humanitarian or environmental focus, philanthropic foundations, think tanks and corporate sustainability-related organisations.

On a smaller scale, there are also numerous local voluntary welfare organisations in Singapore championing everything from support for AIDS patients to education grants and animal rights.

Social services, on the other hand, tend to take place in the public sector –hospitals, special education schools and welfare centres – although the role of private and voluntary organisations are just as important.

Attributes needed

• Communication skills

• Good interpersonal skills

• High empathy

• Passion

• Perseverance

• Technical skills (dependent on role)

Types of jobs

Depending on the area and type of work involved, specialist skills in areas such as healthcare, education and construction may be needed. In more general roles, strong administrative and practical skills are required. International travel may be an option in some instances.

Some main employment categories include:

• Administration

• Fundraising

• Policy, research and strategies

• Service delivery

Job-hunting tips

• Entry requirements vary depending on the type of work involved. However, graduates must always demonstrate that they are committed to the organisation and can help its cause to grow

• A speculative approach may be fruitful in this sector. Identify organisations of interest and contact them directly even if they do not appear to have job openings

Work experience

While paid work experience can be hard to find, it’s very easy to get voluntary experience.

Students can also consider looking overseas for such opportunities, if there’s a willingness to travel at this point in time. Alternatively, formal research work on social causes and their related areas of interest while still in school can be taken up.

Deadlines

Application deadlines vary widely across this sector. Organisations sending volunteers or workers abroad will have clear deadlines to meet, while general fundraising and administrative positions tend to be available all year round.

Did you know?

Five of the world’s top conservation NGOs – Worldwide Fund for Nature, Conservation International, Wildlife Conservation Society, Birdlife International and Fauna & Flora International – have their regional headquarters in Singapore.

Construction Construction

Singapore’s construction industry is entering an exciting phase of transformation, fueled by advancements in technology and a strong push for sustainability.

With initiatives like the adoption of Integrated Digital Delivery (IDD) and green building standards, the sector is redefining how projects are planned, executed, and maintained. For instance, a significant contribution to this sector has come in the shape of green bonds on select public infrastructure projects, like Tuas Nexus, due for completion in 2025.

Demand from the public sector, such as the development of new MRT lines, BTO housing, as well as health infrastructure, continues to be high.

Renewable energy, energy efficiency consultancy, waste management, recovery, recycling and water and wastewater management are some of the many sub-areas within the construction industry projected to grow by leaps and bounds as well.

Attributes needed

• A team player

• An independent worker

• An eye for detail

• Organisational skills

• Sound technical knowledge

Types of employers

• Construction firms

• Consultancy firms

• Demolition companies

• Design consultants

• Engineering consultancy firms

• Financing and investment companies

• General contractors

• Government development boards

• Multi-disciplinary construction groups

• Property developers

• Utility companies

Types of jobs

• Architect

• Building project manager

• Building services engineer

• Civil engineer

• Construction estimator

• Consulting engineer

• Contracts manager

• Energy consultant

• Facilities manager

• Health and safety

• Project manager

• Quantity surveyor

Job-hunting tips

• Sustainable development or “green construction” knowledge is in high demand among construction-related employers. Be sure to highlight such knowledge, skills or qualifications if they’re possessed, or consider picking them up

• As construction companies tend to be more low-key about hiring graduates, hopefuls should take proactive steps to network with employers, or get involved with relevant professional bodies which may be able to set them in the right direction

Work experience

Some construction companies prefer summer internships while others have more flexible internship programmes. Check in with campus career services centres.

Deadlines

Certain large companies have structured graduate recruitment programmes, with deadlines either from January to February, or August to September. However, most construction companies recruit all year-round whenever vacancies arise.

Did you know?

It is estimated that the construction demand in the private sector is set to hit $11 billion to $14 billion every year between 2022 and 2025.

Consulting Consulting

Consultants go into an organisation and assess ways to improve the company’s profit-making ability, efficiency, or position in the market. They’ll then implement a plan to help the client achieve its goals.

A popular choice among graduates, consulting is a coveted career path because of the very attractive salaries offered. More than that, there’s also a wide variety of job roles as graduates get to work on several different projects, and perhaps even get the opportunity to travel.

However, working in high-pressure environments is to be expected, and often against very tight deadlines. Consultancy firms also often specialise in a particular sector such as IT or finance.

Attributes needed

• Analytical skills

• Commercial awareness

• Creativity

• Good interpersonal skills

• Problem-solving skills

Types of employers

• Financial advisory consultancy

• Human resource consultancy

• IT consultancy

• Management/strategic consultancy

• Public relations consultancy

Career path

Newcomers generally start out as analysts and remain there for about three years. The company may then encourage the pursuit of a postgraduate degree at this point before allowing a graduate to become a consultant, where another two to three years will be spent.

The next step is to become a lead consultant or manager, before becoming a partner in the firm or an industry specialist. Seasoned professionals can even break off and form their own consultancy firms.

Job-hunting tips

• Practise case studies before applying; they tend to make or break applications

• Read business pages for commercial awareness. Keep an eye on successful or innovative advertising and branding campaigns, and figure out what makes them work

• Keep abreast of the latest trends in management, finance, operations, HR and IT

Work experience

Many consultancy firms in Singapore offer summer internships. Keep an eye out for them and apply as early as possible to avoid missing out.

Deadlines

Application deadlines for full-time positions and graduate programmes close around September and October.

Did you know?

No two days are alike for management consultants. The broad range of work means creating solutions on a case-bycase basis tailored to each client, so professionals usually end up with a very wide scope of tasks.

Most popular employers

1. McKinsey & Company

2. Accenture

3. KPMG

4. Boston Consulting Group

5. Deloitte

6. PwC

7. Bain & Company

8. EY

9. AECOM

10. Arup

Source: Singapore Graduate Barometer 2024 edition

Education Education

People considering a career in education usually aim to become a primary, secondary, or junior college teacher.

However, there are other roles such as special educational needs teachers, Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) teachers, career guides and educational psychologists, as well.

The teaching industry in Singapore is primarily run by the Ministry of Education (MOE), with only a small proportion of teachers employed by private education institutes such as preschool centres, and local and private tertiary institutions.

Attributes needed

• Communication skills

• Interpersonal skills

• Organisational skills

• Passion

• Time management skills

Types of employers

• Adult education centres

• Junior colleges

• Primary schools

• Secondary schools

• Universities, polytechnics or technical institutes

Types of jobs

• Career counsellor

• Educational psychologist

• Junior college lecturer/teacher

• Nursery school teacher

• Primary school teacher

• Secondary school teacher

• TEFL

• University/polytechnic lecturer/ facilitator

Job-hunting tips

• The MOE typically allocates teaching subjects based on the needs of the school and the teacher’s academic qualifications

• Applicants looking to specialise in a certain subject have to undergo an Entrance Proficiency Test administered by the MOE

• Private education providers tend to use more specialised, low-key recruitment efforts. Check with campus career centres or take more proactive steps to hunt for openings

Work experience

Though it’s possible to get work experience by doing volunteer teaching before graduation, prior experience may not be necessary for a teaching role.

Deadlines

Recruitment drives take place at least twice a year. Candidates are shortlisted, selected and trained before being fielded to schools at the start of the academic year.

Did you know?

MOE teachers are entitled to about 100 hours of professional development per year. They’re also appraised annually with multiple measures such as contribution to academic and character development of their students, collaborations with parents and community groups and contributions to their colleagues and the school.

Engineering, Design and Manufacturing Engineering, Design and Manufacturing

Engineering is a thriving sector in Singapore, with companies benefitting from a strong local supplier base and vast connectivity to the region, along with formidable research and development (R&D) infrastructure.

Key growth areas include electronics manufacturing, biomedical and chemicalrelated industries, medical technology, aerospace, precision engineering and marine engineering.

The “green economy” is also growing as a potential source of employment through areas such as renewable energy sources. Other significant areas for jobs include the engineering solutions/control and automation sector, as well as research into nano- and biotechnology; fields the government is actively promoting.

Attributes needed

• A team player

• Communication skills

• Problem-solving skills

• Project management skills

• Strong technical ability

Types of employers

• Aviation industry

• Business consultants

• Construction companies

• Engineering consultancy firms

• Manufacturers (food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, computers, telecommunications, among others)

• Medical device industry

• Process engineering companies

• Public sector organisations

• Research and development organisations

Types of jobs

• Biomedical engineering

• Business and management roles

• Chemical and process engineering

• Civil and structural engineering

• Design and development

• Electronic engineering

• Environmental engineering

• Mechanical engineering

• Production

• Quality assurance

• Research and development roles

Job-hunting tips

• Large companies in need of engineers typically recruit directly through careers services centres. Though they do also advertise for job openings online, those typically tend to be for more experienced positions

• Smaller companies normally recruit on an “as needed” basis, advertising through websites and newspapers. Keep an eye peeled for any that may pop up!

Work experience

For engineering students, the real takeaway of work experience is that it’ll let them see theory applied in real-world situations, and will give examples of how skills can be used – something which can be discussed at job interviews.

Many employers in this sector also like to use work placements as a way of screening potential employees.

Deadlines

Most employers in this sector fill vacancies through continuous recruitment.

Did you know?

The demand for engineers in Singapore is on the rise, fueled by public-sector investments in infrastructure and renewable energy, as well as innovation within the private sector.

Most popular employers

1. Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)

2. Micron

3. Defence Science & Technology Agency (DSTA)

4. Rolls-Royce

5. Airbus

6. DSO National Laboratories

7. 3M

8. ST Engineering

9. Land Transport Authority (LTA)

10. Intel

Source: Singapore Graduate Barometer 2024 edition

Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG)

Fast-moving consumer goods, or FMCG, is a sector that encompasses products with a quick shelf turnover, such as toiletries, cosmetics, processed food, detergents and plastic goods.

Many graduates are attracted to careers in this sector because there’s constant growth in the consumer market, and therefore plenty of room for progression.

FMCG companies require graduates from many disciplines due to the wide selection of roles available within the industry.

Attributes needed

• A team player

• Commercial awareness

• Communication skills

• Good interpersonal skills

• Problem-solving skills

Types of employers

Large companies that manufacture FMCG products, such as:

• Cosmetic companies

• Detergent manufacturers

• Food and drinks companies

• Pharmaceutical companies

Types of jobs

• Food technology (developing and improving existing food products)

• Human resources

• Marketing

• Research and development

• Sales

• Supply chain management

Job-hunting tips

• Once graduates have identified the companies that they plan to apply with, they should research their individual brands

• Pay special attention to advertising campaigns, and make sure to have a good understanding of all the company’s products in mind before turning in the application forms

Work experience

Some companies offer three-month summer internships, while others offer year-long placements. Check out individual company websites to see what’s on offer.

Deadlines

Like most other companies, FMCG employers launch recruitment drives around the months of August and September. However, many companies also accept applications all year-round.

Did you know?

In recent years, FMCG trends in Asia included increased price sensitivity, higher digital engagement and a redefinition of brand purpose in companies.

Most popular employers

1. Nestlé

2. L’Oréal

3. Unilever

4. Procter & Gamble

5. LVMH

6. Mondelēz International

7. Dyson

8. Johnson & Johnson

9. 3M

10. Sephora

Source: Singapore Graduate Barometer 2024 edition

Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Healthcare and Pharmaceutical

One of Singapore’s hallmarks is its comprehensive healthcare system. At present, there are three regional healthcare provision systems spread out island-wide to facilitate integrated healthcare delivery.

Research-wise, more than 50 companies carry out biomedical R&D here, including 30 of the world’s leading biomedical sciences corporations.

Several leading international private healthcare providers have also established operations here in Singapore to advance into the Asia Pacific region.

Attributes needed

• A team player

• Communication skills

• Good technical knowledge

• Organisational skills

• Resilience

Types of employers

• Care agencies/homes

• Community-based healthcare centres

• Dental surgeries

• Medical laboratories

• Pharmaceutical companies

• Private and government hospitals/ clinics

• Private surgeries

• Public sector

Types of jobs

• Clinical psychologist

• Dental surgeon/orthodontist

• Medical consultant/public health doctor/chief medical officer

• Nurse

• Nutritionist/dietician

• Optician

• Radiographer

• Specialised therapist

Job-hunting tips

• For most specialist medical posts, a particular undergraduate or conversion postgraduate qualification and accreditation by the Specialists Accreditation Board (SAB) is needed, as well as a Singapore Medical Council (SMC) registration

• Pharmacists must be registered with the Singapore Pharmacy Council (SPC) before they can practise. This includes undergoing pre-registration training and passing a competency assessment

Work experience

Most medical degree programmes incorporate clinical placements, which ensure that students gain relevant experience in a supervised environment.

Did you know?

According to the 2023 Legatum Prosperity Index, Singapore ranked 1st among 104 countries, in the “health component” category measuring the extent to which people are healthy and have access to the services needed to maintain good health.

Most popular employers

1. Ministry of Health (MOH)

2. National University Health System (NUHS)

3. National Healthcare Group

4. Singapore Health Services (SingHealth)

5. Pfizer

6. Abbott

7. Johnson & Johnson

8. GSK

9. Alexandra Health

10. Merck

Source: Singapore Graduate Barometer 2024 edition

Hospitality, Leisure and Tourism Hospitality, Leisure and Tourism

Singapore’s hospitality, tourism, and leisure industry is thriving, offering diverse opportunities for graduates eager to make their mark. From managing world-class hotels and positioning them for future growth to innovating in areas like IT, marketing, and HR, the sector is constantly evolving. With Singapore welcoming over 14 million international visitors in 2023 and the tourism recovery showing no signs of slowing, this vibrant industry is a cornerstone of the nation’s economy, blending creativity, technology, and service excellence.

The industry places much emphasis on professional development – whether training or a postgraduate qualification –but experience is also key to a successful career.

As such, it’s common to spend time on the “frontline” as part of a training scheme to gain a well-rounded perspective, though career progression can be rapid.

Attributes needed

• A team player

• Communication skills

• Customer-oriented

• Organisational skills

• Problem-solving skills

Types of employers

• Event management companies

• Hotels and accommodation providers

• Leisure centres and sports/social clubs

• National and regional tourism organisations

• Restaurants, pubs and entertainment venues

• Travel agents and tour operators

Types of jobs

• Events coordinator

• Fitness instructor

• Hotel/restaurant/catering manager/ chef

• Leisure centre manager

• Tourism development officer

• Tourism officer or manager

• Travel agent manager

Job-hunting tips

• Get as much work experience as possible. Alternatively, contact a local hospitality or tourism organisation and ask to work shadow a professional

• When looking for a permanent position, find out whether there are formal graduate training schemes available

• If there aren’t any formal graduate training schemes available, send a speculative application detailing interest in the industry/employer and highlight any relevant work experience

Work experience

Recruiters see work experience, regardless of past jobs, as evidence of commitment and skill. Even temporary work in support functions, such as in finance or HR, can help provide new insights into the industry. This can enhance a candidate’s resume if they can demonstrate what they’ve learnt.

Deadlines

Some larger organisations run formal training schemes, with their deadlines typically being between August and October. On the other hand, others may recruit on an as-needed basis.

Did you know?

Singapore’s Changi Airport, consistently ranked as one of the world’s best airports, is not just a transportation hub—it’s also a leisure destination. With attractions like the Jewel complex featuring the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, it welcomed over 20 million visitors in 2023, making it a key player in Singapore’s hospitality and tourism ecosystem!

Most popular employers

1. Mandai Wildlife Group

2. Changi Airport Group

3. Resorts World Sentosa

4. Singapore Airlines

5. Singapore Tourism Board (STB)

6. Ritz-Carlton Millenia

7. Intercontinental Hotels Group (IHG)

8. Scoot Tigerair Pte Ltd

9. Starwood Hotels & Resorts

10. Park Hotel Group

Source: Singapore Graduate Barometer 2024 edition

Investment Banking and Investment Management Investment Banking and Investment Management

Investment management involves safeguarding and maximising investments on behalf of institutions, corporations or individuals. Graduates usually work in investment divisions of investment banks or for fund management firms, also known as asset management companies.

Investment banking activities occur on three levels – front office (financing, sales, trading, research), middle office (risk management, strategy, compliance), and back office (operations and technology). Fresh graduates can apply for positions in all three offices of an investment bank or try for smaller boutique or brokerage firms.

Attributes needed

• Good interpersonal skills

• High motivation

• Highly adaptable

• Numeracy skills

Types of employers

• Fund administrators

• Fund managers

• Fund promoters

• Investment banks

Types of jobs

• Accountants

• Client relationship/client services managers

• Fund administrators

• Portfolio managers

• Research analysts

• Support functions

Job-hunting tips

• Investment banks typically conduct on-campus recruitment once or twice a year, so keep your eyes peeled!

• Contrary to popular belief, you don’t necessarily need a business or finance degree to work in investment management. What matters most are your relevant transferable skills and interest in the markets

• Most graduates start their career in this sector as financial analysts, so conduct some research on that role beforehand to figure out how you can meet employers’ needs

Work experience

Investment banks and funds industry organisations often use formal internships as part of their recruitment process, which can put you in a stronger position to be recruited by that employer. There are also some who only hire through internship conversion.

Deadlines

Application deadlines tend to fall in the second half of the year. Check employers’ websites for specific details.

Did you know?

Investment banks and institutions also value graduates with backgrounds in engineering and computer science. This dynamic sector hires graduates from a variety of fields.

Most popular employers

Singapore Graduate Barometer

IT and Technology IT and Technology

Singapore’s position as a global IT hub is evident in the many leading technology companies that have made the city-state a key node in their global network and contributed to the nation’s vibrant cloud computing ecosystem.

It’s not just tech companies that need IT graduates, though – the latest trends in IT and technology have ensured that financial technology, cybersecurity and cognitive technology, among others, permeate other career sectors. Now, virtually every organisation uses IT, from government departments to international investment banks. In addition, remote operations in the new normal have accelerated technology adoption in companies as they begin to settle into hybrid work models.

The great range of tasks now present in the industry has also ensured that, with some years of experience, graduates have the opportunity to branch out as contractors or consultants.

Attributes needed

• Adaptable

• Commercial awareness

• Communication skills

• Problem-solving skills

• Technical skills

Types of employers

• Multinational software and hardware companies

• Retail and investment banks

• Software companies

• State and semi-state bodies and organisations

• Technical and business consultancies

• Telecommunications services providers

Types of jobs

• Network engineer

• Programmer/software developer

• Project manager

• Security consultant

• Software engineer

• Systems analyst/business analyst

• Technical sales

• Technical support

• Web developer

Job-hunting tips

• IT employers often stick to more conventional means of recruitment – campus events, job postings and recruitment fairs – to attract graduate applications

• Online application forms are common in this sector, so be sure to prepare digital copies of all necessary materials before applying

Work experience

Employers in this sector tend to be more discreet about advertising their work experience opportunities. Check in with campus career services centres, or touch base with employers directly if they happen to be at an event.

Deadlines

Larger IT companies typically stick to deadlines in August and September, while others have continuous recruitment. However, if an IT job in another industry is preferred, much like banking, make sure to check the deadlines for their recruitment cycles.

Did you know?

Estimations have shown that by 2025, there’ll be 149 million new technology-oriented jobs around the world, spanning areas such as privacy and trust, all the way to data analytics, cybersecurity and software and cloud development.

Most popular employers

1. Microsoft

2. Amazon

3. TikTok

4. Advanced Micro Devices (AMD)

5. Government Technology Agency (GovTech)

6. Accenture

7. Micron

8. Defence Science & Technology Agency (DSTA)

9. Dyson

10. SingTel

Source: Singapore Graduate Barometer 2024 edition

Law Law

Law is an exciting but competitive career, and the rewards are good if you enjoy challenges and thrive on hard work. Specialisation is also becoming increasingly important for medium to larger firms of solicitors, particularly in areas such as insolvency, litigation and employment law.

In this sector, experience in corporate or commercial law, renewable energy and commercial contracts procurement is likely to help career progression.

However, to practise law in Singapore, candidates must be either a Singaporean or Singapore permanent resident, have a second-class honours law degree or higher and be admitted to the Singapore Bar.

Attributes needed

• Ability to work under pressure

• Analytical skills

• Communication skills

• Highly committed

• Solid networking skills

Types of employers

• In-house corporate solicitors’ departments

• Private practice

• Public sector

Job-hunting tips

To be admitted to the Singapore Bar, graduates must first serve a practice training period under a qualified lawyer –unless an exemption is procured.

Obtaining practice trainee positions with the more renowned law firms is a highly competitive scramble in Singapore, so networking and strengthening relationships with contacts is a must.

Work experience

• Consider taking up paralegal jobs as a student to meet contacts and form networks within the legal sphere

• Hopefuls can also get involved in areas where legal knowledge is always welcome, such as an internship with a political campaign, or joining an NGO or social work organisation

Deadlines

Certain firms hire all year-round, while others have fixed recruitment dates. Check their websites for specific details.

Did you know?

Solicitors, or “associates”, are general practitioners of the law. They provide a broad service to individuals and organisations, dispensing legal advice and information, as well as implementing legal procedures and transactions. The work is generally very varied.

Media and Advertising Media and Advertising

This is an area that offers many career choices. Within the print media, opportunities – from reporters to photographers – are available for people from a range of academic backgrounds. Public relations (PR) and advertising are also lucrative industries in Singapore.

Graduate roles in publishing include those of editorial assistant, journalist, proofreader, copy-editor or designer.

However, these roles can be quite demanding, especially when deadlines approach. Advertising, in particular, has a reputation for being very competitive.

Attributes needed

• A self-starter

• Communication skills

• Creativity

• Good interpersonal skills

• Organisational skills

Types of employers

• Advertising agencies

• Broadcasters

• Newspapers, magazines and web publishers

• Political parties and government agencies

• PR firms

• Publishing houses and specialist publishers

Types of jobs

• Account executive

• Copywriter

• Editor

• Editorial assistant

• Event manager

• Graphic designer

• Junior reporter/journalist

• Photographer

• Political researcher

• PR officer

Job-hunting tips

• Portfolios are key in this industry, so hopefuls should publish their work. Get involved in PR roles for school events on campus

• School publications, blogs, campus radio and involvement in clubs and societies can also boost experience and develop skills

Deadlines

Media companies typically recruit as and when vacancies arise, though certain large companies may offer graduate schemes. Check individual company websites for deadlines.

Did you know?

Foreign news organisations, such as Reuters and Dow Jones, maintain bases in Singapore. In addition, the Asian editions of the Wall Street Journal Asia (WSJA), Newsweek, The Economist and TIME are printed in, and distributed here.

Most popular employers

1. Mediacorp

2. The Walt Disney Company

3. Singapore Press Holdings (SPH)

4. Bloomberg

5. Infocomm and Media Development Authority (IMDA)

6. NBC Universal

7. HBO Asia

8. Ogilvy

9. Leo Burnett Singapore

10. Dentsu

Source: Singapore Graduate Barometer 2024 edition

Property and Real Estate Property and Real Estate

Acareer in property involves a range of work from sales and lettings to property management and consultancy services. Graduates will work with clients interested in investing in residential, commercial and industrial property, as well as land to be developed. This field has opportunities for graduates of any discipline, but those in business, economics, law, construction and engineering are particularly helpful. However, some areas of work – like property surveying – will require more specific degrees or qualifications as stipulated by the government. For example, property surveyors and real estate agents must be registered with the Land Surveyors Board (LSB) and the Council for Estate Agencies (CEA) respectively.

Attributes needed

• An eye for detail

• Commercial awareness

• Communication skill

• Good interpersonal skills

• Problem-solving skills

Types of employers

• Asset management and investment consultancies

• Estate agents

• Financial services providers

• Large corporations and retail chains

• Property construction and development companies

• Public sector

• Valuation consultancies

Types of jobs

• Auctioneers

• Consultants

• Property managers

• Sales, lettings and acquisitions

• Valuers

Job-hunting tips

• The graduate recruitment process varies between employers. Larger companies may look for potential candidates at recruitment talks and careers fairs, while smaller companies hire as needed

• As job opportunities aren’t widely advertised, it’s generally recommended to send in speculative applications

• Communication and marketing skills are key, so hopefuls should make sure that their application highlights them to the company requirements

• Business awareness needs to be shown, so keep up-to-date with property trends and the trade press

Work experience

Most large property development companies have internship programmes lasting two to six months. As there’s high demand for these positions, graduates should apply early in order to secure placements.

Did you know?

A common misconception about real estate agents is that they earn a lot. Real estate agents actually don’t have a set benchmark for their salaries as they earn via commission, thus making their wages highly unpredictable.

Most popular employers

1. CapitaLand

2. Mapletree

3. City Developments Limited

4. JTC Corporation

5. Housing & Development Board (HDB)

6. Keppel Corporation

7. Knight Frank

8. Far East Organization

9. Ascendas

10. Jones Lang LaSalle

Source: Singapore Graduate Barometer 2024 edition

Public Sector Public Sector

The public sector is Singapore’s largest employer, employing an estimated 153,000 officers across 16 ministries and more than 50 statutory boards.

As this sector is all about influencing and helping people – and not just profit margins – most people find a career in public service very fulfilling. There’s usually a great deal of training offered, work practices tend to be flexible and job security is typically less of a concern.

The roles and responsibilities of the public sector are wide, but as its name implies, the core focus of the public sector is to provide services to the general public, such as education and welfare. They are also responsible for defending the country, whether through physical force (navy, land and air forces, etc.) or other means like cybersecurity. To put it simply, the public sector works for the sake of the people.

Attributes needed

• A team player

• Communication skills

• Good interpersonal skills

• High empathy

• Organisational skills

Types of employers

• Civil service and government agencies

• Higher education institutes

Types of jobs

Work in the public sector can vary, and includes:

• Accounting, administration and management

• Community care and welfare

• Healthcare

• Media and communications

• Research

• Specialist roles (e.g. architecture, surveying, engineering, IT, among others)

Job-hunting tips

• The public sector offers a diverse range of jobs, with good opportunities to transfer to a preferred area of work. As such, applicants should conduct some research beforehand so they can talk about their ideal career progression at the interview

• Be prepared for psychometric tests and multiple rounds of interviews

Work experience

Prior work experience isn’t particularly important as most ministries will provide on-the-job training.

Deadlines

The public sector recruits all year-round. Check individual ministry and statutory board websites for details.

Did you know?

Singapore’s parliamentary government system is based on the Westminster model, a series of conventions and procedures used in the Palace of Westminster, the location of Parliament in the United Kingdom (U.K.).

Most popular employers

1. Ministry of Education (MOE)

2. Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA)

3. Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)

4. Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)

5. Ministry of Defence (MINDEF)

6. Ministry Of Health (MOH)

7. Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF)

8. National Environment Agency (NEA)

9. Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA)

10. Maritime and Port Authority (MPA)

Source: Singapore Graduate Barometer 2024 edition

Sales and Marketing Sales and Marketing

Acareer in sales involves business development, promoting a business, obtaining orders and maintaining customer relationships. Marketing, on the other hand, involves the maximising of profits through developing strategies and promoting products, services and ideas that cater to the demands of the market.

Sales encompasses two possible areas of work: retail sales and corporate sales. A career in retail sales, though less “glamourous”, tends to give early responsibilities and fast career progression, thanks to its rapid expansion.

On the other hand, corporate sales require a greater amount of strategy and an integration of multiple soft skills.

While salespeople are mainly involved in promoting business growth, marketing professionals will need to work closely with colleagues across several departments to successfully expand the organisation’s reach.

This may include the sales team, market research team and production and distribution staff. With the rise of social media marketing, graduates should also be digitally-savvy and have a strong awareness of market trends.

Attributes needed

• A team player

• Commercial awareness

• Communication skills

• Problem-solving skills

• Resilience

Types of employers

• Accounting, administration and management

• Consumer banks

• Corporate firms

• Insurance companies

• Manufacturers

• Product vendors/distributors

Types of jobs

• Brand management

• Business development

• Market research

• Marketing executive

• Merchandising

• Sales

• Social media specialist

• Store management

Job-hunting tips

• Research employers and their products thoroughly before applying –candidates are often given case studies and role plays within interviews. This also applies to marketing roles

• During job interviews for a marketing role, an ability to market oneself is a reflection of an applicant’s capability to market a product. Show confidence and demonstrate a capacity to think out of the box with concrete examples from past experiences

• Experience regarding dealing with customers is extremely important. It will make interviews easier if candidates can draw on their own previous working experiences

Work experience

For retail sales, part-time or summer jobs in stores over school holidays are excellent opportunities to gain experience. Internships in corporate sales are less common, so hopefuls may want to dig for roles where they will be exposed to dealing with customers or clients. Relevant internship work experience is useful if a marketing role is sought. Experience in marketing activities and experience gained through on-campus events or clubs and societies can also be beneficial for the job hunt.

Deadlines

Companies usually recruit salespeople and marketers all year-round, as and when needed.

Did you know?

Customer service, as well as sales and marketing expertise, are still in demand despite technological advancements. For instance, sales and marketing professionals with experience in the fields of big data, e-commerce and digital transformation are highly valued.

Scientific Research and Development Scientific Research and Development

Over the past few decades, Singapore has become one of the world’s most R&D-intensive countries, and the government has committed to investing a substantial amount over the coming years.

The environment and renewable energy are hot topics even in the present pandemic and subsequent economic downturn, and science graduates can easily find diverse opportunities.

Many of the world’s top medical device and pharmaceutical companies have bases in Singapore as well, and the biotechnology sector is also growing.

Attributes needed

• A team player

• Business acumen

• Communication skills

• Passion

• Sound technical ability

Types of employers

• Biotechnology industry

• Energy and oil industry

• Food and beverage industry

• Industrial chemicals industry

• Medical devices industry

• Pharmaceutical industry

• Public sector

• Renewables industry

Types of jobs

• Business and management

• Environmental control

• Health and safety officer

• Laboratory technician

• Product development

• Production and operations

• Quality assurance and control

• Research and development

• Sales and marketing

Job-hunting tips

• Many large science-related employers have graduate training programmes – find out about their application procedures in greater detail

• Stay updated about recent developments and investments in science-related industries, both locally and around the world

Deadlines

Some companies in this sector run biannual recruitment drives, while others fill vacancies through continuous employment. Refer to their websites for specific details.

Did you know?

As part of the nation’s Research, Innovation, and Enterprise 2025 (RIE2025) plan, Singapore has committed over S$25 billion to advancing research in health, sustainability, and digital technologies, making it a global leader in scientific innovation and development.

Most popular employers

1. Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)

2. Pfizer

3. DSO National Laboratories

4. Abbott

5. Mandai Wildlife Group

6. Singapore Health Services (SingHealth)

7. Merck

8. National Environment Agency (NEA)

9. Mitsui Chemical Group

10. Singapore Food Agency (SFA)

Source: Singapore Graduate Barometer 2024 edition

Uniformed Services Uniformed Services

The uniformed services can provide graduates with a rewarding career that gives them the satisfaction of serving their community and country. The defence forces welcome people of all academic disciplines to develop a career in a variety of areas.

Although this career sector is dominated by MHA, which oversees the police, immigration and public safety and rescue services; and MINDEF, that oversees the Singapore army and all its affiliated divisions, there is also the option of working for private security contractors.

Attributes needed

• A team player

• Communication skills

• Discipline

• Resilience

• Tenacity

Types of employers

• Ambulance services

• Fire and rescue services

• Immigration

• Private security contractors

• The Air Force

• The Army

• The Navy

• The Police Service

Types of jobs

• Combat

• Emergency medical technician

• Engineering

• Finance and logistics

• Fire officer

• Fleet management

• Human resources

• IT and telecommunications

• Paramedic

Job-hunting tips

• With a few exceptions, the defence forces require all candidates to undertake rigorous physical assessments

• The police force’s selection process also tests physical and mental stamina, and there is a protracted training period

• To enter the ambulance service, candidates need either a degree geared towards paramedic health services, or they will need to train as an emergency medical technician (EMT) and work their way up to become a paramedic

• Graduate engineers, surveyors, and architects are often recruited as fire prevention officers, whose role is to ensure adherence to fire and safety regulations

Work experience

Work experience isn’t necessary for a career in this sector. However, MHA does offer several rotating internship positions for interested students.

Deadlines

Uniformed services typically recruit all year-round.

Did you know?

Hokkien used to be a common language of instruction for trainees within the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). The dialect was banned as a language of instruction in October 1978, and all instructions have been given in English, Malay, or Mandarin since.

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Contact

1 Upper Pickering Street, Singapore 058288

Tel: (+65) 6908 9000 Web: www.careers.hrp.gov.sg www.agc.gov.sg

Loca�on(s)

Singapore Social media

@A�orney-General’s Chambers, Singapore

@agcsingapore

@agcsingapore

Number of employees

500 – 1,000 employees

Serving Singapore’s interests and upholding the rule of law through sound advice, effective representation, fair and independent prosecution and accessible legislation.

More about us

The A�orney-General’s Chambers (AGC) is the Government’s legal adviser, the Public Prosecutor, the Dra�er of Laws and Singapore’s legal representa�ve.

Our four legal divisions – Civil, Crime, Interna�onal Affairs and Legisla�on, with the support of the Corporate Services Division, AGC-Legal Service Academy and Legal Opera�ons Group, play a pivotal role in upholding the rule of law and integrity of Singapore’s legal system.

At the AGC, our team of passionate and dedicated officers are commi�ed to making a difference to Singapore and our people through our legal work, as guardians of the public interest.

Our officers are our greatest asset and we strive to help them reach their fullest poten�al by inves�ng in and suppor�ng their career aspira�ons. Our sponsored training programmes are aimed at helping our officers upgrade and upskill themselves to deliver quality work and be future-ready.

An organisa�on that strives to navigate present challenges and strengthen our capabili�es for the journey ahead, the AGC focuses on developing and caring for our people. We understand that no two officers’ needs are iden�cal and have in place a suite of wellness ini�a�ves aimed at crea�ng a culture of care.

Sector(s)

• Legal Services

• Public Sector

Accepted degree disciplines

Open to all disciplines

Jobs available

Internships Graduate jobs

Minimum requirement Diploma Degree

Applica�on procedure

Apply online at Careers@Gov. For appointments as a Legal Service Officer, visit www.lsc.gov.sg

Applica�on periods

Graduate jobs: All year-round Internships: September to March

Selec�on process

Step 1: Online applica�on

Step 2: Wri�en assignment

Step 3: First interview

Step 4: Personality test

Step 5: Second interview

Step 6: Offer (if applicable)

Selec�on process may differ for each role. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted

A DAY IN THE LIFE

7:00 AM

Cindy Peh

DESIGNATION

Manager (Civil Cluster Legal Opera�ons)

EMPLOYER

A�orney-General’s Chambers (AGC)

Cindy received her Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Criminology and Security from the University of Liverpool in 2018.

Although daunting at first, I appreciate the opportunities presented to me by AGC to hone my leadership skills.

I joined the A�orney-General’s Chambers (or AGC) in 2022, star�ng out as an Allied Legal Associate in the Interna�onal Affairs Division (IAD) and later, a Legal Execu�ve in the Legal Opera�ons Group where I am responsible for providing li�ga�on support such as maintaining case chronologies, performing legal research and preparing case bundles for case files in IAD.

A typical workday for me begins with an aroma�c cup of black coffee – the perfect wake-up call. AGC has in place a hybrid work arrangement that affords me the flexibility to work from home twice a week if my schedule permits. This arrangement, and others such as the flexible work arrangement and Blue Sky Day ini�a�ve which encourages officers to leave work on �me on Fridays to spend �me with loved ones, are examples of how AGC strives to promote work-life balance. On days when I head into office, I make it a point to catch up on the latest news and updates on social media while commu�ng to work.

8:30 AM

A�er arriving at the office, I dedicate my focus to clearing my emails and se�ng out a task list for the day. As a team lead to six Legal Execu�ves, I oversee the daily opera�ons and ensure that processes are in place to efficiently deliver quality legal support to our legal officers. Although daun�ng at first, I appreciate the opportuni�es presented to me by AGC to hone my leadership skills. Our inhouse learning and development team facilitates this by designing a training roadmap to equip leaders at all levels with the leadership competencies required to lead their teams effec�vely.

10:30 AM

AGC recruits individuals from a variety of educa�onal backgrounds and a law degree is not a requirement. Having graduated with a degree in Criminology and Security, I ensure that I am equipped with the relevant research skills to provide accurate advice to the legal team on the different rules and procedures adopted by different international courts and tribunals. I also undertake legal case management of the interna�onal li�ga�on files and work with the legal team to prepare pleadings and submissions which are then submi�ed to the respec�ve interna�onal courts and tribunals.

12:30 PM

Amidst the hustle, I make it a point to take a break and head out of the office for lunch within the office’s vicinity with my team or friends whenever possible. Doing so offers me a chance to decompress, reset and return to work with renewed focus and clarity!

2:00 PM

Legal Execu�ves work closely with stakeholders such as colleagues from other departments and Government Ministries. Each interaction presents new opportuni�es for learning, such as being able to collaborate and communicate effec�vely to collec�vely create viable solu�ons to address complex issues.

Outside of my core work, I am the Deputy Head of IAD’s Staff Welfare Commi�ee whose responsibili�es include organising bonding ac�vi�es such as welcome tea and Christmas par�es aimed at fostering posi�ve rela�onships across the division. Personally, I enjoy shopping for supplies and coming up with new ac�vi�es!

6:00 PM and beyond

To end off the workday, I some�mes a�end classes or unwind with friends over dinner and a drink or two. Occasionally, I will par�cipate in ac�vi�es organised by the AGC Staff Welfare Commi�ee such as Movie Nights which allow me to connect with family and friends.

A DAY IN THE LIFE

8:30 AM

DESIGNATION Manager (HR Policy, Leadership & Talent)

EMPLOYER

A�orney-General’s Chambers (AGC)

Valerie received her Bachelor of Social Sciences (Communica�ons & New Media) from the Na�onal University of Singapore in 2014.

As an AGC officer, there are many opportunities for career development, such as job rotation, participation in local and overseas training programmes, and sponsored studies.

I joined the A�orney-General’s Chambers (or AGC) in 2021, star�ng out as a Deputy Manager in the HR Department where I was responsible for internship recruitment and organising of outreach efforts. Today, my scope has expanded to include the development of a holis�c mental resiliency programme which is aligned to my career goals.

As an AGC officer, there are many opportuni�es for career development, such as job rota�on, par�cipa�on in local and overseas training programmes, and sponsored studies. I am grateful for suppor�ve bosses who encourage me to grow and develop my skills through a�ending a Trauma Counselling programme in Canada and Posi�ve Psychology conference in Austria. Besides gaining specialist knowledge, I also got to sample whale meat from my Inuit course-mates!

Although challenging at �mes, the work of the AGC Resiliency Team is rewarding. Most mornings, you can find me at the mall next to our office, grabbing a milo peng kosong with our in-house psychologist. It’s our ‘breakfast run’ rou�ne – a chance to bounce around new ideas and prep for the day ahead.

9:00 AM

Back at my desk, I spend �me answering emails from various stakeholders, such as colleagues and vendors. AGC priori� ses offi cers’ mental well-being and seeks to encourage self-care and promote self-help behaviours through a series of meaningful and engaging ac�vi�es. This year, the team will be running workshops, animal therapy and fitness sessions to enhance workplace wellness.

10:30 AM

While AGC adopts a hybrid work arrangement, I prefer working in the office as having face-to-face interac�ons with my colleagues allows for the building of social capital and teamwork. The collegial environment within the Corporate Services Division helps me feel at ease whenever I need to drop by a colleague’s desk to exchange ideas or have quick discussions on shared projects.

At AGC, we are encouraged to think about the impact we may have on each other. Mee�ngs are almost always held during office hours and outside of protected �me so that we can set aside dedicated �me to clear work. Personally, I try to arrange for mee�ngs to take place before 12pm or a�er 2:30pm so that everyone involved has had sufficient �me to grab a bite. No one enjoys turning up for a mee�ng feeling hangry!

12:30 PM

Lunch�mes with my colleagues are o�en filled with laughter and banter. AGC is conveniently located right next to a mall with an MRT sta�on so there is never a lack of op�ons for lunch. Some days, I choose to a�end lunch-�me talks organised by AGC’s in-house learning and development team instead.

2:00 PM

Post-lunch, my focus turns to internship management where I arrange for interviews and assist the hiring departments with the dra�ing of job descrip�ons. Fun fact: AGC isn’t just for law students. We also ac�vely recruit interns at all levels from a wide range of disciplines to work on exci�ng projects offered by our corporate services and legal opera�ons divisions!

6:00 PM and beyond

Before leaving the office, I make a list of outstanding tasks to ensure that I do not miss out on any important deadlines. Although there are hec�c periods, the sense of accomplishment from knowing that what I do can make a difference in the workplace keeps me going at AGC.

Valerie Tan

Contact

600 North Bridge Road #23-01 Parkview Square 188778

Tel: (+65) 6828 9118

Web: https://www.bdo.com.sg/en-gb/careers

Email: career@bdo.com.sg

Loca�on(s)

Singapore

Social media @BDOSingapore @bdosg @bdo-singapore

@BDO_Singapore

Number of employees

500 – 1,000 employees

More about us

BDO Singapore is a full-service professional services firm deeply rooted in serving small and medium-sized enterprises, large privately held businesses, and mul�na�onals across diverse industries in Singapore. Our clientele spans various sectors: consumer and retail, financial services, educa�on, F&B, manufacturing, real estate and construc�on, logis�cs, healthcare, public sector, professional services, transport, technology, media, and telecommunica�ons.

BDO Singapore is an independent member firm of BDO Interna�onal. Established in 1972, we have evolved into one of Singapore’s leading and highly respected accoun�ng and business advisory firms, with over 650 employees. We offer an extensive and comprehensive suite of professional services encompassing audit, business advisory, tax and business services outsourcing.

As a forward-thinking, digital-focused firm that sees digital as a cornerstone of excellence, we are proud of our partners and directors who consistently earn the trust of our clients and the market by delivering ideas that create value. We take pride in our dedicated team’s pivotal role in helping our clients grow, flourish, and transform. We cul�vate a culture that transcends office boundaries, fostering collabora�on and community engagement within and beyond our workplace.

Sector(s)

• Accountancy and Financial Management

• Consul�ng

Accepted degree disciplines

• Accoun�ng

• Business Administra�on

• Economics

• Finance

Jobs available Internships Graduate jobs

Minimum requirement Diploma Degree

Applica�on procedure

If you believe you have the right values and a�tude in wan�ng to be part of our big BDO family, send in your detailed resume and a recent photograph to career@bdo.com.sg

Applica�on period(s)

Graduate jobs: All year-round

Internships: All year-round

Selec�on process

Step 1: Online applica�on

Step 2: Shortlis�ng of candidate applica�ons

Step 3: Interview

Step 4: Presen�ng of employment offer

Global solutions. Driven to be the best.

PURSUING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Getting started

DESIGNATION

Audit Associate

EMPLOYER

BDO LLP

Oct 2023: Graduated with degree in Accountancy from the Singapore Ins�tute of Technology

Dec 2023: Joined BDO Singapore as a fresh graduate

“Initially, I approached problems with caution and needed guidance, but now I tackle them more confidently and independently, relying on my growing expertise and the ability to anticipate issues before they arise.”

I chose to pursue a career in audi�ng because it offers a strong founda�on for professional development, with my academic background in accoun�ng providing me with a solid founda�on in audi�ng prac�ces. A�er gradua�ng, I joined BDO to seize the opportunity for professional growth. My first posi�on was as an audit associate, where I assisted senior colleagues and worked with financial data. The experience was both challenging and rewarding, as it underscored the significance of a�en�on to detail and the value of collabora�on in delivering highquality audit results.

About my job

My job involves examining financial data to ensure they adhere to regulatory standards. On a day-to-day basis, I analyse and verify the accuracy of financial data by comparing it with suppor�ng documents. This o�en entails collabora�ng with a team, mee�ng clients, and some�mes travelling to client sites. This job allows me to gain insights into various industries and understand how different businesses operate. However, it is also challenging to manage �ght deadlines while s�ll having to look out for inconsistencies, especially when handling large volumes of data. Despite the intensity, it is rewarding to know that my work plays a crucial role in upholding the integrity of financial informa�on.

What I enjoy most about my job

What I like most about my job is the opportuni�es for learning and growth. Every day presents new challenges that push me to think cri�cally. The most fulfilling aspect of the job is the sense of accomplishment that arises from managing responsibili�es independently.

Then and now

Most of my ini�al challenges involved acclima�ng to the professional environment and understanding the complexities of auditing standards and regulations. Naviga�ng through extensive data lis�ngs, mastering audi�ng so�ware, and grasping the audit concepts were all part of the steep learning curve. However, I have no�ced a difference in how I handle them.

Ini�ally, I approached problems with cau�on and needed guidance, but now I tackle them more confidently and independently, relying on my growing exper�se and the ability to an�cipate issues before they arise.

Essential skills

I believe the most essen�al skills for excelling in this role are a�en�on to detail and effec�ve communica�on. The former due to audi�ng requiring thorough examina�on to iden�fy irregulari�es, and the la�er being key to discussing findings with clients and colleagues efficiently. My internship in accoun�ng was also invaluable in providing me with prac�cal exposure to audi�ng processes.

Advice for graduates

For those starting out, prioritise continuous learning and professional development. The field of auditing is dynamic, with evolving regulations, standards, and technologies. Stay curious and proactive in expanding your knowledge, such as through cer�fica�ons, par�cipa�ng in training sessions, or learning from seniors. Moreover, strong analy�cal and communica�on skills are vital for success. Building good rela�onships with colleagues and clients is also key, as teamwork and networking are integral to career advancement.

Monica Hong

Contact

168 Robinson Road, #30-01 Capital Tower, Singapore 068912

Web: capitaland.com/careers

Email: buildyourdream@capitaland.com

Loca�on(s)

Singapore Interna�onal

Social media @capitaland @capitaland @capitaland @capitaland @capitaland

Number of employees

10,000 – 50,000 employees

More about us

CapitaLand Group (CapitaLand) is one of Asia’s largest diversified real estate groups. Headquartered in Singapore, CapitaLand’s por�olio focuses on real estate investment management and real estate development, and spans across more than 260 ci�es in over 40 countries.

Within its ecosystem, CapitaLand has developed an integrated suite of investment management and opera�ng capabili�es that supports its real estate businesses and pla�orms in building core competencies across the real estate value chain. With this full stack of capabili�es, CapitaLand can op�mise the strategies of its listed real estate investment management business CapitaLand Investment (CLI), and its privately held property development arm CapitaLand Development (CLD), to drive compe��ve advantage for its businesses.

CapitaLand places sustainability at the core of what it does. As a responsible real estate company, CapitaLand contributes to the environmental and social well-being of the communi�es where it operates, as it delivers long-term economic value to its stakeholders. Sector(s)

• Investment Banking and Investment Management

• Property and Real Estate

Accepted degree disciplines

Open to all disciplines

Jobs available

Graduate jobs

Internships

Minimum requirement

Diploma Degree

Applica�on procedure

Apply online via capitaland.com/careers. Only shortlisted candidates will be no�fied.

A DAY IN THE LIFE

7:00 AM

Eugene Low

DESIGNATION Manager, Group Technology (IT Security)

EMPLOYER CapitaLand

Eugene obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce from the University of Queensland, Australia, in 2016.

Our team’s roles and responsibilities include reviewing and conducting assessments to ensure any new system changes introduced to the organisation are secure and compliant with industry best practices and standards.

The day begins with a rou�ne that sets the tone for produc�vity. At 7:00 AM, I wake up and start my day with a quick stretch to energise myself. A�er a refreshing shower, I have a light breakfast before travelling to work. During the journey to the office, I will catch up on the latest cybersecurity news and trends, which help me stay informed about any new threats or vulnerabili�es.

8:30 AM

The first task is reviewing the tasks tracked and tackling those with priori�es for the day and attending meetings with my team, where we discuss the status of ongoing projects and address any issues or concerns that occurred. This collaborative session ensures everyone is aligned and aware of their responsibili�es and allows us to put our brains together to iden�fy op�mal approaches or solu�ons.

Our team’s roles and responsibilities include reviewing and conducting assessments to ensure any new system changes introduced to the organisa�on are secure and compliant with industry best prac�ces and standards. Addi�onally, we ensure that IT security policies are up-to-date and adhere to relevant regula�ons.

As the custodian of such policies, a proac�ve approach helps in maintaining a robust security governance framework and regular communica�on with the interna�onal teams is crucial to address region-specific compliance requirements and ensure a unified security posture across all loca�ons.

In addi�on, we improve the human aspects of our defence by conduc�ng regular awareness training and tes�ng campaigns.

12:00 PM

At noon, we explore interes�ng food spots around the workplace. Lunch is a great opportunity to unwind and build rapport with colleagues from various departments. We discuss work-related topics and personal interests, fostering a posi�ve work environment and encouraging cross-departmental collabora�on.

2:00 PM

Post-lunch, I focus on risk management and assessment, iden�fying poten�al risks to our informa�on systems and evalua�ng their impact. I collaborate with global teams to develop mi�ga�on strategies and ensure all risks are documented and addressed. Regular risk assessments are crucial for maintaining a secure and compliant environment.

In the late a�ernoon, I update security policies based on discussions with our global counterparts. Accurate documenta�on is essen�al for transparency and accountability. Collabora�ng with interna�onal teams across different lines of business helps us understand and mi�gate business and region-specific risks, ensuring our policies are globally consistent yet adaptable to local regula�ons. Once a week, on Wednesdays, we dedicate an hour to wellness activities. Typically, a few close colleagues and I go for a run around the premises.

6:00 PM

As the day ends, I review the tasks completed, plan for the next day, and ensure that all cri�cal issues have been addressed. I also make sure my team is prepared for any poten�al challenges. A�er logging off, I set aside �me to spend quality �me with my family or join colleagues from various teams for wellness ac�vi�es and socialising, o�en followed by dinner.

Contact

63 Market St, #22-00 Bank of Singapore Centre, Singapore 048942

Tel: (+65) 6559 8000

Web: https://www.bankofsingapore.com/careers/ student-and-graduate-programmes.html

Email: careers@bankofsingapore.com

Loca�on(s)

Singapore

Interna�onal – Hong Kong, Dubai, Malaysia, the Philippines and the United Kingdom

Social media

@thebankofsingapore

@bankofsg

@Bank of Singapore, Asia’s Global Private Bank

@bankofSG

@bankofsg

Number of employees

1,000 – 10,000 employees

More about us

Bank of Singapore is the dedicated private banking subsidiary of OCBC. Backed by OCBC’s strong credit ra�ngs of Aa1 by Moody’s and AA- by both Fitch and S&P, it offers a unique value proposi�on as a safe Singapore-registered private bank. Bank of Singapore serves high net worth individuals and wealthy families in its key markets of Asia, Greater China, the Indian subcon�nent and other interna�onal markets. Its open-architecture product pla�orm backed by strong research capabili�es provides clients with first-class private banking and bespoke wealth planning solu�ons. It is also able to leverage OCBC’s capabili�es to extend its clients a broad array of services across the OCBC’s regional and interna�onal network.

Headquartered in Singapore, Bank of Singapore and its subsidiaries have offices in the Dubai Interna�onal Financial Centre, Hong Kong, London, Malaysia and Manila. Its strong performance has won it numerous industry recogni�ons. Bank of Singapore was named Best Overall Asia Private Bank by WealthBriefing Asia in 2023 and awarded Best Chief Investment Office in Private Banking in Asia by PWM/The Banker in 2024.

As an organisa�on commi�ed to talent development and a people-first culture, we are dedicated to nurturing our next genera�on of leaders through our early careers programmes. Our internship programme offers students invaluable hands-on experience within the dynamic environment of a global private bank. Addi�onally, our Corporate Analyst Programme and Wealth Management Programme are though�ully designed to equip young professionals with the essen�al skills, comprehensive knowledge, and prac�cal experience necessary to excel in the banking sector. By

fostering a culture of con�nuous learning and professional growth, our programmes ensure that graduates are not only well-prepared to meet the challenges of the future but also posi�oned to excel in their careers.

Sector(s)

• Banking and Financial Services

Accepted degree disciplines

Open to all disciplines

Jobs available

Graduate jobs

Internships

Minimum requirement

Diploma Degree

Applica�on procedure

Kindly visit our careers page at h�ps://www. bankofsingapore.com/careers/student-andgraduate-programmes.html to apply for & find out more about our internship or graduate programmes.

Applica�on period(s)

Graduate jobs:

Corporate Analyst Programme (through intern conversions only)

Wealth Management Programme (Sep- Dec)

Internships:

Sep – Nov (for Jan intake)

Mar – May (for Jul intake)

Selec�on process

Step 1: Online applica�on

Step 2: Online assessment

Step 3: Interview (Individual interviews and/ or Assessment Centre)

Asia’s Global Private Bank Rooted in Asia, global in perspective

Contact

238A Thomson Road, Novena Square, Singapore 307684

Web: www.cpf.gov.sg/careers

Email: earlycareers@cpf.gov.sg

Loca�on(s)

Singapore Social media

@CPF Board

@cpf_board

@CPF Board

@cp�oard

@CPF Board

Number of employees

1,000 – 10,000 employees

To enable Singaporeans to have a secure retirement, through lifelong income, healthcare financing and home financing.

More about us

At #TeamCPF, we believe in developing individuals who are inspired to do their life’s best work, through 3Ps: Purposeful Work, Professional Growth, People & Culture.

Join us on a journey where passion meets purpose to enrich the lives of 4 million CPF members. You’ll gain new skills through structured training and work on impac�ul projects. As an employer, we foster a culture of respect, diversity, and inclusivity, where every voice is heard, and contribu�ons are recognised and celebrated.

Whether you are a digital ninja, a natural wordsmith or a people person, you can put your talents to good use at CPF Board across 60 dynamic departments. There are also ample opportuni�es for you to par�cipate in cross-func�onal project work. Find your perfect fit!

• CPF Schemes Delivery

• Policy and Corporate Development

• Infocomm Technology

• Customer Service

• Agency Services

• Enforcement

Check out www.cpf.gov.sg/careers to apply now!

Sector(s)

• Public Sector

Accepted degree disciplines

Open to all disciplines

Jobs available

Internships Graduate jobs

Minimum requirement Diploma Degree

Applica�on procedure

Find out more through our careers page at www.cpf.gov.sg/careers! Shortlisted applicants will be no�fied.

Applica�on periods

Internships: At CPF Board, we have 3 different internship cycles:

H1 Term-Time (January – May):

Applica�ons open from September to December of the previous year.

Summer (May – August):

Applica�ons open from January to March.

H2 Term-Time (August – December):

Applica�ons open from January to March.

Graduate jobs:

• Management Associate Programme

• NextGen Programme (Technology Track)

Our intakes for 2026 will open in the third quarter of 2025.

Scan the QR code to follow us on LinkedIn for the latest updates!

Find out more at

A DAY IN THE LIFE

8:30 AM

Merwyn Low

DESIGNATION

Senior Manager, Policy Department

EMPLOYER

Central Provident Fund Board

Merwyn obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and Psychology from the Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, in 2022.

We would come together to rigorously assess and formulate policy recommendations that impact the four million CPF members in Singapore.

A typical day in CPF Board starts at 8:30 AM. Thanks to our flexi work arrangements, I can dedicate more �me to focus on important tasks and have the opportunity to pursue my personal interests. On office days, I’ll wake up at 7:15 AM to prepare for the commute to the office and grab some coffee. If I am working from home, then I’ll wake up a li�le bit later at around 7:45 AM. Regardless of loca�on, I begin my day by reviewing emails and priori�sing tasks iden�fied the previous day, ensuring I address the most urgent ma�ers promptly.

10:30 AM

I am part of the Re�rement Accumula�on team under the Policy Department, and most of my �me is dedicated to working on a major re�rement project in collabora�on with mul�ple other Ministries. For this project, we derive data-driven insights to explore and propose policy recommenda�ons and collaborate closely with other Ministries to ensure the clarity and soundness of our recommenda�ons.

In this role, I have iden�fied several crucial skills that I con�nually strive to enhance. These include cri�cal thinking to ensure that policy recommenda�ons meet their intended outcome and clear communica�on skills to dis�ll a complex issue into simpler, easily understood concepts for various stakeholders. Having sound knowledge of CPF schemes and developing proficiency in data handling is fundamental to developing effec�ve policies.

12:00 PM

I look forward to lunch with my colleagues, when we get the chance to bond over food and meaningful conversa�ons. Occasionally, I also meet my friends who work in the vicinity.

3:00 PM

I always try to prepare for my mee�ngs ahead of �me, focusing on how to address stakeholder concerns and converge on the intended outcome. Our team maintains a collaborative culture, which is reflected in our regular meetings with both internal and external stakeholders. We would come together to rigorously assess and formulate policy recommendations that impact the four million CPF members in Singapore. While we o�en have a lot of informa�on, I found that some�mes less is more, and succinctly sharing the more important informa�on helps to keep the mee�ngs focused and produc�ve. Through these engagements, we receive invaluable, ongoing feedback, which allows us to refine our proposals and policies.

6:00 PM

I tend to end work between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM, but as every day brings a different challenge, it may slightly differ based on the project �melines. Before signing off, I would do a quick review of my accomplishments and checklist for the day.

A�er work, I priori�se my well-being by either spending quality �me with my significant other or exercising at the gym. These ac�vi�es help me unwind, maintain my health, and stay energised.

Right before bed�me, I will also list out the key areas to focus on for the next workday, taking into considera�on �me and urgency.

At #TeamCPF, we believe in developing individuals who are inspired to do their life’s best work, through 3Ps: Purposeful Work, Professional Growth, People & Culture.

Join us on a journey where passion meets purpose to enrich the lives of 4 million members. You’ll gain new skills through structured training and work on impactful projects.

Here’s what you can expect:

As an employer, we foster a culture of respect, diversity, and inclusivity, where every voice is heard, and contributions are recognised and celebrated.

Whether you are a digital ninja, a natural wordsmith or a people person, you can put your talents to good use at CPF Board across 60 dynamic departments. There are also ample opportunities for you to participate in cross-functional project work.

Find your perfect fit now!

Contact

Singapore Changi Airport, PO Box 168, Singapore 918146 Web: careers.changiairport.com

Loca�on(s)

Singapore

Social media

@changiairport

@changiairport

@Changi Airport Group

@changiairport

@changiairport

Number of employees

1,000 – 10,000 employees

More about us

Changi Airport Group is first and foremost a service company. We operate Singapore Changi Airport, the world’s most awarded airport, and help develop and manage airports worldwide. Our people are our most important asset in our mission to be the world’s leading airport company, growing a vibrant air hub in Singapore and enhancing the communi�es we serve worldwide.

We aspire to build a company where ordinary people achieve extraordinary results. Our people have a passion for service and are commi�ed to teamwork, integrity and excellence. Working together with our colleagues and partners to achieve the best outcome, we deliver innova�ve services and create a world-class experience for our customers.

Changi Airport Group offers a unique work environment in a global, vibrant and exci�ng airport community. With a set-up of mul�ple businesses, you will embark on a mul�-faceted career of diverse business func�ons in the dynamic and fast-growing avia�on industry - where we make magic happen in every aspect of our business, turning different airport touchpoints into seamless experiences with innova�on and technology.

Come make MAGIC with us.

Sector(s)

• Avia�on, Transport and Supply Chain

• Hospitality, Leisure and Tourism

• IT and Technology

Accepted degree disciplines

• Accoun�ng

• Business Administra�on

• Economics

• Engineering

• Finance

• Humani�es, Art and Social Sciences

• IT and Computer Sciences

• Law

• Property and Built Environment

Jobs available

Minimum requirement

Applica�on procedure

Apply online at careers.changiairport.com

Applica�on period(s)

Graduate jobs: All year-round

Internships: December to February

Selec�on process

Step 1: Online applica�on

Step 2: Selec�on test(s)

Step 3: Interview

Selec�on process may differ for each role. Only shortlisted candidates will be no�fied.

Come make MAGIC with us.

Discover what it’s like working at Changi Airport Group, where we make magic happen in every aspect of our business – turning different airport touchpoints into seamless experiences with innovation and technology.

Contact

12 Marina Boulevard, Marina Bay Financial Centre, Singapore 018982

Tel: (+65) 6776 2255

Web: https://www.dbs.com/careers/default.page

Email: dbscareers@dbs.com

Loca�on(s)

Singapore

Interna�onal – China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, India, Indonesia

Social media @dbs.sg @dbsbank @DBS Bank @dbssg @dbsbank @DBS

Number of employees

10,000 – 50,000 employees

Best Bank for a Better World

More about us

DBS is a leading financial services group in Asia with a presence in 19 markets. Headquartered and listed in Singapore, DBS is in the three key Asian axes of growth: Greater China, Southeast Asia and South Asia.

Recognised for its global leadership, DBS has been named “World’s Best Bank” by Global Finance, “World’s Best Bank” by Euromoney and “Global Bank of the Year” by The Banker. The bank is at the forefront of leveraging digital technology to shape the future of banking, having been named “World’s Best Digital Bank” by Euromoney and the world’s “Most Innova�ve in Digital Banking” by The Banker. In addi�on, DBS has been accorded the “Safest Bank in Asia” award by Global Finance for 15 consecu�ve years from 2009 to 2023.

DBS provides a full range of services in consumer, SME and corporate banking. As a bank born and bred in Asia, DBS understands the intricacies of doing business in the region’s most dynamic markets and is commi�ed to building las�ng rela�onships with customers. With its extensive network of opera�ons in Asia and emphasis on engaging and empowering its staff, DBS presents exci�ng career opportuni�es

Sector(s)

• Banking and Financial Services

Accepted degree disciplines

Open to all disciplines

Jobs available

Internships Graduate jobs

Minimum requirement Diploma Degree

Applica�on procedure

Apply online via our AI recruiter (JIM). Applica�on period(s)

Internships:

December 2024 to January 2025

Graduate jobs:

September to October 2025

Selec�on process

Step 1: Online applica�on

Step 2: Online assessment

Step 3: Assessment centre

Step 4: Interview

Step 5: Outcome of applica�on

Contact

Web: www.mindef.gov.sg/dxo

Email: dxo_enquiries@mindef.gov.sg

Loca�on(s)

Singapore

Social media

@Ministry of Defence, Singapore (MINDEF)

@mindefsg

@Ministry of Defence of Singapore

@mindefsg

@Ministry of Defence Singapore

Number of employees

1,000 – 10,000 employees

More about us

The mission of MINDEF and the Singapore Armed Forces is to enhance Singapore’s peace and security through deterrence and diplomacy, and should these fail, to secure a swi� and decisive victory over the aggressor.

Integral to MINDEF, the Defence Execu�ve Officer (DXO) scheme enables you to contribute towards Singapore’s security as a non-uniformed defence professional.

You can contribute in a wide range of roles cri�cal to defence, such as defence policy, strategic communica�ons, cyber security, psychology, data analy�cs, human resource, finance, logis�cs and more.

Join us in a rewarding career that enables you to defend our na�on.

Sector(s)

• Public Sector

Accepted degree disciplines

• Accoun�ng

• Business Administra�on

• Economics

• Engineering

• Finance

• Humani�es, Art and Social Sciences

• IT and Computer Sciences

• Law

• Maths

• Medical Sciences and Healthcare

• Sciences

• Social Work

• Teaching and Educa�on

Jobs available

Graduate jobs

Internships

Minimum requirement Diploma Degree

Applica�on procedure

Send in your applica�ons for the posi�on that you are keen on via:

1. Website at www.mindef.gov.sg/dxo 2. MINDEF Careers@Gov

3. MINDEF LinkedIn

Applica�on periods

Graduate jobs: All throughout the year

Internships: Mid-February (for May to Jul internship intakes)

Selec�on process

Step 1: Online applica�on

Step 2: Interview

Step 3: Unit preview

Step 4: Outcome of applica�on

Contact

1 North Buona Vista Drive

Singapore 138675

Tel: (+65) 68722220

Web: moe.gov.sg/careers

Email: contact@moe.gov.sg

Loca�on(s)

Singapore

Social media

@Ministry of Educa�on, Singapore

@moesingapore

@Ministry of Educa�on, Singapore

@MOEsg

@MOE Singapore

Number of employees

10,000 – 50,000 employees

More about us

Ministry of Educa�on (MOE)

Shaping Singapore’s future through educa�on. Join our diverse team to:

• Influence the na�on’s educa�onal landscape

• Contribute to a world-class educa�on system

• Develop professionally and personally Be part of moulding the people who will determine our future. The following job roles are open for applica�on: Educa�on Officer / Teacher

Be the one who inspires and nurtures young lives. Join MOE as a teacher and embark on a journey of guiding students to reach their fullest poten�al. Mo�vate our students and equip them with the skills they need as they grow into lifelong learners and responsible ci�zens of tomorrow.

Every teacher at MOE is important to us. You will be supported with resources and professional development opportuni�es to develop and progress in your career. MOE offers the following three career tracks: the Teaching Track, Leadership Track and Senior Specialist Track.

Management Execu�ve

We are seeking versa�le, forward-thinking individuals from different disciplines for roles in MOE headquarters (HQ) and schools. You will gain invaluable experience in areas such as:

• Policy formula�on and implementa�on

• Technology and AI integra�on

• Research and informa�on management

Find

• Organisa�onal excellence, administra�on and opera�ons and more…

Excellent career opportuni�es at MOE HQ and in schools await you.

Sector(s)

• Public Sector

Accepted degree disciplines

Open to all disciplines

Applica�on procedure

Please visit go.gov.sg/moe-applica�on to view available career opportuni�es and applica�on �melines.

Selec�on process

Step 1: Apply via Careers@Gov

Step 2: Interview (for shortlisted candidates)

Step 3: Entrance proficiency test(s), if required; Applicants interested to teach Physical Educa�on (PE) are encouraged to take the Physical Proficiency Test (PPT) while wai�ng for shortlis�ng outcome. Learn more at go.gov.sg/ pe-applica�on-info

Step 4: Compulsory contract teaching s�nt

Step 5: NIE enrolment

For other posi�ons

Please apply via Careers@Gov. Shortlisted applicants will be updated with more details.

Be a Champion for Every Student

A DAY IN THE LIFE

8:30 AM

Zoe Chai

DESIGNATION

Educa�onal Technology

Officer, Technologies for Learning, Educa�onal Technology Division

EMPLOYER

Ministry of Educa�on

Zoe received her Postgraduate Diploma in Educa�on from NTU-NIE in 2017, and the Bachelor of Science (Hons) from NUS in 2016.

Being at the forefront of this educational revolution and shaping the future of teaching and learning is deeply fulfilling.

I start my day with a caffeine boost, grabbing a cup of coffee on the way to work at MOE Grange Road. While my division’s main office is at Buona Vista, my team ventures to Grange Road twice weekly for mee�ngs with the developers of the Singapore Student Learning Space (SLS), our na�onal online learning pla�orm. I pore over emails that have come in and review my schedule, mentally preparing for the day.

9:00 AM

My team gathers for a daily 15-minute Scrum mee�ng. We share yesterday’s accomplishments, today’s plans, and any obstacles we’re facing. This quick catchup keeps everyone in the loop. The team is updated on the prompt refinements to Data Assistant, an AI tool which supports teachers in analysing students’ responses, enabling it to return analyses in Mother Tongue languages on top of exis�ng English capabili�es.

10:00 AM

I join a couple of calls to interview several school teachers about a new interface for a dashboard in the Adap�ve Learning System, an AI feature that recommends learning content and assessment ques�ons to students based on their learning needs. I uncover insights into how the dashboard data can be be�er presented for teachers, and email colleagues in curricular units to seek their feedback too. This collabora�ve approach ensures our AI features remain user-centric and genuinely address teaching and learning needs.

12:30 PM

My team heads to a nearby hawker centre for lunch. Over steaming plates of local delights, we dive into a lively chat about the future of AI in educa�on. We explore the possibility of AI providing feedback based on error categories and brainstorm the types of errors teachers would find most useful, drawing from our own teaching experiences.

2:00 PM

Post-lunch, we reconvene with the developers to discuss user flows for an adap�ve learning sec�on in SLS. We review several screen mock-ups, each presen�ng different ways to display results from an adap�ve learning quiz. Together with the Product Owner, we weigh the pros and cons of each design, considering factors like user experience, data clarity, and alignment with educa�onal objec�ves.

5:00 PM

I provide input on content related to educa�on policy in an upcoming OECD publication, highlighting how Singapore uses AI tools in SLS for greater customisation of students’ learning. This forms a part of my work in the Partnerships, Communica� ons and Interna� onal Rela� ons team, which also entails facilita�ng dialogues with foreign delegates and preparing background briefs for poli�cal office holders in interna�onal events. This role helps me to glean invaluable insights into global educa�onal technology prac�ces and review our approach to AI in teaching and learning.

6:00 PM

As I clear my final emails and power down my laptop, I reflect on yet another day in the Educa�onal Technology Division. Being at the forefront of this educa�onal revolu�on and shaping the future of teaching and learning is deeply fulfilling. It’s exci�ng to think about the posi�ve impact our work will have on countless students and educators across Singapore.

Contact

Web: h�ps://www.income.com.sg/careers

Loca�on

Singapore

Social media

@IncomeInsurance

@income Insurance Limited

@IncomeInsurance

Number of employees

1,000 – 10,000 employees

More about us

Income Insurance Limited (Income Insurance) is one of the leading composite insurers in Singapore, offering life, health and general insurance. Established in Singapore to plug a social need for insurance in 1970, Income Insurance con�nues to put people first by serving the protec�on, savings and investment needs of individuals, families and businesses today. Its lifestyle-centric and data-driven approach to insurance and financial planning puts the company at the forefront of innova�ve solu�ons that empowers the people it serves with be�er financial well-being.

Addi�onally, Income Insurance is commi�ed to being a responsible business that champions the environment and builds stronger communi�es by suppor�ng financial inclusion, educa�on for youth-inneed and seniors’ well-being.

For more informa�on, please visit www. income.com.sg.

Sector(s)

• Insurance and Risk Management

Accepted degree disciplines

Open to all disciplines

Jobs available

Minimum requirement

Selec�on process

Step 1: Online applica�on

Step 2: Interview(s)

Step 3: Offer

Contact

1 Sherwood Road, Singapore 248163

Tel: (+65) 63798000

Web: www.mfa.gov.sg/career

Email: mfa_career@mfa.gov.sg

Loca�on(s)

Singapore Interna�onal – Over 50 overseas missions

Social media

@SingaporeMFA

@mfa_sg

@Ministry of Foreign Affairs Singapore @MFAsg

Number of employees

1,000 – 10,000 employees

Be on the frontline and represent Singapore on the world stage.

More about us

A Foreign Service career is more than just a job. To be effec�ve, Foreign Service Officers (FSOs) need to have a good grasp of world affairs and a firm understanding of Singapore’s posi�on. You will be involved in the formula�on, review and implementa�on of policies related to your assigned por�olio. You must be versa�le, able to analyse issues cri�cally, strategise and achieve outcomes. You need to be able to persuade, assert and cul�vate good interpersonal rela�ons while keeping Singapore’s interests at heart.

With over 50 Overseas Missions around the world, a career with MFA offers unique opportuni�es and rewards. Throughout your career as an FSO, you will alternate between Singapore (HQ) and our Overseas Missions. Depending on your competencies and inclina�on, you can develop your career either in the Func�onal and Corporate track or the Poli�cal and Economic track. As you progress within the Ministry, a series of varied enriching assignments and milestone programmes will groom you for future leadership roles.

An exci�ng career of unparalleled opportuni�es on the frontline of global developments awaits. If you are up for the challenge, come join us at MFA.

Sector(s)

• Public Sector

Accepted degree disciplines

Open to all disciplines

Jobs available

Internships Graduate jobs

Minimum requirement

Diploma Degree

Applica�on procedure

Apply online at Careers@Gov.

Applica�on periods

Graduate jobs: All year-round

Internships: Applica�ons open every third quarter of the year on Careers@Gov. Visit our website for more details.

Selec�on process

Step 1: Submit your applica�on on Careers@Gov

Step 2: Online Tests and Roundtable

Discussion

Step 3: Assessment Centre (In-Person)

Step 4: Panel Interview (In-Person)

A DAY IN THE LIFE

7:00 AM

Mohamed Firdaus Bin

Mohamed Akbar

DESIGNATION

Senior Human Resource

Execu�ve

EMPLOYER

Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA)

Firdaus obtained his Diploma in Business Process and Systems Engineering from Temasek Polytechnic in 2010.

Being in this role is especially meaningful as I equip officers with the necessary skill sets and competencies to serve Singaporeans and Singapore’s interests across the world.

My morning rou�ne begins with a slow jog near the office. Watching the sunrise while jogging rejuvenates me for the day ahead. A�er a quick shower and some light breakfast, I check my emails and organise my to-do list.

9:00 AM

My work involves managing the career development of MFA officers where I nominate suitable officers for various projects, secondary appointments, ad-hoc assignments, and leadership courses. One key aspect of my work is organising officers’ A�achment to Overseas Mission (ATOM) programme, which all new officers undergo to learn the ropes of the work at one of Singapore’s embassies, high commissions, or consulate-generals, under the tutelage of their seniors. It is always heartening to see the offi cers eagerly looking forward to their attachment and exchanging stories upon their return. Being in this role is especially meaningful as I equip officers with the necessary skill sets and competencies to serve Singaporeans and Singapore’s interests across the world.

12:30 PM

A dilemma I face every day is deciding where to go for lunch! There is no shortage of food op�ons as MFA is located near Orchard and Holland Village, with Redhill and Queenstown hawker centres a stone’s throw away. I use this �me to catch up with colleagues from other departments as well as overseas colleagues who are back in Singapore for their holidays.

2:00 PM

I join my colleagues and supervisors in mee�ngs to discuss proposed changes in policies, manpower movements, and resolu�on of intra/inter-department issues. I facilitate these mee�ngs by providing the necessary materials, such as CVs and performance reports. I also approach my peers and fellow colleagues from various departments for their views on policy developments. Occasionally, I will also schedule calls with HR counterparts from other Ministries to exchange best prac�ces and solu�ons which we can adopt for our workplace.

6:30 PM

As the day draws to a close, I make a note of the tasks to be completed the following day before heading out to meet my friends. We would occasionally indulge in movies or theatre shows before winding down with a good dinner.

A DAY IN THE LIFE

9:00 AM

I arrive at the Palais des Na�ons, the home of the UN in Geneva, and make my way to the Human Rights and Alliance of Civilisa�ons Room. The Human Rights Council (HRC) is in session, and the room is full, with each diplomat si�ng in their assigned country seat. This morning’s session is the interac�ve dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on health.

When “Singapore” is called, I deliver our na�onal statement about the dangers of a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach towards the world drug problem. Seeing my face and the “Singapore” nameplate on the huge screen always gets the pulse racing.

Lin Zhiping

DESIGNATION

Deputy Permanent Representa�ve, Permanent Mission of Singapore to the United Na�ons (UN)

EMPLOYER

Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA)

Zhiping obtained her BA in Law in 2007, and MPhil in Social Anthropology in 2008 from the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom.

Building a global network of contacts allows us to find out information quickly, corral for support where necessary, and work together effectively to find compromise solutions.

11:00 AM

I head downstairs to a�end a side event on human rights in Pales�ne. There were emo�onal discussions amongst the diplomats and civil society organisa�ons present. It was difficult to hear about the humanitarian situa�on on the ground. I took notes to report back relevant snippets to MFA HQ. Such repor�ng helps MFA to form a fuller picture and informs our policy posi�ons.

12:30 PM

I rush to the WHO for a lunch mee�ng with a contact dealing with urban health issues. I had a salad as it is the WHO canteen a�er all! We discussed how we can work together towards be�er preparing the world for the next pandemic.

2:00 PM

Back to the Palais for another round of nego�a�ons on a HRC resolu�on on the rights of migrants. I take the mic again to propose Singapore’s edits to the resolu�on text. To maximise the likelihood of our edits being accepted, I lobby some of my contacts in the room to give their country’s support to our proposals.

4:30 PM

I return to the office for a mee�ng with the Permanent Representa�ve (PR) and the rest of the team. We discuss the various ini�a�ves at the HRC, and keep the PR informed of our progress so that he knows we are on track.

I run through my emails, delegate tasks, give direc�on on more complex issues, and address urgent queries.

6.00 PM

I a�end the China Na�onal Day Recep�on, where rumours say they’re serving Peking Duck! I meet my contacts, who give me interes�ng informa�on that could be useful in the future, and make new contacts from Africa and La�n America. Building a global network of contacts allows us to find out informa�on quickly, corral for support where necessary, and work together effectively to find compromise solu�ons.

7.30 PM

I am happy to head home to unwind and put my kids to bed. It has been another busy but fulfilling day!

Contact

1 Harbour Drive, PSA Horizons #03-00, Singapore 117352

Tel: (+65) 6274 7111

Web: psacareers.singaporepsa.com/cw/en/ lis�ng/

Email: psac_hr@globalpsa.com

Loca�on(s)

Singapore

Social media

@PSA Singapore @psa_singapore

@PSASingapore

@PSA Singapore

Number of employees

10,000 – 50,000 employees

More about us

PSA Interna�onal (PSA) is a leading global port operator and trusted partner to cargo stakeholders, across more than 170 loca�ons in 45 countries - including two flagship port opera�ons in Singapore and Belgium. PSA collaborates with its customers and partners to develop world-class port ecosystems and deliver innova�ve supply chain solu�ons to accelerate the shi� towards sustainable trade.

PSA Singapore, one of PSA’s flagship terminals, is the world’s largest transshipment hub, connec�ng over 600 ports globally and opera�ng 24/7. Inaugurated on 1 September 2022, the Tuas Port is set to become the world’s largest automated terminal by 2040.

Sector(s)

• Avia�on, Transport and Supply Chain

Jobs available

Graduate jobs

Internships

Accepted degree disciplines

Open to all disciplines

Applica�on procedure

Please apply through our webpage: h�ps://psacareers.singaporepsa.com/cw/ en/lis�ng/

Applica�on periods

Graduate jobs: Always open

Internships: Always open

Selec�on process

Step 1: Online applica�on

You can move the world.

At PSA, our people are our greatest asset. We invest in their growth through development programs and foster a suppor�ve culture for them to achieve their aspira�ons. As we begin a new chapter with the development of Tuas Port, we seek passionate individuals to join us in driving global trade growth and connec�vity for Singapore’s future economy.

Together, we can move the world.

Step 2: Document submission

Step 3: Interview

You Can Move The World

As a leading global port operator and trusted partner to cargo stakeholders, PSA’s portfolio spans over 179 locations in 45 countries, and is backed by deep global expertise and smart technology to move the world’s goods.

We are looking for people who resonate with our purpose and will innovate with us to connect communities and orchestrate agile, resilient and sustainable supply chains.

offer a broad range of exciting career opportunities

PSA Management Associate Programme

The PSA Management Associate Programme (MAP) nurtures young talents who share our passion for excellence, innovation and sustainability to lead our business transformation. Every Associate’s development is customised to their individual strengths and aspirations, enabling growth in personal leadership potential and global exposure.

A DAY IN THE LIFE

5:30 PM

Cheung Chun Man

DESIGNATION

Senior Opera�ons

Execu�ve

EMPLOYER

PSA Corpora�on Ltd

Chun Man obtained his Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from the Na�onal University of Singapore (NUS) in 2023.

Sometimes, these drives would take place in the wee hours of the morning – seeing the hectic movement of containers on our trucks juxtaposed against the quietness of the night allows me to better appreciate the abundance of work that goes into this vast and intricate ecosystem of the Port of Singapore.

While many people call it a day at work, I wake up from my a�ernoon nap to prepare for my night shi� as Sec�on Duty Manager (SDM) at Pasir Panjang Terminal, which starts at 7:30pm. Ge�ng used to a shi� work rou�ne has been an enriching journey – discovering the delicate balance between making the most of my �me outside work and ge�ng sufficient rest for dynamic 12-hour shi�s that await me.

7:15 PM

Arriving at the Control Centre, I begin by gree�ng colleagues from the day shi� (7:30am-7:30pm). The teams then execute a handover of the events that took place such as the ongoing opera�ons for container vessels alongside, excep�ons or special opera�ons faced and other ma�ers like maintenance.

I step up to the plate when the day shi� team clocks out at 7.30pm, star�ng by assessing the manpower and equipment deployments for vessels alongside my berths. On each shi�, I interact with diverse teams and colleagues, including those in the Control Centre, ground staff, and solu�on partners, to convey opera�onal plans. Every day, I never fail to learn something new in the dynamic environment of container opera�ons!

11:00 PM

Night shi�s differ from day shi�s, mainly in that we do not have physical mee�ngs with our terminal/section managers and the office is indeed less crowded! However, our responsibili�es are no less, as we level up to lead the terminal/ sec�ons. To give an idea of what transpires in the Daily Ac�on Mee�ng earlier in the morning, SDMs present our plans to the managers including (i) updates on ongoing vessel opera�ons, (ii) plans to manage the expected peaks and (iii) strategies to achieve our Key Performance Indicators for the day. Collabora�ve discussions ensue and our managers share the big-picture planning considera�ons and objec�ves to jointly ensure everything runs smoothly and according to plan.

3:00 AM

Safety is fundamental to our business, and our role extends beyond the four walls of the Control Centre, as we lead the charge in ensuring a safe working environment for our people on the ground. Our day-to-day o�en involves heading down to the (i) wharf apron where the vessels are berthed, and (ii) container yards, where boxes are carefully stored to facilitate transhipment. Some�mes, these drives would take place in the wee hours of the morning – seeing the hec�c movement of containers on our trucks juxtaposed against the quietness of the night allows me to be�er appreciate the abundance of work that goes into this vast and intricate ecosystem of the Port of Singapore.

7:30 AM

Before you know it, another shi� comes to an end as I fi nish up my shi� reports, account for all excep�ons and situa�ons encountered whilst ensuring smooth container opera�ons, and handover to the incoming day shi� team. A�er a full night’s work, I head home to catch up on sleep and recharge for –drumroll – my next two days off! The shi� nature of the job can take some ge�ng used to, but it offers me the flexibility to plan my �me more effec�vely – including having weekdays off to run errands that are usually difficult to do in the evenings and occasionally making trips across the Causeway!

Flicking From The Back Flicking From The Back

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GTI Media Singapore would like to thank everyone who has contributed to the 2025 issue of gradsingapore’s How to Get Hired Guide!

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