DESIGN YOUR FUTURE SUTD CAREER GUIDE 2021
MCI (P) 065/08/2020
PREPARING YOU FOR THE FUTURE
MESSAGE TO THE STUDENTS SUTD graduates for the past years have been doing well in securing good jobs. Class of 2020 is no exception. This year, our Career Development Centre intensified our efforts by rolling out a few new initiatives. Firstly, we compiled an e-Resume Book of our graduating students and gave them to prospective employers seeking recruitment. In addition, we arranged for employers to meet Class of 2020 via an online platform - the Interview Accelerator (see Pg 10). Similar to speed-dating, the seniors had their chance to practice their Elevator Pitch (see Pg 34) and secure that dream job. In addition, Our Career Coaches have also been conducting more online Mock Interview (see Pg 5).
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any of us would have celebrated the beginning of 2020 with much hopes and enthusiasm yet no one would have expected things to take a turn in March. Hit by the coronavirus, this global pandemic does not just affect Asia but the world. Twelve years ago, many graduates faced similar anxiety and trepidation when the global financial crisis took the world by surprise. Is the future bleak for Class of 2020 and Class of 2021? Will Class of 2022 and beyond be spared? These are questions which we should prepare ourselves for.
It is hard to imagine how we can return to pre-Covid normalcy. The Career Development Centre is here to support you and share with you how to Navigate in the New World of Work (see Pg 52). Although the road ahead may not be easy and the economy recovery maybe gradual, remember that resilience is something most employers appreciate. Fresh graduates, do not despair. Bear in mind that that graduation is not the end to learning. There are sectors still holding up and hiring - such as information and communications technology (ICT), financial services and manufacturing. There are also support schemes such as the SGUnited Traineeships rolled out by the Government and SUTD Industrial Secondment scheme where you can choose to be seconded to a few of SUTD’s key partners. These secondment and traineeships provided our Class of 2020 the opportunity to develop industryrelevant skills and build professional networks, which will boost their credentials to prospective employers. In addition, SUTD graduates from the Class of 2020 are eligible for four complimentary CET courses with the SUTD Academy. We are now witnessing the true meaning of the VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex, ambiguous) world. Every crisis sees the emergence of new technology and new ideas. Do not spend time worrying what lies ahead in the future, but stay focused and be prepared when opportunities arise. There is more to anticipate in the new normal such as the ability to unlearn and learn new things; and apply what you know in this uncertain and rapidly changing world. “It is not in the stars to hold our destiny but in ourselves.” — William Shakespeare
Angelvin C. Parma Head, Career Development Centre
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CONTENTS
INSIDE THIS GUIDE Produced by
Preparing You for the Future 3
Meet the Career Development Centre Team
4
Start Your Journey with Us
6
Tailored for Freshmores!
8
Creating Job Opportunities for You
11
The Graduate Employment Survey
12
Thoughts About the Career Development Centre
DESIGN YOUR FUTURE SUTD CAREER GUIDE 2021
MCI (P) 065/08/2020
Getting Ready 14
Steps to Graduation
16
Making the Most of Your Internships
18
Do Internships Help in Landing Your Dream Job?
24
What Employers Look for When Hiring
26
Grow Your Professional Network on LinkedIn
28
Get a Head Start on Personal Branding
30
Secret to Application Tracking System (ATS)
32
How to Start a Successful Job Hunt
Your Career Tool Box! 34
How to Nail an Elevator Pitch
36
Crafting Resumes that Stand Out
38
Writing Compelling Cover Letters
40
Building a Professional Portfolio
42
Deciphering Dress Codes
44
What to Expect in Job Interviews
46
Network Like a Professional
48
What to Do After You Get a Job Offer
Advice for Your Career Journey 52
Navigating in the New World of Work
54
Transitioning to Corporate World
56
Working in an MNC, SME and Start-up
58
Alumni Speaks
63
Career Pathways A-Z
72
2
Jobs and Internships
SUTD career guide 2021
(Company number: 200301978M)
2 Sims Close #05-07 Gemini@Sims tel +(65) 6294 6505 fax +(65) 6294 1043 www.gtimedia.asia
SUTD Consultants Angelvin C. Parma, Jessica Chwee, Desmond Foo, Faith Lim, Davina Tham Chief Editor Elliyani Mohamad Ali Editor & Editorial Sarah Si Design & production Amirah Azlan, A’liah binti Abdul Rahim Advertising Ron Ong, Joey Ng, The GTI Media sales team Marketing & distribution Cheryl Tan, Charisse Su Managing Director Isaac Hee International managing director and co-founder Adrian Wood, Mark Blythe Printer Times Printer Pte. Ltd. 16 Tuas Ave. 5 Singapore 639340 Š GTI Asia Pte Ltd, Jan 2021 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means including, but not limited to, photocopying or storage in a retrieval system in any form without prior written consent of GTI. The views expressed in the articles are those of the authors and their publication does not necessarily imply that such views are shared by GTI. Whilst every care has been taken in the compilation of this publication, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies, or for consequential loss arising from such inaccuracies, or for any loss, direct or consequential, arising in connection with information in this publication. Disclaimer: Most photos were taken before the COVID-19 pandemic.
PREPARING YOU FOR THE FUTURE
MEET THE CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTRE TEAM Get to know the Career Development Centre (CDC) Team, who are dedicated to assisting you in your career journey.
LEFT TO RIGHT Pang Zhi Yuan Internship for Master of Architecture & Overseas Internship zhiyuan_pang@sutd.edu.sg
Davina Tham Employer Relations davina_tham@sutd.edu.sg
Melissa Png Local Internship melissa_png@sutd.edu.sg
Julia Tham Events and Operations julia_tham@sutd.edu.sg
Eleaner Loh Statistics & Admin eleanerloh@sutd.edu.sg
Angelvin C. Parma Head, Career Development Centre angelvin@sutd.edu.sg
Faith Lim Career Coach faith_lim@sutd.edu.sg
Jazreel Lee Events and Operations jazreel_lee@sutd.edu.sg
Jessica Chwee Career Coach jessica_chwee@sutd.edu.sg
Robert Gunawan Employer Relations robert_gunawan@sutd.edu.sg
Vanessa Teo Employer Relations vanessa_teo@sutd.edu.sg
Desmond Foo Career Coach desmond_foo@sutd.edu.sg
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PREPARING YOU FOR THE FUTURE
START YOUR JOURNEY WITH US Graduate Employment Management System (GEMS)
Overview of GEMS
Once you are in GEMS, you are ready to explore the features that GEMS has to offer. The menu bar on the left shows you all the features available. Simply click on each one of them to explore. GEMS is an important and functional platform that you would use regardless if you are a Freshmore deciding on your pillar choice, a Sophomore or Junior seeking out for overseas internship or a Senior looking for full-time job. The platform is packed with useful insights and resources to keep you updated on the hiring trends. More importantly, this is a platform for you to make an appointment with your career coach. Simply logon to this website (bit.ly/sutdGEMS) with your student ID and password to find out more.
On the What’s New dashboard, you have all the latest news and events that are happening. We have also included useful resources like Vault.com where you can gain access to the write-ups and insights of many industries and companies.
Career Events and Workshops
Jobs Visit this page to stay up-to-date on available job opportunities. Get to know which companies are hiring and who they are looking for. Raise your awareness in the job market and fill any gaps in skills and knowledge that you may have.
Have you attended any on-and-off campus company visits and recruitment talks organised by CDC? Many of your peers who have attended found these sessions extremely useful as they have the opportunity to interact with the staff and hiring managers to find out more about the work culture and the different types of career prospect available to them! If you are still unsure of your own career path, sign up for one session now! Simply go to Career Events to check out the next series of events that we are organising.
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PREPARING YOU FOR THE FUTURE
A “date” with your Career Coach
We have uploaded the SUTD sample cover letter and resume here. Simply download it and edit! Yes, it is in Microsoft Word document. However, remember, do not copy from the sample, or you may end up sending one that is almost similar to your peers. When you write your resume, do not forget to apply the AAA (Action, Amplify & Achievement) format that you have learnt in UPOP!
Mock Interview
In 2020, about 475 appointments were made by students to visit their career coaches. That is equivalent to one student visiting the Career Development Centre on a daily basis. Beyond the usual resume critique or mock interview sessions, we encourage you to collaborate with the career coach to tap on his/her industry insights and strategies to kickstart your career planning. Still thinking if you should make a date with your career coach? It is time to shake off the thoughts that only “needy” students use the services at Career Development Centre.
Career Resources This section is packed with useful tips and documents if you need a final check or quick tips for your upcoming job or internship application and interview. For example, find out how to answer “Tell me about yourself” in a job interview.
It is increasingly popular for companies to run their first-round interview online through platforms such as HireVue. Do get yourself familiar and comfortable through using the Mock Interview feature in GEMS to practise online interview for different job positions. What is useful about this feature is that you can send it to anyone (including your friends/parents) and get them to provide feedback on your performance!
Career Finder & Explorer
Document Library
Have you ever wondered why you need more energy in doing something over others? This is because we are all wired differently as our interests and values get shaped through our experiences. Career Finder helps you to identify your personality, which could give you a head start in deciding your career choice. Based on Holland’s Theory of Career Choice, you get to know where your personalities lie in the six areas; Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising or Conventional. If you are always on the go, do not forget to download GEMS on your mobile phone or tablet. Go to Google Store or iTunes to download “Symplicity Jobs and Careers”.
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PREPARING YOU FOR THE FUTURE
TAILORED FOR FRESHMORES! Undergraduate Practice Opportunities Programme (UPOP) Undergraduate Practice Opportunities Programme (UPOP) is a programme that aims to develop SUTD undergraduates to be career-ready. Through the practical and experiential sessions taught by the Career Advisor and Professional Consultants, our students acquire relevant career skills to help them navigate the graduate employment market.
UPOP Essential Modules and Advanced Modules Year
Jan - April
May - Aug
Sep to Dec Freshmore (Term 1) Essential Module: • Freshmore Welcome Tea
Year 1
Freshmore (Term 2) Essential Module: • E01: DYSUTD • E02: The Art of Communication • E03: Brand YOU: How to tell your story & create your personal brand • E04: Career SUPERDRIVE
Vacation/Summer Programme
Freshmore (Term 3) Essential Module: • E05: LinkedIn Up
Year 2
Sophomore (Term 4) Essential Module: • E06: Ace Your Interview • E07: Showcasing Your Skills: Resume & Technical Portfolio
Junior (Term 5) Essential Module: • E08: The Super Intern with the X-cultural Factor
Vacation/Exchange/INTERNSHIP Activity: • Industry Night
Activities: • Career & Internship Fair • Forerunners Year 3
Junior (Term 6) Activities: • Career & Internship Fair • Forerunners
Advanced Modules: • Nailing the Assessment Centre • Breaking the CASE
Vacation/Summer Programme/ INTERNSHIP Essential Modules: • E09: Job Search Strategies • E10: The Art of Persuasion & Negotiation
Senior (Term 7) - Capstone Activities: • E-Resume Book for Graduating Seniors • Industry Night
Advanced Modules: • Nailing the Assessment Centre • Breaking the CASE Year 4
Senior (Term 8) – Capstone Activities: • Graduate Connect • Forerunners • Career & Internship Fair
UPOP Advanced Modules were strategically introduced for the rest of the academic years to enhance students’ career readiness. Advanced Modules often have smaller class sizes, thus registration is based on a first-come-first-served basis, with a nominal fee of S$10 payable upon registration.
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PREPARING YOU FOR THE FUTURE
UPOP Essential Modules DYSUTD
The Art of Communication
Brand YOU
Career SUPERDRIVE™
LinkedIn Up
Design thinking is a widely used process for product and service designers to create user-centric solutions. Build, design and create a meaningful and fulfilling journey for your SUTD life and career using these concepts so you can thrive at any stage!
Network anytime and anywhere! This workshop will help you to increase your confidence so you can enjoy networking and do it more successfully. Grab the chance to meet people that could be pivotal to your career, like a potential hiring manager, a mentor and even an investor to your future start-up!
Inspire and move others with a good story. Tell compelling stories that create an impact to your audience. Engage, convince and lead them to take the desired action.
Career SUPERDRIVE™ is a refreshing take on career discovery. Learn more about your intrinsic motivations, your personality, what makes you tick, and what paths you can take in a fun and interactive manner. Gain more clarity, perspectives and possibilities for your career-life.
Become your own career influencer! Enhance your professional presence online and harness the power of LinkedIn. Develop a plan to connect with influential people within your discipline and establish your brand, which would open opportunities to get into your dream career!
Ace Your Interview
Showcasing Your Skills
The Super Intern
Job Search Strategies
The Art of Persuasion and Negotiation
With technology, interviews are no longer just conducted face-toface. At times, it does not have to be real time too! Understand the different dynamics and expectations from each type of interviews. Learn how to stand out and pick up the best practices to help you win in any kind of interviews.
Impress the recruiter and hiring manager with a Portfolio of your past works. Showcase your skills and strengths through a well-thoughtout portfolio. Learn to improve the overall look and feel to create a brand for yourself.
Shine in your internship! Get tips and strategies to give you the cutting edge in the working world. Develop techniques to break the barrier of diverse cultures in a multicultural environment.
Job Search does not have to be a daunting task and a time consuming one. Learn to invest your time wisely in activities that can achieve the maximum results. Get effective job search tips to land you that job.
Pick up effective negotiation techniques to allow you to find solutions that benefit both and change the game. Learn to persuade and influence effectively.
Freshmore Welcome Session All students are required to complete the UPOP Essential Modules until E08 before embarking on their internship.
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PREPARING YOU FOR THE FUTURE
CREATING JOB OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOU The Career Development Centre (CDC) introduces various opportunities to connect students with industry professionals and prospective employers.
Recruitment talks and company visits Job search can be a daunting task. How do you identify companies and opportunities that align with your passions and skill sets? Do the companies support career and personal development? You can discover answers to these questions through recruitment talks and company visits. Attending these recruitment events and visiting the company premises allow you to elicit critical information to secure your desired opportunities. Conducted throughout the academic year, these events also provide excellent networking opportunities with recruiters and hiring managers to create favourable impressions with potential employers across different industries.
Emerson Company Visit
Typically held in a more relaxed setting, you can speak with the company representatives to get a sense of the work culture, understand different career pathways and sometimes, as a bonus, even score an interview! So look out for the weekly Friday e-newsletters and opportunities from CDC. See you at the next recruitment event!
Rakuten Recruitment Talk
PSA Tour
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PREPARING YOU FOR THE FUTURE
Career and Internship Fair
Career and Internship Fair Whether you have started actively seeking career opportunities or mapped out a strategic plan in career search, SUTD Career and Internship Fair (CIF) is a fantastic place to gain exposure to your future career. CIF usually sees over 100 employers across diverse sectors on campus to offer you information on their internship and employment opportunities. Here are some tips to get the most out of CIF: 1. Make a list: Research, strategise and map out the employers you want to speak with 2. Create your story: What makes you unique? What can you offer? 3. Engage! Stay open-minded and start conversations. Be authentic. 4. Follow-up: Collect contact details of employers you are interested in and follow up with a polite email.
Industry Night Held in September, Industry Night is SUTD’s flagship networking event organised by CDC for new industry partners across different sectors. Attend these events to practise and enhance your networking skills by speaking to participating employers. Ask questions and establish connections. Students who are able to engage employers will stand out from a sea of undergraduates with similar qualifications. Employers constantly highlight that they want to interact with students to learn about their interests and possible career options, so keep your eyes peeled for the registration details! Professional Photoshoot
While the employment market is becoming immensely competitive, career search is exciting because you have so many choices. Drop by CDC if you need to spruce up your resume before CIF. All the best!
Shopee Recruitment Talk
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PREPARING YOU FOR THE FUTURE
Graduate Connect Your Senior year is hectic. Besides juggling Capstone projects and academic studies, you have to squeeze out time to secure a job before graduation. Planning ahead is key but if you are still keeping your options open before graduation, check out Graduate Connect, a targeted recruitment event, in May. The intended purpose of Graduate Connect, is to place the graduating cohort in the limelight with employers who are keen to hire fresh graduates. More than 50 companies participated in 2020 Graduate Connect which generated more than 200 unique and exciting opportunities and job offers.
Schroders Recruitment Talk
Interview Accelerator Due to the pandemic, the hiring process has become increasingly virtual as many professionals are now working remotely. Interview Accelerator is an inaugural series of speed interviews where Seniors get to meet the employers in an intimate setting on a virtual platform. Launched by CDC, the Interview Accelerator serves as a preliminary round for hiring managers to speak to students in 10-minute sessions on a one-on-one basis. Prepare your resume and do not miss the interview sessions so you can aim to land yourself a job before graduation. Keep a lookout for our e-newsletter and stay up to date with the opportunities available!
Dyson Event and Recruitment Talk
Forerunner This is the event of the year that our graduating seniors should not miss as CDC invites four Alumni to share their experiences on work-life beyond campus. Remember to register if you are wondering what more you can do to prepare for your work-life after graduation, or seek to alumni increase your network with fellow SUTDents who have already started working with your dream organisations.
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EY Data Science Challenge
PREPARING YOU FOR THE FUTURE
GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT SURVEY The Joint Autonomous Universities Graduate Employment Survey (JAUGES) is conducted jointly by the six Autonomous Universities (NTU, NUS, SIT, SMU, SUSS and SUTD) every year to collect information on the employment status of the graduates six months after the completion of their final exams.
Congratulations to the Class of 2019 who have done SUTD proud! TOP HIRING COMPANIES Top 10 companies hiring SUTD graduates are as follows:
TOP HIRING SECTORS Some of the top hiring sectors include:
Information & Communications
Finance & Insurance
Public Administration & Defence
Scientific Research & Development
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PREPARING YOU FOR THE FUTURE
THOUGHTS ABOUT THE CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTRE Find out how our Career Coaches have helped your peers in their journey to joining the workforce.
Ang Jia Ying
Anirudh Rathi
Junior in Engineering Systems and Design Class of 2021
Master of Architecture Class of 2021
I decided to get Jessica’s help from the Career Development Centre (CDC) to critique my resume and share some career advice. She was very helpful and went through what my resume lacked step by step. After the session, I gained a deeper understanding as to how to position my resume in a way that fits my ideal job. I honestly would have saved a lot of time and effort when job hunting (for internships) if I had consulted CDC earlier. For those who are career hunting, it would be good to start as early as possible and get consultations with CDC when you are ready for the job search.
The team at CDC helped me recognise my capabilities and convey them to prospective employers in a succinct manner, both verbally and in writing. I was able to better learn about my strengths and weaknesses, which helped me understand the type of jobs I would be inclined towards at the end of my education. Additionally, Faith helped me perfect my interview etiquette by conducting mock interviews and providing constructive feedback on my performance. Ultimately, I was more prepared for the job-hunting season, which led to me procuring three internships in Singapore, Beijing and Copenhagen.
Axiom Kosasih Junior in Engineering Product Development Class of 2021
As an international student, I have had (and still have) my doubts and worries regarding employment after graduation. Fortunately, SUTD’s CDC has provided me with continuous support and guidance on my career development. During my coaching sessions, the career coaches helped me creatively navigate through my roadblocks with clarity and professional insights. They have always sensitively dealt with my insecurities and doubts, while also encouraging me to believe in myself. Their coaching has also guided me through the process of understanding my priorities and options, and then developing a plan to achieve my goals. I always leave my sessions with a clearer sense of direction and a great sense of empowerment to reach my full potential. I would highly recommend CDC coaching sessions and career events to other SUTD students who are looking for guidance and support. Thank you CDC!
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PREPARING YOU FOR THE FUTURE
Lim Jun Wei
Seet Yu Lian
Sophomore in Engineering Systems and Design Class of 2021
Junior in Engineering Systems and Design Class of 2021
The CDC is an excellent first step towards the outside world. They served as a mediator for me to understand and prepare myself for the workplace. With a group of professional and experienced staff, they are always available for consultation, which was very convenient. With tips to improve my resume and holding mock interviews to improve my skills, I managed to land my first internship. I think that exposure is one of the keys to successfully landing your first internship. Being open to challenges and experience helps pave the path through learning and accepting failures. Do not be afraid to take the first step!
As a graduating student on a job hunt, CDC has provided myself with valuable insights in shaping my aspirations and to improve on my job search. Back when I was halfway through my first internship, Jessica visited my workplace to share some career-coaching advice that helped me to discover my career interests. Following that, I sought a resume critique session from her to figure out how best to tailor my resume to the job of interest, to which I had benefitted after making the cut for a first round case assessment with a highly competitive and prestigious firm.
Wee Chun Hui Freshmore Class of 2024
Even though this is my first term, I have already benefitted from the CDC’s services as they actively reach out to us through email. They also conducted an in-class briefing on the wealth of other services that are available to us on request, as well as the career fair that would be a great way to connect with people in the industry and find out what is currently needed. As I was uncertain of how to best schedule my possible internships and exchange programmes, I approached SUTD career advisor Desmond, who listened patiently and gave me valuable tips on how to plan out my journey in SUTD. He has also promptly helped me on resume drafting when I told him my struggles with penning down my experiences thus far. With his help, I am now more clear of how to discover future career prospects as well as the directions that my career could take.
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GETTING READY
STEPS TO GRADUATION It is never too early to start planning for your career, even when you are still studying. Take a look at the steps you should take to maximise your time at SUTD.
Freshmore Year: Increase self-awareness
Sophomore Year: Explore and identify professions based on your interests
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Do not miss out on the Freshmore Welcome Tea during Term 1
2
Attend UPOP to equip yourself with career essential skills and learn the importance of self-discovery
3
Take stock of your values, interests, strengths, skills and areas for improvement
4
Make appointments with your Career Coaches and receive updates on available job positions and upcoming events with GEMS
5
Keep a lookout for the weekly e-newsletter every Friday and emails from the SUTD Career Development Centre for job opportunities
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Talk to people – your family members, friends, faculty and staff about the nature of their jobs
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Opt for the Global Leadership Programme (GLP) or Undergraduate Research Opportunities Programme (UROP) during your first summer!
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Explore and be active in fifth row activities!
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Attend the pillar information sessions to decide on the pillar that best suits you
1 Gain insights to the various industries through talks and workshops, and network with potential employers at Career and Internship Fair (CIF), recruitment talks and other related events
Update your resume with information about your academic projects, fifth row/co-curricular activities, UROP and technical skills proficiency before having your resume reviewed by your Career Coach
3 Explore external opportunities (eg. Hackathon competitions, volunteering, etc.)
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4 Setup your Linkedin account and connect with alumni and HR via Linkedin. Identify and apply to companies which you would like to complete your internship at
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GETTING READY
Junior Year: Prepare for your applications
1 Take up one or two summer internship(s)
Make an appointment with your Career Coach via GEMS to discuss and explore the industries which you might be interested in
2
3 Eliminate areas you are not interested in and narrow down your research to focus on your top 3 industries
4
Check out full-time job opportunities on GEMS at least once a week
Understand the application requirements and hiring timelines of your targeted industries and organisations
6 Take stock of your technical portfolio and resume before meeting with your Career Coach
Book an appointment with your Career Coach for a mock interview
Senior Year: Be proactive and prepare for life beyond SUTD
Follow up and apply early for every job you are targeting as many companies review applications on a rolling basis
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8 Start compiling your testimonials and references
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11 Leverage on your network – family, friends and alumni – to search for job opportunities
Develop a 90-second personal elevator pitch
4 Send a thank you note after each interview and follow up on your active applications
7 Tailor your resume according to industry and job functions
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5
2
Customise your resume and cover letter to each specific job you apply for to ensure they meet the requirements stated on the job description
3 Book an appointment with your Career Coach for a mock interview
5 Once you have successfully secured your job, update your Career Coach and participate in the Graduate Employment Survey
6 Aim to secure a job by January (4 months prior to graduation)
Participate in as many recruitment events (Graduate Connect and Interview Accelerator in May and July respectively) as you can if you have not secured a job
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GETTING READY
MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR INTERNSHIPS Internships represent a valuable opportunity to gain experience and even launch your career, but only if you do it right.
I
f you managed to land on the internship you had your eye on, then congratulations! But there is no time to rest on your laurels because the real work truly starts here. Your next goal is to excel in your internship by showing your ability to apply the knowledge and skills picked up in the classroom to the real world. If you succeed, there may even be a good chance of landing a full-time position with your employer afterwards. After all, an increasing number of employers prefer converting interns to full-time hires. So, how do you get the most out of your internship from start to finish? Here are some useful tips.
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Research the opportunity well Achieving internship success starts right from the application process. Firstly, before applying for an internship post, read the job description and responsibilities carefully. They should be in line with your own career goals and provide opportunities for you to develop relevant skill sets that will help lead you to your dream job after graduation. If you are unsure about the responsibilities of a particular job role, bring it up to Career Development Centre, ask your seniors for their thoughts, or take the time to do the necessary online research. Your internship will likely last about four months, so you do not want to waste time in an internship role that does not ultimately help you grow the skill set that you want. Secondly, get familiar with the company you are planning to apply an internship with. Go through the organisation’s values, vision and mission to get an idea of its direction and whether it reflects with your own values. It will be a bonus if the company offers training and mentorships to interns as well.
Set personal goals Once have accepted an internship offer, prepare yourself mentally for your role by first listing down the personal goals you would like to achieve. Start by defining what success means for you, then set bite-sized targets for yourself to follow. For instance, if you are an architecture intern, your measure of success would be whether the projects you are involved with meets your clients’ objectives while still addressing emerging challenges, such as the need for energy-efficient construction and maintenance, rapid urbanisation and transportation planning. Take the time to understand what those mean, and to think about how you might contribute to them as an intern. Having goals and targets will help give you a direction to work towards. This will in turn keep you focused and purposeful while on the job, which makes for a more productive internship.
Treat it like a job Although you may receive more leeway when it comes to making mistakes as an intern, your internship is still a serious commitment and an important opportunity. Thus, it is crucial that you give your best and treat your internship like a full-time job. Take every task seriously, as though your livelihood depends on it – no matter how small or unimportant the task may seem. Although you may only be in the role for a few months, allow yourself to be immersed in the company culture. This will help you discern the kind of company culture that suits you best when it comes to applying for a full-time job.
GETTING READY
Bring the right attitude, be professional, willing to learn and be adaptable You will face with a myriad of challenges in your internship role. Accept the fact that as someone new to the working life, you will make mistakes, so just be professional and own up to them! Quickly learn from your mistakes and do not let these hinder you from bouncing back and doing your best. Make a point to pick up new skills by approaching colleagues from other departments and forming friendships with them. This way, you will not only get the chance to learn things you might not have known previously, but also gain knowledge from senior colleagues. Be adaptable by learning to acknowledge and accept changes. For example, if things do not go as initially planned on a task, then stay flexible and be open about thinking of another solution. Above all, do not be afraid to ask for feedback or guidance from your co-workers if you need it.
Build your network
Exit well
It is never too early to learn how to network. Over the course of your internship, you will meet people who may be your superiors one day, or coworkers who can recommend you for available roles, whether through wordof-mouth or further connections. That should not be your goal in getting to know your colleagues though. Building your network takes time and effort. Be sincere in spending time to get to know your colleagues in your team, whether over a cup of coffee or during lunch. You may never know if the relationship will develop into a genuine, valuable friendship instead. The bottom line is that having friends, allies and good connections will only bring positive results, whether in your personal or professional life.
At the tail end of your internship, ask your superiors if they will be willing to vouch for your contribution and perhaps prepare a recommendation letter for you. Consider encouraging your superiors and co-workers to recommend or endorse you on LinkedIn for skills you displayed or picked up on the job. Connecting with your superiors and colleagues on LinkedIn also allows you to stay in touch with them. And who knows? Those connections might just be key if a full-time position opens up at that company one day.
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GETTING READY
DO INTERNSHIPS HELP IN LANDING YOUR DREAM JOB? Find out how SUTD students gain an edge in the working world by securing internships to explore and learn more about themselves.
My role As the UX Design Intern in Service Design, I played a part in directly improving the employees’ experience, and indirectly the customers’ experience, while planning and organising business’ resources. I helped in two projects – Citizen Disbursement System (CDS) and the National Platform for Healthcare Claims (NPHC).
Ang You Shan UX Design Intern (Service Design) Government Technology Agency of Singapore (GovTech) Engineering Product Development Class of 2021
I believe that one’s career should not be defined by his or her course of study, just like how I took additional courses in UX to land myself an UX internship.
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My challenge One of my main challenges is navigating complex projects with various systems involved. As a service designer, it was imperative for me to understand the entire end-to-end user journey, business logic and sometimes even data flow throughout the whole product and service. It was my first time dealing with a lot of policies-related information and I had to read up as well as consult my mentors to understand the entire flow. My mentors were immensely understanding and always encouraged me to ask questions. They said, “No question is a stupid question”. Of course, on my end, I read through all the existing documentations and readings first to understand the basics and prepare a list of meaningful questions to further clarify
with. However, I think the best way to learn is when you start doing small tasks, because that is when the knowledge you picked up can be applied to help the project.
My biggest takeaway In school, we hardly have such massive projects that require one to spend a significant amount of time to fully understand the context to design the screens and product. We also do not have opportunities to present our designs to developers and product owners to gather opinions and feedback. Hence, one of the greatest takeaways from the internship would be the opportunity to work on a real client-facing project and having to work with co-workers in different job functions.
Advice for my juniors Internship is the best time for you to try out various roles and companies that you are interested in. I believe that one’s career should not be defined by his or her course of study, just like how I took additional courses in UX to land myself in an UX internship. Be open minded, flexible, and most importantly, find a field that you are passionate about!
GETTING READY
Austin Tay Yau Long Data Scientist Intern DHL Engineering Systems and Design Class of 2021
Do as many internships as you can to get a feeling of what working life is like. Through these internships, you may find something you are passionate in.
Brandon Ho Intern DBS Bank Engineering Systems and Design Class of 2021
My role
My biggest takeaway
I was part of the applied analytics team in DHL as a data scientist intern. Our team’s main focus was to provide customer solutions and innovation to the team. We help external customers solve problems and also maintain good relations with them. The data scientists in the applied analytics team are often being issued several projects to work based on the clients’ demand. Customers usually engage them to provide analysis on the performance of their inventory (Deadstock) or networks (Movement), among others. The project which I was assigned to was to help the client optimise their warehouse inventory management by reducing transport and storage costs. I was tasked to focus on the part of the project which aimed to analyse the returns and the movements of the goods.
I had a lot of opportunities to be involved in real customer projects. My supervisor trusted and allowed me to take part in several customer meetings. In a multinational company like DHL, I was able to experience working with global colleagues with diverse background and cultures. For one of my projects, I was tasked to work with the Japan team to analyse their data. I was impressed with their work ethics and efficiency.
My challenge One challenge was to adapt to the new working climate. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I was not able to meet the team and work at the office. The data collection process was tedious without the face-toface interactions. It took a lot more emails and video calls to explain the requests and work through the solutions. I had to quickly adapt to using video conferencing as a main form of communication and getting used to working from home. I also had to learn several new programmes, for example Tableau, Power Bi and Pandas, to deliver the project.
I am thankful to SUTD for the curriculum as I was able to apply what I have learnt in school to real-life scenarios through working on projects. The application of the knowledge has increased my mastery in this area. I am grateful to DHL, my supervisors for their guidance and making an intern like me feel included in the DHL family with invitations to townhall meetings, team-building activities and appreciation dinner.
Advice for my juniors Do as many internships as you can to get a feeling of what working life is like. Through these internships, you may find something you are passionate in. Be independent, proactive and have the learning agility to face any challenge.
My role
My challenge
I was heavily involved in assisting the department in converting data into information, information into insight, and insight into business decisions. This was a three-part process: The first part was to interpret data and to analyse the results using various techniques. The second part was mostly filtering and cleaning data through reviewing computer reports, printouts, and various performance indicators. Lastly, I worked together with the management to prioritise business and information improvement opportunities.
One of the biggest challenges I faced was the lack of technical knowledge. It did not come as a surprise, considering that it was my first time working in a bank. However, my lack of technical knowledge was quite restrictive, limiting the scope of tasks that I perform. To help resolve this, I participated in weekly Market Updates hosted by DBS, which gave me clearer insights and knowledge to the current financial situation in Singapore, as well as globally. I also took up online courses in my free time to help bridge this gap in knowledge.
There will be times where you make mistakes and cause inconvenience to others, but do not be disheartened. Learn from your mistakes, and do not hesitate to reach out for assistance.
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My biggest takeaway My biggest takeaway from the internship would be the soft skills that I observed and experienced. Being able to experience first-hand how the employees in the department of a world-class bank work together was really inspiring, and it also gave me a pretty good idea of the kind of career that I would want to pursue after I graduate from SUTD. The internship also gave me the opportunity to work together with international
My role
James Gan Sheng Wei Data Science Intern DataSpark Engineering Systems and Design Class of 2021
Throughout the internship journey, there may be instances where do not have the knowledge yet to carry out a task. When that happens, have the courage to ask your fellow colleagues for help.
I came into DataSpark as a Data Science Intern. I was very thankful to be given the opportunity to rotate around three teams during my internship stint. For the first rotation, I worked on a component of the CAPEX optimiser decision engine to identify high value customer segment. This rotation broadened my understanding of the world of data, as I was exposed to the software engineering side of data science, where we create tools that allow for statistical insights. My next rotation was working with Product Management Team where I helped to generate figures and values that were needed by the team for validation and presentation purposes. And finally, during my last rotation, I was attached to the Machine Learning Team, where I worked on the development of an Outlier Detection Algorithm to improve the quality of data ingested by the ML algorithms.
My challenge The biggest challenge for me was picking up technical skills and domain-specific knowledge (telecommunications lingo). DataSpark utilised Spark and Scala to perform their task due to the sheer volume of data that is being consumed.
My role I was a Software Engineer Intern in the Quality Team, which is mostly focused on testing, monitoring, reviewing and learning. During my internship, I was mostly working on a project to set up a service to select dynamic test sets for test automation at every Pull Request.
My challenge
Lin Huiqing Softwear Engineer Intern Carousell
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One of the challenges I have encountered in the internship was the use of unfamiliar tools. This has led to quite some trouble to get things working, sometimes only to find out that I was unable to perform the tasks due to the lack of permissions. To overcome this, I constantly reminded
stakeholders even though I was just an intern, which was an incredibly satisfying and rewarding experience.
Advice for my juniors At the end of the day, an internship is a learning experience. There will be times where you make mistakes and cause inconvenience to others, but do not be disheartened. Learn from your mistakes, and do not hesitate to reach out for assistance. Wish you all the best!
The programming language Scala was completely new to me, as previously during my ESD and project times, I was more familiar with dynamically typed language and had to get familiar with statically types language. Coursera, YouTube and Udemy was one of the best resources I had to allow myself to pick up the Apache family of software and Scala Programming Language. In addition, the telecommunications industry was new to me, and it took me some time to be familiar with the terminology and the processes that were involved, as it influenced my analysis and conclusions of my work.
My biggest takeaway Accept that you will need to learn new skills.
Advice for my juniors Throughout the internship journey, there may be instances where you may not yet have the technical knowledge to carry out a task. When that happens, have the courage to ask your fellow colleagues for help. Most of the time, they will be more than happy to lend a helping hand and teach you.
myself not to dwell on certain problems. After reading the documentation, I test the hypotheses and if still uncertain, to ask others. I have also set a limit of one day to figure out things which I am unsure of before moving on. Another challenge was ensuring the maintainability of the code, as it was the first time I was working on a project which would go into production. To tackle this, I made sure to practise good coding practices, and think about maintainability early on when designing the code and use design patterns if applicable.
GETTING READY
Information Systems Technology and Design Class of 2022
To make the most out of your internship, take the initiative to go the extra mile to suggest improvements in existing processes or learn more about what is going on in the team or company!
My biggest takeaway My biggest takeaway was the whole experience of being in a software engineering team. Through this experience, I had the opportunity to put the best practices learnt in class into practice, to experience what being AGILE really means, and to use automation tools which would only make sense in a large-scale or long-term project. These are opportunities which cannot be fully
My role
Sandy Low Yu Xian Intern Changi General Hospital Architecture and Sustainable Design Class of 2021
Design thinking is one of the keys where I do not possess the knowledge effective urban planning. This is very relevant to my interest and what was taught in ASD.
I had the opportunity to work with Changi General Hospital’s (CGH) Community Development Office to conceptualise, research, and design how community spaces can be optimised to promote physical activity. One of the highlights of my 16-week internship at CGH is the opportunity to network and work together with many healthcare professionals and community organisations. I have also learnt from the SUTD Social Urban Research Groupe (SURGe) how architects collect data of their target population. I have managed to develop an online survey to understand the spaces that Tampines Residents use and partner with the Northeast Community Development Council to reach out to almost 200 residents. I then organised and led an on-site mixed-method survey involving almost 60 residents, which was well received.
My challenge The Healthcare sector during this pandemic has been put through immense stress. I am grateful that the internship with CGH is still possible despite their tight resources as CGH has been SUTD’s supportive industry partner. Working from home was a challenge for me at the beginning of the internship. Throughout the internship, I have been working remotely from home, attending e-meetings and connecting with my
replicated in school or would only make sense in larger projects.
Advice for my juniors Be proactive. While it is your supervisor’s responsibility to grow you as an intern, they often have many other things on their plate as well. To make the most out of your internship, take the initiative to go the extra mile to suggest improvements in existing processes or learn more about what is going on in the team or company!
colleagues through digital means. During the start of the internship, I was unaware of who I could reach out to for help and was confused on how the internship was going to progress. However, with the warm hospitality of CGH, I was aware of whom I could reach out to consult for my work. Senior researchers from SURGe were also open and never hesitated to offer me feedback for my work. This reassured me and I was able to fully adapt to working from home.
My biggest takeaway With new knowledge and insights gained through my internship, I discovered how architecture and the opinions of users play a critical role in urban planning. Design thinking is one of the keys to effective urban planning. This is very relevant to my interest and what was taught in ASD. Taking a design thinking approach correct in our unique curriculum allows us to understand the needs of those we are building for.
Advice for my juniors An internship opportunity is a great time to apply what the curriculum has taught us and apply in real-world situations. Keep an open mind to new perspectives in your field and you might gain new perspectives through your internship journey.
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My role
Tan Yong Da Dino Data Engineer Intern Unilever Engineering Systems and Design Class of 2021
This period of internship is invaluable in understanding your own working style and ideal work environment.
I was a Data Engineer Intern at Unilever’s Information & Analytics Department (I&A). My work was focused on the development of a Trade Promotion Analytics (TPA) platform, a data-driven interactive dashboard that allows clients to analyse the performance of their products and promotions across retailer stores, enabling them to adopt a targeted approach in their sales decisions. As a data engineer, my main role within this TPA Project is to process and transform primary consumer data according to their business’ key performance indicators (KPIs), such as Return on Investment, Market Share, Promotion Uplift, among others, before handing the data over to the business analysts for dashboard development. Given the large scale of the datasets, I had the opportunity to work with Big Data within an Azure environment and its various applications.
My challenge The TPA project is driven by a great deal of business considerations. As I had little experience in business-driven data projects prior to this internship, the main challenge I faced was in effectively integrating financial metrics and KPIs in my codes and presentations. It was not an easy process to familiarise myself with multitudes of sales benchmarking metrics within the span of weeks. Thankfully, under the mentorship of my manager and colleagues, I was given the
Goh Yi Lin Tiffany Software Engineering Intern Ministry of Home Affairs Information Systems Technology and Design Class of 2021
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right guidance and direction to cultivate a better business acumen as a data engineer. Another challenge I faced was in the aspect of client management. While my main role was that of a data engineer, another key role of my internship was liaising with TPA’s foreign clients. As I progressed with the data management, I had to continually deliver data feedbacks and rectify data quality issues. On occasions where there were pushbacks or new requests on project deliverables from the clients, I had to exercise my discretion to ensure that the project’s outcome would not be compromised.
My biggest takeaway Through my work at I&A, I have learnt about the workflow systems in the FMCG industry and its business analytics applications. Working remotely spurred me to be more independent and proactive in my learning. I have also witnessed how crucial teamwork and communication is to ensure a project’s success. Overall, this internship at Unilever has helped me grow to be a more task-oriented and effective data engineer, and I am grateful for the experience.
Advice for my juniors Do your best and maintain a positive attitude when the going gets tough!
My role
My challenge
I worked as a software engineering intern at the Ministry of Home Affairs. Along with three interns including myself, we created an automatic text summariser. It summarises text documents and outputs informative visualisation displays that quickly and easily communicate the content of the text to the users.
My main challenge was coping with the steep learning curve within a short time. For NLP and deep learning concepts, I learnt to sieve through multiple online resources and grasp key and relevant concepts. As for Dockers and OpenShift, other than self-studying main concepts after work, I shifted my working style from fully understanding concepts before implementation to concurrent testing and understanding. In addition, I am very fortunate to have teammates who were very willing to answer my queries and lend me a helping hand whenever I faced difficulties.
It was a very enriching exposure, where we experienced the entire software engineering process. I started off researching and building natural language processing models that could detect sentiments, topics within documents and cluster similar documents together. Subsequently, I moved on to optimising the software architecture, enabling parallel processing, auto scaling and load balancing.
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My biggest takeaway Be hungry, grab any learning opportunities available and be open-minded to learn new things or accept new tasks.
Before my internship, I was excited at the thought of being able to explore many state-of-the-art technologies. However, afterwards, I realised that the soft skills learnt during the internship is equally, if not more, important to the technical skills as soft skills ingrained in ourselves will help us in our career long term. In terms of problem solving, I have become more systematic and logical in my thought process and approach. I learnt to place more emphasis in understanding the root cause of the problem. For complex tasks, I would tear the tasks apart, break them into smaller blocks and prioritise them for effective analysis. Lastly, I learnt to fully leverage on the internship opportunity as a learning platform to
My role During my time in Amaris AI, my role was focused on cybersecurity. There were two big projects I spent most of my time on – the data diode project, and the CovidGuard project.
Wong Jing Yi Intern Amaris AI Engineering Systems and Design Class of 2021
I would not have been able to learn so much from this internship experience had I stayed within the comfort and confines of my existing knowledge.
The data diode was a simple way to physically implement one-way data transfers between computers. I did various tests and improved on the code for the data diode project. Since it was implemented in an idle situation, it was important to occasionally send and receive a pulse to ensure the functionality of the diode. The CovidGuard project was a system that could use image recognition to check the SafeEntry “Check In” screen, and even use NFC cards. Since this involved storing users’ NRIC numbers, it was highly confidential and we had to ensure that no data could be accessed via the client-facing side of our system. Thus, I worked with some colleagues to carry out penetration testing on our own system to ensure that it was safe from malicious users.
My challenge
trials and take calculated risks for new ideas.
Advice for my juniors For new interns, my advice to them is not to overly focus on the deliverables or project outcomes, and end up neglecting the learning process. Do not fear making mistakes as internship is a safe environment for trial and error, and trying new ideas and making assumptions. Be hungry, grab any learning opportunities available and be open-minded to learn new things or accept new tasks. Voice your opinions during discussions and be receptive to feedback. Have the passion and drive to continuously learn and enrich yourself. Make full use of your internship!
patient and willing to help me through my hurdles, and a good supervisor with a wealth of knowledge who could point me in the correct direction. I would not have been able to learn so much from this internship experience had I stayed within the comfort and confines of my existing knowledge.
My biggest takeaway During my experience here, I was once scolded by my supervisor for mentioning incorrect information about cybersecurity. I believe this was due to a breakdown in communication. I did not fully understand the intentions of my supervisor and did not dare to clarify with him. From this experience, I learnt that communication was important, and not to be mentally affected by such situations. After the situation, we clarified things and I still ended the internship off on good terms with my supervisor.
Advice for my juniors Do not be discouraged if you did not get into your desired company! There are many places that can give you a wealth of learning experiences.
As an ESD student, I was daunted when placed in a cybersecurity role. I went into a lot of the tasks with hardly any prior understanding of the subject and had to do my own research to catch up. Thankfully, I had nice colleagues who were
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WHAT EMPLOYERS LOOK FOR WHEN HIRING The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we work and the skill sets that employers seek from their workforce.
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mployers around the world have had to rethink the nature of work this year, thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic. As a new graduate, you must understand what these changes mean as you look to launch your career and adopt the relevant skill sets in order to improve your level of employability. Most notably, remote working has now become the new norm. Meetings and presentations have now been almost entirely moved online, and the flow of work has changed such that new tasks can come in at any time instead of just within the traditional nine-to-five office hour periods. In addition, many companies still do not yet have a clear forecast about how things will develop from here, and are really only just experimenting as they go along. As a graduate employee, this means that you will need to actively cultivate a more agile and nimble mindset in order to get through the uncertainty ahead. You will also have to focus on applying communication, teamwork, and presentation skills specifically across online mediums. Not to mention building digital fluency given how many aspects of business have now been shifted online and are likely to remain so in the future ahead. With that said, there are still a few more things you should take note of as well. They are:
Skills 1. Be an agile and nimble thinker • Ability to deal with complex issues • Possess critical thinking skills • Have an open mind when it comes to how different cultures, personalities and experiences result in different thought processes and opinions in others • Have emotional intelligence for people management
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2. Possess global skills • Have cultural awareness • Understand international business • Armed with linguistic knowledge, complete with a wide-ranging lexicon and knowledge of language structure • Adaptable and able to work overseas • Ability to connect with and manage work relationships with diverse colleagues of different backgrounds
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3. Have powerful digital skills and knowledge • • • •
Be social media-savvy Understand the fundamentals of data analytics Know the different software and systems Have the basic knowledge of coding programming and development • Understand digital design, management and analysis
4. Have excellent interpersonal and communication skills • Have relationship-building and teamworking skills • Communicate ideas well during brainstorming sessions • Ability to collaborate with others • Have networking skills • Ability to communicate effectively with people of different cultures and backgrounds
Work Values 1. Strong work ethics • Willing to work hard and work smart • Strive to find solutions and ways to work effectively • Have a positive work attitude • Show initiative by helping out colleagues or by doing more than expected
3. Self-motivated
• Understand and deliver the tasks in a professional manner • Do not require prodding by supervisors • Ability to keep deadlines
2. Adaptability • Able to adapt to the personality and work habits of colleagues and managers • Accepting of new challenges, ideas and improvements to make the workplace a better place to work at • Avoid complaining at the first sight of changes or challenges
4. Professionalism • Produce professional work that is done to the best of his or her ability • Adopt a professional look and image by dressing well and taking pride in his or her appearance • Treat others with respect and kindness, regardless of any personal issues
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GROW YOUR PROFESSIONAL NETWORK ON LINKEDIN LinkedIn may not be the only social networking platforms available to businesses and professionals, but it is the most popular, making it a must-have tool for professionals to network and connect with others.
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s a place to showcase your resume, build your network and discover jobs that suit your skill sets, LinkedIn is a valuable resource for anyone about to start their career, particularly when it comes to growing your online network. Use LinkedIn to make relevant connections and to stay engaged with your professional network. In your career, who you know is often just as important as what you know. So you should invest time to stay connected with your network of contacts. You never know where your next opportunity may come from!
Connect with like-minded professionals Do not fall into the trap of adding as many people as you know to bulk up your connection list. It is not about how many connections you have on LinkedIn, but how well you know them. When you build a quality network by keeping in touch with your connections and engaging with them, that is when you can add value to each other’s professional journey.
1) Add people you have worked with This is a good way to keep in touch with your former internship superior and colleagues. Engage with them through LinkedIn posts, wish them congratulations when they have reached a milestone (LinkedIn will automatically alert you about such things) and keep them in the loop about the career opportunities you are looking for. If they know of a relevant opportunity, chances are you will be on their mind. Do not ask your contacts for favours in your initial invite though. That is just rude. Remember, the focus here is on building a genuine network, not using people to get a job.
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2) Add people you have met The next tier of people you can add are those whom you have met at career fairs and networking events. Do your best to attend all such events hosted by your Career Development Centre. Not only are they a great source of information on potential job opportunities, but they are also a fantastic way to grow your professional network! If you met a person of interest at a physical event, get their business card and add them to your LinkedIn network as soon as you can. If you met them at a virtual event, they would most likely have their LinkedIn profiles ready to connect with you, so find them and add them.
3) Add people that you would like to know The great thing about adding the people you have worked with and the people you have met is they are likely already in the industry you are trying to break in. From there, you will be able to see their connections and expand your network. You can add people from your contacts’ connections whom you wish to get to know, or whom you think could be a good inside source on job opportunities. However, do not forget that these people are all functionally strangers. So be extra polite when engaging with them!
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How to write an invite With only 300 characters to work with, your invite needs to be concise and interesting enough. So, what are some types of invites you can send?
1) Describe to them how you know them Unless you have just met them recently, it is best not to assume that they remember who you are. For example, if you worked with them in the past, then indicate when. Or if you met them at an event, be sure to mention which one it was. Dear Raj, It was such a pleasure working with you last year at CX. I still remember the company fundraising event we were a part of and how much fun we had. It was a blast! Let us catch up and talk more soon! Best, Cherry
2) Use a reference in your invite If you wish to add someone through a secondhand (or thirdhand) connection, you are more likely to succeed by mentioning a reference in your invite – a common connection between yourself and the person whom you wish to connect with. But before sending over the invite, remember to ask your reference first for their permission! Hi Matt, I am a new graduate looking to work in architecture. I worked with Lucas Tan during my internship at Lee & Woo and would like to connect with a professional in the field. If it is all right, I would love to talk about our local industry and the skills I would need to succeed. Best, Wei Li
3) Stand out from the crowd If you just met a recruiter or an employer from a job fair, you have to assume they will likely be swamped with connection invites. So be sure to distinguish yourself from the crowd. Start with an informative but concise message outlining relevant experiences or skill sets that you may have for the positions they were searching for at the event. Adding a personal note about something you previously spoke about them with may also raise your chances of getting through to the recruiter. Dear Mark, It was great speaking to you at yesterday’s SUTD Career and Internship Fair. I have always had a keen interest in your company and I believe my summer stint at Blackwaters has given me some experience in the field. Happy to connect and continue our conversation. Thank you, Lindsey
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GET A HEAD START ON PERSONAL BRANDING Building your personal brand takes work, but it will boost your reputation and position yourself well in your chosen professional field.
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ersonal branding is not about erasing who you are and creating a new identity! Essentially, it is about highlighting your true strengths and representing a distinct professional reputation for yourself. A good personal brand encapsulates at least three things: your career objectives, your values, and your goals in life. It may seem daunting to have to think about defining your personal branding when you have barely started your career. However, there is no timeline for this. A personal brand is a lifelong investment that follows you throughout your career. So it is important to get started on building that professional reputation as early as you can.
Define yourself Before figuring out how to define yourself, look through your social media accounts and evaluate if your posts, images and content are aligned with the personal brand you wish to project. As your posts have no set expiry dates, there is always a slight chance a potential employer can come across an unflattering picture, embarrassing post or unwanted comment that you posted years ago. Take the time to carry out intense “housekeeping” for all your social media platforms or at least hide them from public view. Then take some time to be introspective, and create a list of your strengths and weaknesses. Feel free to ask your friends and family members for their inputs. Consider asking yourself the following questions: • What kind of job can make me happy? • Will I take a job that can pay me better than a job that aligns with my values and interests? • What characteristics have others complimented me on? • Do I feel happier working in a corporate environment or in a start-up? • Do I see myself as an entrepreneur? Once you are aware of what motivates you when it comes to your working life, then you can decide how best to proceed with your personal branding.
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Showcase your talents and interests Your hobbies and interests do not have to be pushed to the background as just something you do occasionally in your spare time. They can be a key part of your personal brand as well. As you are defining your brand, consider your talents and interests. They are part of what makes you unique, so look at developing them if you are interested in using them during your career journey. For instance, if you’re keen on drawing, why not take up classes or join art circles? Those skills may come in handy when you need to design a product or visualise a new branding campaign at work.
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Mix the personal and professional You do not have to treat your personal and professional selves as two different people when thinking of your personal brand. It helps to mix your personal and professional lives in order to communicate with potential recruiters and employers. After all, we are all human and we seek connections with other living, breathing humans too. Feel free to emphasise causes or issues that are truly of personal interest to you, or to talk and write about things that you value. That said, the rule of thumb here is to keep things positive! No one likes to hang around someone who is always complaining or tearing others down. Keep things optimistic, but also honest and pragmatic too.
Choose a role model to help you live your brand What better way to strive to be successful than to follow in the steps of someone who already is? Similarly, if you are looking to develop your personal brand, choose a business leader or famous figure with strong branding and start mirroring them. We are not suggesting you slavishly mimic your role models entirely, of course! Your goal here is to observe how they brand themselves and what they stand for and to see if you can take any cues from there. For example, if your role model is Jack Ma, ask yourself what you admire about him: His work ethic? His resilience and never-say-die spirit? Then see how you can incorporate those elements into your own personal branding efforts.
Recognise your achievements and legacy Life is not about the destination, but the journey. Take time to celebrate your successes by marking the milestones you have achieved through childhood to adulthood. Reflect on the times you have won competitions, demonstrated your leadership qualities, or hosted events in school or university and feel proud of your achievements. Awards also serve as physical reminders of the skills and knowledge you have built in areas of choice and have the potential to show you which career paths you should consider embarking on. Additionally, they can even point to your discipline and tenacity and become a strong part of your legacy when it comes to developing your personal brand.
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SECRET TO APPLICATION TRACKING SYSTEM (ATS) No matter how much work you put into your application, it may never get pass the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) and into human hands if you do not do it right. How do you avoid this from happening to you?
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anding a job interview during this difficult job market is already pretty tough on its own. Throw in an Applicant Tracking System (ATS), and your resume may either end up automatically disqualified, or be placed so low down the list that recruiters do not even spare a glance at it. For fresh graduates, this is an incredibly harsh reality. However, in an era of the internet and numerous job portals, sending in applications is easier than ever. With top-ranked employers unable to manage the sheer volume of applications flooding them, almost all large and multinational companies have turned to an ATS to aid in screening candidates, with smaller and medium-sized companies increasingly following the trend.
How it works Usually, once you have clicked on the “Send” button, your resume will be sent to an ATS for processing, where words on your resume will be matched to keywords in the job description. Following which, the ATS will use the score based on this process to rank your resume according to its relevance before passing it on to human hands. Although some updated and advanced systems are now able to process synonyms, there are still some companies using older systems that can only spot exact matches. Because of this, resumes from top candidates have been known to slip to lower ranks, or even trashed. This means that if you want your resume to beat the ATS, then it needs to get matched.
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How to optimise your resume Format your resume Having a well-designed resume may tell a potential employer a lot about your creative inclinations, but it does not help your application when it comes to the ATS. At the end of the day, an ATS is just a programme that relies on matching keywords in the job description to the resume. This means simple resumes with minimal designs and lots of matching keywords are the ultimate winners. Turning to basic fonts like Arial may seem unthinkable to a designminded jobseeker, but it is the safest bet to beat the ATS. In addition, remove all logos and photos. An ATS
will reject fancy fonts and images as it cannot read them. Keep to the standard resume template, and do away with specific headings, such as Publications and Affiliations – the ATS will have trouble computing those too. Stick to common headings, such as Professional Experience, Skills, Education and Qualifications. In other words, the most common descriptive keywords. Submit your resume in Word format rather than PDF if you can. Although an ATS can be programmed to process and read PDF documents, there may be errors depending on how the text is formatted within the PDF. A Word doc file is still the safer bet.
GETTING READY
Use relevant keywords and phrases Read the job description and responsibilities carefully. Start by picking out the keywords found there that seem suitable to be included in your resume. The skills section would be the most fitting, where you list your core competencies or skills. Do not overdo it though; make sure you remain honest when describing your past experiences and skills. If you need more help, approach your Career Coaches for assistance in shortlisting keywords and phrases before integrating them into your resume. Ultimately, make sure your resume flow well even as you tailor it to each role you are gunning for. After all, once your resume clears the ATS, it will then be reviewed by a human recruiter!
Check your spelling While the human eye can at least figure out misspelled words in your resume, an ATS will not be able to compute typos. So comb through your resume manually to find any spelling errors before you use spellcheck. Once that is done, ask another person to go through your resume once more before sending it in. Take this as an opportunity to have your Career Coaches appraise your resume, and then use their comments as a guide to improve the quality of your document. This may sound like a lot of work for a resume, but it will be all worth it when your resume passes through the ATS and ends up on the recruiter’s desk!
Go around the ATS if you can When all is said and done, going directly to a recruiter or hiring manager is still the best way to get around an ATS. Although the company’s hiring practices may still apply to you as a candidate, and you may still be required to apply through the company’s online hiring portal, you can better your prospects by sending your resume directly to a recruiter or hiring manager instead of just submitting it to a piece of automated software. Do not forget to include a brief note on why you think you are a good fit for the position you are applying for. Focus on building a network in the company as well. Having supporters inside the company vouching for you can greatly boost the odds of you landing the role too!
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HOW TO START A SUCCESSFUL JOB HUNT Searching for a job does not need to be long and tedious. If done smartly, it can be an efficient and rewarding process.
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hile landing the right job can take a while especially in this current market climate, there is still plenty you can do to improve your employability in the meantime. Take the opportunity to upskill yourself and build your network during the job hunting process.
Build your personal brand Develop your personal brand by asking yourself a few questions: What motivates you to get up in the morning and tackle the day? What are your hobbies and interests? Then use your answers to those questions to start making a name for yourself. For instance, if you have a knack for photography, you could possibly start by making use of your skills as a freelance photographer. From there, you can start to add your own touches to your work as you continue developing your skills. Take note that you will also have to maintain a portfolio that details your accomplishments and how serious you are about your progress. This is crucial for recruiters and hiring managers. That is just the start, though. In the example above, simply going by “photographer” is not a brand by itself, only a job title. In order to develop your actual brand, you will need to put a little more thought into what it is that you actually hope to create professionally and ultimately, give back to the world.
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Start early (Plan one year in advance) It is never too early to plan your job search. This gives you the time to prepare the necessary documents, such as building your portfolio or collating recommendation letters and endorsements from your former supervisors. The main advantage of starting early is that it keeps you focused and vigilant on potential opportunities in the market. Being in the right frame of mind is an incredibly understated aspect of the job search process. It will ensure you are constantly doing your research and sniffing out opportunities well in advance of application deadlines. Starting early will also give you an advantage when applying to companies which have vigorous multi-stage application processes that call for different submissions at various stages. Recruitment cycles can run up to months – especially for graduate programmes. So get in there as early as you can to ensure you do not miss the boat and have ample time to prepare.
Do not waste time. If you are unemployed, every single minute is valuable Try not to fall into the trap of waking up late, staying in your pyjamas all day and applying to jobs while watching your favourite shows on Netflix. Minutes and seconds are precious in your hunt, so the more time you waste, the more it will destroy your motivation and the longer it will likely take for you to get a job.
Consider using the time to build your technical skills. Register for online webinars, courses and forums and get certified in various areas. Alternatively, if graduation is still a semester or more away, you can opt for an elective relevant to your field of choice. This can help show potential employers your willingness to invest in yourself.
Get active on LinkedIn Having active LinkedIn profiles is vital. After all, recruiters and employers have historically shown preference for candidates with credible and outstanding profiles on that platform! LinkedIn is far more than a digital resume that shows off your academic background, co-curricular activities and achievements; it also serves as your connection with your professional network, including people you have met over your internship(s) or friends from school and university. Your internship supervisor(s) can even offer recommendations on LinkedIn based on your performance and endorse your skills. LinkedIn also gives you the opportunity to connect with prospective employers and find out what their opinions of employability are, their company’s corporate culture, and even what they think of general topics like climate change. This will grant you a peek into prospective employers’ minds, and give you a chance to keep yourself abreast on current issues and the latest developments in the job market at the same time.
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Have a flawless resume Your resume is what employers use to form their first impression of you, so be sure it has been vetted numerous times for mistakes. Additionally, consider allocating space within it to describe your passion as well as the skills you have to offer. Put emphasis on your skills in the context of your past experiences to give employers a clearer picture. Ensure that you include positive verbs such as “achieved,” “completed,” “collaborated” and “won” to show your success, whether it is in the completion of a project or winning a competition. Approach your Career Coaches for further pointers to improve your resume. Take advantage of the one-on-one sessions for resume critique sessions, tips to improve your applications and take part in mock job interviews.
Be a good researcher Instead of simply applying for job roles without much thought, research the job post meticulously beyond just looking at the job title. Have a clear idea of what the role expects of you and make sure the company’s culture, mission and vision are reflective of yours. This is crucial in deciding whether you are suited for the job and company or not. You can begin by going through the company’s website before reading up on any related or relevant articles you can find. Follow their social media accounts to keep up to date on the company’s latest news and events too. Gain insights into the company’s corporate culture and what benefits they offer by looking for reviews from previous employees. However, remember that while these reviews may give you an idea on how the company functions and what they value, they are not necessarily an exact reflection of the organisation. Good research and ground work, such as attending recruitment workshops hosted by Career Development Centre, will also serve to show the employer your enthusiasm and initiative, all while demonstrating your sincerity in pursuing the position and developing your career.
Use relationships Your network plays a significant role in your job search process, so be sure to maintain your connections and relationships, from your university professors and seniors to your former employers. They all have their own connections which you can leverage on in your bid to enter the workforce. Remember that any new connection you make – whether through your university, a networking event or exchange programme – is essential as they might put in a word for you to your prospective recruiters. So, keep in touch with your professors, facilitators and peers in university, as well as former colleagues met over internships. They might just be the deciding reason that you are offered the opportunity you have been looking for!
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HOW TO NAIL AN ELEVATOR PITCH Deliver an engaging introduction of yourself to leave others wanting to know more about you.
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egardless of which industry you decide to pursue your career in, you will eventually encounter the same timeless questions, such as “What do you do?” and “What is your background?”. These questions may sound common or even boring, but they can also be your chance to leave a memorable impression. This is where having an elevator pitch comes in. It is particularly useful for formal events, such as career fairs, networking sessions or company info sessions. By delivering an effective elevator pitch, you can kickstart a conversation on a good note and create a positive first impression on the listener.
You have 90 seconds Why is it called an elevator pitch? Think of it as the time it takes for an elevator to arrive at a designated floor. Within this time, you need to successfully hook your listener to be intrigued enough to want to know more about you. There are different opinions on how long an elevator pitch should be, but the general consensus that a good pitch usually does not exceed 90 seconds – or a minute and a half. That should be just enough time for you to introduce yourself without any rush, yet not too long that your listener starts losing interest. Ninety seconds may sound like a long time, but it really is not! You will need to think carefully about the most important and interesting points information to share about yourself during that period. Additionally, an elevator pitch is not a sales pitch. After all, you have only just met this person for the first time. Your aim is just to capture their interest, not push them to offer you a job right there and then.
Summarise yourself It is easy to give a summary of yourself. Anyone can say “Hi, I am Brian. I am 24 years old and I just graduated last month.” But it is neither memorable nor interesting. When you work on your pitch, first choose a theme and stick to it. If you are pursuing an engineering career, for example, your theme could revolve around the engineering specialisations you are keen on. Or if there is a specific cause you are committed to (e.g. socially-responsible business) you can build your pitch around that as well. Keep your pitch focused on skill sets, relevant past experiences, your academic background and the reason(s) behind your chosen area interests you. Your goal is to give the listener a quick snapshot of how you got to where you are today.
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Continuous practising is the key Do not simply throw disjointed points at your listener. Craft your pitch into a coherent story that flows. A possible story sequence that works is to start with a sentence or two about yourself and your background, then lead your speech to a relevant anecdote or past experience – either personal or professional – before sharing more about your professional skills and interests. Your pitch should be like a teaser or a trailer about yourself. Remember, your listener barely knows you. They do not even need to remember every single thing about you from your elevator pitch. If you can impress them with just one or two standout details about yourself, then you have succeeded in your quest.
Some key elements your elevator pitch needs: • Keep it within 90 seconds
If you are an introvert, delivering a 90-second introduction may sound overwhelming. However, you can still master the art of elevator pitch by putting in enough practice and effort into it. Keep practising your pitch and even do it with your friends so you will get the hang of it. Over time, you will be able to communicate your pitch effectively and successfully without faltering or stammering.
• Make each detail as clear and concise as you can • Present it as naturally as possible • Use relevant anecdotes • Rehearse and practise often • Adapt a few versions so you can deliver customised elevator pitches according to your audience and the occasion
Remember, you are not alone. Do not be shy to approach any of your Career Coaches for additional tips or help. Make time to ask if they can simulate potential situations so you can practise and improvise your pitch if the situation calls for it.
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CRAFTING RESUMES THAT STAND OUT With hiring managers often receiving hundreds of applications for each job post, your resume has to be well-crafted in order to catch their attention.
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Customise each resume you send out
Do not simply send out the same resume to multiple job posts. Those job posts may share the same title, but they may not entail the same requirements or responsibilities. Read each job listing carefully and customise your resume to be as relevant to it as possible. Describe your past experiences and skills with similar keywords found in the posting itself. Reorganise your skill sets and experiences so that the most relevant items for the role are listed first.
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Highlight your skill sets and areas of expertise
Pay special attention to the types of skills required for the role and highlight your own accordingly. For example, if you are looking at a role that works on machine learning, make sure you highlight key areas of knowledge, such as IoT interfacing, data science, or database management, amongst others. Finding the right combination of skills for each role will require a fair bit of research and thought. So speak to your Career Coaches, seniors, or your professional network for insights into specific roles.
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Focus on relevant experience
Do not list every internship, part-time job, short-term gig or co-curricular activity you have taken part in. Prioritise the ones that are most relevant for the job you are applying for. Your aim is to keep your resume as concise as possible. The same principle goes for courses and programmes that you have taken as well. Treat non-relevant experience or courses as a “nice-to-have”. It is good to list them to show recruiters what else you have been involved in – but only if you have the space to spare.
QUICK TIP Looking at how important having an effective resume is, do not write one at the last minute! Avoid complacency, as application deadlines can be brought forward due to overwhelming responses. Recruiters generally only accept well-crafted resumes as they are the first indication of applicants who put in effort into something they are pursuing!
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Use numbers to showcase your accomplishments
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List your strengths and interests strategically
When listing strengths and personal interests, make sure they show the recruiter more about you as a person and how your strengths could be converted to the job role in hand. For example, if you are proficient in multiple languages, list all of them down. You never know if the company may plan to expand in a particular market that requires the use of that language in the future. Additionally, include areas you are passionate about and your interests or hobbies at the end of your resume. These will help flesh you out as a candidate, and may even lead to some interesting talking points with a recruiter who shares common interests!
A quick checklist • Tailor your resume by including the relevant keywords mentioned in the respective job posts • Prioritise your skills and experience that are most relevant to the applied role
As much as possible, try to convert your past achievements into numbers and figures. In the business world, that is a much more universal method of conveying success.
• Use the job description to conduct your own research on the expectations of the role
For example, writing “Reduced the building’s carbon footprint by 20 per cent” sounds more descriptive and credible than just stating “Improved building’s carbon efficiency.” Look through your past achievements and find ways to quantify them through statistics and numbers to effectively impress your prospective employer.
• Make sure the font size is anywhere between 11 and 12, with easy-to-read and common typefaces, such as Calibri and Arial
• Keep your resume to one page as much as possible
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Sample Resume Name as header Centralise, enlarge and bold your name so that it is the first thing recruiters see. You can use font size 14 or 16 for your name.
Kiera Moo Email: kiera.moo@sutd.edu.sg, Mobile: 9234 5678 Por olio: h p://kieramoo.com, LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kieramoo
EDUCATION Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) • Bachelor of Engineering (Engineering Systems and Design), Honours • Focus Track: Business Analy cs, GPA 4.10/5.00, Expected Magna Cum Laude • Expected Date of Gradua on: August 2021
Singapore May 17 to Present
Zhejiang University (ZJU), Asian Leadership Programme Hangzhou, China • Developed cross cultural communic on skills through interac ons with the Chinese professors May 18 to Aug 18 and classmates during daily lesson discussions. • Brainstormed and conducted market research on the types of wireless charging chairs for the China market, ideated and developed 2 func oning prototypes within a budget of $1000. WORK EXPERIENCES Wangz Digital Sol ons Beijing, China Data Anal cs Intern May 19 to Sep 19 • Analysed data collected from the performance of all 8 departments of the client, successfully proposed solu ons for the client to reduce annual expenditure on staffing by 25%. • Developed an internal manpower scheduling system for the team of 100 using Visual Basic Applic on (Excel) to generate a graphical view of the team’s availability and automate the upda ng process for b er alloc on of projects and resources. Soaring Heights Pte Ltd Singapore Finance Intern Dec 18 to Jan 18 • Implemented online tracking tool to monitor billing and invoice which led to 30% improvement for onbilling. • Marketed and pitched ideas to client with 2 senior analysts, successfully secured the deal with a profit of 10%. • Conducted User Acceptance Test for 100 end users in 5 offices in Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam and Thailand, received pos ve feedback from all users. ACADEMIC PROJECTS & EXTERNAL COMPETITIONS BikeCLub Singapore Team Leader Jan 19 to Apr 19 • Led a team of 5 to work with BikeClub, to analyse their data, provide correla ons and insights to improve and op mise their produc vity, efficiency and services. • Programmed using R language to a ain the correla ons and regression models, Python to generate Excel, SQL to organise the data provided for a clearer analysis and Visual Basic Applic on to compile and present the findings in a concise manner. UBA Business Case Challenge Singapore Student Analyst Sep 18 to Nov 18 • Designed survey ques ons for the targeted audience, analysed responses from the 100 respondents to determine the financial literacy of young working professionals between 25 to 35 years old. • Presented research findings to a panel of 5 judges by proposing the use of new media and mobile applica ons to enhance the user experience and financial awareness of target audiences. EXTRA-CURRICULAR Overseas Community Involvement Programme Chiang Mai, Thailand Project Director Dec 18 to Jan 19 • Spearheaded a team of 25 student volunteers and executed an inaugural 3 weeks overseas community outreach project to enhance the living condi on of over 400 underprivileged children in rural Chiang Mai. • Secured $5000 in sponsorship fund from 5 companies and organisations, through multiple meetings and discussions with company staff. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION • Proficient in AutoCAD, 3D prin ng, Arduino, Raspberry Pi, VBA (Excel) • Proficient in Micro Office, MS Excel (Advance Skills), MS Project • Fluent in English and Mandarin (Both spoken & wr en) • Enjoys sports and outdoor
For the rest of the resume, you can keep to a font size of 10-12.
Additional links If you have an online portfolio or a LinkedIn profile, you may add the links to your resume for your recruiter’s reference.
Overseas experience Make your application stand out by including overseas experiences, such as going on an exchange programme or internships.
Keep it concise Make use of verbs to highlight your skills and competencies. Keep it informative and relevant, yet concise.
Be results-oriented Use objective and quantifiable means to prove your results. You may use the AAA framework: Action + Amplification = Achievement
Highlight your co-curricular activities Recruiters look for wellrounded individuals who have actively participated in cocurricular activities. Pick your most impressive activities, such as those that provided an invaluable experience or those where you contributed significantly in.
Technical expertise State the programmes that you are proficient in and highlight those that you have advanced skills in.
QUICK TIP Do not create your resume at the last minute! On occasion, application deadlines are brought forward due to overwhelming response. Although first impressions may not mean everything, they do matter to a certain extent. Recruiters value well-crafted resumes as they are the mark of applicants who can communicate strategically and succinctly!
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WRITING COMPELLING COVER LETTERS Now that your resume is done, it is time to write an impressive cover letter to get recruiters to notice your job application.
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cover letter should not just be a summary of your resume in prose form. Think of it instead as a way to summarise your background and experiences with the intent to prove your relevance for the job you are applying to.
Customise your letter It is crucial for cover letters to be customised specifically to the job scopes and responsibilities of the position you are applying for. Recall the research you previously did and identify these relevant skills in your resume. That should be a good starting point in helping you figure out what to focus on in your cover letter. When writing your cover letter, remember that your aim is to showcase your skill sets in a way that is relevant to the company and role. Make appropriate use of relevant verbs and terms to explicitly spell out what you believe you can do for the company, and how your skills can be applied to the role.
Proofread Before submitting your cover letter, read through it a few times to ensure that it flows well, is grammatically coherent and has no spelling mistakes. Send it to a friend or two for their opinions as well and to get them to help you look for ways to make it sound better. Take note that cover letters should only be one-page long. Your Career Coach is also available to give you advice and feedback on your cover letter as well. Go ahead and book a session with them via GEMS if you would like them to review your work.
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The ideal cover letter template Your Your Your Your
Name Address Mobile Email
Date. The Hiring Manager’s Name His/Her Job Designation His/Her Department Company’s Name Company’s Address Dear Mr/Ms XXX (Hiring Manager’s surname), Application for position of xxxxxxxxxxx First paragraph • State the purpose of your letter and where you found the job opening • Short introduction of yourself • Show genuine knowledge by researching on the company, speaking to someone who is working at the company • Tell the recruiter why you are keen to work for this company and not another one Second paragraph • Highlight some of your most significant and relevant skills and knowledge • Provide examples to give credibility • The key is to show the recruiter that you possess the right skills and knowledge and you are a good fit for the position Last paragraph • Thank the recruiter for considering your application • Request a face-to-face interview • Include your email and mobile number • End positively Yours sincerely, Your Name
YOUR CAREER TOOL BOX!
The ideal cover letter template
Kiera Moo ABC Road, S321123 Mobile: 9234 5678 Email: kiera.moo@sutd.edu.sg 23 September 2018 Mrs Krystal Jean HR Manager Human Resources Department XYZ Company WWW Road, S654321 Dear Mrs Krystal, pplication for the position of ata nal st am riting to e press m interest in appl ing for the position of a ata nal st in ompan am e pected to graduate from the ingapore ni ersit of echnolog and esign ith a 0 5 00 in ugust 0 interest in ompan gre a er spo e to r hris, ice resident of our compan , during the ndustr et or ing ight on eptem er 0 0 outh ast sia has een ha ing sustaina le gro th for the past three decades and am impressed the leading presence and foresight of ompan in engaging this gro ing econom am e cited to e part of this great team that pro ides solutions through groups in fi e operating groups s a data anal st intern at ang igital, anal sed data collected from the performance of all departments of the client, and successfull proposed solutions for the client to reduce their e penditure on staffing 5 also independentl coded the internal manpo er scheduling for the team of 00 using isual asic pplication cel to generate a graphical ie of the a aila ilit of the team and automate the updating process for e er allocation of pro ects and resources his resulted in an o erall 5 in the efficienc and output dri e of the team n m rd ear in school, led a team of 5 mem ers, to or ith i e lu , to anal se their data, and pro ided correlations and insights to impro e and optimise their producti it , efficienc and ser ices programmed using language to a ain the correlations and regression models used thon to generate cel and to organise the data pro ided for a clearer anal sis and isual asic pplication to compile and present the findings in a concise manner i e lu as pleased ith the anal sis and solutions proposed n addition to m outstanding academic records, ha e een ser ing acti el as the irector for ee s o erseas communit outreach pro ect to enhance the li ing condition of o er 00 underpri ileged secured 5000 from 5 companies and organisations through meetings and discussions am confident that the s ills and no ledge gained during m time in ill ma e me a suita le candidate for the position in ompan han ou for ta ing time to re ie m application ha e a ached m resume for our consideration loo for ard to a face to face, or ideo, inter ie ith ou to discuss m suita ilit for this position can e contacted at 5 or iera moo sutd edu sg at our con enience loo for ard to our positi e repl han ou Your sincerely, Kiera Moo
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BUILDING A PROFESSIONAL PORTFOLIO When building a portfolio of your work, it is important to emphasise your strengths
What is a portfolio? A portfolio is where you showcase past projects or assignments to give recruiters a more visual demonstration of your skills. This is essential especially when applying for creative, designrelated, or architectural-related careers. If your resume and cover letter are all about “telling” a prospective employer about what you can do, your portfolio is your chance to actually “show” it!
What do I put into my portfolio? Your portfolio should be a compilation of only your best works. Look through your past assignments and projects and pick examples that you believe showcase the full extent of your skills, strengths, and creativity to date. As with your resume and cover letter, your portfolio should also be tailored to your prospective employer. Consider the position you are pursuing and the required skills you want to show off, then find relevant examples from your past works that demonstrate those. You can expect to put together multiple variations of your portfolio for the different jobs you are applying for. Your portfolio does not just have to consist of static visuals, especially if you are submitting it online. It can consist of a combination of visuals, videos, slide presentations, or even interactive 3D models. There is no “right” or “wrong” way to fill out your portfolio, so just proceed with the mediums you believe are best.
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Photo credits: Tan Kai Jie, Sophomore in Engineering Product Development, Class of 2022
YOUR CAREER TOOL BOX!
Photo credits: Tan Kai Jie, Sophomore in Engineering Product Development, Class of 2022
Explaining your work Putting together your portfolio is just the first step, though. The real challenge is in presenting it to recruiters during an interview. At the end of your SUTD studies, you would have worked on at least twenty projects. Pick a few key ones to be included in your portfolio. What were the problems you needed to solve, or the initial project requirements? What approach or solution did you decide to take? How did that translate into your designs? This is key because you will need to talk recruiters through this process during your presentation. When you are called in for the job interview, bring along a hard copy of your portfolio if possible, including your digital work pieces. When given the opportunity to present your work, just focus on what you believe are the best examples instead of trying to run through every item in there. It is better to spend more time talking about a small handful of standout examples than to rush through multiple examples without sufficient context. When presenting your work, do not just describe the tasks and processes. Make sure you tie it to how these projects demonstrate your skills and knowledge or describe the things you learned in the process. Whenever possible, try to relate your presentation to what you can offer to the company. Be prepared for recruiters to ask specific questions about individual projects in your portfolio as well. In some interviews, recruiters may not explicitly ask you to present your portfolio. What you can do instead is to use general questions like “Why do you think you are suitable for this job?” and “What do you think your key strengths are?” as opportunities to launch into a presentation of your portfolio items and show off relevant skills for the position.
What if my portfolio includes physical items? If your portfolio includes physical items (e.g. product design samples), specify as such to the recruiter during your correspondence with them and let them know that you can bring the items with you in person upon request. Make sure it is something you can easily transport, though!
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DECIPHERING DRESS CODES If you aim to make a good first impression at your interview, then you need to dress the part.
A GENERAL GUIDE
For gentlemen, keep it simple and opt for a classic suit, shirt and tie combination. Ensure that you get the measurements right and that the outfit doesn’t hang loosely on you.
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adies tend to have more options than men, but it is mainly safe to stick with pants or skirt-suits. Consider wearing a jacket or blazer; it is the easiest way to look formal. Stick with colours that are not too bright. When it comes to skirt length, make sure they are above the knees and remain at a good length even when you bend down. Ensure that your outfit is clean and well-ironed.
It is recommended for your hair to be tightly in place or neatly tied up. As much as possible, go for natural colours when using make-up.
Avoid extravagant accessories. Stick with a simple necklace, earrings or bracelet if you want to accessorise. This includes your nails as well – keep them simple and professionally-coloured, with no fancy designs. It may be also a good idea to opt for comfortable footwear if you take public transport, in case you have to walk a fair distance to your interview venue.
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OUTFIT
HAIR AND MAKEUP
ACCESSORIES
Try not to include too many colours in your attire, but you can consider tones like grey, navy blue or even charcoal. If you are unsure about the dress code, it is better to show up overdressed than underdressed. You can always just remove your coat to tone it down, after all. Refrain from adopting a fancy hairstyle during your job search and stick to a neat, natural look. Ensure that your face is clean-shaven as well and invest in chapstick if your lips are prone to cracking when dry. Keep your nails trimmed too.
Do your best to match the colours of your shoes and belt. You can look at using simple cufflinks or tie clips to spruce up your outfit. Wearing an analogue wristwatch will also boost your professional demeanour.
YOUR CAREER TOOL BOX!
WHAT DO THE DIFFERENT DRESS CODES MEAN? While it is the norm for job candidates to show up in formal attire, that may not always be the case. Depending on the industry or company culture, dress codes may differ. Here are the common dress codes to help you out.
Smart casual Usually encountered in the creative, engineering and IT industries, this look requires you to look presentable without looking sloppy or being too overdressed. Employees in start-ups as well as research and development roles can also often be found in smart casual wear.
Her: • Dress • Shirt or blouse • Skirt or jeans • Wedges, flats or low to medium heels can be worn
Him: • Polo tee or shirt • Pants, jeans or chinos • Dress shoes or loafers can be worn
Business casual Business casual is about looking presentable and slightly more professional than the smart casual look yet still not overly formal. Employees adopting this dress code are usually found in the public sector, media and FMCG industries, as well as marketing and sales. In other words, client-facing roles.
Her: • Dress • Tops or shirts with long- or three-quarter-sleeves • A-line or pencil skirts • Dress pants • Wedges, flats or low to medium heels can be worn
Him: • Long-sleeved shirt • Pants • Dress shoes • Cufflinks, ties and jackets can be worn by choice
Business formal For industries such as the banking and finance sector which need to portray a strong professional image, employees tend to dress in business formal. This style of dress is also suitable for formal events, such as networking sessions, company dinners and job interviews.
Her: • Work dress • Tops or shirts with long- or three-quarter-sleeves • Pencil skirt • Dress pants • Flats or low to medium heels • Business suit or blazer
Him: • Long-sleeved shirt • Pants • Dress shoes • Cufflinks • Plain ties • Dark-coloured suits
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WHAT TO EXPECT IN JOB INTERVIEWS Not all job interviews are the same. Know what to expect and be prepared to face difficult questions from recruiters.
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s the saying goes: preparation is half the battle won. By knowing what to look out for in the different types of interviews and how to manage the tough questions, you can be one step closer to your first job. Here are some popular job interview types and questions, and ways to tackle them.
TYPES OF INTERVIEWS Face-to-face interview Depending on the company, face-to-face interviews may involve anywhere from one interviewer to an entire panel of them. You can most likely expect to go through at least one physical interview before you are offered a job. Even with the gradual easing of social distancing measures, most recruiters still prefer to meet candidates in-person to get a feel for who they are in real life, after all. The real challenge of face-to-face interviews lies in the variety of non-verbal cues you will need to be conscious of. This ranges from your posture to your tone of voice to the manner in which you address your interviewers. The best way to build experience is to do more interviews, so speak to your Career Coaches to arrange for practice sessions!
Video call interviews Due to the global COVID-19 outbreak, many recruiters will typically use a video call to conduct the first round of interviews. This could be on platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Skype, or Google Meet. If possible, log on to the designated platform at least 15 minutes before the assigned time to adjust the audio and video settings. Ensure that there are minimal distractions and that your internet connection is strong and reliable. Make sure you have good lighting around you and that your microphone audio quality is robust as well. Although this is not a physical meeting,
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make the effort to wear a professional outfit. Your appearance is still the first thing interviewers are going to notice about you. Additionally, look directly into the camera as much as possible when you speak, and not the screen. This is the best way to simulate eye contact. One of the plus points of video interviews is that you can easily refer to a cheat sheet off-camera. You can prepare short notes regarding your notable achievements and work experience, or your answers to common interview questions. Also keep your professional documents within reach, such as a copy of your resume, list of references, or your professional portfolio.
AI-assisted structured interview Do not be surprised if you came across an automated interview before you meet a human in the recruitment process. There is a growing number of companies turning to artificial intelligence to conduct interviews as part of the initial screening process. Here is how it works: you will be given questions prompts and asked to record your answers on a dedicated platform. Questions can range from topics like “Tell me about yourself” to “What are your relevant strengths” and “What are your biggest weaknesses?”. You may also be invited to play a few games that test your mental aptitude, write an essay or even talk to a chatbot. Your response to each question or task will typically be scored on a scale, giving recruiters a frame of reference for the most qualified candidate. Do not waste time on chit-chat, but jump straight into your answer. Make sure your responses are clear and concise. Your responses should relate directly to your desired job role, so use keywords that reflect the content of your resume and the job requirements.
YOUR CAREER TOOL BOX!
TYPES OF INTERVIEW QUESTIONS Competency questions Competency questions are usually open-ended in nature and used to gauge candidates’ personalities. They help recruiters to evaluate if you are suitable for the role and the broader company culture. Interviewers will ask you to draw on examples from your life which have demonstrated that you have shown a particular skill or ability. They may also ask you to give an opinion on specific topics. Come prepared with a list of your experiences where you faced difficult situations, and how you managed to overcome through your skills, talents and abilities. Tie those experiences back to how they can meet your potential employer’s needs and job requirements.
Situational questions Situational interview questions usually involve hypotheticals. Your interviewers are trying to assess how you might react in a real-life workplace scenario. More often than not, the scenario will be something you have no experience in or more complex than you can realistically prepare for. The goal here is not to give the “right” answer, because there often is none. What your interviewers really want to see is your thought process when tackling ambiguous scenarios with limited information. The STAR method is a great way to help you organise your thoughts and structure your response to this type of question. • Recap the context of the Situation • Describe what you believe is your Task • Describe the Actions you would take in this situation • What are some desired outcomes and Results?
Technical or industry-specific questions
How to prepare for an Assessment Centre
If you apply for job roles with a heavy technical bent (e.g. in the STEM sectors), you can definitely expect questions that test you on your technical skills and proficiencies. You should also expect questions about your chosen industry sector at large.
Read through your invitation thoroughly and make sure you get the timing, dates and venue correct • Psychometric tests can involve numerical, abstract or reasoning questions. You can find some mock assessment tests online and familiarise yourself with them. • Attend Career Development Centre’s Assessment Centre - UPOP Elective Module to give you a headstart. This is still the best way to practise. • Be well-rested the day before. Assessment Centres are often tiring affairs.
Brush up on any knowledge related to the field you are pursuing, particularly specific areas that are mentioned in the job post. Be prepared for the questions posed to test your logic and reasoning capabilities. Once again, it is not about giving the “right” answer, but about walking the interviewer through your thought process. Likewise, read up on emerging trends or current news in the industry sector you aim to get into. These questions are meant to test how well you know the industry beyond what your textbooks cover, as well as how commercially aware you are. (i.e. Do you know how your work will help the company make or save money?)
ASSESSMENT CENTRES What is an Assessment Centre An Assessment Centre is a multi-stage process where you will be put through various tests back-to-back.
What to expect from an Assessment Centre
How to succeed at an Assessment Centre • Remember your research on the company and job position, and relate your responses to those whenever possible. • Make an effort to work with others in the group exercises and do not shy away from playing a leadership role. • Arrive on time looking presentable, calm and confident, regardless of whether this is a physical or online assessment • Be polite and respectful to the other candidates. You are being assessed on your ability to work in a team, so your aim should be to reach the desired outcome together • Exercise good time management and keep your focus on tackling one problem/task at a time
You can expect to participate in a range of timed assessments. These include case study exercises, group exercises, role-play exercises, competency-based interviews and psychometric ability tests. These assessments may be conducted both in-person and/or online.
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YOUR CAREER TOOL BOX!
NETWORK LIKE A PROFESSIONAL Does networking intimidate you? Fret not - with enough practice, anyone can network like a pro.
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reating a large and effective professional network can benefit you in more ways than one in the corporate world, and you can never start too early. For instance, there are plenty of jobs that are not advertised and can only be spread through word of mouth. Sometimes, recruiters just do not know they want you yet until they actually meet you! This is where networking comes in. Putting yourself out there and meeting people is the most effective way of making meaningful connections and building your professional network. Whether you are doing it in-person or via an online event, the principles remain the same. Perhaps even more so during this time of COVID-19 when human interaction is suddenly more valued than before! Rest assured though, that networking does not come naturally to many of us, and is an art that requires constant practice. With that said, here are some tips to get you started:
Network like a pro 1
Do your research
There are always networking opportunities in professional events, whether at a career talk or a campus career fair. Take the time to research the event on social media or online in the days leading up to the event to get a sense of who will be there. Research the companies or individuals who interest you – this will give you more to talk about on the day itself.
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Ask questions and find common ground
Once you have a chance to speak to the person of your choice, ask intelligent questions about the topic you would like to know more about. Do not be pushy, however, and if you sense the person is getting restless, end the conversation politely by asking for their email address or to connect with them via LinkedIn. Networking is a two-way street, so get your conversation partner to tell you more about themselves, their interests, or how they ended up where they are today. Do your best to find things that genuinely interest you from what they share. That is how you establish common ground and keep the conversation going.
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Keep in touch
After putting in all the effort in networking, do not forget to build relationships with your new contacts! Networking is not a numbers game based on how many people you know; it is about who you know. Start by dropping your contacts messages after the event to let them know it was nice to meet them and to thank them for their time. If you are connected with them on LinkedIn, keep your presence visible by engaging with their profile or commenting on their posts every now and then. And it should go without saying that if you ever see a contact again at another networking event, make the time to drop by and say hi! Repeated engagement is the foundation of building rapport, after all.
YOUR CAREER TOOL BOX!
Networking tips for recruitment events 1
Prepare your elevator pitch
Whether virtually or face-to-face, not everyone finds it easy to give a summary of themselves, so make sure you have your elevator pitch ready as your conversation starter. Recruiters are explicitly at this event to find hireable candidates, after all. So there is no better time to use your elevator pitch than here!
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Sharpen your communication skills
When you meet someone face-to-face, their first impression of you tends to be based on what you wear and what you look like. So make sure you are properly dressed for the occasion.
However, in a virtual event, people tend to judge you based on your communication skills alone. Remember to use polite professional language, speak in full words and sentences, and address recruiters by their complete first names. Slow your speaking pace a little too so that you remain audible.
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Update your LinkedIn
If your follow-up action is to connect with your new networking contacts on LinkedIn, then make sure you update your LinkedIn profile before doing so! Make sure you have the latest information on your LinkedIn profile at least a few days before the event. Having a new contact stumble onto an outdated, empty profile does not reflect well on you.
Networking tips for conferences 1
Plan your schedule
There are usually multiple talks or panel discussions happening concurrently at a conference. This means it is important to know the schedule well beforehand so you can pick the talks you are most keen on attending. Conferences can run over several days as well, so it will not be feasible to attend every single session every day. Choose wisely. Make sure you block out enough time to stay for any Q&A sessions at the end of the talk and to hang around for a while after the talk as well. You will need time to mingle around and speak to the speakers as well as the other attendees.
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Prepare good questions
While your main purpose to attend the conference may be just to network or to get to know someone specifically, you should take the opportunity to attend and pay attention to the session, then follow up with good questions. Asking smart questions during Q&A sessions can really help you stand out in the crowd. Not to mention, those questions may give you more talking points with the other attendees too.
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Engage and participate
The easiest way to stay visible during a virtual conference or webinar is to actively engage and participate in the various activities lined up by the organisers. Participate during breakout sessions or when the floor is open for comments or questions. However, do not hog the limelight or spam the chatbox. The rule of thumb is to post one comment or a question per session, so this allows other participants to contribute and ask questions too. Make sure your comment or question is an interesting one!
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YOUR CAREER TOOL BOX!
WHAT TO DO AFTER YOU GET A JOB OFFER Congratulations, you have finally received a job offer! But what do you do now?
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he excitement of receiving a job offer after a long job hunt is probably one of the best feelings. It is the most tangible proof of all your hard work and efforts not going to waste. But you still have an important decision to make – whether to accept or decline the offer. Accepting the offer is definitely a more straightforward process, but things will be trickier if you choose to reject it. Whether it is because you have accepted another job offer already or you simply do not think this job is the right fit, it is important to know how to decline politely. With that said, here are some quick tips on what to keep in mind before you come to a decision.
• The job title • Fixed salary and benefits (including monthly allowances or claims) • Variable incentives (e.g. commissions, bonuses, etc.) • Professional development/lifelong learning provisions • Probation period (pay attention to the length as well as the terms of your probation) • Notice period (the period of time in between tendering your resignation and the actual date you leave the company) • Expected hours of work • Annual leave and sick leave entitlements • Company insurance coverage
Getting the offer Hiring managers will usually contact successful candidates with a phone call, text message, or email to inform them that they got the job. If you tell them that you are keen to move forward, they will send you a letter of offer. Before committing yourself to the job, read through the letter carefully and clear any doubts that you have by calling the recruiter and clarifying any conditions that seem vague to you. Do look out for:
• The starting date Take some time to think through the offer before making a decision and getting back to the employer. Recruiters are usually alright with waiting a few days for your response if you inform them you need more time. But take care not to keep them waiting for too long.
If something is not clear If there are certain terms or clauses in the letter of offer that you are unfamiliar with, do not just sit on it. Contact the hiring manager and let them know your questions. The last thing you should do is to accept any offer without fully understanding what you are committing yourself to.
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In particular, if you are applying to a graduate programme, check if the offer is conditional on you gaining a specific degree classification upon graduation. This would mean that you are just temporarily accepted, and will only be confirmed when you have achieved a particular degree grade. Also, most graduate programmes start in July/August and would require you to fly to their Headquarters overseas to start training with the rest of the graduates worldwide. Speak to your Career Coaches once you receive your offer so that they can advise you on the steps ahead. Once this is done, you may continue the conversation with your hiring manager first, so that neither of you have the wrong expectations. Many graduates also tend to overlook non-disclosure clauses or terms of exit from an employer (which may include a non-competition clause). Be sure to fully clarify those with your hiring manager when you have the chance.
Accepting the offer Once you have understood every term and condition on the letter, go ahead and sign the contract. Although this is usually enough for most employers, some may ask you to write a short acceptance letter or email, mentioning that you formally accept their offer to join the company. If you need help with this, do not be afraid to turn to your Career Coaches for assistance. Now that you have clinched a job, do not forget those who have helped you along the way. Send a simple thank-you note to your referees or your contacts who may have recommended you for the job.
YOUR CAREER TOOL BOX!
Declining a job offer In the event that you decide not to take up a job offer, do not just ignore it and assume that the hiring manager will understand you are declining the offer. Ghosting them is incredibly rude, and they may even blacklist you for any future jobs with their company. Inform the hiring manager politely of your decision to decline, whether through a call (informal) or an email (more formal). In your email or call, thank the recruiters and interviewers for their time, and tell them clearly that you are unable to accept their offer and – if possible – your reason why. Recruiters deserve to know after all the time and effort that they have invested in you. Be honest and polite about it, and always keep your tone professional. A curt “I do not think your offer is good enough” will definitely not work. Declining the job offer politely and professionally can still lead to good networking opportunities. You never know if that recruiter might move to the next company you apply to, or if you might end up working with their current company later on in your career, after all.
Getting an offer before you even begin hunt Though rare, there are the lucky few who end up being given an offer before they even start their job search. For example, you may have impressed your former superior from a previous internship and they want to offer you a permanent job once you graduate. Or you might have been headhunted by a company thanks to a certain project or competition you took part in. While that may seem like an ideal situation, do not jump headfirst into it yet. Unless you are absolutely sure that this offer is what you want, take some time to survey the other jobs available to you in the market. It is important that you consider your options thoroughly before making an informed decision. And recruiters will appreciate it too, because it increases the odds that they are bringing onboard a candidate who is clear with what they want and will stay with the company longer.
Things you must never do Lastly, take note that the following actions that are considered highly unethical by recruiters. So under no circumstances should you ever do any of them. • Sign multiple letters of offer you have received, whether to “try out” different companies or just to “save your spot” while you decide • Delay your response to multiple offers for a long time to compare prospects, and then not inform the companies you have decided to decline after you have come to a decision • Accept an offer verbally or in writing, and then turn it down later after receiving a better job offer.
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SET YOUR CAREER GOALS ON OUR SOLID FOUNDATION
To build real estate of the future, we have to first build our people. Our CapitaLand Graduate Development Programme is designed to bring in the best people, and bring out the best in them. As one of Asia’s largest diversified real estate groups,
CapitaLand Graduate with a presence across more than 200 cities in over 30 cities, Development Programme CapitaLand provides the global stage to take your career dreams to the next level.
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WHY GDP
The CapitaLand Graduate Development Programme nurtures promising young graduates with less than two years of working experience for a rewarding, accelerated career journey. The holistic programme offers prospects for personal growth and development, with a comprehensive learning roadmap. Gain global exposure through job rotations to various real estate sectors and countries. You will also be actively involved in various aspects of our business, with opportunities to gain insights from CapitaLand’s senior management.
Think you have what it takes? We are looking for graduates with the right attributes, including:
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Leadership qualities Aptitude to articulate a vision and lead people toward achieving it Resilience Tenacity to thrive and perform under pressure Drive to succeed Enthusiasm to take on varied tasks with a desire to excel Team player Ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with others
Building People Building Communities
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ADVICE FOR YOUR CAREER JOURNEY
NAVIGATING IN THE NEW WORLD OF WORK A quick guide to remote working.
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he aftereffects of the COVID-19 pandemic have opened doors to increased acceptance in telecommuting and remote working. Working from home comes with a number of perks – such as no commutes, more flexible schedule, and less office distractions – but challenges, such as lack of motivation, technology hiccups, and poor communications, are real concerns that need to be managed. With remote working continuing to stay, it is important for anyone entering the workforce to pick up tips on how to succeed in remote working.
Be self disciplined and self-motivated Start with the ability to work independently with minimal supervision. Adopt healthy time-management skills by completing projects on time and not being late for meetings. Take the initiative to jot down important points and keep track of your own work progress.
Be proactive Clarify with your supervisor or ask questions to clear any doubts before the next meeting. Ask for regular feedback on your performance and make the necessary adjustments. Set a system/routine so that you are aware in regards to when, where and how you can get your query answered.
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Be inquisitive Chat with your supervisor how best they would like updates about your work and make sure to follow through accordingly. If they prefer emails, consider sending weekly email recaps of the lessons you have learnt, projects you are working on and any questions that might arise during the week. If they choose video calls, come to your virtual meetings prepared with notes, questions, and ideas.
Be resourceful Find out where the online library, folders or standard operating procedures are and carry out some pre-reading to gather knowledge.
ADVICE FOR YOUR CAREER JOURNEY
Take initiative Get feedback from your supervisor on ways to improve yourself. Be prepared to arm yourself with the initiative to learn something new, either on your own or find the right people and approach them for help. Remind yourself that you are responsible for your own learning and do not depend on others to feed you with info.
Talk to people Establishing relationships is a fundamental tool for success. Networking is how you learn, grow, and expand your professional opportunities. Instead of waiting to receive instructions from your supervisor each day, consider them as your mentor. Get to know them personally, ask them about their career paths and soak up as much knowledge from them as possible! When you are ready to branch out, ask your supervisor and mentors to link you up with people that have something in common with you or bond with those who started the job at the same time as you. Do not simply stay quietly in your bubble. Also, talk to your seniors or alumni working in the same company (Career Development Centre will be able to help you with the connection).
Be sensitive to foreign cultures, time zones and languages Virtual working may lead to additional communication challenges, so be more mindful of how you speak to others of different race or culture. Make efforts to communicate with colleagues, even if it is only virtually, so as to know them better and gain cross-cultural perspectives as you exchange ideas. Participate in discussions or request to attend department meetings so as to experience the meeting culture and observe how people from different levels communicate cross culturally.
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ADVICE FOR YOUR CAREER JOURNEY
TRANSITIONING TO CORPORATE WORLD Knowing how to adapt to working life will lead to a smooth transition as you kickstart your career.
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s you take your first steps into the working world as a young professional fresh out of school, keep this in mind – you are entering a new phase in your life. Working life is more than just surviving the day-to-day hustle. There is no better time than now to take life by the reins and adopt the best life routines in order to get the hang of adulting in the working world as quickly as possible. How do you start? Well, here is a quick guide on how you can set the foundation to excel in your next stage in life.
Remember that starting your first job after graduation is one of the peak signs of adulting, so always behave professionally and have a good attitude in everything you do. Even if you are working from home, there are ample opportunities to start your career on the right foot. Know what is expected of you in your new role and ensure you are fulfilling expectations, whether it is meeting deadlines or working well with your team.
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1. Prepare your wardrobe
3. Respect everyone
Think about what your future colleagues were wearing during the recruitment process and plan your outfits accordingly!
Whether it is an intern, the managing director, or the janitor, treat everyone with respect and kindness. Everyone has different views. The seniors or colleagues from different nationalities may have different working styles or opinions from you. Respect and understand from their perspectives.
2. Make a good first impression
4. Never stop learning
Remain humble and show your enthusiasm and commitment to the role and every given task. Network with colleagues to understand the culture of the organisation and fit in accordingly.
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.
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ADVICE FOR YOUR CAREER JOURNEY
Take care of your finances like an adult
1. Figure out your new budget Calculate your monthly expenditure and start building your rainy day fund.
2. Consider taking up insurance Start thinking if you need a more comprehensive health insurance plan or if it is time to start investing.
3. Live within your means Strive not to spend more than you earn! If you do not 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 fund while having the relevant insurance plans, chances are you are 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 would not need to be financially dependent on your parents or anyone else.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle
1. Find a diet that works for you Consider cooking lunch at home, or bringing homecooked food to the oďŹƒce. It tends to be easier on the wallet too!
2. Stay active Especially if you have a deskbound job. Find a way to get on your feet and exercise on a regular basis.
3. Keep your friends and family close You will need your loved ones’ support and encouragement during this life-changing transition.
Being a working adult does not end at the workplace. If you are not taking care of your health, finances and mental well-being, it will 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-to5 role. Being physically, emotionally and financially healthy will help you feel ready to give your all at work. That is when you know you have cracked the adulting code!
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ADVICE FOR YOUR CAREER JOURNEY
WORKING IN AN MNC, SME AND START-UP Which is the right fit for your career opportunities?
Multi-national companies (MNCs) A business with multiple facilities and assets in several countries, MNCs typically have a larger workforce, enjoy the economies of scale and have greater market share.
Pros of working in MNCs
Factors to consider
Prestige and reputation
Bureaucracy
Graduates tend to favour MNCs due to their strong brand recognition. Their long-term survival in the business shows their strength and success in the industry.
MNCs usually adopt rigid organisational workflows and strict standard operating procedures. This means that you may need to carry out a lot of paperwork or wait for management approval to execute a simple task.
Global opportunities With oďŹƒces, assets and facilities in multiple countries, employees in MNCs can be offered global opportunities. You may be offered a chance to relocate to another country or travel around the world. Additionally, you may gain experience working with people from different backgrounds and cultures.
Mastering your own trade Working in a large taskforce allows everyone to focus on their own job scopes instead of taking up multiple cross-functional tasks. This will allow you to specialise in your area of work. Large corporations also have more resources for training and upskilling.
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Fierce competition Fresh graduates looking to apply for a job at an MNC may also be vying against experienced jobseekers. Expect an intense and competitive interview process. Make sure you have an impressive elevator pitch and a strong unique selling proposition to make yourself memorable and relevant to the job role you are applying for. Expect more than one round of interview. Be prepared for Assessment Centre, too!
ADVICE FOR YOUR CAREER JOURNEY
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) SMEs are companies with less than 200 employees or an annual sales turnover of under $100 million. In a study conducted by Singapore Business Review, it was found that 220,000 SMEs employed two-thirds of Singapore’s workforce.
Pros of working in SMEs
Factors to consider
Exposure
Formal training
With less than 200 employees, those working in SMEs usually wear many hats and take on cross-departmental tasks and responsibilities. These broad job scopes allow wider exposure for employees to explore different fields and test their aptitude in them.
Due to constraints in resources, fresh graduate employees need to be independent and proactive from the start as SMEs typically do not offer formal training or graduate schemes. You will have to learn on the job and work on your own professional development.
Career progression
Work benefits
Working in smaller departments mean your competencies and achievements are more easily noticed in a smaller company. Additionally, fresh graduate employees may receive more responsibilities and opportunities to expand their skills and learn more on the job.
Smaller businesses may offer their employees less monetary-related benefits (e.g. medical, dental and bonuses). However, they can make up for it by offering competitive salaries and other benefits, such as flexible working hours and more annual leave.
Team bonding As teams in SMEs tend to be smaller and more adept at cross-departmental distribution of work, there is an increase in collaboration and communication with one another, typically leading to a close-knit team. Having employees who enjoy working with one another improve working standards and have a stronger desire to push the company towards success. If you like to work in a friendly, family environment, getting into an SME may be more suitable for you.
Start-ups Newly established businesses that are incorporated for less than five years, start-ups are known to be lean and offer new products or services not otherwise found in the market.
Pros of working in start-ups
Factors to consider
Innovation
Job security
Graduates who thrive on an innovation culture will enjoy working at a start-up. They will be frequently asked to offer new ideas, experiment with new solutions and encourage feedback and improvements.
Start-ups have been known to have high turnover rates and may even go out of business before they can earn a profit. As such, there is a risk that the start-up you plan to work at may not succeed in the long-term, thus affecting your job security.
Flexibility Start-ups usually offer their employees more flexible working hours. Although this will not mean you work less than your counterparts in MNCs and SMEs, it means you are working in a less rigid structure.
Independence
Long working hours Working at start-ups tends to come with long working hours as the new businesses need to strive hard to succeed quickly in order to survive in the competitive industry.
If you thrive in an independent working environment and taking charge of your own development and progress, then working in a start-up may be the right choice. You can expect to work with little supervision, but that means you will need to be self-motivated and proactive to get your work done correctly and on time.
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ADVICE FOR YOUR CAREER JOURNEY
ALUMNI SPEAKS My job My work in the research, development and demonstration department is to develop tests for new products. Based on requirements for how the products should perform, I devise tests to ensure the products meet the criteria set for it, before handing them over to the operations team. This would include writing scripts for data extraction, analysis and writing test methods. As Dyson is an international company, this process involves collaborations and project management.
PRIORITISE YOUR CAREER ANCHOR Tan Zhi-en Engineering Product Development Class of 2019 Engineer – Test Development Dyson
How I got my job As part of the Design & Manufacturing module in SUTD, the lecturer invited guests from Dyson to give a talk. They shared about the graduate programme and answered questions regarding a career in Dyson. From there, I applied through the Dyson portal, and went through a pre-recorded video interview, which comprised of a design test, an IQ test, and several interview questions, followed by a physical interview session which included of a group component, an individual assessment and interviews with two of their staff. During the group component, the interviewers noticed my awareness of the time, pushing the group to start prototyping, testing and improving.
The highs and lows
Even though challenge was one of my career anchors, I forewent that in favour of the stability and work-life balance of a multi-national company.
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The people in Dyson are very approachable. Whenever I have diďŹƒculties or questions, I can turn to those who have done something similar before or to subject matter experts in that field. For example, as part of data analysis, I had several questions on a statistical method. The colleague I approached was interested in the problem and we worked through it together, consulting other colleagues who were experienced in the field.
A challenging aspect was getting used to the job scope. I had envisioned designing and building things, very much like the projects in SUTD. However, due to COVID-19, all my work became deskbound, be it programming or writing documents. Fortunately, as the restrictions lessen, I look forward to design and build test rigs next year.
My happiest moment at work In one of my projects, I had to devise a method for obtaining data that could not be directly measured. It was not a small project as it involved investigating the data to find a trend, devising a calculation method and experimental design to ensure any assumptions made were valid. I enjoyed the challenge and seeing the method producing consistent results and receiving praise for the work done from my colleagues was great.
Some advice Understand your career anchors. My specialisation was Healthcare Product Design. However, the only healthcarerelated firms I could get into were startups. Before the entire job application, I had already decided to prioritise worklife balance and having previously interned at a medical start-up, I knew that it was not easy to achieve that in one. Therefore, even though challenge was one of my career anchors, I forewent that in favour of the stability and worklife balance of a multi-national company. Up to now, I still have not figured out the best balance between the need for challenge and hands-on work with lifestyle. There is no ideal job, and you will need to find your own priorities and balance.
ADVICE FOR YOUR CAREER JOURNEY
GAIN TRUST THROUGH HONESTY AND HARD WORK
My job
My happiest moment at work
From a technical aspect, I am involved in troubleshooting work on functionalities impacting the businesses of other departments at my client’s company. I analyse and collaborate with various stakeholders to understand the root cause for technical issues faced by different teams, and derived solutions for the issues. I collaborate with different application teams to execute the proposed applications. They need to be thoroughly and rigorously tested before moving to production.
I feel the greatest satisfaction comes from seeing how I have improved and grown since I first joined the company, both in terms of my mental capacity and skillsets. One thing that I would ask myself: “Am I getting better each month? Have I learnt something that I previously did not know how to?”
I have also analysed and formulated testing strategies for different workstreams going live, ensuring all working functionalities are being tested. I am moving to a new project soon after a 10-month tenure with my first client, and I am looking forward to continue learning and upskilling myself.
How I got my job
Yeoh Jan Wai Engineering Systems Design Class of 2020 Associate Security Consultant Deloitte
As there are multiple aspects to the role, I have also learnt to be willing to pick myself up and learn from my mistakes very quickly. This is very important in order to move forward and develop my skills at work.
The interview was interesting. They asked me questions on my past education and what I did when I was in secondary school and junior college. Their last question was on whether I had any JAVA knowledge. Since I did not, I had to be honest here and told them so. I admitted to them that I had no JAVA knowledge at all. Fortunately, they still gave me a chance to take a test. Throughout my interview, I remained calm and easy-going. By making sure that I was not nervous, it helped me to enjoy the interview process.
The highs and lows What I have learnt is to be mentally prepared for a steep learning curve when entering into the role of consultancy. It can be very tiring at times when deadlines are looming, and the learning curve can be very steep because the role is very fast-paced and demanding. As a consultant, you will be actively involved in multiple areas of work involving troubleshooting, testing and presentation, allowing you better exposure in the role. As there are multiple aspects to the role, I have also learnt to be willing to pick myself up and learn from my mistakes very quickly. This is very important in order to move forward and develop my skills at work.
Additionally, I feel myself slowly gaining the respect of my colleagues since I first joined. Getting to know them and ultimately letting them see my potential is definitely heartwarming. This made me truly understand that gaining the respect of someone is not simply an overnight affair. They would have to see your real worth and your work hard to gain their trust. In terms of being taskoriented, meeting the expectations that people have of me and making sure I do not disappoint them once I have gained their trust are very important.
Some advice I learnt on the job that working in the corporate world is a big jump from school. But the most important way to get through it is to continuously work hard and always be honest about your capabilities. Do not lie when you do not know. Instead, admit and say that you do not know and find a way to learn. If you say you know how to do something, people will get a false impression that you know what you are doing, when in fact you may be struggling or even doing it incorrectly. Once your colleagues found out about it, they may get the impression that you are arrogant or untrustworthy. Therefore, be honest, seek help, and most importantly, build a close relationship with people. Thank them after they helped you and share with them what you know after you have done your research on a topic. Always be humble and do not expect everything spoon-fed to you. Be resilient and push through to succeed in your job. PS: There will be another sharing on my Linkedin at the end of this month when I end the project. Will be sharing on different soft skills learnt on the job. Keep a lookout!
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My job Being a product manager (PM) in Shopee has been challenging and exciting. I work with developers, business teams from 8 Shopee markets to solve seller’s pain points and make improvements specifically for the Seller Centre listing process.
ENJOY BEING OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE Leong Wen Ting Engineering Product Development Class of 2019 Project Manager Shopee Singapore
Focus on doing a job well, and not just getting it done.
The key goal is to help sellers list their products efficiently and successfully. Ultimately the objective is for both sellers and buyers to have the best user experience. With the many features to achieve these goals, my main role is to think of product solutions for each of these features, align them with all the stakeholders and drive the feature to completion.
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My happiest moment at work It is extremely fulfilling to see a feature that the team has worked so hard on to completion. Every single feature depending on its scale and technicality can take from weeks to months to years to complete. I remember seeing the first feature that was published “live” when I first entered Shopee and it felt great to know that it directly impacts the user experience of both the buyers and sellers.
How I got my job I applied through the Shopee careers portal. My interview process was rather interesting as I was initially rejected as a PM, and instead got referred to a Production Support (PS) role. After which, I was eventually offered a PM role in another team. Though it was quite a roundabout process, ultimately, the interview was rather smooth and quick. The challenging parts were the aptitude test and interview questions that required me to problem solve and plan on the spot. The important thing was not to have the “correct” solution, but rather, to have a systematic thought process and resourcefulness even when I do not have the right answer. This is what SUTD taught me well.
The highs and lows While I can relate to people, stakeholder management has been something I struggle with and I am still learning about. There are often different valid opinions from business teams and developers when it comes to product solutions. The challenge as a PM is to align all their concerns and disputes in a sensible manner. From this, I learned through experience the many perspectives, data and user feedback to take into account even before I propose a solution. Furthermore, the features in the pipeline are usually much more than the team can handle, so it is really about managing
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expectations, prioritising and planning well amidst juggling between the many features that are ongoing in parallel. As challenging as it is, it is precisely the diverse challenges I face each day that makes things interesting and gets me out of my comfort zone!
One feature that my team handled recently was to support sellers to upload videos in their listings. Though it sounds simple since we can do it easily on social media platforms, building a system to support it from scratch was unexpectedly difficult. We needed to build servers and coordinate with many product teams to complete this feature. After months of hard work, seeing the feature live was extremely rewarding.
Some advice Do not take shortcuts. It is tempting to do so in school with so much work and with little time, but the steps we jump are often steps we need to take in the job. Focus on doing a job well, and not just getting it done. Being a PM is challenging, even more so as a fresh graduate because many things require experience. But this forces me to learn so much in a short span of time, and learning is extremely important, especially in the first job. As long as you are passionate about the product and willing to work hard, you will get there! To my SUTD EPD juniors, I know it is extremely difficult with the many projects on hand, but the skills you get from the job is definitely useful in the long run, even when it means doing a job that is less engineering-related, like being a PM. All the best!
ADVICE FOR YOUR CAREER JOURNEY
FIND JOY IN MEANINGFUL PROJECTS Ang Sheng Ping Engineering Product Development Class of 2019 Management Trainee (Technical) DB Schenker
I am always learning new things by working on and managing technologically advanced solutions.
My job
My happiest moment at work
My role is to implement automation solutions for DB Schenker’s warehouses around Singapore. It involves managing the various phases of the project cycle – identifying and scoping the project goals and parameters, sourcing and analysing solutions proposed by various vendors, planning and conducting of equipment tests, monitoring and improving performance.
I had the opportunity to manage the implementation of an automated robot picking and labelling line. It was a unique project as it was a completely customised machine, and a first for Singapore. To be part of something that is impactful for the company and revolutionary for the industry has been a great experience for me.
How I got my job
It is important to create good working relationships, as the job involves a lot of collaboration with other teams and vendors.
During my Capstone showcase, a company representative approached my booth to learn more about my project. I learned about this job opening during our conversation and managed to secure an interview with the company.
Some advice
The highs and lows I am always learning new things by working on and managing technologically advanced solutions. Due to the nature of contract logistics, there is no best solution easily available and the project requirements vary immensely, which makes the job interesting. To me, managing stakeholders is the most challenging aspect of the job, and the only way to learn is through experience. It is challenging as you are dealing with multiple parties who have different priorities - external vendors, IT and management, among others. But I know that with experience and hard work, I will eventually tackle this challenge.
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ADVICE FOR YOUR CAREER JOURNEY
CAREER PATHWAYS A-Z Here are some career sectors available in the job market, with a myriad of opportunities and pathways within.
Career sectors Banking and financial services Business and management consultancy Electronic products Engineering and manufacturing Fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) Healthcare Information and communication IT and technology Logistics, transport, and supply chain Public administration and defence Scientific research and development
Banking and Financial Services Opportunities in finance are available across a wide range of possibilities including actuarial work, banking, regulatory bodies, corporate finance, insurance and risk management. These roles require good numeracy, strong communication skills, a commitment to study for professional qualifications, and highly-developed work ethics.
Banking The banking sector traditionally comprises of global investment banks that provide a broad range of services, from corporate finance to trading. Graduates can look to enter specific areas of finance such as asset management, hedge funds, private banking and venture capital, among many others. Internships are crucial to break into this sector. In addition, applicants should continue to build the strength of their résumés with extra-curricular activities. Join relevant societies and participate actively. Read the financial business press or consult news websites. Attend presentations and skills events organised by finance employers to get a better understanding of the type of individuals these companies look for. When applying for banking jobs, graduates should keep in mind that there are three components to a bank, which are the front, middle and back office. It is important to note, as they vary in the nature of work and the jobs they have to offer. Front office – The front office is the bank’s interface with the market, whereby employees are expected to coordinate and handle all the needs of the bank and its clients. The front office consists of sales, marketing, pre-trade and execution activities. In other words, front office staff are the people who generate the bank’s revenue directly. As most roles in this
office are client-facing ones, candidates are required to possess good interpersonal and negotiation skills. Middle office – Risk management jobs, for example, are typically considered to be a middle office role. Other jobs in this office also include corporate treasury, financial control, compliance and strategic management. The middle office and front office often work hand in hand on some deals to ensure that the bank is not taking on risks that are beyond what the company’s strategies allow. Back office – The back office is comprised of areas that provide vital support and administration but do not directly generate revenue for the bank. Here, you may find departments such as IT, operations, HR and accounting where staff perform functions that mostly focus on operations, processing and support. Both the front and middle offices depend on the support of the back office to function effectively.
Insurance Insurance professionals protect both individuals and companies against potential financial risks. Innovative, positive-thinking graduates who are keen to get to grips with both numbers and people in a constantly changing environment would fit well in this industry. Job titles vary according to employer, but the main types of graduate job roles include: • Graduate underwriter: responsible for deciding whether to grant a policy to a potential client, whether (and, if so, what) conditions should be attached and how much the client should pay in premiums. Underwriters work closely with actuaries and negotiate with insurance brokers. • Claims management trainee: handles and progresses matters when claims are made on a policy. This involves dealing with the claimant and assessing whether the claim is valid. • Trainee loss adjuster: assesses the extent of loss sustained by the policy holder to check that the claim is valid and investigates how the loss was
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caused. Loss adjusters are usually independent from the insurance company and work for specialist practices; within the insurance company, some of their duties will be completed by claims managers. • Graduate insurance broker: typically works at an insurance brokerage and helps clients to select and obtain the best insurance products from insurance companies for the best premiums. • Trainee actuary: traditionally employed by insurance employers to complete financial forecasts and to manage funds. In practice, actuaries often have a numerate degree. However, most other job roles in insurance are typically open to graduates of all degree disciplines, although employers often prefer a numerate (such as maths or engineering) or business/managementrelated degree. Employers also look for graduates who are able to react quickly, have great client-facing skills and good attention to detail.
IT Solutions Technological solutions improved the quality of services provided by banks to their clients, and have made professionals in IT important enablers who facilitate business performance by increasing data quality and security. Demand for IT specialists with excellent communication skills and outgoing personalities is high. However, working in this field is often projectbased, and professionals often navigate teams of various specialists across different departments.
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Business and Management Consultancy Advertising In this area of work, candidates will have to apply directly for entry level positions into large organisations. All degree disciplines are acceptable when accompanied with relevant work experience. Many ad agencies recruit all year round, so it is important to know exactly which role you are aiming for before you apply. Candidates will take on account roles to manage clients in the firm’s business arm. Occasionally, graduates are assigned to the creative branch, usually in teams of two – copywriter and art director.
Consulting Consultancy firms have many different specialisations, such as strategy, process or operational, IT, economic, and environmental. The core business of this line of work entails providing professional advice to individuals or organisations on industry-specific topics. Typically, there are two types of consultants in this line of work: • Process or operational consultants Primarily concerned with solving specific problems and implementing change, these establishments typically recruit graduates as systems analysts, IT consultants or business process consultants. This area of work involves analysing specific client problems that are frequently related to their working systems. Inevitably, there is often a strong interest in the application of computer systems to business problems. You will need to demonstrate considerable analytical abilities and IT skills.
• Strategic consultants The core work of strategic management consultants is to advise corporate clients on strategies to improve profitability and/or shareholder value. They may recruit graduates to start as research analysts, business analysts, or associate consultants. Rewards are high, but so is the level of commitment expected, and working hours can be long. Typical projects last about two to three months, with teams of three to four consultants based either at the office or with the client. Employers tend to look for extremely high levels of achievements both academic and extracurricular.
Market research A market researcher collects and interprets reliable information using two main categories of research techniques: quantitative, to generate statistics; and qualitative, to explore attitudes and behaviour. Found both in agencies and in-house, they typically design research projects, interview people and write reports based on data analysis. Market researchers need to be interested in people and their behaviour, as well as possess good analytical and organisational skills and adequate numerical competence.
Purchasing These professionals are responsible for procuring or purchasing the required quality and quantity of goods and services at the lowest or most competitive rates to meet user needs. Their job scope is tremendously wide as they have to deal with clients and suppliers, which include market research, tendering, negotiating, contract preparation, and managing relations with suppliers. They will also have to prepare purchasing strategies and policies, writing specifications and standards, and making sure that their supply complies with the organisation’s required standards.
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Electronic Products Electronics are ubiquitous in the modern world so the industry encompasses many areas of expertise, including consumer goods, automotive, medical, military and communications equipment. At one end are the very high-volume consumer products such as smartphones, and at the other end are products such as medical scanners – a company might only produce 100 units of these a year because they are so expensive. Automotive electronics are produced in moderate volume so fall somewhere in the middle. There are generally many opportunities to progress in this industry. You might be promoted into a management role or become a technical consultant within your company. There is also a vibrant marketplace for independent electronics contractors and consultants. If you choose this path you need to be flexible with your lifestyle because the contract work could be anywhere, and generally lasts for three to ten months at a time. Another possibility is to progress into a technical marketing role, combining customer service skills with your existing base of engineering know-how.
Engineering and Manufacturing A degree in engineering not only allows a career as a professional engineer, it also enables access into many other careers. Although engineering consultancy, research and development (R&D), technical, industry, and defence are key employment sectors; engineers also work in commercial, management, and consulting roles in a wide variety of organisations.
Aerospace The global aerospace industry has a tiered structure topped by prime contractors such as Airbus and Boeing – who build aircraft; followed by engines and systems contractors such as General Electric and Rolls-Royce. The aerospace industry in Singapore is mostly centred around the latter, particularly in the area of aerospace maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO). Aerospace-related R&D for both civil and defence purposes is also another up-and-coming area of this industry in the local sphere, in light of recent research partnerships inked between companies such as Boeing, Pratt & Whitney, and Rolls-Royce with the statefunded A*STAR research consortium. Engineers in this industry constantly deal with high-end technology including materials, structural design, and stresstesting and aerodynamics software. Systems and electronic engineering are also key disciplines in this field. Projects tend to be very complex and usually have very long lead times – sometimes running for more than ten years. Fresh graduates are typically given responsibilities early on and will work on elements of current projects alongside more experienced engineers.
Architecture Architects create designs for new construction projects and redevelopments, using specialist construction knowledge and high-level drawing skills to come up with buildings that are safe, functional and aesthetically-pleasing – all while adapting to budget constraints, client needs and environmental factors. As such, you must be willing to work long hours, under both time and budget pressure. A keen eye for detail is a must, along with excellent communication skills, both oral and written, and an analytical mind. In addition, an awareness of how your projects may affect society and the environment is needed.
Built environment The built environment is a broad sector that covers infrastructure (e.g. roads, highways, tunnels, railways and bridges, buildings, and its respective support systems, such as ventilation and plumbing. Main employers in this field are consultants – who advise clients, develop designs, and oversee projects; and contractors – who carry out the actual building and maintenance work. Built environment engineers may also be recruited directly by developers, retailers, or the public service. Sustainability has become a key issue with a heightened focus on reducing energy use and emissions on projects which helps to revitalise surroundings. Graduate engineers who are employed by contractors and consultants generally work on just one project at a time before moving on to manage several projects simultaneously.
Clean energy With an increasing focus on finding sustainable solutions for the nation’s energy use, the government has made significant investments towards improving the sector’s R&D capabilities. In addition to testing alternative energy technologies, engineers in this field can expect a wide range of roles dealing with improving systems for energy efficiency, managing energy storage systems, and designing hardware and electrical systems to harness energy from renewable resources such as wind, solar and renewable fuels.
Defence Defence engineering presents exciting opportunities to work on technologicallyadvanced projects that are far ahead of what is publicly available on the commercial market. Engineers in this industry can expect to work with a full range of products, services and systems that support land, air and naval forces. The main activities of this sector can be split into R&D, platform and equipment supply, and services and support. In Singapore, almost all major players in the local defence industry are either in the public sector, or are governmentlinked corporations. Employers in this sector hire large numbers of engineering graduates on a rolling basis.
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Lighting Lighting engineers are given the task of setting up, rigging, operating and maintaining lighting systems and electrical effects for the stage for a range of shows in the art scene – whether indoors or outdoors. Graduate engineers need to be able to demonstrate their creative, communication and technical skills to secure a role in this field. Besides understanding the lighting requirements for the stage, lighting engineers are required to work closely with other staff, including sound engineers and lighting designers, to realise the production company’s vision for the show.
Manufacturing Manufacturing is the process of adding value to raw materials by turning them into products: electrical goods, vehicles, aircraft, food, beverages, medical supplies, pharmaceuticals, and so on. Engineers working in the manufacturing business are responsible for the safe and efficient planning, management and maintenance of production methods and processes. Typical areas of work include research, design, development, production and quality assurance. Engineers in manufacturing can also apply their skills in commercial roles such as marketing, supply chain, operations management, logistics, and sales and after-sales service.
Oil and gas The oil and gas industry consists of two key areas – upstream: the production of oil and gas; and downstream: the refining of products such as petrol and chemicals. There are international oil companies such as BP, ExxonMobil, and Shell; national oil companies such as Petronas and PetroChina; smaller independent oil companies; oil service companies supplying specialist services such as drilling and sub-sea operations; and
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engineering contractors who design and build oil rigs, refineries, or drilling platforms. As a major refining hub, most oil and gas companies based here will typically hire engineers to work on oil refining processes, and non-engineers for trading roles.
Product Design In this field, you will be involved in identifying opportunities for new products, analysing how a new product, or existing product, can better answer consumer preferences and market needs, and settling design requirements with stakeholders to create solutions that are not just innovative, but also practical and suitable for manufacturing. As you will work with a myriad of people, from engineers to stakeholders and marketing staff, interpersonal skills are crucial, as are adaptability and timemanagement skills. Creativity in mixing shapes and colours is vital as well.
Robotics Engineers of this field are responsible for designing and manufacturing different types of robots and robotic systems that are used to perform an array of tasks. Prior to constructing the robot, the engineer must first conduct research to determine the function of the robot and the manner in which it will be designed to accomplish its function. Also known as automation engineers, a robotics engineer help make jobs safer, easier and more efficient through their creations.
Sound Sound engineers work with the technical aspects of sound to ensure the quality of recordings and audio tracks. They may also be involved in the setting up of a sound system for music concerts, theatre shows and corporate events. Candidates who are interested in pursuing a career in this field should have excellent dexterity to set up and adjust sensitive recording and mixing equipment. Sound engineers will also need to work with sound editing and equipment control software programmes for the postproduction process.
Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) The FMCG industry encompasses products with a quick shelf turnover, such as cosmetics, processed food, toiletries and plastic goods. Employers in this sector require graduates from many disciplines to fill in the various areas of work within the industry. Some of the notable areas in this sector include management, research and development, supply chain, as well as sales and commercial.
Management Graduates who want a fast-paced job providing goods that are part of everyday life are likely to find that a management career in the FMCG industry is a good fit for their aspirations. This is a sector in which profits turn on the successful sale of a high volume of relatively lowcost goods, which means the logistical challenges are significant. Anything that slows down or stops a production line, or prevents goods from being delivered from one point on the supply chain to the next, is a headache for management – a problem that needs to be resolved in order to protect the profitability of the company. Applicants for management roles will need to be able to show attitudes and aptitudes that will enable them to cope with the fast pace and innovative nature of work in consumer products companies. These include commercial awareness, the ability to work under pressure and problem-solving skills.
Research and development (R&D) R&D in the FMCG industry is the cutting edge where science meets business, and as a result it is an area with a definite buzz about it. Graduates working in R&D work out how to give consumers what they want and turn concepts into reality, whether by refining existing products or developing new ones.
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To land a role in R&D, you are likely to need a specific degree, for example in chemistry, engineering, chemical engineering, food science, physics, mathematics, biology, physical science, behavioural science or design, or another relevant technical area. Recruiters want curious, inquiring people who are willing to ask questions and follow them up in order to ensure that products evolve to meet consumer demands.
Sales and commercial
Building and maintaining relationships is a central part of graduate sales jobs in FMCG companies. These roles are sometimes described as ‘customer development’. The work can involve a partnership approach, in which sales representatives from the FMCG company work together with retail outlets to ensure that products have the maximum possible appeal for consumers, ensuring greater profitability for both. Roles in this line of work are usually open to graduates from any degree background. Recruiters will look for a range of competencies such as good leadership and communication skills, negotiation and problem-solving skills as well as interpersonal skills.
Healthcare The healthcare engineering sector covers a range of disciplines including biomedical, chemical, electrical, materials, mechanical, software and systems engineering. There are plenty of opportunities in this sector for keen applicants due to Singapore’s ongoing focus on pharmaceutical and biomedical R&D.
Biomedical engineer Biomedical engineers use maths, engineering and biology to understand how the body works as well as to solve healthcare gaps and issues. Graduates entering this field are required to design, build and maintain medical equipment, or develop artificial body parts, drugs or computer programmes to help treat disabilities, diseases, or injuries.
Biomedical engineers consult and collaborate with doctors and other medical staff in order to conduct research and publish the results. Professionals of this field may also be asked to train medical staff on how to use devices and provide technical support when needed.
Medical product/ equipment designer Medical product/equipment designers are responsible for the design, creation, testing and development of new medical products and equipment. They are responsible for preparing detailed drawings of the product, before developing sample prototypes for testing purposes. They are also tasked with setting out the guidelines and procedures that will be employed in the full-scale production process. Graduates of this profession are typically employed by medical organisations, manufacturing companies and private consulting firms in design and medical technology industries, while others may work in high-tech research and development laboratories.
Medical technologist
Pharmaceutical engineer Pharmaceutical engineering involves the manufacturing of pharmaceuticals and related therapies. Pharmaceutical engineers may specialise in different areas of pharmaceutical sciences, for instance, product delivery, regulatory requirements, design quality and more. Industries that welcome graduates from this field include pharmaceutical companies, universities, agencies and national laboratories. Pharmaceutical engineers typically involve themselves with conceiving, designing and producing pharmaceuticals and pharmaceutical therapies from biological and chemical materials. They may also be responsible for the packaging and labelling of the end products. Pharmaceutical engineers spend most of their time in research facilities and manufacturing plants. Their responsibilities can also include quality assurance and regulation.
Information and Communication
Medical technologists, also known as clinical laboratory technologists, perform and analyse the results of complex scientific tests on blood and bodily fluids. Trained experts of this field work in hospitals and independent laboratories using sophisticated procedures and equipment. When test results are analysed, medical technologists collaborate with physicians or laboratory directors to decipher patient data. The day-to-day tasks of a medical technologist include complex analysis of microscopic, immunologic, biologic, bacteriologic, hematologic, and chemical tests and their results. Some duties that a medical technologist might be asked to perform may include preparing cultures of tissue samples, establishing and monitoring programmes for data accuracy, examining slides of bodily fluids microscopically, and crossmatching blood for transfusions.
Broadcasting, radio and television This sector provides graduates with the opportunities to work for or become the public voice or face to a wide range of broadcast television and radio programmes with the purpose of offering entertainment and/or information. To land a job in this area of work, it is essential to gain as much paid or unpaid work experience as possible – this may be as a broadcast assistant, producer, or news-gatherer, or even self-employment as a DJ. Voluntary work for student newspapers/radio stations and local/ hospital radio and television stations can be helpful. Employers seek confident and creative candidates who are adaptable, calm and able to work well under pressure. Good organisational, communication, teamworking and problem-solving skills are also necessary.
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E-commerce Today, the internet business sector is all about catering to online consumers by developing products and services and gaining market share with unique content and services. A wide range of skills is needed, and core skills include business analysis, programming, product support, quality assurance, and knowledge of networks, applications and desktops. An understanding of the online consumer and how more orthodox businesses are run is a must, as is dedication, ambition, adaptability, loyalty and a willingness to learn.
Telecommunications The telecommunications industry is all about connecting people – whether it is communication through traditional fixed-line telephones, computers and laptops, or mobile devices. Job opportunities in the telecommunications sector can usually be found within two groups: vendors and carriers. To put it simply, vendor companies, such as Apple, Samsung and Agilent, provide the hardware and software products required by the sector; whereas carrier companies such as SingTel and StarHub make use of the products to deliver telecommunications services to the end users. While entry requirements may differ depending on the industry and role that you are applying for, a strong academic background and a relevant degree is necessary, such as telecommunications, information technology, computer science, and electrical/electronic engineering. Aside from good technical understanding, graduates will also benefit from having strong problemsolving abilities and analytical/research skills, attention to detail, as well as communication skills.
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IT and Technology Different organisations will require IT services, either as a core part of their business operations or as a service supplied to other businesses. As such, this creates a large and diverse range of work opportunities for graduates, ranging from highly technical areas such as software engineering and programming, IT consultancy, to sales and marketing.
Artificial intelligence Artificial intelligence (AI) involves the creation of intelligent machines or services that operate and react like humans. Graduates interested in pursuing jobs in this field require strong foundations in math, technology, logic, and engineering perspectives. AI specialists need technical skills to design, maintain and repair technology and software programmes. Aside from technical skills, working with artificial intelligence requires an analytical thought process and the ability to solve problems with costeffective and efficient solutions. It also requires foresight about technological innovations that allow businesses to remain competitive. A career in AI can be found within a variety of settings including private companies, public organisations, education, healthcare facilities and government agencies. Examples of job roles held by AI professionals include software analysts and developers, computer scientists and computer engineers, algorithm specialists, research scientists, engineering consultants and more.
Cyber security Cyber security refers to the body of technologies, processes and practices designed to protect networks, computers, programmes and data from attack, damage or unauthorised access. Professionals in the field have a variety of career options and specialisations available to them in a range of industries. Graduates may pursue or specialise in operations, systems engineering, development, architecture or testing. Employers look for two main traits among cyber security professionals – inquisitiveness and the ability to communicate with others. Experts in the field need to have a willingness to uncover and dig deep into gaps to develop creative solutions. Additionally, good communicators are necessary to explain concepts to individuals with non-technical backgrounds. Hence, it is imperative for cyber security experts to be able to explain the value of their efforts and how it benefits the overall business. Other skills such as the ability to analyse data and experience in project management are also useful, depending on the nature of the work involved.
Full-stack developer A highly-skilled computer programmer proficient at both front and back end programming, full-stack developers are also behind the designing of front end web architecture. Other responsibilities include conceiving user interactions on web pages, and creating servers and databases for functionality. In this field, a degree in Computer Science is not the only requirement; you will also need strong organisational and management skills, proficiency in server side languages such as Python, Ruby, Java, PHP and Net, good problemsolving skills, and conscientious.
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Programmer Programmers are not only required to write code; they must have a range and depth of skills and a strong knowledge of related areas to create “good” code. A programmer often works alone using a variety of computer languages, such as Visual Basic (.Net), Java (J2EE), XML and C++ to write software programmes. A programmes will be involved in a series of tasks such as expanding and updating existing programmes, using coding and programming languages to write new programmes, running tests to find any errors or bugs, working with software developers to help create a product, and more. Skills sought after among programmers include mathematical aptitude and strong problem-solving skills, IT and coding skills, excellent organisational, time and project management skills, accuracy and attention to detail.
Logistics, Transport, and Supply Chain Logistics, transport and supply chain companies are vital to keeping other industries running across the world and it is a great graduate career choice if you want the challenge of being thrown in the deep end. Logistics is the integration of parts of supply chain management – goods, labour, information, capital and facilities – mainly in aspects of transportation, stock control, and warehousing. It is central to the smooth running of any business, particularly organisations which embrace the concept of “just-intime” manufacture and supply. Logistics can be an in-house function or be contracted out to a logistics service provider. The job scope can involve setting strategies, planning projects, managing day-to-day services and staff, monitoring progress, computer modelling of flows of materials, forecasting, and negotiating with other contractors.
Public Administration and Defence This sector is a broad one, and includes major organisations, such as the civil service and its agencies, the non-departmental public bodies, the local government, and the National Health Service; as well as grassroots communities, such as the teachers in state education, librarians in public libraries, social workers, police departments, probation and prison services, and the armed forces.
The civil service The Singapore civil service comprises the central governing bodies that help ministers to devise and deliver government policies. Organised into ministries and statutory boards, public officers will help with the formulation of national policies and ensure that they are being implemented correctly. The Public Service Division (PSD) guides the HR policy direction of the civil service industry by developing the frameworks for the various ministries. It is also in charge of cultivating and maintaining the quality of civil workers, as well as proposing solutions and platforms for strategic interdepartmental issues and discussions. Individual ministries also hire graduates but do take note that recruitment practices vary between ministries and functions, which make their timing and availability less predictable. You may want to check with the individual ministries from time to time.
Armed forces Owing to their National Service stint, most Singaporean male graduates would have already been exposed to the career opportunities within the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) by the time they commence their tertiary education. Careers in the SAF are diverse as it is divided into three distinctive branches: the Singapore Army, the Republic of Singapore Air Force, and the Republic of Singapore Navy. It is also important to remember that the SAF is not made up entirely of soldiers and combatants; there are also non-uniformed careers for those who want to contribute to Singapore’s defence without getting involved in frontline battle. You may apply to their research and development arm, DSO National Laboratories, to help enhance the nation’s defence capabilities.
The Home Team The Home Team encompasses the various essential public security and emergency response units of Singapore. It falls under the purview of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). The Singapore Police Force (SPF) offers both uniformed and civilian career roles. Uniformed roles as police officers typically comprise a combination of both desk and practical training, as well as street duties. Employees in civilian roles undertake specialised roles such as crime scene specialists, forensic examiners, psychologists, management executives, and commercial affairs officers. The Singapore Civil Defence Force is responsible for fire and emergency rescue services, while the Central Narcotics Bureau is Singapore’s primary drug enforcement agency. Both organisations typically recruit graduates to fill either uniformed roles as senior officers, or civilian roles as senior executives.
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ADVICE FOR YOUR CAREER JOURNEY
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority oversees local border security and immigration issues. They typically recruit graduates as senior officers, with rotations across various branches and command centres of the organisation. The Singapore Prison Service manages incarceration and rehabilitation of convicted offenders. Graduates may find opportunities within this organisation as either senior prison officers, guidance counsellors, or senior management executives.
Scientific Research and Development Research scientists are responsible for designing, undertaking and analysing information from controlled laboratorybased investigations, experiments and trials. They plan and carry out experiments and investigations in a range of areas, including aerospace, green engineering and medical research. These are broad research areas; a research scientist will most likely be working on a much more specialised topic, such as machine learning or stem cell biology. Typical employers include government laboratories, environmental agencies, universities, consumer products companies, pharmaceuticals companies and private research bodies. Quite often, you can only become a research scientist if you have a strong academic background. A relevant postgraduate qualification (a PhD/ research-based MSc) is also normally required, particularly for permanent positions. Post-doctoral research and/ or practical research/laboratory work experience is also beneficial, and frequently required for academic posts.
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JOBS AND INTERNSHIPS
JOBS AND INTERNSHIPS LEADING EMPLOYERS WITH VACANCIES AND INTERNSHIPS WHO WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU.
Employers
BDO LLP........................................................................................................................72 Changi Airport Group (Singapore) Pte Ltd ...............................................................74 CapitaLand Limited ................................................................................................... 76 DSO National Laboratories ....................................................................................... 77 Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) ................................................. 79 OCBC Bank .................................................................................................................. 80
BDO LLP
600 North Bridge Road, #23-01, Parkview Square, Singapore 188778 TEL +[65] 6828 9118 WEB https://www.bdo.com.sg/en-gb/careers EMAIL career@bdo.com.sg FACEBOOK @BDOSingapore LINKEDIN @bdo-singapore TWITTER @bdoaccountant YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBblycqXBZ7YhP8hSauj6Lg LOCATIONS
• Singapore – Central • International – BDO’s global organisation extends across 167 countries and territories, with 88,120 people working out of 1,809 offices – and they’re all working towards one goal: to provide our clients with exceptional service.
BUSINESS FACTS
Established in 1972 and a member firm of BDO International since 1979, we offer a full range of services including audit, corporate finance and risk advisory. Our clients are from most fields of business in Singapore and include subsidiaries of multi-national corporations, public and private companies operating in diverse industries, including transportation and publishing. Some of our clients are wellknown, while many are medium-sized emerging businesses. Our size is at its optimum, it is large enough to enable us to provide the full range of world-class services and at the same time allows clients to benefit from our breadth and depth of expertise as the world’s fifth largest accounting network. Simply, our services begin with your needs. Whether you are a start-up or an established enterprise looking to take the next step up, we are well equipped to assist you from ground level to the highest stratosphere of success.
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DEGREE DISCIPLINE
• Information Systems Technology and Design
CAREER SECTORS
• Accountancy and Financial Management • Banking and Financial Services • Consulting • IT and Technology
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
BDO provides a culture that emphasizes career growth, professional development, collaborative culture, workplace flexibility and global opportunities. If you believe you have the right values and attitude in wanting to be part of our big BDO family, send in your detailed resume and a recent photograph to career@ bdo.com.sg.
SINGAPORE
AUDIT. TAX. ADVISORY.
Tailored events & opportunities
Learning & Development
We are part of the 5th largest network
Our team with exceptional experiences
A global mindset Our services • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Audit & Assurance Business Services Outsourcing Corporate Advisory Corporate Finance Corporate Secretarial Services Cybersecurity Financial Services Group Goods & Services Tax International Tax Structuring Management Consulting Private Client Services Restructuring & Forensic Risk Advisory Talent Consultancy Transfer Pricing
A variety of services Apply now If you share our values and have the skills, ability and ambition it takes to succeed here, we want to hear from you. Whether you join Assurance, Tax, Consulting or Advisory Services, you will enjoy early responsibility, rewarding challenges and exposure to a variety of businesses across a range of sectors. To explore a career path with us, please email your detailed resume and cover letter to career@bdo.com.sg
BDO LLP 600 North Bridge Road #23-00 Parkview Square Singapore 188778 www.bdo.com.sg BDOSingapore
BDO Singapore LLP
JOBS AND INTERNSHIPS
JOBS AND INTERNSHIPS
CHANGI AIRPORT GROUP (SINGAPORE) PTE LTD
Singapore Changi Airport, PO Box 168, Singapore 918146 WEB careers.changiairport.com LINKEDIN @changiairportgroup LOCATION
DEGREE DISCIPLINES
• Singapore – East
• Architecture and Sustainable Design • Engineering Product Development • Engineering Systems and Design • Information Systems Technology and Design
BUSINESS FACTS
As the airport company managing Changi Airport, Changi Airport Group (CAG) undertakes key functions focusing on airport operations and management, air hub development, commercial activities and airport emergency services. We operate Singapore Changi Airport, the world’s most awarded airport, and our subsidiary, Changi Airports International, helps develop and manage airports worldwide. Our people are our most important asset in our mission to be the world’s leading airport company by nurturing a vibrant air hub in Singapore and enhancing the communities we serve worldwide. We aspire to build a company where ordinary people achieve extraordinary results. Our people have a passion for service and are committed to teamwork, integrity and excellence. Working together with colleagues and partners to achieve the best outcome, we deliver innovative services and create a world-class experience for our customers.
CAREER SECTORS
• Aviation, Transport and Supply Chain • Hospitality, Leisure and Tourism
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Apply online at careers.changiairport.com.
Changi Airport Group offers a unique work environment in a global, vibrant and exciting airport community. With a set-up of multiple businesses, we present challenging work and diverse opportunities for our employees to further their personal and professional growth, providing a platform for them to develop and see through their ideas and contributions, making an impact on our organisation and the communities we serve locally and globally.
DRIVING THE ADOPTION OF NEW SOFTWARE NAME: Liu Menglu DEGREE: Bachelor of Engineering (Engineering Systems and Design), Singapore University of Technology and Design, Class of 2019 ROLE: Senior Associate, Engineering & Development EMPLOYER: Changi Airport Group
My job As part of the Innovation and Process Enhancement team, I deal with all kinds of innovation and digitisation projects to serve internal clients. I play different roles for different projects, be it business analyst, software developer, or data analyst, sometimes all at the same time. As a business analyst, I am responsible for learning and identifying business use cases for innovation. When I am taking on the software developer role, I write programming codes whenever needed. For instance, I have experience working on Amazon Web Services for an Internet of Things project and UiPath (a Robotic Process automation tool) for process automation. As a data analyst, I study and analyse engineering systems’ performance for predictive maintenance or other purposes.
How I got my job I submitted my resume through SUTD’s career portal and went through two rounds of interviews after that. I believe the relevance of my bachelor’s degree and internship experience was an advantage. In school, we were trained in simulation, data analytics, and statistical machine learning, which are essential for innovation work. Furthermore, the industry projects I did in school using the aforementioned skills also helped to boost my resume.
The highs and lows I get to innovate and experience new things in my daily work, work with many different profiles within the Engineering and Development 74
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(E&D) cluster to learn their work processes, identify underlying problems, and discover opportunities for enhancement. I feel a sense of satisfaction knowing that I could bring changes to their work that truly benefit them and even the bigger airport community. Obtaining engineering domain knowledge is essential for E&D innovation. The learning curve is steep for someone who is new to the aviation industry, but thankfully, my bosses and colleagues are always there to guide me when needed.
My happiest moment at work One of my happiest moments was when I was tasked to drive adoption in the use of Power BI (a business analytics service by Microsoft) within E&D. The purpose was to empower our engineers to embrace a data culture with Power BI as a start. It involves planning and conducting online courses to train over 200 E&D staff using customised learning materials. I felt a strong sense of achievement when I see them understand Power BI and put it into practice.
Some advice Develop a passion for operation management and data analytics, and proactively seek out opportunities to hone your skills. Keep exploring new technologies and developing advanced software skills through online open source learning platforms, such as LinkedIn Learning. Expose yourself to more hands-on projects and learn how to apply statistical and analytical theories to solve real-life problems in the engineering and aviation domain.
JOBS AND INTERNSHIPS
CAPITALAND LIMITED
168 Robinson Road, #30-01, Capital Tower, Singapore 068912 EMAIL buildyourdream@capitaland.com WEB https://www.capitaland.com/careers FACEBOOK
@capitaland @capitaland LINKEDIN @capitaland TWITTER @capitaland YOUTUBE @capitaland INSTAGRAM
LOCATIONS
from over 80 countries. CapitaLand is always on the look-out for people of high calibre with strong potential to support and grow with the Group.
• Singapore • Global
BUSINESS FACTS
CapitaLand is one of Asia’s largest diversified real estate groups. Headquartered and listed in Singapore, it is an owner and manager of a global portfolio worth about S$133.3 billion as at 30 September 2020, comprising integrated developments, retail, commercial, business park, industrial and logistics, urban development, lodging, residential, 6 listed real estate investment trusts (REITs) and over 20 private funds. Present across more than 220 cities in over 30 countries, CapitaLand focuses on Singapore and China as core markets, while continuing to expand in markets such as India, Vietnam, Australia, Europe and the USA. Cultivating a Strong Workforce As a multi-national company, CapitaLand stands by its credo ‘Building People. Building Communities.’ Its success is built on its strong infrastructure and its diverse and inclusive workforce – which consists of more than 12,000 employees
Talent Management CapitaLand believes that a company is only as extraordinary as the people who contribute to its culture and success. It focuses on hiring the best people, and have strategic, integrated and quality learning programmes for continual learning and development in all career stages. CapitaLand offers opportunities for challenging and rewarding careers where employees are able to continually learn and develop their personal and professional capabilities, all while working alongside a talented, international and diverse workforce. DEGREE DISCIPLINES
• Open to all disciplines
CAREER SECTOR
• Property and Real Estate
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Apply online via capitaland.com/careers and shortlisted candidates will be notified.
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Wondering what to do next? Look for graduate jobs and programmes at:
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JOBS AND INTERNSHIPS
DSO NATIONAL LABORATORIES
12 Science Park Drive, Singapore 118225 TEL (65) 6776 2255 WEB https://career.dso.org.sg/career-openings/index.html EMAIL campusrelations@dso.org.sg FACEBOOK @DSO National Laboratories INSTAGRAM @discoverdso LINKEDIN @DSO National Laboratories LOCATION
DEGREE DISCIPLINES
• Singapore – West
• Engineering Product Development • Engineering Systems and Design • Information Systems Technology and Design
BUSINESS FACTS
Defence research and development (R&D) is at the heart of what we do at DSO. As Singapore’s largest national defence R&D organisation, DSO is entrusted with the critical mission of developing technological surprises to enhance Singapore’s defence capabilities. From research to systems development, our defence engineers and scientists push the boundaries to develop game changing technologies and solutions that are not yet available in the market, or not available to Singapore. DSO also invests and explores emerging technologies to ensure the nation’s defence and national security capabilities are future-ready. With more than 50 research areas across the domains of air, land, sea, space and cyberspace, DSO shapes the future of defence with our imagination and dare-to-do spirit in the relentless pursuit of the next big idea.
CAREER SECTORS
• Engineering, Design and Manufacturing • IT and Technology • Scientific Research and Development
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Apply online at https://www.dso.org.sg/. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview.
FOCUSING ON TECHNICAL SKILLS FOR NATIONAL DEFENCE NAME: Wesley Ee DEGREE: Bachelor of Engineering (Engineering Product Development), Singapore University of Technology and Design, Class of 2019 ROLE: Defence Research Engineer EMPLOYER: DSO National Laboratories
My job My work is with software engineering in the area of speech technology development. I am involved in project development work in the field of artificial intelligence (AI), specifically deep learning, and it also includes some digital signal processing. I spend most of my time writing my own code, running code developed with our collaborators, as well as open-source codes I find. Most of the remaining time is spent analysing these results, and discussing them with my technical lead and the team.
How I got my job I have actually done two interviews with DSO! The first was for an internship, where they wanted to find out if I had a fair grasp of the technical knowledge required, and the internship itself was my chance to demonstrate my capacity to deliver. The second interview was for my current full-time position. That was the trickier one because it was meant to sieve out candidates who were merely interested in the salary and benefits. My earnest desire to contribute to Singapore’s defence through my technical skills ultimately helped me land the job.
The highs and lows The lows I have experienced have not been particularly low, but developing cutting-edge defence technology requires us to push
through very, very tough challenges. However, for every low, there is the high that I get from learning new things along the way, and that is what keeps me going.
My happiest moment at work I am particularly happy about what I managed to accomplish for my first project, where I developed a degraded-speech quality detection module, and trained my own speech enhancement networks to obtain more accurate results for our speech engine. I feel that the most satisfying part of it was taking ownership of my part, presenting the results to the users, and knowing that this technology would eventually be used for real operational scenarios for the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).
Some advice Everybody is running their own race. For those doing well in school, keep up the good work. For those who are struggling, find time – even after graduation! – to try out pet projects and discover what you are really interested in. This will grow your technical skills and also give you experience for your desired jobs. What I have learnt is that intangible skills like persistence, creativity and the ability to problem-solve are more important than hard technical skills, so do not be discouraged if you are not the best student in the room!
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how to build an impenetrable cyber system
Your search - how to build an impenetrable cyber system - did not match any documents. Suggestions: • Go to outer space and ask the aliens for answers. • Go into cryogenic sleep until someone else figures it out. • Go to the Birthplace of Knowledge and dig for an answer. • Find your own answer at DSO.
DSO National Laboratories DSO National Laboratories
JOBS AND INTERNSHIPS
DEFENCE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY AGENCY (DSTA)
1 Depot Road, Singapore 109679 WEB https://www.dsta.gov.sg FACEBOOK/ INSTAGRAM @SingaporeDSTA LINKEDIN @DSTA LOCATION
DEGREE DISCIPLINES
• Singapore
• Engineering Product Development • Engineering Systems and Design • Information Systems Technology and Design
BUSINESS FACTS
At the Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA), we thrive on developing the next breakthrough for the defence and security of Singapore.
CAREER SECTORS
We develop and integrate next-generation defence systems and capabilities to safeguard Singapore. We also harness and exploit emerging technologies to create solutions that will boost Singapore’s digital strength.
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
The multidisciplinary nature of our work in engineering, infocomm technology and cybersecurity will give you many opportunities to innovate and push the boundaries of science and technology.
• Engineering, Design and Manufacturing • IT and Technology
Applications are accepted year round. Learn more about DSTA Careers, Internships and Scholarships at https://www.dsta.gov.sg
Our diverse portfolio includes artificial intelligence, augmented/virtual reality, cybersecurity, data analytics, Internet of Things, machine learning, military platforms, robotics, sensors and unmanned technologies. DSTA is committed to provide you with a multitude of opportunities by building your technical expertise and honing your competencies in multidisciplinary domains. Embark on a meaningful career to pursue your passion and achieve your fullest potential. Be equipped with leadership skills at every stage of your career. See possibilities through an internship, scholarship and career with us!
PRIORITISING INNOVATION IN THE MILITARY NAME: Marissa Ang DEGREES: Bachelor of Engineering (Engineering Product Development), Singapore University of Technology and Design and Bachelor of Business Management, Singapore Management University. Dual Degree Program, Class of 2019 ROLE: Engineer (Land Systems) EMPLOYER: Defence Science and Technology Agency
My job My team and I work on integrating the Army Tactical Engagement and Information System (ARTEMIS) on the Hunter, the Singapore Armed Forces’ (SAF) newest and first fully-digitalised Armoured Fighting Vehicle. The ARTEMIS is an advanced command and control system that allows the crew to operate the vehicle in a digitalised environment. In a few clicks, various sub-systems can be activated to help plan missions, manage the vehicle’s health and status, and enable it to fight alongside other SAF platforms as an integrated force. Currently, I work closely with our SAF and industry partners to integrate sub-systems, and further enhance the ARTEMIS for their operational needs.
How I got my job I applied to DSTA to pursue an engineering career in a leading technology organisation, particularly in designing and developing military hardware. At my interview, I asked a lot of questions to express interest in how my skills could be applied and honed. This was a standout point as the interviewing panel still thinks of me as the one who “interviewed” them!
The highs and lows I enjoy working on the agile development of ARTEMIS! It is a highly integrated system consisting of many advanced sub-systems that have to function seamlessly together, so work is very interesting and dynamic! I interact closely with SAF counterparts to understand their operational requirements, and apply design innovation to
ensure these are achieved optimally with technology. We also adopt commercial agile development methodologies to be responsive to user feedback and continuously enhance our system. Seeing the SAF use ARTEMIS to carry out their tasks and workflows more effectively keeps me motivated. When I first joined, I had to quickly familiarise myself with the networked computer systems – my teammates were very patient in addressing my questions. I have also been growing my technical expertise via technical trainings, lectures and milestone courses. I had fun discovering “hidden” experts in our team while sharing knowledge in new domains such as 3D printing and coding!
My happiest moment at work My happiest moments are when I see how engineering and technology benefit the soldier on the ground. Due to the vehicle’s digitalised nature, understanding and knowing how to operate the ARTEMIS effectively becomes integral to the operation of the Hunter. Recently, I conducted a workshop with SAF users to discuss how to best “teach” the ARTEMIS. We brainstormed ideas on how the SAF could restructure their training to better tap the integrated nature of the ARTEMIS and Hunter.
Some advice Be curious and read widely. Technology is a fast-moving field, and as engineers, we can harness the best technologies even as they advance and develop. Besides your own domain of expertise, there is a need to know how other tech domains evolve, interact and impact each other. SUTD career guide 2021
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JOBS AND INTERNSHIPS
OCBC BANK
OCBC Centre, 65 Chulia Street, Singapore 049513 WEB www.ocbc.com/group/careers/ FACEBOOK @OCBC Careers LINKEDIN @OCBC Bank LOCATIONS
CAREER SECTORS
BUSINESS FACTS
GRADUATE JOBS
OCBC Bank is the longest established Singapore bank. It is now the second largest financial services group in Southeast Asia by assets and one of the world’s most highly-rated banks, with an Aa1 rating from Moody’s.
Graduate Talent Programme 2021:
We are committed to creating a conducive work environment – one that is inclusive, welcomes innovation and encourages continual learning and development. Whether you are an Engineering major, IT expert, Math whiz, or a people-person, we see each of your individuality and potential to shine with us.
Internships:
• Singapore • International – China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia and others
We provide career mobility opportunities across our different business units, subsidiaries or even country offices; from Consumer, Corporate and Investment Banking, to Fintech and Innovation, so you can discover your career interests and niche areas, all within the bank. We want you to enjoy and take pride in your work, be passionate, driven and have fun – after all, joy does bring out the best in people. And we want nothing less. We are hiring for:
• Banking and Financial Services • Investment Banking and Investment Management
Application cycle opens in September 2020
FRANKpreneurship and STEM@OCBC: Apply between Dec and Feb Ad-Hoc Internships: • 6 months (Jan to June/ Jul to Dec) • 3 months (May to Aug) APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Apply online via www.ocbc.com/careers
- Graduate Talent Programme - FRANKpreneurship Internship Programme - STEM @ OCBC Internship Programme
TECH IN A FINANCE WORLD NAME: Deng Jing DEGREES: Bachelor of Engineering (Engineering Product Development), Singapore University of Technology and Design and Bachelor of Business Management, Singapore Management University. Dual Degree Program, Class of 2019 ROLE: Systems Analyst EMPLOYER: OCBC Bank
My job
The highs and lows
I am a Systems Analyst with OCBC’s Group Operations and Technology (GO&T) Department. I joined the bank as part of the OCBC Graduate Talent Programme (GTP), which gives me the opportunity to rotate across various departments. The GTP is unique from other programmes as we apply to join a specific department and role, following which all our rotations are designed around that choice, making each rotation very relevant to what I will be doing.
Like most SUTDents, I enjoy working on team projects. When the project approaches completion, I get a strong sense of fulfilment. I am always learning and adapting. Since joining OCBC, I have picked up Java and SQL. I am looking forward to what I will learn next. At times, I might feel a little overwhelmed when things move too fast, but it is also what makes this role exciting.
Each day on the job can be very different from the last. As a team, we work on business solutions for the bank. Together, we keep the projects moving forward towards delivery and find ways to add value to the customer. This can involve analysing change requests, designing systems or planning how deployments will be carried out.
Project Innovate was part of the GTP where we had to create a solution to address a specific business need. In our case, the problem statement was “How may we improve the customer experience?” Our team proposed digitalising CSR engagements. We went from ideation to prototyping and eventually delivered a winning pitch.
How I got my job I remember the hiring manager shared that I needed to learn on-thejob. In response, I spoke about how my project team and I picked up skills on our own during our course of study. For example, we explored different software solutions, such as AutoCAD for modelling, to create prototypes. I also believe that my background in finance and engineering gave me an edge when I applied to a tech role in the finance industry.
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My happiest moment at work
What is more, when we presented our solution to the judges from different divisions within the bank, we were told that this was a solution they were looking into!
Some advice Be comfortable with ambiguity – things are not always clear cut and it is important to have a goal in mind. Embrace a growth mindset too, and always find ways to challenge yourself and be better.
Think Change. Think Future. Whether you are an Engineering major, IT expert, Math whiz, or a people-person, we see each of your individuality and potential to shape the future. The first step in your career is one of life’s important milestones – let us help you maximise your potential to deliver a difference.
We see talent. We see you. www.ocbc.com/careers
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