Talent Development Programme (TDP

Talent Development Programme

The Talent Development Programme (TDP) is a structured in-house internship offered by the SIM Learner Advisory & Career Centre. Launched in January 2015, TDP has seen more than 150 interns go through the programme, with many graduating and moving on to the corporate world.

In TDP, we aspire to empower our interns with skills and competencies vital for the corporate environment through the many projects and initiatives. With a structured development plan comprising of workshops, networking opportunities and on-the-job trainings, we give our interns a head start and prepare them for the working world as well as to expand their professional networks. TDP is also a platform for like-minded interns to have a collective experience to learn and grow together.

Essentially, we aspire to create an enriching journey for all interns to learn, discover and hone themselves for the dynamic working world ahead. With the TDP experience, our interns have successfully secured internship and full-time jobs in many prestigious organisations such as Cognizant, UOB, Google, Singapore Airlines, PwC, National Youth Council, Marina Bay Sands and many more.

Human Capital Development

The Human Capital Development Cluster focuses on the management of TDP interns in respect of their deployment, development and welfare.

Key responsibilities include: • Recruiting and selecting new interns; • Organising and executing orientation programmes of new interns; • Overseeing and implementing training programmes; • Planning the career development and progression of interns; • Managing the overall welfare of interns.

Marketing Communications

The Marketing Communications Cluster is a very diverse cluster, with a strategic objective of delivering marketing plans for the Career Connect Office.

Key responsibilities include: • Carrying out marketing campaigns for the office; • Creating marketing collaterals for career initiatives; • Managing Career Connect social media platforms; • Engaging SIM students with the office’s initiatives.

Business Development

The Business Development Cluster works closely with various stakeholders including potential work employers and Career Champs. With this engagement, the cluster serves as a bridge to value add Career Connect initiatives.

Key Responsibilities: • Engaging with potential employers; • Managing and developing of

Career Champs; • Planning career events, such as career talks and company visits.

Gerald Wong

Researcher (Legal and Compliance), Cobalt Recruitment

Previous Role in TDP: Deputy Youth Director, Intake 12 BSc in Business and Management SIM-UOL Class of 2020

“TDP exposed me to a wide range of career services. Being in the programme allowed me to attend complimentary career workshops, as well as get involved with organising teams from various events aimed at increasing our employability, such as Career Fairs.

Because of these experiences, I picked up both tangible and intangible skills. In addition to now being adept in programmes such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, I also had the opportunity and privilege to practise and improve on my public speaking skills, along with my leadership and organisational skills. The internship instilled discipline and drive in me, and that was especially important when working remotely independently in during this global coronavirus pandemic.

I would like to advise future TDP interns to be hungry, tenacious and determined. Use this opportunity to discover what you are good at, as well as your passion. There is no better time to start than right now.”

Chancellor Leow

Credit Portfolio Trainee Analyst, DBS Bank

Previous Role in TDP: Cluster Leader, Intake 12 BSc in Business and Management SIM-UOL Class of 2020

“My time with TDP has been one of the most enjoyable and fruitful takeaways from University, allowing me to gain various insights and deepen my knowledge of various professional industries.

TDP is a great opportunity to expose oneself to the reality and expectations of work. The journey may be fraught with challenges, but the skill sets, such as team management and project planning, have been nothing short of valuable. In fact, it played an instrumental role in preparing me for the working world!

Treasure the time you have in the programme and do not be afraid to move into different areas. As fresh graduates in this new landscape, my advice would be to pick up transferable skills, keep an open mind, and take advantage of every opportunity presented!”

Marcus Moo

Graduate Analyst, Cognizant Technology Solutions Asia Pacific Pte Ltd

Previous Role in TDP: Cluster Leader, Intake 14 BBus in Management SIM-RMIT Class of 2020 SIM EDGE Award Recipient

“TDP was a fruitful internship experience for me! I got to learn and work alongside like-minded, driven and motivated individuals in a very safe environment, where I had the autonomy to develop workshops and events while learning the ropes. I even had the opportunity to rotate between different functions within the business development context in driving career capital for SIM students!

I was able to delve into the marketing, logistics and operational aspects, which helped me build practical experience that came in handy even after I graduate from SIM. I was also exposed to how the corporate world works, which helped me shape my work expectations and world view.

Take this opportunity to learn and develop authentic friendships that will last a lifetime. Never be afraid of stepping out of your comfort zone because it can help polish the gem in you, as a smooth sea has never made a skilful sailor.”

Sharon Lim

Project Management Lead, DBS Bank

Previous Role in TDP: Cluster Leader, Intake 10 BSc in Banking and Finance SIM-UOL Class of 2020

“My TDP journey was enriching as I was able to experience a variety of different job functions and boost my work competencies. I am definitely thankful for the guidance from the staff and seniors, which helped me to improve as an individual.

Besides learning more about HR, marketing and communications, I was honoured to be given the chance to lead teams and facilitate projects that honed my leadership and presentation skills. One of my greatest work achievements was creating the SIM Edge Award Handbook. It pushed me to learn new skills and allowed me to express myself creatively.

Ultimately, in our competitive work environment and especially in this pandemic, I believe that we should constantly upgrade ourselves with new skills to be employable. My advice would be to take up the opportunities presented to you, be open-minded and have fun!”