MCI (P) 082/09/2021
CONTENTS PAGE
INSIDE THIS GUIDE Kickstart Your Job Search on Campus 3
Message for Undergraduates
4
Message for Postgraduates
6
Career Services at SMU
10
Meet Your Career Coaches
63
Taking Care of Your Mental Health: Dealing with Job Hunting Burnout
14
Thought Leadership: Maintaining Mental Health
22
Sectors on the Rise
27
Joining an MNC vs SME vs Start-Up
30
Job Hunting During a Recession
32
Riding Out the Pandemic and Recession
Your First Job and You 33
Your Career and You
34
Top 3 Things to Look for in a First Job
35
Alternative Career Paths
36
How to Manage Your Mental Health at Work
Crafting the Perfect Resume
42
Tips for Cover Letter Writing
44
Personal Branding and Networking
Excelling at Interviews 46
4 Types of Interviews
48
Mastering the Job Interview
50
Dealing with Live Video Interviews
52
Tackling Case Studies
54
Acing Assessment Centres
56
Grilling Your Interviewer
57
Preparing for the Big Day
60
Managing Job Offers
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Produced by
12
40
Hear from SMU Alumni
Jobs & Internships
Adapting to a Changing World
Winning at Applications
Tap on the SMU Alumni Network
(Company number: 200301978M) 2 Sims Close #05-07 Gemini@Sims Singapore 387298 T+(65) 6294 6505 F +(65) 6294 1043 www.gtimedia.asia
Chief Editor Elliyani Mohamad Ali Editor & Editorial Sarah Si, Dawn Yip Design & Production A’liah binti Abdul Rahim Advertising Ron Ong, Joey Ng, The GTI Media sales team Marketing & Distribution Henry Ng, Siti Nurshabarna Anuar, Aisyah Sani Publisher Isaac Hee Printer Times Printer Pte Ltd 16 Tuas Ave 5 Singapore 639340 GTI Asia Pte Ltd, March 2022 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 publications, and do 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.
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Message for Undergraduates
Sim Cher Young Director Dato’ Kho Hui Meng Career Centre
M
y colleagues and I at the SMU Career Centre wish you a Happy New Year and a meaningful 2022 ahead.
The start of the year brings a renewed vigour to converge on our mission of journeying with you in achieving career success through enhancing your employability and hiring prospects. The SMU Internship Programme is one such avenue which your seniors have leveraged in understanding their desired roles and industries, and subsequently, securing full-time employment quickly. Opportunities abound for those who value variety and abundance, as many vacancies are being curated for you to prime yourself for the working world. Start today to source for your ideal internship by referencing our Internship Guide on OnTRAC for the “what”, “when” and “how”. Remember, success occurs when preparation meets opportunity. Keep a lookout for our announcements alerting you to a myriad of employer engagements, especially the more than 100 career talks organised each term and our numerous thematic career fairs, where over 120 employers participate in the hope of hiring interns for the imminent internship season and graduands for full-time positions from May 2022.
Besides keeping a watchful eye on our posted openings available to you, do make full use of the career centre’s ample resources to better your chances of landing a job offer. Strategise your job search groundwork by initiating a tête-à-tête with your career coach to explore ways on casting a positive impression on any prospective employer. They may include customising your resume and interview responses, or better attuning your knowledge, skills and aptitude to the innumerable career pathways. For our senior students on their final lap this year, we would like to once again rev up your career preparation towards fulltime employment by referring you to our dedicated microsite for the graduating cohort: smu.sharepoint.com/sites/ gradcareer. This central repository of quality career resources aims to support our graduates who would appreciate a one-stop kiosk amidst their understandably hectic job acquisition expedition in a recovering, albeit contracted, job market in 2022. With the evolving COVID-19 situation worldwide, we recommend a prudent approach to start your job search early. All the best as you embark on a fulfilling career ahead. “Customers buy for their reasons, not yours.” - Orvel Ray Wilson
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Message for Postgraduates
Henry Yeo Head Postgraduate Career Services
W
elcome to the 2022 edition of the SMU Career Guide.
The past one year continued to be challenging and uncertain. We have become familiar with acronyms like CB, SHN, ART, HBL and PCR, as well as gotten used to remote learning, virtual interviews, Zoom meetings, remote internships and working from home, to name a few. But there is light at the end of this very long tunnel. The economy and job market continues to recover, albeit in an uneven manner – or k-shaped recovery as economists would term it. However, the nature of many types of jobs continue to be transformed, partly in response to current challenges and partly due to organisations’ relentless pursuit of greater efficiency and competitiveness. Examples of such transformations are numerous; the transition from pandemic to endemic will impact the way work is carried out, such as working in the office, working at home, or a hybrid system. Impending revisions to international tax regulations, managing supply chain disruptions and advances in technology may also influence and determine where firms – and jobs – will eventually be domiciled.
Digitalisation will continue to permeate most sectors, creating new jobs and rendering some others obsolete. Sustainability/ESG will become mainstream, and significantly change the way many traditional job functions are performed, such as that of auditors, fund/portfolio managers, corporate bankers and consultants. The advent of cryptocurrencies and central bank digital currency is likely to have a profound impact on the business models and practices of financial institutions and regulators, as well. While you may not be able to do much about these mega forces, you must stay optimistic. Continue to look for that silver lining even in these difficult times, and learn to seek opportunities where they might not have been there before. Your education and training in SMU will put you in good stead to navigate the uncertainties and challenges. I am confident all of you are adaptable and will eventually chart a successful career path to meaningfully impact the organisation you choose to work for, as well as the community you live in. As Winston Churchill famously said during the darkest days of the Second World War, “Never let a good crisis go to waste”. Stay safe and all the best in your endeavours!
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CAREER SERVICES AT SMU
T
he SMU Dato’ Kho Hui Meng Career Centre (DKHMCC) has been serving the student community and partnering with leading business organisations for hiring success since SMU’s inception in 2000. We are proud of our programmes and activities which ensure that our students progress seamlessly to the working world.
Our services The centre is an ideal place where both corporate partners and students can exchange valuable ideas and first-hand experience in pursuit of a professional life with each other.
Career coaching All students are assigned to a Career Coach upon matriculation to support them in their career planning through the four-year journey at SMU. Our Career Coaches come from diverse backgrounds with rich industry experience and maintain strong ties with corporate partners to stay informed of the industry and the hiring landscape. Keeping a watch on industry developments and changes in the recruitment landscape helps Career Coaches provide insights into current industry trends and organisations’ hiring practice during career coaching. Career Coaches are available to critique cover letters and resumes, facilitate job search strategies, and hone interview skills through one-to-one mock interview sessions. All information exchanged between a student and a Career Coach is confidential. Career coaching is also provided by student-peer advisors enriched with valuable internship experience. Career Champions are trained and equipped with essential skills to work alongside DKHMCC as paraprofessionals to serve the undergraduate community. Students can make individual appointments with their Career Coach or Champions via OnTRAC II.
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OnTRAC II OnTRAC II is SMU’s one-stop portal for career services, where students register for events, view job postings, submit applications, monitor their progress and accept job offers. Students only need a single login account to update and view their LinkedIn profile from OnTRAC II. Students may integrate their LinkedIn profile to their resumes on OnTRAC II by using its Resume Builder function to import their LinkedIn details into their resume in an instant.
Networking events The career centre hosts several networking events annually, bringing prospective recruiters and graduating students together under one roof. On average, about 120 companies participate in each networking event. Recruiters will gain direct exposure to graduating students who are pursuing either a single or double degree in Accountancy, Business Management, Economics, Information Systems, Law, or the Social Sciences.
Students should bring along finetuned copies of their resumes (to which they can also add a QR code using their OnTRAC II > Documents > Portfolio) to these networking events.
On-campus recruitment talks, industry talks and company visits DKHMCC organises recruitment/ industry talks and company visits every year. These include on-campus recruitment and industry talks by recruitment teams from global and regional banks, multinational corporations, government ministries, agencies, statutory boards and small and medium enterprises from a variety of industries and geographic regions. Through these sessions, graduating students will have the opportunity for direct interaction with representatives from members of the top echelon, middle management and line managers.
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UNDERGRADUATE CAREER SERVICES Finishing Touch programme and career readiness workshops As students progress to their junior and senior years, elective workshops will be offered at the crucial job application stage in their final years. These optional workshops are topicspecific to help penultimate-year and graduating students gain experience and understanding of the selection process in job applications. Additionally, DKHMCC holds a series of complementary career readiness workshops to equip students with the critical skills and competencies needed to gain an edge in areas of career development and employability. The Finishing Touch programme is one of SMU’s distinguishing factors and is well recognised by employers and students in preparing our graduates for a seamless transition to the working world. For more information, please log in to: OASIS > Career Devt & Comm Svcs > The Finishing Touch.
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Internships All SMU students are required to complete an internship before they graduate, and DKHMCC oversees the administrative work for this programme. Internships allow students to apply their classroom knowledge to a realworld setting, hone their soft skills and cooperative abilities, and build their credentials before starting their journey into the working world. Students can find a plethora of internship opportunities by accessing OnTRAC II.
Career profiling tools All Career Coaches at DKHMCC are certified in career development facilitation and able to administer at least one personality or career profiling tool. These tools help students better understand their own personalities, career profiles, core business competencies and motivating factors of career success.
Personality and career profiling tools include: • Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI®) • DiSC Personality System • Strong Interest Inventory • CliftonStrengths
Career resources library and “Suited for Success” wardrobe DKHMCC maintains a specialised library which houses career preparation and management literature, including the series of Career Insider Guides from Vault College Publications.The “Suited for Success” walk-in wardrobe is a business wear loan service, offered to students who are attending career events and workshops. Accessible to all students, the wardrobe is stocked with men’s and women’s suits, shoes, ties and belts for students to borrow.
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Career publications
Graduate Employment Survey
DKHMCC produces a range of publications to cater to each phase of the students’ time at SMU. One such publication is the Majors and Careers Pathway Guide available for download via OASIS. The guide serves to provide a career’s perspective for students when deciding on majors. As students go through their educational and career journeys at SMU, they can also share their success stories by submitting stories and photos to placement@smu.edu.sg.
The Graduate Employment Survey is an important survey that SMU alumni are encouraged to take. The survey is conducted annually among autonomous universities to ascertain the employment outcomes of their graduates. The survey typically takes place about six months after senior-year students’ final examinations.
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The results of this survey are an important indicator of the performance of SMU graduates in the job market. More importantly, the survey results affirm the value of SMU as an educational institution and the worth of an SMU degree. The information provided will also inform policy-making at the national level for Institutes of Higher Learning.
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POSTGRADUATE CAREER SERVICES Postgraduate networking event
The Pathways series
The “In Conversation” series
The annual postgraduate networking event features a large number of employers across different industries, offering various roles and opportunities for the postgraduates. This is the perfect platform for postgraduates to connect face-to-face with hiring managers and HR representatives from employer partners.
The Pathways series is an initiative launched by the Postgraduate Career Services team where experienced industry practitioners meet up with and give SMU postgraduates insights into their respective job functions. These include technology and operations, wealth management, treasury, risk management, asset management and corporate finance. This series aims to enable students to make a more informed decision about their career pathways, thereby leading to a sustainable and rewarding career. Anecdotal feedback on the series has been positive, with many students having gained a deeper understanding of the roles and attributes necessary to do well in their respective line of expertise.
Launched by the Postgraduate Career Services team in June 2014, the “In Conversation” series is a lunchtime event held for postgraduates to interact with and learn from successful professionals at different stages of their careers. Guests come from diverse industries, such as information technology, consulting, logistics, wealth management, finance and fastmoving consumer goods.
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MEET YOUR CAREER COACHES The Undergraduate Career Services Team Career Coaches SIM CHER YOUNG
PRASANTHI GUDA
STEPHEN KOH
Director, Dato’ Kho Hui Meng Career Centre cysim@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6808 5271 linkedin.com/in/ simcheryoung
Deputy Director prasanthig@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6808 5272 linkedin.com/in/ prasanthiguda
Senior Manager stephenkoh@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6826 4865 linkedin.com/in/ stephen-koh-career-coach
AARON CHONG
TAN POON KIAN
VERONICA TAN
Associate Director aaronchong@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6828 0149 linkedin.com/in/ aarontcchong
Senior Manager pktan@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6828 0084 linkedin.com/in/ poonkian
Senior Manager veronicatan@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6828 0336 linkedin.com/in/ veronicatanhl
MARGARET KOH
JASIMA AMINSAH
SHIRLEY THAM
Assistant Director margaretkoh@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6828 0332 linkedin.com/in/ margaretbtkoh
Senior Manager jasimaa@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6828 1954 linkedin.com/in/ jasimaaminsah
Senior Manager shirleytham@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6828 0695 linkedin.com/in/ shirley-tham
JOANNE TEO
WENDY HOW
SAM YEO
Associate Director joanneteo@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6828 0679 linkedin.com/in/ teojoanne
Senior Manager wendyhow@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6808 5410 linkedin.com/in/ wendyhow
Senior Manager samyeo@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6808 5385 linkedin.com/in/samyeo
VICTOR GO
WONG SOO MEI
Assistant Director victorgo@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6828 0316 linkedin.com/in/ govictor
Senior Manager smwong@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6808 5136 linkedin.com/in/ soomeiwong
Administration CHAI CHIEW HAR
CATHERINE TAN
JACELYN TAY
Senior Manager chchai@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6826 4867
Senior Manager ASEAN Programme Operations catherinetan@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6828 0056
Senior Manager Systems Administrator chtay@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6828 9553
NEO SHI LING
RUPERT CHAN
ANGELA HOO
Manager Employability Skills Training Programme slneo@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6828 0322
Assistant Manager Events and Third-Party Relations rupertchan@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6828 0940
Senior Assistant Manager Internship Administrator angelahoo@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6808 5218
FOO SIEW MONG Assistant Manager smfoo@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6808 5228
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The Postgraduate Career Services Team Career Coaches HENRY K C YEO
SOO CHAI CHEW
VERONICA YEOW
Head, Postgraduate Career Services henryyeo@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6828 0693 linkedin.com/in/ henryyeo
Senior Assistant Director ccsoo@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6808 7989 linkedin.com/in/ chaichewsoo
Senior Assistant Director veronicayeow@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6828 1978 linkedin.com/in/ veronicayeow
EUNICE LOKE
DAWN TAN
ERIC YEE
Assistant Director euniceloke@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6808 5249 linkedin.com/in/ euniceloke
Senior Manager dawntan@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6828 0779 linkedin.com/in/ tandawn
Senior Manager ericyee@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6828 0588 linkedin.com/in/ eric-yee
PATRICK HAN
ALVIN CHAN
MAGDALENE LEE
Senior Manager patrickhan@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6808 5166 linkedin.com/in/ patrickhan88
Senior Manager alvinchan@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6808 5359 linkedin.com/in/ alvinchanyh
Senior Manager magdalenelee@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6808 7973 linkedin.com/in/ lee-magdalene
ANGELINA HANSEN
ATINA FONG
Senior Manager angelinah@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6828 0334 linkedin.com/in/ angelina-hansen
Senior Manager atinafong@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6808 5165 linkedin.com/in/ atinafong
Administration & IT ROOPA
TAN YOCK LAN
SANKARARAMAN
Manager yltan@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6828 1927
Senior Manager roopas@smu.edu.sg [+65] 6808 7909
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TAKING CARE OF YOUR MENTAL HEALTH: DEALING WITH JOB HUNTING BURNOUT Dealing with a seemingly endless job search can be draining in more ways than one. Here is how to take care of yourself during this trying period.
H
ow long has it been since your last application response? You are slumped over your desk at home, body heavy and mind unmotivated, wondering if all this effort is even worth it. The thought of touching up your resume or even looking at another job listing makes you want to scream. Does this sound familiar? If so, you might be slipping into job hunting burnout. Left unchecked, it can not only derail your job search, but your lifestyle as well. So, what can you do to keep this from happening?
Signs of burnout It is important to be persistent, but it is also important to recognise that we all have our limits. Apart from the already high anxiety building up due to interviews and assessments, with every rejection or lack of response comes frustration and hurt, which can build up over time. All of that can accumulate to you feeling absolutely burnt out, which can hurt your drive towards job hunting.
Some signs of burnout to look out for • Mental and/or physical fatigue
Pace yourself Do maintain a disciplined routine by allocating some time of the day – about two to three hours – when you are most productive to focus on just job hunting. Once your time is up, just wrap it up for the day. Treat the search like a job in itself. After all, overworking will only worsen your mood over time, which can in turn affect your productivity. Your applications will not be as sharp and you will be more prone to making mistakes, like forgetting to attach a cover letter with your application.
Some strategies you can use • Customise your resume and portfolio • Take the time to read the job description thoroughly and understand the requirements • Work on, and send out, a few quality applications. Aim to send out a specific number a day
• Network and chat with professionals on LinkedIn
Be patient, and do not lose heart Not hearing from a hiring manager regarding your application progress or outcome can be discouraging. But as you keep going, it is absolutely crucial that you shake off this mindset as soon as you can. Do not take these setbacks personally. It does not mean that you are unqualified – it could be that you need help beating the application tracking system or to write a more effective email job application. There are plenty of other factors that not only affect a company’s hiring process, but the job market as a whole, especially with the aftereffects of the coronavirus pandemic still going on.
How to reduce negative selftalk • Listen to what you are saying about yourself and challenge it • Stay grounded. While your feelings are valid, the negative fantasy in your head probably is not as awful as you think it is • Reframe your thoughts. Positive thoughts are not always easy, but rewording your thoughts might help
• Higher irritability • Increased cynicism • An unwillingness to talk about your job hunt • Decreased social interaction
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Be sure to take breaks Playing the waiting game for your applications may be agonising, but dwelling on it is not going to help either. Treat these brief downtimes as short breaks instead.
Tips What you can do • Learn something interesting
Suggestions new
• Upskilling is always a good thing
• Spend time with friends and family
• Catch them up on how things have been
• Indulge in your own personal hobbies
• Read a good book or watch some Netflix
• Keep yourself fit and healthy
• Take a break from sitting at your desk and go out for a walk or do some light exercises
Do not just keep to yourself A burden shared is a burden halved. Talk to someone who cares about you – it can be a close friend or family member (or several, if you want), so you know that there is at least someone in your corner in this predicament. They can lend you their ears if you need to vent or accompany you on your downtime, be it going to movies or having a fun game of badminton. Additionally, you can turn to your social or professional networks for help during the job search process, from being a second pair of eyes when reviewing your resume and applications, to even being a fresh source of job opportunities and connections.
and
Stay connected Suggestions
Benefits
• Join social groups geared towards job hunting
• You can meet new friends and get to know new opportunities, too
• Seek out mentors
• Network with those who can help you out with their past experiences
• Chat with your seniors and teachers • Do not ignore your social life
• Feel free to approach them if you are feeling lost – they will be happy to advise you • Remember to spend some quality time with your loved ones, too
Searching for a job is like running a marathon – knowing when to sprint and when to pace yourself is critical, lest you find your efforts turning counter-productive. Remind yourself that finding a job and employer that best fits you will take time and effort. All the resources you need are within reach; you just need to keep going and not give up. But remember, while you may be busy job hunting, it is also just as important to take a step back every once in a while and take care of yourself, too.
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THOUGHT LEADERSHIP: MAINTAINING MENTAL HEALTH 1994 – 1999 Head of FX Sales Desk, Deutsche Bank, Hong Kong
2021 onwards Head of Private Bank, Singapore, Barclays Bank Singapore
Evonne Tan
Head of Private Bank, Singapore Barclays Bank Singapore
Mental health challenges of the present and future Modern day life may appear to be challenging and stressful. The job market is very competitive these days, and cost of living and expectations are high. There is also the pressure to conform, to keep up, to be “perfect” and have it all – a great career, a quality home life and family, time for travel around the world and a healthy lifestyle. On top of that, with technology, everyone is expected to be switched on all the time. We are always connected, contactable and available, both for personal lives and work. It is easy to be pulled in many directions, leading to stress, anxiety and burnout. How do we manage all of this? I think it is important that we answer a fundamental question about what we really want out of life. This is a very individual question with no right or wrong answer. We need to find time to step back, do some self-reflection and come to a deep understanding of what motivates us.
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2005 – 2007 Private Wealth Manager, Merrill Lynch Singapore
2007 – 2012 Senior Private Wealth Manager, Morgan Stanley Singapore
2014 – 2021 2012 – 2014 Market Team Head, UHNW Chief Executive Singapore, UBS Singapore Officer, Magenta Advisors, Singapore
“It is often through setbacks that we are able to reflect and learn more about ourselves, and understand how we should improve and be better.” This will also change through time, so something important to you today may very well be different tomorrow. When you know what you want at any point in your life, you can prioritise. With that, you can find your focus and create your goals, which will help you manage your overall well-being. I do not believe anyone can do it all, but those who do it well are those who know how to prioritise their life and adapt through time.
How I stay mentally healthy and resilient My philosophy of life has always been about being positive and optimistic. To me, this means not taking yourself too seriously even if you are serious about what you do. To be able to achieve success in anything you do, you have to put in all your effort, you have to be well prepared and do your homework, be responsible and accountable for all that you do. But as we go about achieving this, there will be times whereby things will not go as planned. Every one of us has experienced some form of a setback in life. We may have worked very hard, but yet we failed. These times lead to
disillusionment, anxiety and/or stress. But these are also the times where we often have the biggest self-learnings and personal development. It is often through setbacks that we are able to reflect and learn more about ourselves, and understand how we should improve and be better. That is the silver lining to any dark cloud and with that mindset, you will learn not to take things too seriously and stay positive and optimistic to handle all of life’s challenges and look to turn them into opportunities.
My advice to graduates In the early years of your career, do as much as you can to accelerate your learning curve. Do not be afraid to ask questions and take on more responsibilities, because that is the only way to acquire knowledge and experience. You should also find good mentors to guide you. Nothing beats learning from experienced practitioners who will impart practical knowledge you cannot get from the textbook or classroom.
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2009 – 2012 Associate, Vickers Venture Partners
2012 – 2014 Director of Corporate Development, Lotaris SA
2021 onwards Regional Managing Director, Shopee
Ian Ho
Regional Managing Director Shopee
“Do not be too fixated on your previous career choices. Be objective about what industries are growing and keep an open mind about joining them as a rising tide lifts all boats.”
Mental health challenges of the present and future
How I stay mentally healthy and resilient
The global pandemic has changed greatly the growth trajectory of numerous industries. While it has accelerated the growth in the tech space, it has also caused a downturn in other industries like travel, food and beverage (F&B) and hospitality, among others. Due to this, new graduates will have to re-think their career choices and many will have to choose career paths that may not be their first choice to begin with. For the lucky ones who are able to join an organisation of their choice, it will be an uphill struggle to assimilate into an entirely new culture and environment virtually. There will be difficulties forming relationships in the organisation, navigating complex structures and getting most things done. All of which would add to additional stress to any new graduate. While I foresee that we will see some improvement in the next six months to a year, fresh graduates will need to be realistic that this is the new normal, they are joining the workforce in a notso-optimal time, and that the ability to adapt and being open to more options will allow them to have a higher chance of succeeding in this climate.
As the pandemic has been evolving in the past two years with emerging variants, governments across the region are forced to constantly change their governing policies, very often with close to no notice period. This would naturally cause a lot of stress to be placed on businesses where previous plans are thrown out of the window, and new plans are put in place to deal with upcoming policies. In the face of an ever-changing climate, there are three things that I do:
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My advice to graduates I have two pieces of advice for graduates. Firstly, do not be too fixated on your previous career choices. Be objective about what industries are growing and keep an open mind about joining them as a rising tide lifts all boats. And secondly, always keep a global mindset, as there are more opportunities outside of Singapore than within. The willingness to venture abroad at a young age while you are still relatively unencumbered will aid your career in the long run.
• Accept that there is nothing I can do and live with it, which allows me to focus on solving the challenges instead of complaining about it; • Be razor-focused on solving key challenges instead of trying to solve everything. This allows me leave mental capacity for things that truly matter; • Be highly adaptable. Adopt solutions quickly, double down if they make sense, or drop them if they do not.
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1991 – 1993 Relationship Manager, Local Corporate Group, Citi Malaysia 2000 – 2006 Global Transaction Services Head, Citi Malaysia 2013 – 2019 Singapore Citi Commercial Bank Head, Citi Singapore
Lin Hsiu-Yi
1994 – 1995 Head, Local Corporate Group, Citi Malaysia
1998 – 1999 Corporate Finance and Analysis Head, Citi Malaysia
1995 – 1997 Vice President, Corporate Banking Group, Citi Malaysia 1997 – 1998 Vice President, Structured Securitisation, Citicorp Securities Inc. New York
2019 onwards ASEAN and Singapore Head, Citi Commercial Bank, Citi Singapore
Citibank N.A. Singapore
“Setting expectations about workloads, prioritising what must get done and understanding what can be put on hold if necessary, can all help to reduce anxiety.”
Mental health challenges of the present and future
How I stay mentally healthy and resilient
Financial sector firms – particularly banking institutions – have long been regarded as demanding environments in which employees work in a constantly connected, always-on, highly demanding work culture. The current global pandemic comes on top of the pre-crisis challenges of the traditional banking business model: revenue pressure and lower profitability, tighter regulation and increasing competition from new digital entrants. As such, the pace and intensity of the work culture is unlikely to change. With hybrid work arrangements likely to continue, it may be challenging for new employees to build an internal support network, and for managers to notice the signs that someone is struggling. One of the challenges I faced over the past 18 months was how I could better support my team’s mental health, with most of us working from home and having little face-to-face interaction. What I found helpful was to check-in with each of my direct reports on a regular basis and to also ensure I had regular engagement with the broader team via informal “fireside chats”.
In our daily work life, we constantly receive a large amount of information. While I may not be able to reduce the amount of information I receive, I try to be deliberate in compartmentalising different types of work activities, such as emailing, strategy or brainstorming and business-as-usual meetings – for instance, trying to set dedicated times of the day to do specific work-related activities and not others. This allows me to effectively process information and focus on the task at hand, and not be distracted by other activities. I also try to take “detachment” breaks during the workday. Whether it is a 20-minute walk during lunch time or a five-minute break in between calls, I find these breaks help to reset my energy and attention. One of the benefits of working from home is that it allows me to take yoga breaks, as well. It is also important to have a strong support network of family, friends and mentors. Staying in touch with them, especially during the lockdowns helped me to stay mentally healthy. Having a mentor also helped to give me perspective whenever I encountered a stressful period at work.
ASEAN and Singapore Head, Citi Commercial Bank
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Finally, a critical resilience skill is to cultivate compassion – both selfcompassion and compassion for others. Compassion creates positive work relationships and increases cooperation and collaboration.
My advice to graduates Open communication with your manager is important. Setting expectations about workloads, prioritising what must get done and understanding what can be put on hold if necessary, can all help to reduce anxiety. While a strong social support network can help to keep you grounded, it is equally important to build your professional network. Having someone you trust, be it a manager or mentor, to help you navigate the workplace and seek advice from can help to reduce stress. Remember, your career is a marathon, not a sprint. It is important to take care of your physical and mental well-being.
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2004 – 2006 HR Manager, General Electric
2006 – 2009 Assistant Vice President, Human Resources, Deutsche Bank Bangalore 2011 – 2016 Director, Human Resources, Deutsche Bank Singapore
2009 Vice President, Human Resources, Deutsche Bank UK
2009 – 2011 Vice President, Human Resources, Deutsche Bank Bangalore
2016 onwards Regional Head of HR, Corporate Bank & Investment Bank, Asia Pacific, Deutsche Bank AG
Nishant Mihir
Regional Head of HR, Corporate Bank & Investment Bank, Asia Pacific Deutsche Bank AG
“Bring your entire self to work – both professional and personal. Express yourself fully, learn new things and seek out new experiences.”
Mental health challenges of the present and future
How I stay mentally healthy and resilient
The pandemic has had a profound effect on our well-being. Given the unprecedented times that we are living in, with mobility restrictions and social engagements substantially reduced, maintaining good mental health is a big challenge that we all collectively face. This has been especially true for students and graduates, who have had to start their careers by working remotely. As they are unable to meet and engage with their colleagues, their integration into the workplace has become more challenging. This has prompted organisations to invest time and resources to help staff manage their mental health, and encourage colleagues to share their experiences with one another and learn from it. Although there is currently a lot of stigma on this topic, staff can be trained on how to continue to engage and have open dialogue to remove the stigma and take decisive and timely actions to help and support colleagues and loved ones.
Here is what I did, and I believe most of us can do, too:
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• Talk about your thoughts, ideas and views with your friends, family and colleagues; • Be sure to go outdoors to experience nature and improve your health – whether it is just a stroll, cycling or any other activity that you enjoy. It is even better if you can play a sport with your friends; • Always ask how others are doing.
My advice to graduates Bring your entire self to work – both professional and personal. Express yourself fully, learn new things and seek out new experiences. Most importantly, build your network within the organisation. That will take you a long away in your career.
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2007 – 2008 Executive, Learning & Development, C K Tangs Ltd 2021 Assistant Vice-President, HR (People Analytics & Insights), ST Engineering Ltd
2008 – 2013 Consultant, The Aardvark Pte Ltd
2015 – 2016 Manager, Learning & Development, Singtel
2018 – 2020 Assistant Director, Human Resource & Talent Development, MOH Holdings Pte Ltd
2016 – 2018 Assistant Director, HR, Constellar Holdings Pte Ltd
2021 onwards Associate HR Director, HOYA Technosurgical Corporation
Daphne Toh
Associate HR Director HOYA Technosurgical Corporation
Mental health challenges of the present and future I think graduates may struggle with anxiety and burnout in the early years of their career. If there is no checkpoint to gauge and rein in the degree of “damage”, a myriad of other more serious mental health issues, such as chronic depression, may easily creep up. With the less than desirable combination of societal, professional and personal expectations, as well as the compounded need to constantly adapt to the everchanging landscape that seems to happen at warp speed, graduates who enter the workforce will experience the race to simply “keep up”. For some, it is a marathon with no finishing line in sight. At my age, expectations are less of a bother, so my bugbear is really with technology. With the “new norm”, organisations are embarking on “technology for technology’s sake” without giving much thought to the impact of mental health first, then productivity. I find such collaboration tools and messaging services a distraction from the deep, thinking work which requires some level of solitude. Imagine trying to think straight and draw up a strategic framework while having four different apps pinging notifications – and you
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“There is no rush to get “anywhere”, there is no need to complicate “matters”, and there is no need to “empty” yourself for the sake of work or others.” wonder why employees are stressed, low in productivity and soon to be disengaged. I am sure graduates who are digital natives have much more “pinging” happening to them. Technology that was once seen as an enabler with all its snazzy social collaboration tools sets the expectation that employees are to be “on call” 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This makes all of us highly connected and communicative, yet socially void. If we are not attentive and design our organisational ecosystems to be not just human-centric, but humane, things can only go downhill from here.
How I stay mentally healthy and resilient I have had my fair share of professional and personal trials and tribulations, and three principles have kept me balanced and hopeful – the concept of impermanence, choosing kindness and practising self-care. Impermanence is a reminder that everything is in a natural state of flux which means that the bad times – and good times – will eventually pass. I turn up bravely on bad days knowing I will get a good day soon, which I relish, then wash, rinse, repeat. Kindness is actively choosing to be gentle and compassionate to oneself
first because life is hard enough without beating yourself down. As for the rest of the world, everyone has a story of pain and struggle. And if we are unkind, we do not deserve to hear them, to understand, to learn. Self-care is my holy grail. Being a working mother, I love being with my family, but I also guard my time to recharge and rejuvenate. I seek out nature, read or run, and do so solo for about an hour each day.
My advice to graduates Whatever you eventually choose to do, learn to slow down, simplify and take care of yourself. There is no rush to get “anywhere”, there is no need to complicate “matters”, and there is no need to “empty” yourself for the sake of work or others.
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2014 – 2016 Associate, Tan Kok Quan Partnership
2017 – 2020 Senior Associate, Tan Kok Quan Partnership
2021 onwards Partner, Tan Kok Quan Partnership
Geraint Kang Partner
Tan Kok Quan Partnership
“Personally, rather than just seeing work as a necessary hardship, I think it is important to find something about your work that you enjoy and to find meaning and satisfaction in the work that you do.”
Mental health challenges of the present and future
How I stay mentally healthy and resilient
With many offices adopting work from home arrangements, the boundaries between work, family and leisure time have become especially blurred. In the past, the commute home offered the opportunity to wind down and detach from the demands of the workplace. Nowadays, it is not uncommon to transit immediately from a difficult Zoom meeting to dinner with family members. While making the physical trip to the dining table is easy, the mental challenge of having to immediately code-switch and be mentally present at all times is much harder. With everyone working remotely, it has also become easier to feel isolated and alone, especially for new hires, who may not have had the opportunity to interact with their colleagues in person. Being part of a good team makes it easier to weather challenges together. Unfortunately, with less opportunities for water cooler conversations and casual banter, it has become harder to build personal connections with colleagues.
I have found that it is more important than ever to establish boundaries and carve out time to recharge – be it spending time with family or focusing on hobbies. I also try to plan ahead, so that I always have something to look forward to each week. Even when things are hectic, I also try to spend some time each day on something that I want to do. I find a small accomplishment each day, no matter how minor, can help maintain a sense of progress and achievement, which in turn gives me more confidence and energy to face the next day ahead.
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I think it is also important to build a positive support group – whether of friends, colleagues or mentors. Many others have gone through the same challenges as you have, and you should not feel afraid to open up to others for help and advice when you are struggling. Finally, be honest with yourself. You are the best judge of your own limits. Challenge yourself and do not be afraid to fail. But at the same time, you should never feel pressured to sacrifice your own health for someone else’s expectations.
My advice to graduates Focus on developing a sustainable career – many fresh lawyers are all too eager to trade personal happiness and mental health for prestige or financial compensation. But more often than not, the exchange rate is pretty terrible. Personally, rather than just seeing work as a necessary hardship, I think it is important to find something about your work that you enjoy and to find meaning and satisfaction in the work that you do. Thankfully, the legal industry encompasses a wide variety of different sectors and activities, and it is not impossible to find one or multiple aspects that can keep you going.
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1996 – 1998 Marketing Executive, Prudential Assurance Company Singapore Pte Ltd 2016 – 2017 Founder and Business Development Manager, Liftech Solutions Pte Ltd
1998 – 2000 Market Analyst (Asia Pacific), Otis Elevator Inc.
2000 – 2010 Deputy Sales Manager, Otis Elevator Singapore Pte Ltd
2015 – 2016 Senior New Equipment Sales Manager, Sigma Elevator Singapore Pte Ltd
2017 – 2018 Export Sales Manager, Assa Abloy Entrance System Pte Ltd
2010 – 2015 Regional Sales Manager, Avire Global Pte Ltd
2018 onwards Regional Sales Manager, Ariston Thermo Group
Ariston Thermo Group
“It is important to remember that life is not just about having a great career, a nice job title and earning big bucks.”
Mental health challenges of the present and future
How I stay mentally healthy and resilient
The domestic water heating industry is a very retail-based business where interaction with end consumers, dealers and distributing partners is very crucial. With this new norm where borders are closed, travelling is not conducive and interaction is reduced to just mere images, videos, emails and texts and calls, it loses the personal touch and sometimes makes me wonder whether I am really building business and relationships by sitting on my chair, in front of the notebook at home. Because everything has become so virtual since early 2020, sales is just a number that you are chasing, but not the real satisfaction in seeing the smile on your customers’ faces when they enjoy interacting with you and being happy with the solutions you are providing. It can be a lonely experience because whenever you end the call and shut off your computer, there is no more interaction on a personal level, such as going for a drink or dinner with your counterparts after a meeting in person. In fact, while technology eases communication, people can “hide” better behind texts, emails and phone calls and it makes interaction superficial.
Daily morning and evening meditation, and my daily gym classes help to keep me sane. While this pandemic is creating havoc and has grounded me for almost two years now, I remind myself that nothing is permanent and business will be back as usual one fine day when the right conditions arise. Though the economic landscape may not be identical to what it was before the pandemic, I am still hopeful that borders will open and travelling for business and leisure returns to “normal”. While I remain grounded, I can use this time to learn something new. I took up lessons and courses such as piano, coding, inbound marketing, a diploma in Japanese and studied in detail great treatises such as the “Final Exposition of Wisdom” by Tsong-KhaPa. These are things that I could not really indulge when I was travelling often before the pandemic.
Lau Geok Chin
Regional Sales Manager
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To me, life is a journey to learn about being a kinder and better person. While I try to enjoy and derive satisfaction from what I am doing, I strive to subdue my mind, get rid of negative mental afflictions and cultivate more positive emotions. Though morbid, I also try to remind myself constantly of death and impermanence. Death is certain and time of death is uncertain. Being stressed about getting a great career while making your life miserable is pure naivety. It is important to prioritise the well-being of others and your own mental happiness over getting a fat pay cheque and a nice title.
My advice to graduates It is important to remember that life is not just about having a great career, a nice job title and earning big bucks. While society at large measures success just by these yard sticks, we have to understand what the meaning of life is.
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2002 – 2005 PhD Researcher, University of Oxford
2005 – 2010 Researcher, Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) 2013 onwards Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Sustainability & Resilience (su-re.co)
Dr Takeshi Takama
Founder and Chief Executive Officer Sustainability & Resilience (su-re.co)
2013 – 2015 Freelance Consultant, United Nations, Asia Development Bank, JICA and SEI
“Focusing on developing your skills and finding opportunities in the industries and sectors you are passionate about is an excellent way to think about your career in an uncertain world.”
Mental health challenges of the present and future
How I stay mentally healthy and resilient
Uncertainties are more significant than ever before in this COVID-19 pandemic. But they are not only coming from the pandemic, but also other environmental, social and technological changes. For instance, I am still forced to work remotely and cannot make business trips. In the past, I would travel to Africa and Europe several times a year for project meetings, research and consulting, but now I cannot do this. Moreover, with IT development and the fight against climate change, we probably do not already travel as much as before. Although travel restrictions are good for reducing carbon dioxide emissions, they are also a barrier to consulting and research jobs. Even if we manage to reduce our net carbon dioxide emissions to zero by 2050, we will have experienced global warming of a 2°C-rise since the Industrial Revolution by the end of the century. This scenario means we will have to adapt to changes in the environment that we have not experienced before. Keeping up with these changes will be a challenge for us now and in the future.
We cannot stop social and environmental problems and their technological solutions. In fact, both may threaten our careers. We can only anticipate the changes, make sure that they are suitable for humanity, and prepare to adapt ourselves to them. Towards the end of my PhD at the University of Oxford, I read the book “Luck is No Accident: Make the Most of Happenstance in Your Life and Career”. It was about preparing for changes, and I still apply that approach to every aspect of being resilient, focusing on the skills I can develop and not getting too attached to a particular goal. I do not deny that you can set goals, but the idea is that being aware of the opportunities in front of you will help you succeed, rather than sticking to ingrained goals and limiting your possibilities. For example, I said, “I will work for the World Bank” during my scholarship interview before entering the University of Oxford. But rather than setting a goal of working towards the World Bank, I should have switched my thoughts to “I want to do something useful for society and the environment”, so I could look for more opportunities to grow.
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2010 – 2013 Sub-Chief Advisor and Expert on Climate Change, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)
My advice to graduates Focusing on developing your skills and finding opportunities in the industries and sectors you are passionate about is an excellent way to think about your career in an uncertain world. The more you are interested in something, the more likely you will find information that will lead to opportunities. And you are willing to learn more if you like the industry. Also, the need for sustainability, which I have worked in for two decades, will continue to grow. Governments and NGOs are leading the way in sustainability, but business is the engine that drives it. So, I would like to see more and more people from business schools entering the world of sustainability.
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SECTORS ON THE RISE Discover the different career sectors available in the job market and explore the various opportunities out there.
Accountancy and Financial Management
A
ccountancy and financial management qualifications open doors to career opportunities in various organisations, from the “Big Four” to smaller accountancy firms, as well as corporations and the public sector. In recent years, businesses have embraced cloud accounting software and applications to increase efficiency for accounting and financial management. As a result, accounting professionals are often encouraged to upskill constantly to pick up data analysis and be well-versed in digital accounting. Accounting firms offer a diversity of services, such as consulting, assurance, risk assessment, corporate recovery, tax and forensic accounting, aside from the customary accounting and auditing services. Because of this, employers are constantly on the lookout for candidates with good analytical skills, are meticulous and have an ability to convey financial data clearly. Graduate accountants often join firms as trainees and will be required to take professional qualifications to enhance themselves. It is mandatory to go through the Singapore Qualification Programme (Singapore QP) in order to practise as a chartered accountant here.
Potential job options • • • • •
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Assurance management Auditing Financial consulting Risk assessment Tax consulting
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Banking and Finance
Analytics
Data analytics, the sector dealing with the collection and analysis of huge amounts of data, is very much an engine of growth for the future economy. As Singapore continues to prioritise digital transformation in its Smart Nation initiative, delivering high-value information technology services is of topnotch importance. Analytics is significant for rising industry trends such as e-commerce, artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT). The Infocomm Media 2025 masterplan, the government’s road map for the information communications and technology (ICT) sector for the next decade, also considers big data a key strategic thrust of growth. The demand for data analytics roles is ever growing as it is not only widely used commercially, as well as in public policy and non-profit organisations, but also for safeguarding cybersecurity, tracking user behaviour to maximise earnings, or using data to further social causes. As work in data analytics is mainly of inference, experiments and visualisation are used to achieve goals for stakeholders, with data that has already been mined. Career pathways can be grouped according to management and specialisation, depending on the skill sets possessed.
Potential job options • • • • • • • • • •
Business analysis Cybersecurity Data architecture Data analysis Data and analytics management Data science Data engineering Product management Statistics User experience
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Some possible areas of work in banking and finance include asset management, hedge funds, private banking and equity, risk management, venture capital and corporate restructuring. While the banking and finance field may be a volatile one affected by fluctuations in the economy, the vibrant financial hub in Singapore ensures it continues to be a popular career choice, causing stiff competition for graduate hires. A good way to increase your value as a jobseeker is by seeking out internships during your university days to gain relevant work experience. It is also a good idea to actively participate in co-curricular activities and to join the relevant societies to develop the necessary skills required in the sector, much like problem-solving ability and excellent communication, organisational and teamwork skills. You should also read financial business news regularly to update yourself on any changes in the sector. Additionally, while numerical and business degrees are preferred by employers, they are not a necessary requirement.
Potential job options • • • • • • • • • • •
Business/Commercial banking Consumer/Personal banking Corporate finance Foreign exchange trading Investment banking Operations and technology Private banking Private equity Risk management Treasury Wealth management
Education
Teaching is a noble profession given its long hours and multifaceted demands, entailing the heavy responsibility of nurturing the future generation. A career in education is highly rewarding for the satisfaction of helping others to achieve their aspirations. Major employers include the Ministry of Education, public and private institutions and tuition centres. Besides becoming a teacher, you may also consider roles such as a career counsellor, an educational psychologist, or even corporate and administrative roles in the ministry. Upon graduating with at least a bachelor’s degree, aspiring teachers will need to obtain a postgraduate diploma in education at the National Institute of Education (NIE). Graduates from all disciplines are welcome to apply. Good organisational,time management, interpersonal and effective skills are crucial for this sector.
Potential job options • • • •
Administration Curriculum and content management Coaching and counselling Teaching
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Although most medical careers require specialist knowledge and training, non-medical graduates can join the healthcare industry as well. There are a number of options for applicants from other degree backgrounds, such as operations/management, medical and pharmaceutical sales/marketing, medical product management and healthcare informatics. Long hours and heavy workloads are commonplace in this field. However, those working in administrative or research roles typically have regular and stable hours. A passion for serving and helping those in need is imperative, as well as being meticulous and patient, especially if you are in a services role in the healthcare sector. Graduates keen on a career in this industry can consider applying to public/private healthcare providers, biomedical firms, research consortia, or local healthcare start-ups that focus on specialised products (e.g. hospital management software and medical robotics).
Home to two integrated resorts – Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa – as well as world-renowned attractions such as the Singapore Flyer and the Singapore Zoo, the hospitality and tourism industry in the Lion City usually experiences steady growth. Career opportunities are ample in the sector, ranging from hotel management, catering, leisure and events management. Support roles for this field, such as IT, marketing and HR, need to be filled as well. Work in this industry can be trying, demanding a lot of patience, energy, diplomacy and EQ control. You should also expect work hours to go beyond the usual 9-to-5 during seasonal peak periods. Traits that employers look out for in their candidates include excellent communication and interpersonal skills as many roles are client-facing in nature. On top of that, most graduate employees start out from the bottom or through graduate programmes, obtaining training and professional qualifications on-the-job.
Potential job options Potential job options • • • • •
Healthcare regulations Manufacturing and supply Quality management Research and development Sales and marketing
• • • •
• •
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Innovation and Technology
Hospitality and Tourism
Healthcare
Food and beverage Hotels and resorts Leisure and recreation management Meetings, incentives, conferences and events (MICE) Spa and wellness management Tourism and attraction
Singapore, home to some of the best IT infrastructure in the world, also acts as an IT hub in the Asia-Pacific region. Given the pervasiveness of technology today, the expertise of IT professionals is not needed only in the tech sector, but in the non-IT industries as well (e.g. finance, health, media and legal services). Among some of the more popular roles that graduate candidates can consider include technology consulting, systems analysis, network engineering, software testing and technical sales. While numerate and IT-related degrees are preferred by employers in this sector, they are not mandatory – graduates seeking to enter this industry can take up technical modules in school or go for professional technical qualifications part-time as they work. A common way in is through graduate programmes, especially if you are applying to major organisations. Many smaller employers prefer to hire directly, though. Employers greatly appreciate candidates with good problem-solving and time management abilities in helping them meet project deadlines, as well as good interpersonal and communication skills due to the teambased nature of the work.
Potential job options • • • • • • • •
Application development Cloud innovation Data analytics E-commerce Information security Infrastructure Project management Systems administration
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Manufacturing, Logistics and Supply Chain
Legal
Upon obtaining your law degree, you will have to first undergo a training period of up to 12 months after passing the bar examination to practise as a lawyer. Joining a bigger law firm entails more structured graduate training and eventual specialisation, whereas working in a small law practice has its perks, such as exposure to business development. Alternatively, graduates can also consider roles such as that of inhouse legal advisors for commercial organisations. It is also important to remember that employers in the legal sector are also in need of support staff for departments such as finance, HR and IT. As a graduate lawyer, you will face long and intensive hours at work, but job flexibility may increase with career progression. Working as legal advisors to commercial organisations, on the other hand, typically affords you a less hectic schedule. An SMU law degree with a minimum GPA of 3 is required to find work in local law firms, and employers also prefer candidates with attention to detail and excellent problem-solving abilities.
Manufacturing, logistics and supply chain are an essential part of many industries, especially in the fastmoving consumer goods (FMCG) and retail sectors. Manufacturing involves value to raw materials by turning them into products. Engineering graduates will then be responsible for the safe and efficient planning, management and maintenance of production methods and processes. The logistics sector, on the other hand, includes tasks ranging from finding raw materials to delivering the finished product. Supply chain professionals work to help make the process more organised and effective, and ensure that there are no major disruptions. The logistics and supply chain area of work typically welcomes applicants from all disciplines, and major organisations may even provide management training schemes to prepare their graduate employees for the job. These often include a series of job rotations to better appreciate the processes that affect an organisation. However, those who are interested in manufacturing may need a relevant engineering degree as well as the technical skills required for the role.
Potential job options
Potential job options
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• • • • •
Arbitration and dispute resolution Civil litigation Conveyancing Corporate and commercial Criminal Intellectual property
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Media and Communications (Advertising and PR)
Operations manager Assembly engineer Customs management E-commerce Freight/Global forwarding Logistics Supply chain management and service Supply optimisation Transport management Warehousing
The media sector is vibrant and dynamic, encompassing areas of work in media and marketing (e.g. advertising, copywriting, digital/web marketing, media purchasing, social media management and journalism), as well as communications and events (e.g. public relations and events management). However, despite the breadth of the industry, vacancies can be limited. As a result, getting these roles can be a very competitive process. While large organisations do run graduate schemes, most graduate applicants will likely have to apply directly for entry level jobs. Having a solid portfolio can greatly increase your chances of a successful application. Networking is immensely important and may help you find a way into the industry. For this reason, it is a good idea to start working in temporary roles or taking up internships early on in your career in order to build your connections and portfolio. While employers in this field may prioritise creativity over other traits, they are also on the lookout for applicants who demonstrate strong analytical skills, tenacity, resourcefulness and good data management skills.
Potential job options • • • • • • • • • •
Advertising Copywriting Digital/Web marketing Events management Film/Stage production Graphic design Journalism Media purchasing Public relations Social media management
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Social Service, NGOs and Non-profits Graduates keen on helping the community can find their calling in social service, non-governmental and nonprofit organisations. With around 140 international not-for-profit organisations in Singapore, catering to a variety of social, humanitarian and environmental issues, there are plenty of options for graduate employees. Depending on the area of expertise and the role that you are considering, there may be a need for specialist knowledge, skill sets and certification. Whatever your role is, employers in this sector look for a few definite traits: Passion and commitment to the cause. While salaried positions in this sector tend to be on the lower scale compared to the corporate sector, employees working with NGOs and non-profits derive their motivation from the intrinsic satisfaction gained from serving and helping others.
Potential job options • • •
• •
Community relations Environmental activism Services (e.g. children, youth, family, elderly, special needs and healthcare) Social work Volunteer development
Scientific Research and Development
Public Sector The public sector is Singapore’s largest employer, consisting of different ministries, statutory boards, and a variety of organisations such as the Public Service Division, the Singapore Armed Forces and the Home Team. Employees in this sector often find their roles to be a satisfying and fulfilling one. Depending on the role and ministry that you are hired into, your job scope and the skill sets required may vary. In general, though, all public sector employees must possess a passion to serve the community, good teamwork and communication skills, as well as the maturity to draw up and execute national policies. As a public sector employee, you will benefit from frequent training for upskilling and job security, and may be offered flexible working hours should the need arise. However, do be prepared for longer working hours during peak periods, such as before project deadlines and launches of new initiatives. Many graduate employees enter the public sector through graduate programmes organised by the individual agencies, but departments and organisations also hire graduates directly. Do regularly check in with the ministries that you are interested in or the job portal, Careers@Gov, for new positions available.
Due to Singapore’s vibrant biomedical sciences research ecosystem, there are plenty of job opportunities in areas such as clinical sciences, bioengineering, pharmaceutical, as well as molecular and cell biology. Most candidates look to research institutes, academic institutions, or hospitals as some of the primary employers in this industry, but do not forgo the opportunities offered by the corporate sector either. For instance, the cosmetics, food and beverage and FMCG industry are also major employers of science graduates. To join this industry as a graduate researcher, in-depth technical knowledge of your field is extremely important, and having a postgraduate degree under your belt may increase your employability. Transferable skills are equally valuable to recruiters in this field, so take the time to develop soft skills such as logical thinking, problem-solving and numerical abilities. As you will often be working in a team, good communication and interpersonal skills, as well as efficient organisational skills, need to be prioritised as well. Most major employers in this sector typically hire through online applications, but smaller research houses depend on word-of-mouth advertisements and speculative applications instead, so be sure to network regularly.
Potential job options Potential job options • • • •
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Government agencies Ministries Statutory boards Uniformed services
• • • • • • • •
Application development Cloud innovation Data analytics E-commerce Information security Infrastructure Project management Systems administration
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JOINING AN MNC VS SME VS START-UP Understand how the size of the company you join can offer different possibilities for your graduate career.
W
hether you join a multinational corporation (MNC), small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) or a start-up right upon graduation, you will have to adapt to the unique culture in each company. However, there are some general characteristics for each type of organisation which you can consider, in order to determine the exposure you would like as a fresh graduate.
Multinational corporations Multinational corporations are large corporations with facilities and offices in several countries across continents or the globe. With operations spread out geographically, MNCs enjoy higher revenue with greater market share.
Pros of working in MNCs
Things to consider
Prestige and reputation
Bureaucracy
MNCs usually have strong brand recognition and many graduates compete for coveted job opportunities in these reputable companies.
Organisational structures and workflows, such as standard operating procedures (SOPs), can be quite rigid in large companies. There is less flexibility in work processes, coupled with multiple levels of management which you will need to deal with. For instance, you may have to wait for several rounds of approval from different managers before implementing a business proposal or settling a financial claim.
Global opportunities Joining an MNC gives you the opportunity to work around the world. Your employer may require you to go for a business visit or even relocate to another country where the organisation has a presence. This can give you an insight into diverse working cultures and the experience of working with people of different backgrounds and nationalities.
Mastering your own trade You are more likely to get the chance to specialise in your area of work in a bigger company; job scopes tend to be quite fixed in comparison to those in smaller companies where employees are often expected to perform crossfunctional tasks. In short, a bigger company can offer specialised job scopes with more resources for training and upskilling opportunities.
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Competition to get the job Jobs in MNCs are not only sought-after by fresh graduates, but also by jobseekers with years of work experience as well. The recruitment process can be quite competitive, so make sure you present a strong unique selling proposition to prospective employers for a successful application.
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Small and medium-sized enterprises Small and medium-sized enterprises are companies with no more than 200 employees or an annual sales turnover that falls below S$100 million. In spite of their smaller size, SMEs employ two-thirds of Singapore’s workforce and contribute to about half of the country’s GDP.
Pros of working in SMEs
Things to consider
Exposure
Formal training
A lower headcount means employees of SMEs get to wear many hats and take on cross-departmental tasks and responsibilities. This promises wider exposure to different fields which graduates appreciate as a training ground to cultivate different skills.
Graduates joining SMEs should be prepared to be independent and proactive in order to progress in their career as smaller firms do not always offer formal training or graduate schemes. You will be expected to learn onthe-job and take responsibility for your development.
Career progression
Work benefits
In a smaller company, your competency and achievements are more readily noticed. For this reason, employees rise through the ranks faster in SMEs. Graduate hires are also likely to receive early responsibilities at the start of their career, with more opportunities to learn on the job and be exposed to more challenging tasks.
Smaller businesses tend to have less to offer in terms of employee benefits in comparison to large corporations. However, SMEs can sometimes offer competitive salaries to their employees, depending on the candidate’s skills and qualifications. Make sure to do your research or get an insider’s insight on whether or not the remuneration and benefits offered are reasonable for the role and industry you are applying for.
Team spirit Graduates looking to join a smaller company can expect to be a part of a close-knit team. Due to the smaller teams and cross-departmental distribution of work, employees are expected to be adept with interdepartmental tasks and work in close collaboration with each other. Such a culture means more opportunities for coworkers to get to know one another better and bring the company to greater heights.
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ADAPTING TO A CHANGING WORLD
Start-ups Start-ups are newly established businesses that have been incorporated for less than five years. They are also known to offer products or services not provided elsewhere in the market.
Pros of working in start-ups Innovation Start-ups need to grow fast in order to keep up with bigger and more established businesses in the market. As such, the challenge for employees to break new ground and innovate can be exciting for graduates who appreciate a dynamic workplace.
Flexibility Start-up employees enjoy the perks of a less rigid company structure, which may include flexible working hours and a casual working atmosphere. However, this does not mean that you can slack off! While you may be allowed to clock in late, your workdays may also entail long or odd hours as employees have to be on the ball at all times.
Things to consider Job security Start-ups are newly established businesses, and this means that they do not have a proven track record in the market. There is a risk in signing on to work with a startup as the business may underperform, affecting your job security.
The workload Graduates who want to join start-ups can expect to work long hours and take on multiple responsibilities. This is because start-up companies must keep up with trends quickly in order to grow and remain relevant. Employees often work odd hours for this to happen, so be prepared!
Independence You will likely work with minimal supervision, and be entrusted with a myriad of responsibilities – while the onus also remains on you to take charge of steering your own progress. Although you may not be formally trained, you can expect to be guided by your manager or sometimes, even the big boss!
Remember: Tough times do not last. Tough grads do.
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ADAPTING TO A CHANGING WORLD
JOB HUNTING DURING A RECESSION Does the recession have you down about your job prospects? Take it as a chance to get your head in the game and get ahead once you graduate.
E
ven though the global pandemic hit Singapore’s economy really hard in 2020, and 2021 could only be described as “shaky” at best, the economy is now showing positive, and solid, signs of recovery. Experts have even revised growth to 5.5 per cent, above the original numbers of three to five per cent. However, just because the economy is slowly coming out of recession does not mean that it will be easier to land a job. Continuing safe distancing measures may result in your job hunt not moving as fast as expected, and a more dynamic job market may bring about more competition, as other graduates and industry veterans quickly leverage the opportunity. So, although things are looking up, figuratively and literally, it still remains important that you keep things in perspective in regard to your job search process and management of expectations.
Research, research, research Before you start making plans about your career, research the hardiest industries in tough times and find relevant jobs accordingly. Keep in mind that job satisfaction should still be a priority though! Liking what you do matters more in the long run than a short-term recession, so do not switch industries just because it offers more prospects. If you still have some doubts to clear up, ask. Speak to a career coach or simply strike up a conversation with someone wiser and more experienced – they might be able to give better insight into what you should expect from the job market or specific industry once you graduate. 30 | THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2022
Start early Even if there is no recession, the job market in Singapore is generally pretty competitive for fresh graduates. As such, the best course of action is to prepare ahead: Start working on your network, call up possible leads and expand your resume with relevant work experience.
Do not stop (applying) Even if you do not hear back from firms you have applied to, keep your momentum going and continue to send out applications. These companies may be reviewing a large number of applicants and shortlisting a select few for their rigorous assessment centres. Set a daily goal and reward yourself whenever you reach it, whether with a delicious mug of coffee, or sitting down to play your favourite video game. But one of the most important things to remember when you are applying for jobs is to manage your expectations of what you will actually land straight out of school. Try and keep an open mind throughout the job search process, as you never know where an unchartered path will bring you further in your career.
Be patient Interview processes are long and tedious enough as they are, but add in social distancing, and you have a whole different ball game. Keep in mind that most company hiring processes are not designed to be remote and there are new logistics to be addressed.
Polish your resume and cover letter This is something we have all heard before: Make your resume and cover letter look professional. Tailor them to every employer you apply to. Matching your skills to job descriptions in order to impress recruiters is especially crucial right now, so make sure you send the best version of your resume to the employer you are applying to.
Prepare for video interviews There is no better time to get familiar with video interviews than the present, especially with safe management measures. Practise by dressing like you are going for a faceto-face interview to get yourself in the mindset, and keep your tone cheery to get your enthusiasm across.
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ADAPTING TO A CHANGING WORLD
If you are looking to earn a little more while gaining some work experience, apply for temp or part-time positions at companies you are hoping to join. Alternatively, you can simply apply for relevant jobs that will give you some insight into your profession of choice – for example, a part-time role as an accounts executive. However, do not sweat it if your part-time gig has little to no links to your chosen field of study; you will still be able to build on all the invaluable soft skills you have gained in future interviews.
Stay commercially aware
Get creative
Try temp-ing
Take stock of all your skills and then look for opportunities wherever they may be, even outside your industry of choice. While this may not be ideal for you, when the job market has recovered and you can move into your preferred sector, employers will be impressed by your experience, resilience and ability to leverage your top skills in a different environment. Keeping your mind open to all the possibilities in front of you may even lead to great job satisfaction as well. Do not disregard graduate internship opportunities either; work hard and see if you can approach your manager to convert you to a full-time employee when things begin to look up again. If you have a hobby that could be turned into a short-term business, you can consider this option, too. Do you like to paint little pebbles? Sell them on the internet. Have a good grasp of English? Tutor children online or create online English papers.
Above all, tough times are exactly when you should keep abreast of the latest news with regard to the economy, and especially the industry you are intending to enter. This will not only help you plan your job hunt better, but could also be the critical differentiating point to push recruiters to hire you instead of another equally qualified candidate.
Last but not least, trust that this pandemic will not go on forever. There is light at the end of the tunnel; we just have to find it!
WANTED
WE AR E HIRING
JOB
WE A HIRINRE G
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THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2022 | 31
ADAPTING TO A CHANGING WORLD
RIDING OUT THE PANDEMIC AND RECESSION Read on for some tips on how you can buckle down and ride out the storm.
T
he world has been disrupted in ways never seen before. Entire industries and businesses that ground to a halt over the past two years are only starting to slowly recover, countries are still tentatively reopening their borders and remote or hybrid working systems have become the new norm. As a graduate jobseeker, this may all seem incredibly overwhelming – especially when the prospect of finding your first job is already pretty nervewracking in itself! While we unfortunately cannot tell you when the coronavirus outbreak will finally be contained and life will go back to normal, what we can do is offer you a few tips to help you ride out what else might be coming ahead.
Be flexible with your long-term plans Even though you may be set to graduate in the middle of this pandemic, remember: Keep holding on to your long-term plans to find a job, but remain flexible at the same time. No one knows how long the present situation and uncertainty is going to last, so be prepared to make shortterm adjustments if necessary. For example, even as you keep an eye peeled for a company and job that appeal to you, you can still look out for internships, short-term contracts, or consider going freelance. These may not seem like stable employment prospects, but think of them as short-term stopgaps until a longer-term opportunity avails itself. Plus, they are a great way to ensure you continue building and exercising employable skills. But also remember, even in the midst of a recession, there will still be organisations hiring. Every recession brings with it winners and losers. Tech
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and logistics companies, for example, are doing great. You just have to keep your ear to the ground and find out who is still hiring.
Manage your finances and save up It may take longer than usual to find a steady-paying graduate job this year, so you will want to watch your personal finances! Begin by trimming whatever expenses you do not need. Look through your expenses to find hidden ones you can do away with or start finding creative ways to encourage yourself to save. You can also turn to a number of free apps to help you plan your finances. Some suggestions include Pocket Expense, Household Account Book and Spendee. As a rule, try to plan for blocks of three months at any one point in time. Forecast your essential expenses for the next three months to the best of your ability, and do your best to ensure you have enough savings on hand to cover those.
Make use of online events and classes Our bodies may be stuck at home most of the time, but that does not mean our minds have to be! Make use of your school’s webinars and virtual events, or take offered online classes to upskill yourself. Attend virtual events organised by your university to engage with employers during this time. These are fantastic ways to grow your professional network and stay in touch with what is going in the industries of your choice – all from the comfort of your own couch. Subscribe to your dream employers’ graduate mailing lists or social media
feeds so that you will be alerted of any online events they will be having, or check in with your careers services centre to see if they know of any upcoming ones.
Take care of yourself Last but not least, remember to take care of yourself. With looming graduation dates, a recession and everything else in between clogging up our to-do lists and newsfeeds, it can really be a lot to handle all at once. Look out for signs that you are developing anxiety. These include: Fatigue, difficulty sleeping, feeling helpless and having trouble just managing what is presently on your plate because worries about your future keep distracting you. Remember that anxiety is a normal response to the uncertainties we are all facing during this time. Everyone is in the same boat, after all. The key is not to let it overwhelm you by overthinking what may lie ahead, but to focus on what you can do each day – one step at a time. Focus your energy on what you can accomplish today and now, and let tomorrow’s worries be for tomorrow. Rinse and repeat from there. Still, if the anxiety feels too much for you to handle alone, there is nothing wrong with seeking advice. Talk to your university counsellor and your career coach. A fresh perspective may be just what you need to keep yourself on track mentally and emotionally. At the same time, try taking up new hobbies or make time each day to do the things you enjoy, like playing online games with friends. You are more than just your job search. When all is said and done, this pandemic and its turmoil will pass. But you will remain – stronger, more resilient, and better-equipped than ever for your dream career. www.smu.edu.sg
YOUR FIRST JOB AND YOU
YOUR CAREER AND YOU Starting your first job and beginning a new chapter after graduation can be a daunting transition, especially now. However, adapting to the workplace can be an exciting and meaningful experience. Here is how you can prepare yourself best.
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Dress the part
Every professional needs a wardrobe of work essentials – so here is your excuse for some guilt-free shopping! Think about what the recruiters or your future colleagues were wearing when you went for your job interview, and try to plan your outfits accordingly. As a general rule, it is safer to overdress on the formal side for your first day at work. That said, put together a power suit which you are comfortable in and that will be your battledress in the workplace. If you will be experiencing your first day working from home, dress up as well. Nothing will get you in the mindset to start work faster than dressing as if you will be going into the office physically.
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Conquer your first day
Plan your commute to arrive on time. If your first day of work is at home, log onto the platform your employer uses early. Be friendly and approachable. And most importantly, build the foundations for good working relationships in your new environment by getting to know your colleagues.
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Settle in well
Most employers usually facilitate an induction programme for new recruits to help them settle in and to learn about the job and the company, both virtually and in-person. This is usually a series of meetings ranging from orientation sessions to practical training, as well as social activities and perhaps even the assignment of a mentor.
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But even if you are not assigned a mentor, you can find a role model in your organisation or through your network of contacts. He or she can be someone you turn to for any worries or concern about working life. While all that is going on, get a feel of your organisation’s culture. Take your lead from established colleagues, such as your immediate supervisor or line manager, when gauging how things are done. Ask if you are unclear, be accepting of your own mistakes and learn from them.
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Make a good first impression
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Do your job
Focusing on your responsibilities and deliverables is crucial for assessing your performance at work. Thus, if you have any obstacles and doubts, do raise them with your supervisor. Understand the business and find your way to contribute to its goals!
GO FORTH AND PROSPER!
Take pride in your work, no matter how small or insignificant the task may seem. Show enthusiasm, commitment and a hunger to learn with every opportunity that is given.
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Never stop learning
Learning does not end with your formal education. In fact, stepping into the workforce signifies the beginning of real-world learning for the rest of your professional life. Because of this, good employers usually fit in some form of training and development for their staff. Continuing professional development helps you to do your job better and expose you to new areas of knowledge and technology, for instance. On the other hand, professional qualifications or postgraduate studies, as well as shortterm training courses, are more formal avenues of professional development which you can consider. Tap on the resources you have on hand to build new skills and capabilities to remain employable and passionate about what you do.
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YOUR FIRST JOB AND YOU
TOP 3 THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN A FIRST JOB The right first job can kick-start a successful career journey.
Y
ou are just about to finish your final semester, your parents have been pressuring you to start job hunting and your friends are already knee-deep in churning out multiple job applications. But where should you even start? What do you even look for in a first job? To start off, begin your job search with a clear mind – otherwise, you might find yourself approaching your job search process the wrong way. Do not panic and take your time to really think about what you want. To help you get started, here are three considerations you should make when taking your first step into the professional world.
Future opportunities
1
“Where will this career path or job lead me?” is a question that you should always ask yourself before you decide to apply for any job. Your first job is a stepping stone and how it pans out may pave the way for your career ahead. It is crucial that your first job can lead you to more opportunities in the future and help you achieve your long-term career goals. This usually translates to career advancement opportunities and higherlevel responsibilities offered as you progress on the job with your employer. You can start by conducting some research on the typical career progression pathways for the position you want to pursue and in the specific field you want to work in. If you already have a specific employer in mind, you can do some background research of the employees that currently work, or have worked, in the company.
Professional training and growth
ask about training opportunities during the job interview with your prospective employer. Does your employer believe in spending the time and effort to show and teach newcomers how to succeed at what they do? Or do they think that it is more effective for fresh recruits to learn on-the-job by throwing them in the deep end and letting them swim on their own? Figure out which method you prefer and understand the initiatives the employer practises to ensure that their employees continue to learn and grow.
Adopt other skill sets
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transferable ones, so that you become a more well-rounded and marketable individual. One way for you to find out if your prospective employer or role will allow you to pick up other competencies outside your current skill set is to ask about how teams work in the company. Do departments work independently or together as a collaborative effort? Will your role involve interacting and working with other departments? How does working remotely affect your role? Exposure to cross-departmental tasks will also allow you to pick up different skills, while repetitive, routine tasks may limit you to only one specific skill set. Hence, it is essential to have a good understanding of the role on offer.
Your course of study may have equipped you with a specific skill set, but while it is beneficial for you to expand on your existing skills on the job, it is also crucial to think about building other transferable skills. Your first job is your golden opportunity to take in as much knowledge and skills as you can. You need to think about diversifying your skills, especially
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Another thing to consider is how the job or your prospective employer can help you grow professionally. Your first job should be a chance for you to learn as much as you can, so you might want to look for a company that provides training or mentorships to graduates and newcomers. You can 34 | THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2022
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YOUR FIRST JOB AND YOU
ALTERNATIVE CAREER PATHS Besides entering the working world, today’s graduates are making new waves through positive change in other ways. Taking the path less travelled often leads to fulfilling adventures.
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Take some time out
Taking “time out” (or a “gap year”) after your studies is a common route for many graduates in the West, and it is becoming increasingly popular here in Asia. Although travelling may be challenging at this time, you can still aim for voluntary or paid work experience. Make arrangements with specialist organisations, NGOs, or even a company you are willing to complete a graduate internship in. Taking these opportunities can also help you to make contacts which you can harness for professional networking.
Tips for taking a gap year Your gap year should help you work out what you want to do next, and provide the experience needed to find a job. Along the way, make sure you develop useful career readiness skills such as adaptability, flexibility and problem solving. In the same vein, be prepared to find ways to sync up with the recruitment cycle upon completion of your gap year. Do also keep in mind that you will have to compete with new graduates in the job market when you start your job hunt.
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Take up postgraduate studies
A postgraduate qualification could improve your career prospects, but you will still need to consider your options carefully, as this choice is both timeconsuming and costly. Make sure you are clear about what you are heading into and seek out good advice before making your final decision. Shortlist the courses and institutions which you are considering, and consult your academic advisor, professor, or career coach if you need tips on how to prepare a strong application.
Tips for taking further studies
The mode of studying, whether oncampus or distance learning, full-time or part-time, also plays an important role in your eventual decision. Funding the cost of your further studies is another crucial factor. If you are studying on a part-time basis and working a full-time job to service the tuition fees, make sure you are not overstretched. You would not want to take on additional debt for a course which does not advance your career pursuits. However, if pursuing a postgraduate degree seems like overkill, consider a postgraduate conversion course for a career transition instead.
When choosing a course, you will need to consider its content as well as mode of study. The content should align with your motivation for pursuing a postgraduate qualification. If you are looking to add value to your undergraduate qualification for a specific career field, consider the relevance of the course’s content to the industry you aim to work in.
Take up short courses
Short courses allow you to gain new skills or brush up on existing ones, be it picking up a new language or a new technology-centred skill. Adding a new skill to your toolbox will not only impress employers, but can also help you meet the technical requirements for a role you are interested in.
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YOUR FIRST JOB AND YOU
HOW TO MANAGE YOUR MENTAL HEALTH AT WORK Learn how to maintain your mental health and power through to success.
M
ental health is about how you act, feel, think and cope with stress. It is an integral part of every aspect of your life, yet it is something that is not often discussed in the workplace. In reality, mental health is a growing concern, with the AIA Health Matters Survey 2021 finding that nine out of 10 Singaporean working adults are struggling with their mental health. Mental health (or lack thereof) is not just limited to mental health issues – like depression or anxiety. According to Singapore’s Institute of Mental Health, not having mental health issues does not equate to good mental health. In fact, good mental health refers to “the presence of positive characteristics”. For instance, in professional life, a positive characteristic for good mental health is a work-life balance. Fortunately, there is rising mental health awareness today, from more graduates wanting to work for employers that offer a good work-life balance, to more companies offering mental health support. But good mental health at work is not just about good work-life balance, however. There are other ways to manage your mental health at work. Try subscribing to these methods to keep your mental health game up.
Make “to-do” lists Feeling the need to get up to speed in your new job can be overwhelming. You are dealing with being the new boy or girl on the block (or office), you do not have as much experience as your peers around you, and you have been given a list of tasks to complete by a certain deadline. And although the offer of help is typically extended to new hires, you will likely still feel like you are buried under a mountain of work. This feeling of being overwhelmed will likely be accompanied by constant flitting from task to task as you finish one and try to decide on what to focus on next. So, instead of contributing to what might become a mental health issue, start making “to-do” lists. They can range from decorated corkboards to even just basic pen and paper. You will be able to get your thoughts in order, and get a good feeling every time you check something off the list.
Consider: Keep your “to-do” list simple and specific. Include a time frame for every task (and reward yourself every time you meet it), and do not forget to tick them off when completed.
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Avoid gossip at work Although gossip at work does offer good entertainment fodder, or even provides an opportunity for you to get to know your new co-workers better, it can cause conflicts and disrupt team harmony if you are not careful. If you have any problems with a colleague at work, speak directly to the person. This will reduce miscommunication – which often results in frustration and poorer mental health – and may lead to a quick resolution with minimal stress. Consider getting your supervisor or manager involved as a mediator if required.
Consider: Some ways to diplomatically avoid these situations are to smoothly change the subject by focusing on “non-gossipy” bits of the conversation, or simply steering away from the topic by revisiting a previous talking point. If that fails, simply walk away and concentrate on your work.
Take breaks Exploring a new place over the weekend and letting a part of your mind rest is a break. But a five-minute jaunt to the kitchen or pantry for a slice of cheese or chips constitutes a break as well. A few minutes taken here and there will be enough to let you unwind and destress a little before you jump back to the demands of your “to-do” list. To ensure you are getting enough “me time” to keep yourself mentally buoyed and healthy, though, you can schedule 30-minute work blocks, with five-minute breaks in between.
Consider: Scrolling through the news feed and reading something unrelated to your work. Alternatively, you can simply sit still for a few minutes and sort your thoughts out.
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YOUR FIRST JOB AND YOU
Decorate your workstation Looking at little personal touches at the desk you are assigned in the office can help you de-stress when working life threatens to overtake you. These little decorations can help you re-centre yourself and recall positive memories that will keep your mental health up. But before you start bringing in fairy lights, check with your company if there are any guidelines. If decorations are allowed, take note to not clutter your desk with too many pictures or reminders of your hobbies. At the end of the day, you are still a working professional in a corporate space.
Consider: Decorate your desk with a pillow for comfort, or a shawl or jacket for warmth. Other options include framed inspirational quotes to motivate you, or even pictures of your pets and family.
Do not be afraid to ask for help There is absolutely no shame in asking for help. Recognise that needing help is not a failing on your part, and give yourself permission to ask for help. You do not even need to jump straight into counselling sessions if you do not feel ready for that; you can turn to family or close friends for a listening ear.
Consider: Support groups can connect you with other people with similar issues. Anonymous hotlines, on the other hand, offer safe zones as they allow you to talk to strangers. You can also seek professional help if you want to guarantee confidentiality.
This list – although not exhaustive – can help you manage your mental health at your first job. But it needs constant work. Mental health is a fluid thing, affected by your circumstances of the day and what you need at any given time. No one formula works for everyone as everyone has different needs and personalities. Instead, figure out what works best for you. Then use it to manage your mental health in the best way possible, so you can always put your best foot forward.
Get to know signs of a problem When mental health starts to slip, there will be some changes to behaviour, whether it is a lower concentration level, frequent tiredness, or taking longer to complete what are deemed simple tasks. Unfortunately, most tend to write it off or just work harder to get more done – which actually makes the issue worse. It is possible some of these signs may just be you taking a bit more time to adapt to your new schedule. But in any case, counter them with exercising, picking up a new hobby outside of work, or talking to someone about how you feel.
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WE VALUE WHAT’S WITHIN
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WINNING AT APPLICATIONS
CRAFTING THE PERFECT RESUME Your resume is your golden ticket to getting a shot at the job interview for the position of your dreams. Here is a guide to presenting a resume that stands out.
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s hiring managers only have enough time to take a quick glance at your resume, you need to quickly hook their attention and reel them in for a second look. Most importantly, you have to strategically customise every resume sent to employers. Here are some tips on how you can do so.
Understand each role you are applying for
Recruiters are looking for candidates with the best fit for the advertised role from the deluge of applications received. Your resume needs to be highly relevant and targeted to the role you are looking at. One easy way to ensure this is by indicating your career objective or a key summary of your skill sets, or both, right at the top of your resume. After that, customise your career objective and summary of skill sets accordingly for each role you are applying for.
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Highlight your skill sets and expertise
When hiring managers sift through the huge stack of resumes received, they look for keywords shown in the job description. These keywords are often specific skill sets, which you can show as one-liner summaries with each work experience listed. For instance, if you are listing marketing experience, use a line or two to highlight the key areas of expertise that you have gained, such as market research, market sizing, interviewing, public relations and business development. On the other hand, for a business management position, state the relevant areas of expertise such as executive-level communication, strategic planning, business analysis and client management.
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Show relevant experiences
Include short-term gigs, internships or co-curricular activities related to the role you are applying for. Spent a summer taking care of elephants in Thailand before (or during) the pandemic? Put that in – you can talk about emerging skills employers appreciate during your job interview, such as corporate social responsibility and cross-cultural fluency. Similarly, part-time work in a services or teaching role indicates your ability to serve and cater to the needs of clients, including managing others’ expectations – a key skill needed for any young professional.
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Reveal numbers and details about your accomplishments
Impact is often measured in numbers and details. If you helped to grow the client pool in your previous role, state the number of new clients you brought on board within a specific time period. Similarly, if you gave tuition, state how you have helped your students grow, in terms of tangible results as well as the areas which you have focused on, be it targeting on improving their weaknesses or encouraging them to read more. This will let employers know that you are not just a doer but a thinker, for you can be a self-starter, coming up with your own strategy. If you have led project teams in school or at work, show their sizes and include details of growth within the time period for the hiring managers to appreciate your capabilities through proven examples.
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Highlight your strengths
Employers gauge your unique selling propositions and potential contributions to the firm by scrutinising your skills and interests. For example, fluency in a second or third language could indicate your specialised knowledge of a certain geographic market. Your prospective employer would be keen to tap on your strengths for future plans such as expanding to new, or in existing, markets. IT and technology skills are another valued asset these days. If you have a budding interest in coding or have taken up online courses to further your interest in this area, include the certificates which you have attained. Besides stating your educational and co-curricular awards, achievements and leadership positions which you have attained, it is a nice touch to share your personal interests at the end of your resume. While keen interest and participation in team sports indicate a high potential for success in a corporate environment, playing a musical instrument often illustrates an ability to focus with strong self-discipline.
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Time your submissions
Last but not least, submit your applications as early as possible so that you do not miss out on popular roles. For every vacancy filled is one less for you, no matter how impressive your credentials are. Your resume is the hiring manager’s first impression of you, so make sure you give it your best shot. www.smu.edu.sg
WINNING AT APPLICATIONS
Sample resume
+65 1234 5678
SINGAPORE MANAGEMENT UNIVERSITY (SMU)
linkedin.com/in/alvinlim
Jan 2022 - Jan 2023
GPA: 3.6/4.0 Bachelor of Science (Information Systems) GPA: 3.4/4.0
PS INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT
Aug 2012 - May 2016
Apr 2020 - Dec 2021
Product Specialist Spearheaded projects in growth initiatives, keeping abreast of regulatory requirements and changes in policies and procedures Performed investment research and due diligence on global equities (with a focus on US, Europe, Hong Kong, and Singapore) to identify new suitable equity and exchange traded funds for clients Provided stock recommendations and advisory to wealth managers on portfolio allocation and executive of investment themes Tracked clients’ investments across different product classes to ascertain mark-to-market values and profit and loss (P&L) performance Attended client meetings with wealth managers to market and pitch equity ideas to clients; yielded conversion rate of 80% that led to execution trades of US$15 million Prepared monthly statistical reports for senior management review, also customised account statements and valuation reports on an ad-hoc basis at clients’ request FREESCALE INC
Aug 2016 - Mar 2020
Project Manager (Jan 2018 - Mar 2020) Led a team of 12 in the migration from Unix to NT platform for five servers that serviced more than 50 offices in 10 cities in ASEAN Developed user requirements for pro forma profit and loss statement, return on investment and operating models for project savings; presented justifications and quarterly updates to Chief Finance Officer Performed operational risk analysis management and business continuity plan in the event of system breakdown System Analyst (Aug 2016 - Dec 2017) Oversaw and coordinated software updates to computer network headquarters; conducted User Acceptance Test for all end users in 10 offices in Singapore, Indonesia, and the Philippines Implemented online tracking tool to monitor billing and invoice which led to 20% improvement in on-time billing Generated monthly KPI performance reports on operating cash flow, receivable turn, and current ratio
Secretariat, SMU Students’ Association Jan 2014 - Dec 2015 Produced quarterly association publications; vetted and disseminated information released by the Council, the Executive Committee and convened annual general meetings
SKILLS & INTERESTS Passed CFA level lll Working knowledge of R, SPSS, SAS, EIU database Effectively bilingual in English and Mandarin; Japanese (JLPT N4)
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TIPS FOR COVER LETTER WRITING An effective cover letter can bring you a step closer to that coveted job interview. Be sure to customise each cover letter to improve your chances.
What should a cover letter include? An effective one-page cover letter needs to, minimally, contain the following:
1
Introductory paragraph What position are you applying for? Where did you find the job opportunity?
2
Your motivations Why are you interested in this field and company?
3
Your skills and strengths How can you contribute to the company?
5 reasons to write that cover letter • They are a good avenue for you to demonstrate your writing skills – unlike resumes, where you write in bullet points and short phrases. • It is an opportunity for you to highlight your skills and motivations for your application in greater detail. • Recruiters may use cover letters to gauge your level of interest in the position. Applicants who do not submit one may be seen as indifferent to the job. • Some recruiters use cover letters to infer a candidate’s personality, which can determine their fit for the role/organisation. • The cover letter is especially important for a speculative application. The letter gives you the opportunity to introduce yourself to the employer, as well as to set up follow-up steps.
Tip: Internet-proof your cover letter • Always export your cover letter as a PDF before sending it to recruiters unless the recruiter requests a particular file type. The PDF format lets you avoid any minor corruptions that word processor documents may experience during an online transfer (e.g. formatting errors). • If you are submitting your cover letter and resume through email, write a short email message to introduce your attachments. • You can also run an email test and send it to yourself first to check that the right documents have been attached.
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Sample cover letter 123 Low Ridge Close #12-300 Singapore (210123) 11 November 2022 Human Resource Manager DRZ Capital 101 Smart Street #11-00 Smart Building Singapore 456101 Dear Sir or Madam Applica on for Research Associate Posi on I would like to be considered for the above posi on with your organisa on, as adver sed on the Singapore Management University job portal. I am currently pursuing a Master of Business Administra on and will be gradua ng in January 2023. DRZ Capital is a well-established organisa on in the region and has been flourishing over the past five years. Your recent expansion plans into China has further expedited your growth. I am very excited by this role's poten al exposure to a wide spectrum of ac vi es from research, modelling and analysis to client exposure. This role also provides an opportunity to contribute to the team by thinking out of the box and genera ng contrarian ideas. This role is complementary to my prior s nt with PS Investment Management where I was involved in the investment research and analysis of the China Real Estate Investment Trust. I worked on the detailed modelling and valua on using an in-house model, as well as conducted sensi vity and scenario analysis for the investment projec ons. Essen ally, my key strengths include: Good knowledge on various financial instruments like credit deriva ves, variance swaps, ETFs, and commodi es Competent analy cal skills on investment and risk analysis for trading desk Proficient in modelling and equity research With these skill sets, I am confident that I will make a valuable contribu on to the team. Thank you for reviewing my a ached resume. I look forward to an opportunity to meet you for a further discussion. Yours faithfully Alvin Lim +65 1234 5678 alvin.lim@mba.smu.edu.sg Encl. Résumé
Third paragraph Showcase and substantiate how your qualifications and career plan match the job, and align your value-add proposition with the employer’s needs. Highlight relevant skills, experience and knowledge that would meet the requirements of the role. Give examples from your resume.
Your address • Hiring manager’s name (if unknown, use designation) • Company name • Company address Dear Mr or Ms XXX (if you know the name). Otherwise, “Dear Sir or Madam” or “Dear” followed by designation.
First paragraph Open with a brief self-introduction stating your degree programme and the year of expected graduation. Be clear to indicate the purpose for writing, specifying the position you are seeking (e.g. summer internship, or full-time position) and your availability to start.
Second paragraph Research and understand what the job entails. Demonstrate genuine enthusiasm by articulating your interest in joining the company and motivation for the role. This paragraph should always be customised.
Final paragraph Close by reiterating your interest in the role and your availability for an interview. Finish on a positive note, and thank the employer for their time. Use “Yours faithfully” with “Dear Sir or Madam” and “Yours sincerely” with a personal form of salutation (e.g. “Dear Mrs Cheong”).
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PERSONAL BRANDING AND NETWORKING Establishing your own brand and image, along with making new connections in the industry, is important for a fresh graduate’s career success. Here are some tips on how you can enhance your personal brand and network with ease.
Y
our personal brand is what people remember of you. In the early stages of your career, managing first impressions and your professional image is crucial in clinching the role you want. Networking helps you to get to where you want to be as well, and there are certain strategies to follow to make connections with industry contacts successfully.
Networking strategies
Personal branding tips 1. Determine your unique selling proposition selling proposition
2. Tell your personal brand story brand story
Know what sets you apart from the other candidates gunning for similar roles. When speaking to recruiters, or sending in your resume and cover letter to apply for coveted positions, you need to show that you have the requisite competencies needed and are able to contribute to the industry. Although you are fresh from school, let recruiters know what form of specialised knowledge or relevant experience you have under your belt.
Include a career objective statement or summary of skill sets at the very top of your resume and state why you are meant for the role you applied for very early on in your cover letter. Having a portfolio which contains your best works helps; when attending job interviews and networking sessions, whether in-person or virtually, you can show your portfolio to interested recruiters. If you are applying for jobs online, craft your personal bio to show your specialisations and abilities. Similarly, make sure your LinkedIn profile and social media presence is kept professional, revealing your areas of interest and expertise.
A word of advice Be yourself Do not make up selling points at all costs or try too hard to be someone you are not! Concentrate on showcasing your existing skills and experience as a young professional.
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1. Dress well for success At a networking event, no matter whether it is in-person or virtual, you should be dressed in formal attire, unless the dress code stated is smart casual. For the gentlemen, prepare your suit and tie for the event as you can always shed layers when the occasion is less formal than expected. Being underdressed is a poor reflection of your professionalism. As for the ladies, you can remove your formal jacket if the event is not so official. Exercise restraint on accessorising to maintain a professional image.
2. Strategise and be selective selective Trying to speak to everyone at a networking event is unrealistic and counterproductive, even if it is virtual. Before attending the event, you should find out about the participating companies, and plan who you want to make an impression on. Strategise how much time you need to do so, and maximise your time and energy for the single event.
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3. Follow up, follow through through After meeting someone new at a networking event, you should establish the point of contact via a business card (if the event is physical), a LinkedIn message, or an email, introducing yourself and thanking them for taking the time to speak to you at the event. You can make a reference to any memorable point during the conversation in person, and do send them any documents as promised, be it your resume or a link to your portfolio.
A word of advice Put your phone away Even if the networking event is virtual, put your mobile phone on silent mode and keep it away. If you want to take down notes on a device, make sure the other party knows what you are up to, so that you do not come across as rude or uninterested.
4. Keep the conversation going going Prepare an elevator pitch for yourself, focusing on your career background and interests in less than half a minute. It should also be in an interesting and succinct manner. Avoid sensitive topics such as politics and religion at networking events, and focus on the value you can bring to others with your skills and knowledge.
BRAN
DING
5. Listen and show interest Be engaged in the conversation when you are speaking to someone new or listening to another party. Ask genuine questions when appropriate and be interested in what the other party is saying. Provide input only when it is necessary.
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4 TYPES OF INTERVIEWS One-on-one Interviews
Otherwise known as personal or face-to-face interviews, this involves your interviewer asking a series of questions to evaluate your suitability for the job. Although present circumstances mean that one-on-one interview sessions usually take place virtually, it is still common. Some companies prefer using several rounds of one-on-one interviews for different department heads to meet with the potential candidate before deciding on his or her fate with the company.
Interview tips • Show your interviewer that you are interested in the job by asking relevant questions. Some simple ones include asking about the role’s day-to-day tasks, the work culture, or the role’s career path. • You should also talk about how the job role matches your aspirations, career plans and relevant interests. Enthusiasm is key. • Demonstrate specific examples of the skills required for the role you are applying for and discuss relevant transferable skills you obtained from any school or work experience. • Also note that body language is just as important as verbal communication. Maintain a decent level of eye contact throughout the interview, sit upright to exude confidence and remember to smile.
Video Interviews
The most common interview type in the new normal, video interviews are conducted by almost all employers. However, due to the potential technical pitfalls and how different they may be depending on the platform used by each employer, they tend to intimidate graduate job seekers. Video interviews may take place “live” (e.g. through Zoom) or pre-recorded (e.g. video submissions).
Interview tips • Practice makes perfect. Start by getting used to appearing on-screen. Switch on your computer’s webcam and record yourself as though you are running through a practice interview. • Set the scene by dressing smartly and making sure the area where you will be carrying out the interview looks like a professional workplace. • If you are using a Wi-Fi connection, make sure you have good signal strength so that the video conference does not drop midway through your interview. A good way to check this is to stream a video over YouTube. • Lastly, if you are taking the call on a laptop, remember to plug it in to a power source – you may be online longer than you think.
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Panel Interviews
Panel interviews typically involve anywhere from three to eight interviewers – usually three for graduate interviews. They will likely consist of a mix of HR personnel, business managers and some departmental specialists. Do not be lulled into a false sense of security if these interviews are held over video. They tend to be more rigorous and meticulous than individual interviews as you will be juggling questions from multiple sources. Although this may sound intimidating, there is no need to fret. The interviewers are out to find out the same thing as at any other interview: Whether you are a good fit for the company!
Interview tips • Maintain direct eye contact with the interviewers. If your interview is taking place in-person, answer them while making eye contact. If it is over video, talk to the camera instead of the video feed on-screen. • Address the interviewers by name when speaking to them. If your interview is taking place face-to-face, one little trick is to get their name cards at the beginning of the session, and then arrange them in front of you according to the interviewers’ sitting arrangement. • Stay calm if one of the interviewers looks bored. Given their different backgrounds, not every member on the panel may be interested in your response to a question asked. • You will sometimes be asked the same question twice by mistake. Do not second-guess yourself, and always keep to the same version of your story.
Phone Interviews
A phone interview is often used as a screening exercise where employers check some basic information prior to a face-to-face or virtual interview. It is also used to sieve through suitable candidates early in the recruitment process. The relative anonymity of a phone interview may allow you to speak to your interviewer without the stress of travelling to an unfamiliar place in professional attire, but avoid letting your guard down.
Interview tips • Much of the impact you make will come through your voice, so sounding attentive and enthusiastic is important. • Take note of the keywords of the questions asked for reference when responding to your interviewer. • Do not be distracted by your surroundings or lose track of what you want to say next. Avoid filler words such as “umm” and “uh-huh” or constant requests to repeat the questions. • Have your resume and completed application form next to you in case you need to refer to them during the phone interview. • Choose a conducive, quiet environment for the phone appointment to prevent background noise from ruining your session.
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MASTERING THE JOB INTERVIEW Securing a job interview is the next step to getting the role you have applied for. It is now up to you to convince the employer about your fit for the role and the company.
T
he format of the job interview may differ, so you may find yourself sitting in a one-on-one interview or even a panel interview. However, the ways to present the best of your professional self and excel in a job interview are the same for any setting. Here are some dos and do nots to help you prepare for the interview.
DO... ...your homework Make sure to do your research and visit the employer’s website for information of recent work or news that interests you, as well as how you can contribute to the organisation’s business. When researching, make sure your employer research covers the following information: • What the company does (products made and/or services provided). • The company’s history and defining moments. • Where it operates and in which markets. • What it offers that is unique compared to its competitors. • The company’s core values and aims.
...practise Approach your career coach for a practice session. They can help you improve your interview skills and may be able to share crucial insights into the particular employer you are interested in and what they usually look for in potential candidates.
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...be in control of yourself during the interview While being nervous during the interview session is completely natural, do not let your nerves get the better of you. When you are in the interview, remember that it is fine to pause and gather your thoughts before responding to a question. Also, if you are unsure about a question, you can always seek clarification.
...plan your day Remember – first impressions can go a long way. Make sure you know what to wear on the day and how to get to your interview venue. Charge your phone and read through your application again in detail. You should also bring along a fresh copy of your resume and job application form. Also, organise any supporting documents you need to take with you in advance.
...reflect about yourself Recruiters are interested in the unique skills you can bring to the table. Reflect on your work experience, skills, strengths and interests and how these relate to the job and area of work. Think about your achievements and activities, which can include hobbies, work for university societies, internships or work placements and voluntary work. Make notes on the skills learned from these experiences and how you have applied them. More importantly, you should also note your contributions to different situations.
DO NOT... ...fail to communicate Be polite at all times and avoid any miscommunications by confirming the details of the appointment beforehand. Be certain to state your preferred date and time slot. In case of any mitigating circumstances, make sure to call the interviewer to reschedule. This shows your sincerity about the job offer and consideration for their time.
...give overlypractised answers Seasoned recruiters can tell when you have excessively rehearsed your answers for the interview. For instance, cliché answers such as, “My biggest weakness is being a perfectionist”, will not impress recruiters. Find the right balance between prepping ahead of the interview and holding a professional and authentic two-way conversation with the employer to increase your chances of having a successful job interview.
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...be afraid to ask questions Job interviews are not just for employers to assess your suitability for the role, but also an opportunity for you to determine if the job and company match your needs. Asking questions will also show the interviewer your level of interest in the position, and will improve your chances of landing the job. Ask thoughtful questions about the job’s specific responsibilities beyond the advertised day-to-day scope, professional development and career progression opportunities, the team you will be working with, or even workplace culture to get a clearer idea of the role on offer!
Quick tip Before going to your interview, review your resume or job application form. Think of how you can expand any examples and skills, or if there is any noteworthy information that you left out when writing your application. Ask yourself questions like: “Which examples would be the best ones to highlight for the job on offer?” Talk about these during your interview.
...forget to showcase your strengths Recruiters have an idea of the kind of competencies and personality needed to fill the role, and are looking for individuals who are able to add value to the team. Failing to explain what you can offer to the organisation may decrease your chances of being considered for the position. Remember to emphasise your relevant skills and qualities to show their alignment with the job description.
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DEALING WITH LIVE VIDEO INTERVIEWS Live video interviews over Zoom or other conferencing apps have become the new normal. Learn how to handle them with ease!
I
t goes without saying that the coronavirus outbreak has changed many of the ways we interact with other people. And one of the major changes is an increase in interviews over live video conferencing as recruiters have to practise social distancing, too. A regular interview is already nerve-wrecking enough to a graduate jobseeker, doing it over video call is a whole other level. Do not fret for here are some handy tips on how to tackle these “new normal” interviews with ease.
Preparing for your live video interview Going into a live video interview is not just as easy as signing in, turning on your webcam and talking. You will want to do a bit of prep work beforehand to ensure you set the right tone. Here are a few pointers: • Spend some time before the interview familiarising yourself with the platform your interview will be conducted on – whether it is Zoom, Google Hangouts, Microsoft Teams, or any other video conferencing platform the recruiter prefers. • Conduct research on the company you are interviewing with. Interviewers will know if you have not done your homework and are reading stuff online even over the call – it is very obvious. They can even hear you Googling questions! • Get comfortable talking formally in front of the camera. Turn your webcam on and try rehearsing some of your possible responses to interview questions. Do not forget to pay attention to how you come across on camera, too. If you can, run through some practice video interviews with friends or career coaches.
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• Dress like how you would for an inperson interview, and that includes the parts of you that are off-camera. Dressing right will help get you into the right headspace, and you also will not be left embarrassed if you have to move around for an unexpected reason. • Your interviewer would have agreed on a time slot with you for the interview. So block out a quiet spot in your house or room for that time in advance. You do not want roommates or family members walking in or messing around in the background while you are on the call. • When picking a spot for your interview, try and find somewhere reasonably quiet and well-lit, with a tidy background free of clutter. You will want to project a professional image, so make sure you do not have anything too personal or inappropriate lurking around behind you.
How to nail your live video interview Once the big day comes, it is time for you to shine. Here are some tips on how to present yourself effectively over that live video call: • Before you even get down to your interview, check your Wi-Fi, webcam and microphone. An easy way to check how strong or spotty your WiFi connection is for a video call is to stream a HD YouTube video. Observe how the video loads – does it play smoothly, or does it keep buffering? • Start off by greeting your interviewer as you would in real life. Just because you are talking online does not mean that you can drop social niceties. • Try and get to know your interviewer before jumping into the interview proper. Make some small talk, or ask them a bit about themselves and how they have been doing. Video conference calls are always slightly awkward for everyone, so your interviewer may appreciate you trying to break the ice.
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• When talking, try to speak slightly slower than usual and put extra effort into choosing the right words to get your points across. The biggest difference in a live video interview and a real-life one is that non-verbal communication does not translate as easily. So remember that your words are all you have to rely on. • If the call glitches, freezes, or lags, do not panic. Keep calm, wait for the call quality to be restored, explain that the call glitched up for a bit and check with your interviewer if they heard everything you said before. • Try your best to look at the camera rather than the video feed on screen. Even though this feels rather awkward, one of the best things you can do in a video interview is to maintain eye contact. • Most importantly, just like you would do with an in-person interview, do not forget to follow up with your interviewer afterwards, whether with a thank-you email or by connecting over LinkedIn.
Some tough questions to look out for Just because your interview is not physical does not mean that you are excused from tricky questions. In fact, you will be getting the exact same questions you would get in-person. Some more timely examples of these questions may include: • How do you think our business has been affected by the coronavirus pandemic since early 2020?
Take time to do your research beforehand on how the recruiter’s industry may have been affected. Make sure you put in the extra effort during the interview to talk through your thought process to explain how you might have derived your conclusions. And last but not least, remember to come prepared with questions of your own. This is the perfect time to hear recruiters’ insights into where they see things going during this time, and how their companies have responded to the pandemic. It might also give you some fresh talking points if you have other interviews lined up.
• Which of your achievements or experiences best demonstrate your key strengths? • What have this pandemic and ensuing recession taught you about yourself? • What steps have you been taking to stay informed and relevant amidst all the uncertainties this year? • How do you see your career developing over the next few years in a post-coronavirus world? Some of these questions may seem like real head-scratchers, but it is not about getting the “right” answer. Remember that recruiters just want to get a better sense of who you are and how you approach difficult situations that you may not fully understand.
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TACKLING CASE STUDIES Here are some tips on how to make your case by impressing recruiters during a case study session.
WHAT? No matter whether it is in-person or over video, case study exercises can be for individuals or groups. You will usually be given some information about a work-related scenario and asked to imagine being part of a group of experts giving advice to a client or superior on the basis of the evidence. The series of activities will probably be carried out over a period of a few hours and is likely to culminate in a presentation to the assessors. You may also be given additional information to assess at specific intervals throughout the allocated time. It is also important to note that they are typically based on real-life business developments.
WHEN? Case studies are particularly popular in assessment centres for graduate jobs in banking, financial services, accountancy and management consulting, but they can also be part of assessments for other business sectors and industries as well.
HOW TO APPROACH THEM 1. You need to be clear about what you are being asked to do. Start by reading through the information pack and assessing the relevant parts. 2. Thoroughly understand the problem, your role and your objectives. If you are unsure, ask for more information or clarification about something from your assessors. 3. If you are working in a group, you could divide up the tasks. For instance, nominate someone to assess any new information passed to the group during the course of the exercise. You will also need someone to manage the time taken for each task, so ensure that your group has a timekeeper. 4. Do not dominate discussions, but contribute to them – you should articulate your thought process so your assessors can see how you approach problems.
What assessors look out for in case studies • Analysis
5. Remember to allocate time to prepare for your final presentation, and be realistic about how much you can fit into it. 6. Stay focused on your objectives! Your final presentation should be relevant, clear and concise, and should include a summary of your conclusions and recommendations.
• Problem-solving skills • Time management • Teamwork • Commercial awareness • Presentation abilities
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Can I practise for these? YES, YOU CAN! Here are some ways you can prepare for case studies: 1. Find out about the kind of business decisions the company you are applying for has to make, or has made recently. 2. You will need a bird’s-eye view of the current economic environment. Read the business pages of newspapers or magazines to get a better idea of current business activity. 3. Practise your mental arithmetic, as you may have to demonstrate your quantitative abilities without a calculator. 4. Talk to your relevant industry contacts/mentors to learn more about new developments. You can also bounce various scenarios off them to see if your recommendations are sound. 5. There is often more than one way to solve a problem. Get in the habit of brainstorming multiple approaches to a single case, instead of sticking to a single textbook solution. 6. Check in with the Dato’ Kho Hui Meng Career Centre for its suite of workshops or relevant presentations on case studies. Join any practice sessions they host until you become familiar with the format. Though part of the aim of case studies is to help assessors see how you cope with the unfamiliar, research will still boost your confidence and help you tackle issues in a more informed way.
Case study example The following example, based on a genuine case study used by a multinational investment bank, should give you an idea of what to expect:
The scenario: A large publisher of magazines and books is looking to make a significant acquisition. It has identified a target company and approached a number of investment banks for their views on the merits of a potential deal and a target price. Based on these presentations, the publisher will decide whether to proceed with a bid and, if so, select one bank to act as its advisor.
The task: Your team is one of the investment banks bidding to win the mandate. You need to analyse the figures provided, to review the marketplace, your potential client (the publisher) and the target company. You must also prepare a fiveminute presentation giving your recommendations.
Note: You may either be provided with a wealth of raw data alongside the scenario, or you and your group may have to dig up all the necessary information by yourselves somehow. Either way, you will need to crystallise all this information into a workable action plan that you can present to your assessors.
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ACING ASSESSMENT CENTRES Find out why graduate employers design assessment centres, what exercises to expect and how to show you are the right candidate for the job.
A
ssessment centres are a common feature of the recruitment process, where employers convene a group of candidates to complete a series of exercises, tests and interviews. These are designed to evaluate a candidate’s suitability for a certain role in the organisation. This format also allows you to showcase a broader range of skills and competencies than if you were just given an interview. For this reason, they are a more holistic and effective way to select candidates than interviews alone.
Typical assessment centre activities Employers design their own assessment centres to test for skills and aptitudes that are required for their own organisations, but they typically contain similar elements and exercises. As such, you can expect a combination of the following: • Information session – You may be given a presentation about the organisation’s business. • Group ice-breaker exercise – This exercise is for you to get to know fellow candidates and also your employers. • Aptitude and psychometric tests – You may have already taken these tests online, but you may be asked to repeat them to confirm your results. • In-tray or e-tray exercise – This allows employers to evaluate your ability to absorb information, prioritise, make decisions and communicate. • Group exercise – This could be a case study discussion, probably involving an issue or project relevant to the business. Alternatively, it could be a group problem-solving exercise. For example, you might be put into teams and asked to construct something.
• Individual or group presentations – Some employers may give you a topic prior to the assessment day so you can prepare in advance, but some may decide to surprise you with an impromptu presentation. For the latter, you would typically be allowed to choose your presentation topic from a list of pre-selected ones. • Interviews – You could have one or more of these, and they could be either one-on-one or panel interviews. Your interviewers could be from the HR department or senior employees from the area of the business you are applying to. • Social breaks – Although mealtimes are usually not formally assessed, they are still an opportunity to demonstrate your interpersonal skills and to find out a little more about your prospective colleagues, the business and your fellow candidates in a less formal setting.
What recruiters are looking for • Evidence of soft skills, such as communication, teamwork and problem-solving. • The group setting makes it easier to assess your interpersonal and negotiation skills.
Preparing for an assessment centre Turn up with an open mind and be ready to get involved, but remember that some practical preparation before the day will be your biggest help and confidence booster. • Reach out to your career centre. Most career centres run practice sessions for assessment centres. At the very least, you may be able to practise psychometric tests or book sessions to prepare for the individual assessment centre activities, such as group exercises. • Read ALL materials sent by the employer carefully. These include practical information such as the location and time of the assessment centre. Details about how the day will be structured may also be provided. • Check whether or not you need to complete any tasks before the day. You may need to work on parts of a case study or put together a presentation. Plan time for this and do not leave it until the last minute. • Brush up on your interview skills. Interviews will be included in the format so be ready to shine for the bits where you have to go solo.
• REMEMBER: This is not a competition! Recruiters are assessing your ability to work with others, not your performance level.
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Tips on how to shine at assessment centres 1. Be professional Arrive on time and look the part. Be friendly but also polite. You should also aim to initiate conversations with other candidates.
2. Participate Do not just stand by the sidelines. Show enthusiasm in every task. Group exercises are designed to see how well you work with others, so make sure you take part.
3. Do not lose concentration The day is likely to be long and tiring, so have a good night’s rest beforehand as you will need to stay alert and engaged throughout the day.
4. Be the best version of you Just be yourself! But be the most positive version of yourself. If you tend not to speak up, make an effort to articulate your thoughts. If you know you can sometimes be overbearing, let others have their say too and be careful not to interrupt.
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GRILLING YOUR INTERVIEWER Not asking any questions or asking bad questions at a job interview will make you seem unprepared or disinterested. Here is a guide on asking your interviewer the right questions in order to come across as a candidate worthy of being hired.
1
Ask more about the tasks you will be involved in
Interviewers usually develop a better idea of your capabilities and background as you answer their questions in a job interview. After all, it is during the job interview that they can pick out your strengths and expertise, have a clearer idea of how to groom you as a potential hire in the company and possibly even offer you room for growth beyond the job description. Hence, when your turn comes to ask your interviewer questions, do sound them out on what they would like you to focus on, to meet and exceed expectations for the role they are hiring for!
2
Ask about training and growth opportunities
Employers want graduate hires who are hungry for personal and professional growth, and who will, in turn, contribute resources and expertise to the company. Beyond the short term, employers will want you to be able to help tackle challenges and key problems the company is facing as well. Ask about training opportunities and future growth plans to show keen interest and that the role is in line with your personal career objectives.
3
interest in understanding the company’s business and outlook, especially in this uncertain period. Doing so demonstrates that you are keen to help solve problems for your prospective employer, and shows that you have a strong understanding of your own skills as well as knowledge of the industry.
4
Ask about any expectations for the role
Interviewers can give you a better idea of what they are looking for during the job interview itself. Read between the lines and sense the body language of your interviewers as well – even if it is far harder to do so over a live video interview. You can also ask your interviewers for their honest opinion on your suitability for the role and the company, and listen to their feedback with an open mind. This can be helpful information when you eventually join the company or when you are pursuing job applications elsewhere. As insiders of the industry, the hiring managers will be able to tell you if you are lacking in certain qualities or qualifications needed for your dream job.
5
Ask about how to follow up with the application
Before leaving a job interview, be sure to thank the interviewers and end it on a good note. Highlight your qualities and skills, as well as any relevant experiences, as a conclusion on why you are suited for the role applied for. Send them a thank-you email as a follow-up courtesy. At the very end of the interview, whether face-to-face or video, make sure you ask about the next steps which are expected of you and the company, as well as more information about their hiring timeline. A curious candidate is one step to being a successful one!
Ask about the company’s challenges and key plans
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EXCELLING AT INTERVIEWS
PREPARING FOR THE BIG DAY Your first interview for your first proper job is here! Breaking down the runup to the interview into a series of manageable chunks and actions can really help a lot.
Start by getting the dress code right Objective: Figure how to look the part of an impressive candidate.
Quick grooming tips For gentlemen: • The clean-shaven look is always a safe bet. Get rid of stubble or wispy facial hair.
Your interview is a chance to show how you would fit in, and this includes your appearance. Look on the recruiter’s website for clues about what the staff at the organisation consider to be appropriate business wear and copy them. Err on the side of formality unless otherwise advised by your interviewers – it is always better to come overdressed instead of underdressed! Your clothes should be clean, fitted and pressed. Be sure to cover up any tattoos. If you drink a lot of coffee or smoke, make sure your teeth are stain-free.
• Keep your hair neat and make sure that your fringe does not spill past your eyebrows. • Do not be afraid to accessorise! Go for a solid watch or a simple pair of cufflinks to complement your outfit. • Do not overdo the cologne and aftershave.
For ladies: • Keep your nails in neutral or natural colours – glaring colours or designs may unnecessarily distract interviewers. • Make sure to style your hair so that it stays in place and out of your face. • If you plan on wearing jewellery and make-up, keep things subtle and simple. You want your personality – not your accessories – to shine through!
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One week before
The night before
Prepare everything needed in advance Objective: Have everything you need ready to go so you will not panic the next day. • Whether your interview will be in-person or over video call, hang your interview outfit out in the open so you will not have to stress out about what to wear. • If you will be going for a face-to-face interview, do not forget to pick a handy, compartmentalised document bag or folder to store your stuff in as well! Be sure to organise everything for easy access. Prepare two additional printed copies of your resume on good, solid paper for additional interviewers who might show up unannounced, too. • When you have completed all that, get a good night’s sleep. You will want to be as sharp and alert as possible!
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Depart for your destination
Introduce yourself to a stranger and break the ice
Objective: Arrive at the interview venue with plenty of time to spare. Traffic generally has a strange way of going against you when you need to get somewhere in a hurry. Leave early to arrive at the location before your appointed time. Remember that when it comes to job interviews, arriving “on time” is tantamount to arriving late.
2 hours before
Objective: Get used to talking in your new surroundings by striking up a conversation with someone who works in the same company, but will not be interviewing you. The first person you will encounter is likely to be the receptionist expecting your arrival. You may be asked to sign in before entering the visitors’ area. Be friendly and appreciative of anyone you come into contact with, be it the cleaner or the CEO.
30 minutes before
20 minutes before
Arrive at the premises and get comfortable with your surroundings/Log onto the interview platform and get comfortable with the platform to be used Objective: Decrease your initial stress and get into a positive frame of mind. For a face-to-face interview, arriving a good 30 minutes before your appointment will afford enough time and space to draw breath and get to where you are supposed to be with the least amount of aggravation. If your interview is set to take place virtually, get onto the chosen platform and familiarise yourself with it beforehand. After you have had a look at its features, practise how you would connect with your interviewer over the camera, such as making eye contact with the camera and speaking instead of only focusing on the video feed. Now is not the time to fret about what you have remembered and how you will come across at the interview! Create a mental list of things you like so far about the company – it could be the colour of the carpet in the reception area (if it is a face-to-face interview), or what you have gathered about the company’s culture through its website (if your interview is virtual). Focus your mind on that – it will help calm you down.
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EXCELLING AT INTERVIEWS
Meet and greet the interviewers Objective: From the very start, treat the interview as a meeting between two parties, not a one-way interrogation. There is usually a short explanation of how the interview will be structured. Commonly, the interviewers will begin with an overview of the company and the role you are being interviewed for. This preamble is the most “non-judgemental” part of the interview, so enjoy it and take the opportunity to ask some smart questions.
10 minutes before
Crunch time
Demonstrate your skills Objective: Use your innate skills and experience and put the know-how gained through this magazine and other sources to good effect. Introductions are usually followed by the most time-consuming part of the interview: Questions to find out whether you can do the job and, just as importantly, whether you would have the motivation to do a good job. Finally, you will get the chance to ask your own questions. You may also be given a short test to complete before or after the interview. This could be to establish the level of your skills pertinent to the job, or a more general evaluation of your preferred working style. Follow any instructions carefully, work out how much time to allot to each part of the test and focus your whole attention on the task. If you are applying to a graduate scheme, the testing process might be more extensive and carried out separately, such as in an assessment centre (either inperson or virtually).
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MANAGING JOB OFFERS What happens after you have been offered a job? How should you deal with more than one offer? Here is a guide to the proper etiquette of how you should handle your job offers, as well as how to accept or reject them professionally.
D
o not get carried away with the excitement of a job offer. Instead, take the time to consider if the offer is right for you. Other than mulling over the terms and conditions presented, make sure that you raise any concerns to the employer and have realistic expectations.
How do you handle more than one job offer? Give yourself ample time to weigh all the factors before confirming your decision.
Honesty is the best policy Be open and honest with the employer(s) when you are considering more than one option. Acknowledge the offer and ask how long they are prepared to wait for your response. Do not accept a job verbally or in writing and then renege on the offer, as this is a breach of contract. Inform the employers concerned only after you have made up your mind.
Be professional Do not use the situation to play employers against each other to offer a higher starting salary or more benefits. This can backfire if an employer decides to blacklist you as an applicant entirely.
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How do you accept a job offer? You will be expected to sign an employment contract after informing the HR officer that you wish to take on the offer.
Terms to consider in detail 1. Job title 2. Salary and benefits (including travelling, phone and entertainment allowances) 3. Additional incentive compensation 4. Employee education 5. Probation period 6. Notice period (the length of time between resigning and your last day of work) 7. Hours of work per day or week 8. Holiday, sick pay entitlements and insurance 9. Starting date
How can you negotiate your salary? Salary negotiation is an art that many find difficult to grasp. Always state a range for your salary expectations. This gives you more room for negotiation instead of nailing on a single number. By stating a range, you are giving the employer room for adjustments, and yourself wiggle room. However, be prepared to accept the lower range which you stated as a baseline.
Research market rates and industry standards Make sure you are making informed decisions even as a fresh graduate when evaluating job offers and benefits packages. Here is your chance to do adequate homework based on graduate employment survey findings and market reports!
Consider the package as a whole Review the entire remuneration package, including benefits such as bonuses, commissions and leave entitlements.
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EXCELLING AT INTERVIEWS
How do you reject a job offer? Turning down a job offer can present a rather awkward situation. The bottom line is not to burn any bridges. Maintaining cordial relationships with your contacts in the industry is important – in this case, the prospective employer who you turned down can one day become your client, a networking contact, and definitely, still a prospective employer in the future.
Inform the employer as soon as you have decided If you are turning down an offer, let the hiring manager and HR personnel know as soon as possible, so that they can make arrangements to fill the post.
Words of advice 1. Do ask the employer(s) for more time to make up your mind. 2. Make sure that the employer sends you a revised offer in writing, if you are successful in negotiating the terms and conditons of the offer. Alternatively, promptly email the revised terms and conditions to the employer for confirmation and subsequently, a new offer. 3. Do not hesitate to seek the advice of your mentors and career coaches if you have difficulty deciding on the job offer(s).
Be sincere Call the employer to decline the offer and do so politely. Follow up with the same in writing, stating your reasons upfront. Being authentic and straightforward helps the employer understand your expectations and circumstances.
Keep in touch The world is small. Sign off with some pleasantries and offer to keep in touch.
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HEAR FROM SMU ALUMNI Find out what SMU graduates are up to in their career journeys.
Undergraduate Alumni on billing. It is easy to get motivated for this since I am interested in getting paid. I usually work on creating and improving our billing process to ensure that we get bills out on time with minimal pressure on the team and sending chasers for unpaid bills.
How I got my job
Dennis Lim Bachelor of Laws, 2018 Legal Associate, Quadrant Law LLC
My job As a corporate associate in a new startup, I take on some administrative work in addition to the regular aspects of being a lawyer. On the legal side, what I need to do depends on the type of file assigned. Most files involve researching and considering which laws apply, understanding clients’ needs and wants, ensuring that these needs and wants are properly reflected in drafting, and managing clients’ and partner’s expectations. I need to be actively involved in the business’s operational activities and I work together with my partner
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My partner and I left our previous firm to set up a new law firm, so there was no interview process and I have not gone for an interview in years. However, I got my job in my old firm through a legal associate that I worked under during my internship. I had a hard time looking for training contracts – a higher GPA helps – but I was lucky that my contact knew a firm that was looking for trainees at the time.
“Legal skills are important as a lawyer, but interpersonal relations are the lifeblood of business and working well with your colleagues.”
The highs and lows I feel that the most challenging aspect is adjusting from a student to a working adult. Working as a lawyer is like running a high-speed marathon and it is difficult to avoid burnout. While it is important to go above and beyond to improve, you need to be aware of when to rest and recover. In this regard, I am
blessed to have a compassionate and understanding boss. It motivates me to do my best because I do not want to let him down. The best part of this job is when clients express their thanks and gratitude for the work done and the solutions provided. Clients come to you because they do not know how to solve their problems and it feels good to be able to help.
My happiest moment at work Earning my boss’s trust is my biggest achievement. Learning how to be a lawyer is a long and painful process, and gaining the trust of an experienced lawyer is something that I am proud of. He trusted me enough to allow me to advise clients on my own. My most memorable experience would be advising the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of a start-up by myself and having that same CEO come back to give us more work.
Some advice Above all else, be honest and practise proper communication. Legal skills are important as a lawyer, but interpersonal relations are the lifeblood of business and working well with your colleagues. When you make mistakes, acknowledge what you have done wrong, apologise, and take steps to make sure you do better next time. Nobody wants to work with someone who cannot admit his or her mistakes.
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Eugene Cheow Bachelor of Business Management, 2021 Assistant Manager, Operational Planning, Marina Bay Sands Pte Ltd
My job As a department, we are focusing on the upcoming fourth hotel tower of the iconic Marina Bay Sands (MBS). Since this project encompasses a sky pool and signature restaurant, meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) facilities, as well as a live entertainment arena, the job requires the ability to work alongside different departments such as Construction, Architecture, Interior Design, Operations and external consultants. Clear and effective communication skills are essential in project management in order to liaise between stakeholders. For instance, a certain concept developed by the Interior Design team will need to be translated into a tangible piece of equipment, while bearing in mind the service and operational requirements by the Housekeeping team.
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How I got my job
My happiest moment at work
I would like to steal a quote from Oscar Wilde, “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken”. This piece of wisdom serves as a timely reminder for personal branding. It is important to showcase how you are the right person for a role and/ or a great fit for a company, as opposed to conforming to a stereotype which you think the employer is looking for. My first professional encounter with MBS was through an internship opportunity via SMU’s careers portal. Although it initially took some time to fine-tune the necessary documents and understand how to navigate the portal, it was ultimately simple to use. On top of the software SMU provides, leverage on your assigned Career Coach. With their lengthy experience in the industry, they are able to help you weigh your options through a more realistic lens.
As one of the largest employers in Singapore with about 10,000 employees, each individual brings with them a unique skill set and perspective. This presents a great opportunity to learn about different facets of the integrated resorts business – from housekeeping in the hotel, space management in MICE, crisis management in security, and much more! Naturally, light-hearted conversations with different team members offer a plethora of new information and perspectives on the same subject. Often, I find myself in awe of the diversity of operations and mentalities within one brand. And did I mention we get free meals?
“You are unique and possess your own competitive advantage.”
The highs and lows Validation is a wonderful motivator, even for the most confident of individuals. As a graduate still in my first job, validation is also an indicator of the quality of work I produce. It allows me to gauge my performance, without the need for a formal performance review with my superiors. On the flipside, criticism can be overwhelming. Negativity bias research shows that bad things have about two, three or four times as much impact as good things. Hence, I constantly remind myself to think positively and refrain from fixating on the bad.
Some advice You will find many golden nuggets of advice littered across this magazine, and in your conversations with people from all walks of life and professions. Remind yourself that there is no magic formula or a one-size-fits-all package answer. You are unique and possess your own competitive advantage. Take the time to refine that strength and showcase the most authentic version of yourself.
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Janice Ang Bachelor of Business Management, 2020 Regional Learning & Organisation Development Executive, Shiseido Asia Pacific Pte Ltd
How I got my job
My happiest moment at work
My academic background in Marketing, Organisational Behaviour and HR, along with my experience in hospitality, gave me an edge. Throughout the application process, I shared my passion for people, enthusiasm for trying new things, such as watercolour calligraphy, and desire to learn new skills that the role entailed. I remained honest and true to myself every step of the way. With patience, perseverance and support from loved ones, this role came at the opportune time! My Career Coach was also a source of continuous encouragement and advice.
It has been a fulfilling journey as I work with a passionate team and supportive bosses who believe in my potential. I am grateful for the safe space to try new things and expand my potential. I had the privilege to initiate an employee engagement project and was trusted to launch “ShiseiDOATOUR”, a virtual museum tour and regional treasure hunt in celebration of Shiseido’s 149th anniversary. Another significant project was volunteering as a facilitator for Shiseido Camellia Day’s Virtual Ideathon where we brainstormed solutions to support non-profit organisations. It was rewarding to see how my facilitation skills could bring meaning to people’s lives.
“Do not compare yourself with others as everybody’s journey is unique.”
My job
The highs and lows
As part of the regional team in Shiseido, I am involved in the coordination, design, implementation and communications of the learning and development initiatives for both Asia Pacific and Travel Retail. As learning continues to evolve, exploring new tools, reviewing post-learning feedback, and analysing training statistics are an ongoing effort to enhance the employees’ learning experience and build a culture of learning. What started out as an idea developed into an ongoing live employer branding project. This led me to work closely with human resource (HR) leads to manage employee communication on various platforms, including creating content for Shiseido’s social media channels to connect and engage them.
I am incredibly thankful for my bosses, who are understanding and empathetic, especially during such challenging and uncertain times. The people at work keep me going. I enjoy the diversity in my workplace and the opportunities to learn about different cultures. Transiting to the workforce in this new normal was challenging. As a new hire, meeting colleagues in a natural setting is difficult due to the COVID-19 restrictions. In my role, constantly exploring ways to engage employees virtually has been stretching as well. Nevertheless, it has pushed me to think of innovative ways to elevate virtual or digital learning experiences.
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Some advice If you are still figuring out where your passion lies or what you want to do in life, that is totally fine! Do not compare yourself with others as everybody’s journey is unique. Through the various interviews, I learnt more about myself, the work I would like to be involved in and the impact I hope to contribute to the marketplace and community. It has been a journey of self-discovery and learning, and I hope it will be for you, too. When life knocks you down, you can choose to get back up and keep going. Be joyful always, stay hopeful and give thanks in all circumstances.
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How I got my job
Jasmine Teh Bachelor of Science (Information Systems), 2012 Filmmaker and Photographer, Lin Art Lab
My job As a visual storyteller, there is more business in art than art itself. I devote most of my time to planning, followed by execution and maintenance of the business. Planning includes communicating with clients on their needs, and proposing solutions through storyboarding and research. It also includes sourcing and collaborating with other artists, scheduling and talent casting. Execution involves the actual filming and photography, as well as post production of the final product through editing, broadcasting and distribution. I spend my remaining time updating my website, upgrading my craft and business skills with courses, sourcing for new stories and promoting the business.
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After graduating from SMU, I worked in a media and events start-up, and later co-owned a media business. As I am currently a self-employed artist, I consider all my clients my hirers. The trick to navigating all the tropes of being employable is to understand yourself: What drives you? What are your values? What do you believe in? Once you are aligned with your inner self, you will attract the people who understand what you have set out to create in the world. Your career may possibly be one of the paths to develop your passions in life, and grow you as a person. I believe my life experiences and mindset set me apart from other artists. While I did not pursue a career in IT, I have many transferable skills acquired from my university days that have allowed me to manage productions, present and communicate effectively.
“To create great work, you must be willing to collaborate with and hire people who are more knowledgeable than you.”
The highs and lows
mentors and professionals. The “new COVID-19 norm” is also a reminder that trust is extremely important in business. Amidst the pandemic, I am grateful for clients who keep returning to work together with me. However, I must admit that this journey has not been smooth sailing as well, and the highs and lows of my career path included plenty of soul searching.
My happiest moment at work My biggest achievement thus far is a documentary on Singapore’s three pioneer female Olympians, named “When The Stars Align”. As a storyteller, my main driving force is to share ideas that matter. Sometimes the film that we have created causes a huge ripple effect and gets shared virally as the story has an inspiring message that hits home.
Some advice Talent can only bring us so far. To create great work, you must be willing to collaborate with and hire people who are more knowledgeable than you. Seek the advice of others, and be willing to be mentored; share your knowledge and help others in order to succeed.
I love the freedom and mobility that comes with my career. I regard my creations as solutions to business problems, and it is extremely fulfilling to turn new and imaginative ideas into reality. The challenge of being a selfemployed artist is being accountable for my career satisfaction and financial goals. At times, I am unaware of the blind spots to my decisions, and that is when I seek counsel from peers,
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Kee Xian Jun Bachelor of Business Management, 2021 Analyst, Wholesale Payments & Corporate Banking, J.P. Morgan
My job I am a first-year analyst under the Wholesale Payments & Corporate Banking Analyst programme in J.P. Morgan. The programme provides the opportunity for us to go through four six-month rotations that offer international exposure and experience in the space of supporting clients’ global payment needs. These involve payment solutions, foreign currency conversion and supply chain financing. Presently, in my first rotation, I am with the Client Services team, which has given me the opportunity to work on projects that primarily aims to improve the overall client servicing experience for our clients.
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How I got my job
Some advice
I applied for J.P. Morgan’s Wholesale Payments & Corporate Banking Summer Internship Programme in my penultimate year, and was offered a full-time position once the internship concluded. The interview process comprised a Pymetrics Assessment, HireVue Interview, and three rounds of one-to-one interviews with potential future managers. I would say that the most important thing is to express your genuine interest by showing that you understand what you are applying for during the interview. Through attending various J.P. Morgan campus networking events and speaking with SMU seniors and alumni, I was able to get a better understanding of what a wholesale payment analyst does. This allowed me to include relevant examples and experiences during the interview, rather than only speaking about generic experiences. In addition, I would add that it is important to showcase strong interpersonal and communication skills during the interview as these are skills that will set you apart in a professional environment. I am really glad that I was able to hone these skills during my time at SMU through my involvement in various co-curricular activities (CCAs) and project work.
It is critical to identify where your interests and passions lie – to identify your reasons for a specific pursuit. Ask yourself: Why do you want to work in this industry or company? Why choose this role in particular? To gain better clarity, take the opportunity to attend various industry networking events, especially those that are hosted by companies you are interested in. Reach out and speak with seniors and alumni who are working in the firm and find out more about their experiences. Explore and take advantage of various academic CCAs to gain valuable industry insights and exposures. When you are doing what you love, you create an advantage for yourself. Someone who views work as “work”, has little chance of producing at the same level as someone who views work as “play”. I would like to believe that ambitions will drive you far, but passion will drive you further.
“I would like to believe that ambitions will drive you far, but passion will drive you further.”
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Tan Chuan Yong Bachelor of Science (Information Systems), 2020 Technical Account Manager, Professional Service in Southeast Asia & Korea, VMware
My job As a Technical Account Manager, I am responsible for my customers’ happiness and satisfaction with our products. More specifically, my primary role is to develop a close working relationship with them. Another aspect tracks their evolving business environment and technologies to better understand their business needs from a people, process and technology pointof-view. Altogether, we work with our customers by leveraging their IT infrastructure to better actualise their business priorities.
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How I got my job
My happiest moment at work
Part of the relatively long assessment process was to evaluate my ability to articulate and connect with the panellists since the role involved interacting with different customers. My Career Coach was instrumental in boosting my confidence in terms of exploring job search strategies, reviewing my resume and facilitating mock interviews.
Earning my customers’ trust, collaborating with them to solve their business challenges and achieving stakeholder satisfaction are fulfilling milestones in my work life. Despite a lack of ground experience, my manager felt that I was ready to take on this challenge of managing key accounts after a few months under his mentoring and watchful supervision.
“In this fast-paced, technologydriven world, having the ability to learn, apply and adapt effectively is a key to success as you never know what the world has in store tomorrow.”
The highs and lows I have always wanted to work with people from different cultures and ethnicities. VMware gives me the opportunity to achieve this aspiration, given its vast network of office locations in the Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific and Middle East. The privilege of working with an international pool of professionals and customers also means having to adapt to different time zones and their working styles and protocols.
Some advice “The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn and relearn.” This quote by Alvin Toffler is a maxim that I believe in and live by every day. In this fast-paced, technologydriven world, having the ability to learn, apply and adapt effectively is a key to success as you never know what the world has in store tomorrow.
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Postgraduate Alumni
Anna Huixian Xu Master of Science in Accounting (Data and Analytics), 2021 Global Consumer Banking Analytics Associate, Citibank
My job I joined Citi’s Global Analytics Associate Programme, a two-year journey with opportunities to rotate across different business units to build up a wide data analytics skill set. In my current role in the data visualisation team, I lead projects which include transforming data to insightful dashboards and enhancing existing visualisations according to new needs. My day-to-day work involves closely working with clients to understand their needs and pain points, providing visualisation solutions and proposals, frequently liaising with the data team, and developing dashboard visualisations. I play a consulting role who provides professional advice and suggestions to upgrade users’ experience in using dashboards and fill the gap of their new requests.
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How I got my job
My happiest moment at work
Citibank has always attached great importance to being a data-driven organisation. As such, the Global Analytics Associate Programme welcomed the first batch in 2020. As one who joined Citi through this programme, I went through an interview with human resources, multiple one-to-one interviews with senior managers, as well as a panel interview. The panel interview is the time to show your technical skills and soft skills. Having solid professional knowledge is a must, while outstanding soft skills like communication skills, leadership skills and problem-solving skills are the ones that set you apart from the rest.
Having opportunities to work in different parts of the data analytics circle are my happiest moments at work. I can explore different projects and realise my interests along the way. Learning from people who have different backgrounds and skill sets is also part of the joy, and this allows me to continuously grow and learn.
“With self-adjustment and attending company workshops on how to work from home, I found the right rhythm to effectively work from home, and have started to appreciate it.”
The highs and lows I appreciate the opportunity to rotate in different teams to gain a more comprehensive understanding of data analytics. At the same time, a culture of sharing, facilitated by such talented people, is another thing I enjoy. Inquisitiveness and a desire for knowledge allow me to grow and develop, and positive feedback from users motivate me. Inversely, having joined during a pandemic, I found working from home to be challenging at the start. However, with self-adjustment and attending company workshops on how to work from home, I found the right rhythm to effectively work from home, and have started to appreciate it.
Some advice I believe two pieces of advice helped me to secure job offers. First, start your job hunting journey early, especially for master’s degree students. Starting early will expose you to more suitable opportunities, and provide you more experience in interviews. Secondly, customise your resume and cover letter for each job application. I believe applying to jobs is not a game of casting a wide net, but accurate delivery. Sending a standard resume and cover letter with minimum change will result in very few leads, and may even exhaust your confidence. Put more effort into understanding the types of talent companies want through job advertising posts, and carefully adjust your resume and cover letter to reflect the most suitable sides of you. This will maximise your chances of getting through first-round selections!
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Ferdi Lau Master of Science in Applied Finance, 2021 Private Banking Analyst, Credit Suisse AG
My job My job as a Private Banking Analyst entails everything related to wealth management for high net worth individuals, providing highly individualised investment strategies to achieve each client’s personal, family, and business needs – these span from providing simple investment-related advice, to retirement and succession planning, and even large-scale IPO services. As an Assistant Relationship Manager, I work very closely with my Relationship Managers, as well as other divisions of the bank, to ensure that each and every one of my clients’ financial needs are well taken care of.
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How I got my job
My happiest moment at work
Be yourself – I cannot emphasise this enough. Being in a client-facing role in one of the most coveted roles in one of the world’s largest private banks meant two things: you have to know your stuff, and you have to have the right attitude. This also goes for any other roles, really. Always consider fit, and ask yourself “How do my various experiences give me an edge?”, “How closely are my personality and interests aligned with this role?”, and “How well do I match the culture of the firm?”. Ultimately, your prospective employer only wants to know, genuinely, what value you can bring to the table – you cannot lie about any of these things – and that is exactly what you have to show.
In the beginning, serving and interacting with clients who are much more successful and experienced than myself – not to mention managing their finances – was an utterly nerve-wracking experience. However, while their demands can be strict at times, the clients have been nothing but kind and appreciative. Having the opportunity to help my clients achieve their financial goals and milestones in itself has also been a rather fulfilling experience, and I hope to grow in competency and experience to be able to build more meaningful relationships with my clients.
“Even if you are afraid, do what you have to do. Even if you fail to do it now, learn how to do it the next time.”
The highs and lows I have been fortunate to have the most encouraging and nurturing bosses and teammates. While the learning curve has undoubtedly been steep the moment I joined the bank, having the privilege to work with some of the most experienced and capable people in the industry has been absolutely exciting. Being in such a highly regulated industry, however, comes with its own set of challenges. I have to be extremely meticulous and ensure that neither the client’s nor my firm’s interest is compromised at all times – it can be demanding to constantly maintain that level of focus, yet that is what makes the work all the more meaningful.
Some advice Do not be afraid. As you go on to take on new challenges, many things are bound to be daunting at first – that is exactly when you need to take action. So believe in yourself. Even if you are afraid, do what you have to do. Even if you fail to do it now, learn how to do it the next time. Find joy in the fact that there is literally nothing you cannot learn, and you will get there eventually!
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Neel Chomal Master of IT in Business, 2021 Consultant, Synpulse Management Consulting
My job As a management consultant, I am involved in all the aspects of enhancing the operational efficiency of the firms I am associated with. These services include, and are not limited to, providing organisational changemanagement assistance, process analysis and optimisation, technology implementation, strategy development and operational improvement services. Through all this, I have come to realise the importance of client-facing services.
www.smu.edu.sg
How I got my job
My happiest moment at work
I was originally a software developer who wanted to break into the field of management consulting. While interviewing for Synpulse, I focused on my strengths and was honest about the areas I had limited knowledge of. I believe SMU helped me develop the functional perspicacity that was originally lacking in my pure-technical profile. A blend of technical expertise with business acumen is where I believe I stood out, as compared to the rest of the candidates.
Gaining the trust of my seniors who later recommended me to some of the bigger clients at work. This is something that persuades me to go the extra mile. I am happy to have worked on some of the key projects for the firm, which have resulted in both professional and personal growth for me.
“If you are ever approached with an opportunity that you feel is great and that you can learn a lot from it, but you feel you are not qualified enough, just close your eyes, take a deep breath, believe in your capabilities, and take up the opportunity.”
Some advice If you are ever approached with an opportunity that you feel is great and that you can learn a lot from it, but you feel you are not qualified enough, just close your eyes, take a deep breath, believe in your capabilities, and take up the opportunity. Never stop believing in yourself, because if you do not, then no one else will.
The highs and lows I cannot stress enough the importance of having worked with colleagues and seniors who support you in your growth. Working for a postgraduate degree while building a career in consulting is not an easy task – believe me, if I had a penny for everyone who told me that, I would be wealthy – with constant juggling of client work and SMU assignments and quizzes! But I am glad to have come across an amazing set of peers, both in my work life and at SMU, who have helped and supported me in my career growth.
THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2022 | 71
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How I got my job
Nicole Obertreis Master of Science in Financial Economics, 2019 Credit Risk Analyst, KfW IPEX Bank
My job In my current role, my main task is to write credit risk rating reports. Whenever a client wants to do business with us, we have to assess their credit worthiness. We will then take a close look at their financials and their qualitative characteristics. As the main goal while analysing their financial data is to judge whether they generate enough cash in their regular line of business in order to repay their debt, qualitative characteristics help us decide whether the company is on the right track to a successful future.
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Before my current role, I was a trainee with KfW IPEX Bank. Because I applied at the height of the coronavirus pandemic, the entire application process was conducted online. The first step was to submit the online application with a cover letter and a resume. To me, however, writing a cover letter was crucial since I had originally applied for a different traineeship at the same company, but had gotten rejected. The story was not all bad, though, as after reading my first cover letter, human resources called to encourage me to apply for another traineeship instead. Heeding this advice, I submitted a second application and was immediately invited for a video interview. I was asked some questions regarding my resume, some technical questions, and some behavioural questions, too.
“Be curious! You cannot know everything yet, but you can always strive to keep learning.”
The highs and lows What I like most about my job is discussing problems with my colleagues and solving them together, even though credit risk analysis can be done mostly without input from others. However, I find it very beneficial to call and ask a more experienced colleague for advice with my ratings.
My company has a great culture where everyone is very eager to share knowledge, and is always happy to help. It was difficult for me at first to pick up the phone and call strangers whom I had never seen in person before, as I began work during the circuit breaker and everybody was working from home. But as I gained confidence over video calls, I became more comfortable and now will just reach for the phone if I run into a hurdle.
My happiest moment at work During my traineeship, I was able to work on a large project finance deal. When I joined the team, the project was already in a crucial phase where it was about to be sent to management for approval, and we were on quite a tight schedule with many loose ends to tie up. After the first two weeks and without much prior experience, the project managers trusted me to handle direct communication with a client’s management team. I was very grateful for the opportunity and for the trust they gave me. The project has since been successfully approved and is now moving on to the construction phase.
Some advice Be curious! You cannot know everything yet, but you can always strive to keep learning. Although roles require technical knowledge that you have learned at university, they also require knowledge on specific markets, sectors and companies. All of this can be learnt on-the-job, so do not be afraid if you do not have all the skills and knowledge yet.
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Wu Yunheng (Winston) Master of IT in Business, 2021 Bachelor of Science (Information Systems), 2019 Data Scientist, Synthesis
My job There is never a dull moment! At Synthesis, we do human-centred data science, which is our philosophy of understanding data better by understanding the people and context shaping it. Throughout my day, I have ample opportunities to dig into real, unadulterated perspectives from open data, layer these datasets on top of one another, and work in tandem with an amazing team of strategists to tell a comprehensive data story for clients.
www.smu.edu.sg
How I got my job
My happiest moment at work
The interview process I went through was more unconventional. After an initial phone screening, I was given a mock client brief with several problem statements, and a dataset comprising product reviews to help answer them. There were several components to address, and I prepared some visualisations, along with slides to explain my methodology and findings. However, the final round was the trickiest one, as it involved working with a strategist to push the analysis even further and required a lot of quick thinking and creativity on my part.
One particularly memorable project involved examining perspectives that are at the confluence of gaming and mental health for a European charity organisation. A lot of the existing literature in this space is more academic and focuses on the negative impacts of gaming on mental health. Our approach was much more novel, as it delved into public spaces where conversations about how gaming has impacted the lives of everyday people were taking place. Being someone who indulges occasionally in gaming, I feel personally vested in this project and hope to shed more light on the positive aspects.
“The sky is the limit and you are only limited by your imagination!”
The highs and lows What I really love is having the freedom to tweak and improve on existing methodologies, and how we are actively encouraged to innovate and come up with new ways to slice the data. Being able to incrementally improve on what has been done, and potentially piloting new analysis approaches is something that has been keeping me on my feet. On the flip side, working from home initially meant it was harder to build rapport with the team, and knowledge diffusion about the culture and norms was more limited – nevertheless, this melted away as I got to work with more team members closely, and jumping at the opportunity to meet everyone in person when we were allowed to do so!
Some advice Endeavour to develop more T-shaped skills. Beyond building your technical expertise in one domain, it is equally crucial to develop your skill sets in other areas. This can range from general skills like basic knowledge about the business world or an industry you have an interest in, to soft skills like learning how to communicate technically complex concepts to non-technical audiences. For myself, I try to keep abreast of current affairs and pick up interesting nuggets about societal trends through a combination of books and podcasts. Otherwise, a more hands-on approach could be starting a side hustle – the sky is the limit and you are only limited by your imagination!
THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2022 | 73
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Zhou Muge Master of Science in Management, 2021 Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Lu Youth Information Technology Co., Ltd
My job As the founder and CEO of the company, I am responsible for everything. At the moment, my company has an incubator for start-ups, and contains eight projects. One of the projects has secured a significant Series A funding, and the other seven projects are still being incubated. Every day, I meet with each project team to get to know the progress of each, and put forward suggestions for current problems. At the same time, I also need to provide resources for projects according to their needs. There are also an additional three projects which I am wholly responsible for. For these, I need to do a lot of project management, balance the relationships between team members and ensure there is sufficient cash flow.
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How I got my job
My happiest moment at work
When I was participating in some entrepreneurial competitions and business banquets, I met some investors. One day, an investor called me and said: “Hey, I have an idea. Would you like to achieve it?” We talked for eight hours in his office. I thought that his idea was very creative, though there was also room for improvement in terms of feasibility. I put forward my idea and he thought it was very good, so we hit it off. I think the reason he chose me was because of my confidence and fast reaction speed. For instance, I was able to put forward my own thoughts on things in a short period of time.
The first project I worked on was an artificial intelligence project related to packaging. Over the course of the project, we encountered unprecedented difficulties, such as vicious competition, insufficient cash flow and movement of technical staff. We had to face the problems and solve them. There was only one idea in everyone’s mind at that time, which was to do things well. In the end, we obtained a good investment to help this project successfully move forward in the capital market.
“Always maintain a strong desire to learn, no matter what your current situation is.”
The highs and lows A high point is that my job is challenging and very malleable. Every day, because I face so many different types of problems, I must force myself to learn, think and make decisions quickly. More importantly, I must trust the decisions I make. Every day, I reap new harvests. However, the fact that I need to deal with many different things is also a low, as I do not have time to learn one thing in-depth. This may cause me to lose my competitiveness in the future.
Some advice There is an old Chinese saying that opportunities are always reserved for those who are prepared. Always maintain a strong desire to learn, no matter what your current situation is. Whether it is good or bad, continue to learn and improve yourself. If you are good enough, opportunities will always come.
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JOBS AND INTERNSHIPS
JOBS AND INTERNSHIPS LEADING EMPLOYERS WITH VACANCIES AND INTERNSHIPS WHO WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU.
Employers Accenture.................................................................................................................... 76 Allen & Gledhill........................................................................................................... 77 BDO LLP (79) 78 CapitaLand Limited.................................................................................................... 78 Coda Payments.......................................................................................................... 80 DBS Bank Limited....................................................................................................... 80 Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) (IFC) 81 Grab............................................................................................................................. 82 Pace Enterprise.......................................................................................................... 82 Ministry of Education......................................................................................... (83)84 Ministry of Foreign Affairs (1, 87) 85 NTUC Income (38, 39) 85 Shopee Singapore Private Limited........................................................................... 88 TikTok........................................................................................................................... 88
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ACCENTURE
250 North Bridge Road, #35-00 Raffles City Tower Singapore 179101 TEL (+65) 6410 8000 (+65) 6410 8008 WEB https://www.accenture.com/sg-en/careers/local/students-and-graduates LOCATIONS
• 200 cities with Accenture locations and operations, across 50 countries. Within SEA region, we operate within these 4 countries (Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia).
BUSINESS FACTS
Accenture is a global professional services company with leading capabilities in digital, cloud and security. Combining unmatched experience and specialised skills across more than 40 industries, we offer Strategy and Consulting, Interactive, Technology and Operations services — all powered by the world’s largest network of Advanced Technology and Intelligent Operations centres. Our 674,000 people deliver on the promise of technology and human ingenuity every day, serving clients in more than 120 countries. We embrace the power of change to create value and shared success for our clients, people, shareholders, partners and communities. Visit us at accenture.com.
FACEBOOK @accenturesingapore INSTAGRAM @accenture_sg
LINKEDIN @Accenture Southeast Asia TWITTER
YOUTUBE
@ACN_SEA @Accenture Southeast Asia
CAREER SECTOR
• Consulting • IT and Technology
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Submit your application online together with your latest CV APPLICATION PERIODS
Graduate jobs: • December 2021 to April 2022 – for June 2022 intake • July to October 2022 – for Jan 2023 intake Internships: • April to June 2022 – for internships from August to December 2022 • September to November 2022 – for internships from January to June 2023 • October to December 2022 – for internships from May to August 2023
DEGREE DISCIPLINES
Your role assignment will be based on business needs and your personal strengths. You will join any of the four following service groups: • Strategy & Consulting • Technology Services Services • Operations Services • Interactive Services
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JOBS AND INTERNSHIPS
ALLEN & GLEDHILL LLP
One Marina Boulevard, #28-00, Singapore 018989 TEL (+65) 6890 7188 EMAIL enquiries@allenandgledhill.com WEB www.allenandgledhill.com/careerrs LOCATIONS
• Singapore, Myanmar, Vietnam • Malaysia (Rahmat Lim & Partners) – Associate firm • Indonesia (Soemadipradja & Taher) – Network firm
BUSINESS FACTS
Allen & Gledhill is an award-winning full-service South-east Asian law firm providing legal services to a wide range of premier clients, including local and multinational corporations and financial institutions. The Firm is consistently ranked as a market leader in Singapore and South-East Asia, having been involved in a number of challenging, complex and significant deals, many of which are the first of its kind. The Firm’s reputation for high-quality advice is regularly affirmed by the strong rankings in leading publications, and by the various awards and accolades.
LINKEDIN WECHAT
@Allen and Gledhill LLP @Allen and Gledhill
DEGREE DISCIPLINES
For more information on the Practice Groups, please visit our website at www.allenandgledhill.com APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Candidates may submit their application to opportunities@allenandgledhill.com addressed to the Recruitment Partners APPLICATION PERIODS
Graduate jobs: All year-round Internships: All year-round
With a growing network of associate firms and offices, it is well-placed to advise clients on their business interests in Singapore and beyond, on matters involving South-East Asia and the Asian region. With its offices in Singapore, Myanmar and Vietnam, as well as its associate firm in Malaysia (Rahmat Lim & Partners), and its network firm in Indonesia (Soemadipradja & Taher), Allen & Gledhill has over 650 lawyers in its network across the region, making it one of the largest law firms in South-East Asia.
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THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2022 | 77
JOBS AND INTERNSHIPS
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 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.
FACEBOOK @BDOSingapore LINKEDIN @bdo-singapore TWITTER
YOUTUBE
@bdoaccountant @BDO Singapore
DEGREE DISCIPLINES
• Accountancy • Business Administration • Data Analytics • Economics
• Finance • IT and Technology • Law • Mathematics • Social Sciences
CAREER SECTORS
• Accounting • Business Administration • Finance • IT & Computer Sciences
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
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.
CAPITALAND LIMITED
168 Robinson Road, #30-01, Capital Tower, Singapore 068912 EMAIL buildyourdream@capitaland.com WEB
https://www.capitaland.com/careers
@capitaland @capitaland LINKEDIN @capitaland TWITTER @capitaland YOUTUBE @capitaland INSTAGRAM
LOCATIONS
• 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
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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. 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 PROCEDURE
Apply online via capitaland.com/careers and shortlisted candidates will be notified.
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S I N G A P O R E
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Tailored events & opportunities
Learning & Development
We are part of the 5th largest network
Our team with exceptional experiences
A global mindset Our services v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v
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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 #23-0͈ Parkview Square Singapore 188778 www.bdo.com.sg BDOSingapore
BDO Singapore LLP
JOBS AND INTERNSHIPS
CODA PAYMENTS
22 Cross Street, #02-01, Singapore 048421 WEB https://www.codapayments.com/careers LINKEDIN @Coda Payments LOCATIONS
• Singapore – Central • International – We are 400+ employees strong in over 30 countries worldwide
BUSINESS FACTS
Founded in 2011, Coda Payments helps digital content providers monetise their products and services in more than thirty markets. Publishers of leading games like Moonton (Mobile Legends: Bang Bang), Garena (Free Fire) and Tencent (PUBG Mobile), streaming platforms like beIN and Bigo Live, apps like Tinder, and videoon-demand platforms like Viu have integrated with Coda Payments to accept payments.
DEGREE DISCIPLINES
• Open to all disciplines
CAREER SECTORS
• Banking and Financial Services • IT and Technology
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Visit our Careers page (https://www.codapayments.com/careers) for our latest vacancies!
Coda Payments is headquartered in Singapore with dozens of additional outposts around the world. It is backed by Apis Partners and GMO Global Payment Fund, whose strategic management company is GMO Payment Gateway, Japan’s largest online payment gateway. Coda Payments has recently been named the 28th fastest growing company in the Asia-Pacific region by the Financial Times (making it the second fastest growing fintech company in its region), the 8th fastest growing company in Singapore by The Straits Times, and a Technology Pioneer by the World Economic Forum. In terms of culture, we embody Coda Payments’ core values and this results in a unique culture. We operate from the perspective that our people are the most important part of our organisation and demonstrate this in various ways. In 2021, our Singapore headquarters was certified as a Great Place To Work™!
DBS BANK LTD
12 Marina Boulevard, Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 3, Singapore 018982 WEB Dbs.com/careers FACEBOOK @dbscareers LINKEDIN @DBS Bank BUSINESS FACTS
DBS is a leading financial services group in Asia with a presence in 18 markets. Headquartered and listed in Singapore, DBS is in the three key Asian axes of growth: Greater China, Southeast Asia and South Asia. The bank’s “AA-” and “Aa1” credit ratings are among the highest in the world. .
DEGREE DISCIPLINES
• Technology specialist • Corporate Banker • Operations Transformation • Wealth Planning Manager
Recognised for its global leadership, DBS has been named “World’s Best Bank” by Euromoney, “Global Bank of the Year” by The Banker and “Best Bank in the World” by Global Finance. The bank is at the forefront of leveraging digital technology to shape the future of banking, having been named “World’s Best Digital Bank” by Euromoney. In addition, DBS has been accorded the “Safest Bank in Asia” award by Global Finance for 12 consecutive years from 2009 to 2020.
CAREER SECTOR
With its extensive network of operations in Asia and emphasis on engaging and empowering its staff, DBS presents exciting career opportunities. The bank acknowledges the passion, commitment and can-do spirit in all of our 29,000 staff, representing over 40 nationalities.
Graduate jobs: Aug – Apr Internships: Jan
• Banking and Financial Services
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Please submit your application directly via dbs.com/careers APPLICATION PERIODS
DBS provides a full range of services in consumer, SME and corporate banking. As a bank born and bred in Asia, DBS understands the intricacies of doing business in the region’s most dynamic markets. DBS is committed to building lasting relationships with customers, and positively impacting communities through supporting social enterprises, as it banks the Asian way. It has also established a SGD 50 million foundation to strengthen its corporate social responsibility efforts in Singapore and across Asia.
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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
ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FROM
• Singapore
BUSINESS FACTS
The Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) brings you to the forefront of cybersecurity, digital transformation and engineering. From working on software development and systems integration to unmanned technologies, military platforms, robotics, sensors and artificial intelligence, you can make an impact to Singapore’s defence! We also offer exciting and meaningful careers in our corporate domains covering Procurement, Human Resource, Corporate Plans and Corporate Communications. Achieve your fullest potential with opportunities to build your expertise and hone your competencies in our diverse career offerings. You can also expect an immersive learning experience, where you will work with nurturing mentors, likeminded colleagues, and collaborate with global industry experts. Apply to DSTA at https://www.dsta.gov.sg/ where many exciting internship and career opportunities await you!
DEVELOPING AND SPEARHEADING DIGITAL SOLUTIONS NAME: Peh Jing Yuan DEGREE: Bachelor of Science (Information Systems); with a second major in Analytics, Magna Cum Laude, Singapore Management University (SMU), 2019 ROLE: Senior Data Scientist (Enterprise IT) EMPLOYER: Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA)
www.smu.edu.sg
• Business Management • Economics • Information Systems • IT and Computer Sciences • Social Sciences
Fresh graduates with no prior experience are welcome to apply. CAREER SECTORS
• Engineering, Design and Manufacturing • IT and Technology
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Applications are accepted year-round. Learn more about DSTA on our website. You may email us at internship@dsta.gov.sg or hrjobs@dsta.gov.sg if you have any enquiries pertaining to internships or careers.
MY JOB I leverage data analytics to improve training processes for the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). This includes analysing data, and presenting them as intuitive dashboards to enable more informed decision-making. I also develop machine learning models to analyse soldier performance, and harness data visualisation to help users better transform insights into improved training. As one of my key challenges is translating user requirements into technical solutions effectively, I make sure to remain in constant communication with my users to ensure that we always meet requirements. I also co-lead DSTA’s Data Analytics (DA) training programme, which aims to upskill our staff’s digital competencies. This involves evaluating and advising participants on their progress, as well as looking out for new DA courses. A good understanding of DA will help our engineers and data scientists collaborate more effectively to deliver advanced defence solutions. This spirit of teamwork makes my work enjoyable, and is key to innovating smarter, more efficient digital solutions. HOW I GOT MY JOB It is important for me to be able to contribute to society directly, so DSTA’s mission of leveraging technology to improve our country’s defence drew me in when I visited their booth at an SMU career fair. After researching about DSTA’s digital solutions, I shared my aspirations and strong desire to grow together with a tech-savvy team during my interview.
THE HIGHS AND LOWS What keeps me going is being able to use data creatively to craft solutions for new possibilities. I am given free rein to research, evaluate, and adapt state-of-the-art machine learning algorithms to develop data analytics solutions. There are also many opportunities to attend specialised training to enhance my professional growth and upgrade my skill sets in areas such as recommender systems and big data engineering. MY HAPPIEST MOMENT AT WORK I was part of a taskforce that designed and developed solutions with the Health Promotion Board in Singapore’s fight against COVID-19 When the pandemic started, we urgently needed a system to optimise and track swabbing and testing resources, since daily swab numbers were very high. I proposed and developed the system’s visualisation capability within three months. This helped users to manage test operations at a national level which varied from thousands to over 100,000 tests weekly. This project was particularly meaningful because it was done during difficult times, and contributed directly to the fight against COVID-19. SOME ADVICE Get as much hands-on experience as possible. Take up internships, workshops and camps organised by DSTA, and gain first-hand experience in working as a data scientist in the interesting field of defence technology. THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2022 | 81
JOBS AND INTERNSHIPS
GRAB
INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN
LOCATIONS
DEGREE DISCIPLINES
• Singapore • International 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Cambodia Indonesia Malaysia Myanmar Philippines
@grab_sg @Grab @Grab
Grab HQ, 3 Media Close, Singapore 138498 WEB https://grab.careers/teams/campus/
6. Thailand 7. Vietnam 8. China 9. USA 10. India
11. Romania 12. South Korea 13. Taiwan
BUSINESS FACTS
Grab is more than just the leading ride-hailing and mobile payments platform in Southeast Asia. We use data and technology to improve everything from mobility to payments and financial services across a region of more than 620 million people. We work with governments, drivers, passengers, merchants, and the community, to solve critical problems in Southeast Asia. Grab began as a taxi-hailing app in 2012, but we have since extended our product platform to include GrabCar, GrabShare, GrabBike, GrabHitch, GrabExpress, GrabFood, GrabCoach, GrabShuttle, GrabCycle. We recently launched our fintech platform – GrabFinancial, which consists of payments, lending and insurance. Our latest addition is GrabVentures, an inhouse incubation platform. We are focused on pioneering new commuting and payment alternatives for drivers and passengers with an emphasis on convenience, safety, and reliability. Currently, we offer services in 8 countries. Our research and development (R&D) offices are in Singapore, Seattle, Beijing, Bangalore, Jakarta and Vietnam. We aspire to unlock the true potential of Southeast Asia and look for likeminded individuals to join us on this ride.
Internships: • Engineering • Data Science & Data Analytics • Product Management • Design • Operations and Merchant Business Graduates:
• GrabAds • Grab Financial Group • Group BD & Partnerships • Grab Support • Marketing • Public Relations • Public Affairs
• Social Impact • Risk, Compliance & Internal Audit • CFO Office • People Operations • Cyber Security • Legal
• Finance Graduate Programme
CAREER SECTOR
• IT and Technology
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
• Apply online on Grab’s Career Page. • The Talent Acquisition Team will reach out if you are shortlisted for an interview.
APPLICATION PERIODS
Graduate jobs: All year-round Internships: • H1 Internship Cycle (January – May) • Summer Internship (May – August) • H2 Internship Cycle (August – December)
PACE ENTERPRISE
CT Hub, 2 Kallang Ave, #08-03, Singapore 339407 EMAIL esther.heng@pacenow.co WEB https://pacenow.co/ LOCATION
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
BUSINESS FACTS
APPLICATION PERIODS
• Singapore
Payment is changing constantly and has had constant improvements over the years. In Pace, we believe in giving people an alternative in payment. Spreading your purchases into three interest-free instalments gives you the breathing space to buy now, no regrets later.
Send in your resume to esther.heng@pacenow.co Annual application period: January – June Graduate jobs: 5 openings Internships: 5 openings
Wearing many hats is what is expected of someone who joins our team. You are never confined to your function, but are encouraged, if not expected, to speak up for what you believe in and what you think is the best way to do things. Team members here thrive by constantly bouncing off ideas one another – the word “micromanagement” is never in our dictionary. DEGREE DISCIPLINES
• Software Engineer • Mobile Engineer • Associate Product Manager • UI/UX Designer • Finance Executive • Associate Talent Executive
CAREER SECTOR
• IT and Technology
82 | THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2022
www.smu.edu.sg
IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT VOCABULARY AND GRAMMAR,
IT’S ABOUT TEACHING THE POWER OF WORDS. There’s more to being a teacher of English than simply helping students to speak and write better. Make a real difference by helping students become confident communicators and igniting a joy of learning the English Language.
Values that last a lifetime. It all begins with a teacher. Join us as a English Language (Secondary) teacher. moe.gov.sg/teach
JOBS AND INTERNSHIPS
MINISTRY OF EDUCATION
moe.gov.sg/contact-us @moesingapore INSTAGRAM @moesingapore LINKEDIN @Ministry of Education, Singapore (MOE) FACEBOOK
1 North Buona Vista Drive, Singapore 138675 TEL + [65] 6872 2220 WEB moe.gov.sg/careers LOCATION
• Singapore
BUSINESS FACTS
Join MOE and our team of talents dedicated to building up our next generation as we work together to mould the future of our nation. Education Officer/Teacher Be the one who inspires and nurtures young lives. Join MOE as a teacher and embark on a journey of guiding students to reach their fullest potential. Motivate our students and equip them with the skills they need as they grow into lifelong learners and responsible citizens of tomorrow. Every teacher at MOE is important to us. You will be supported with the tools, resources and professional development opportunities to develop and progress in your career with the following three career tracks: the Teaching Track, Leadership Track or Senior Specialist Track.
You can look forward to gaining varied experiences in areas such as policy formulation and implementation, organisational administration and operations. Excellent career opportunities at MOE headquarters (HQ) and in schools await you. DEGREE DISCIPLINES
• Accounting • Business Administration • Economics • Engineering • Finance • Humanities, Art and Social Sciences
(Requirements may differ for each role) CAREER SECTOR
• Public Sector
Management Executive Versatile and forward-looking? Join us as a Management Executive and be involved in formulating, implementing and managing education-related policies which are pivotal to helping our schools run smoothly and creating a conducive environment for learning in our dynamic educational landscape.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Apply online at moe.gov.sg/careers. Shortlisted applicants will be notified for interview(s). APPLICATION PERIOD
Please refer to moe.gov.sg/careers for the application deadlines for the respective positions.
MY JOB While I am first and foremost my students’ teacher, in many ways I also play the part of their confidant, their cheerleader and their stand-up comedian, among others. While it may seem like I am wearing many hats, if I were to boil it down, my day-to-day responsibility mainly revolves around nurturing my students to become better than they were yesterday.
USING THE “HEART” TO GUIDE HER STUDENTS’ STEPS NAME: Shermin Chee DEGREE: Bachelor of Science (Economics), Cum Laude, Singapore Management University (SMU), 2015; Master of Social Sciences (Applied Economics), National University of Singapore (NUS), 2018; Postgraduate Diploma in Education, National Institute of Education (NIE), 2020 ROLE: Teacher at Springfield Secondary School (English Language, Social Studies) EMPLOYER: Ministry of Education 84 | THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2022
• IT and Computer Sciences • Law • Maths • Sciences • Social Work • Teaching and Education
HOW I GOT MY JOB The job selection process involved us simulating teaching in an actual classroom, where we would have to prepare a lesson beforehand and teach. The trickiest part was when the interviewers made the simulation as realistic as possible by throwing a curveball and I had to manage the “class” on the spot. However, SMU’s pedagogy prepared me well for this, as the many presentations that I had experienced in my undergraduate years gave me a boost in confidence when handling unexpected situations. THE HIGHS AND LOWS What I like most about the job is the satisfied smiles on my students’ faces when they see the growth in themselves. That truly keeps me motivated and willing to go the extra mile for them. However, some of the challenging aspects also involve moderating my expectations of them and learning to grow together with them.
MY HAPPIEST MOMENT AT WORK What warms the cockles of my heart is witnessing the growth of my students, not only in their academics but more importantly in their character. Seeing how they put values into action is always such a pleasure. A particularly memorable project that I had worked on was the AudioBook Club I organised. I worked with a group of students and an external organisation to share audiobooks that my students had created with pre-schoolers to spread the love for reading. It was truly an unforgettable experience as I saw my students beginning to make a positive impact on others. SOME ADVICE Teaching is both hard work and “heart” work. I believe in abiding by the same values that I teach my students as I think that it is important for us, teachers, to live by example. These values are neatly summed up in an apt acronym, HEART. H stands for Humble, Hardworking and Honest; these are important foundational values for any teacher. E stands for Empathetic, crucial when working with the various stakeholders. A stands for Active: to be an active learner and hands-on practitioner. R stands for Respectful: respecting the students as well as the profession. Lastly, T stands for Thankful: to be grateful for everything that comes our way, which ultimately shapes us to be better than before.
www.smu.edu.sg
JOBS AND INTERNSHIPS
MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
1 Sherwood Road, Singapore 248163 TEL +[65] 6379 8000 WEB www.mfa.gov.sg/career LOCATIONS
• Singapore – Central • International – 50 Overseas Missions
BUSINESS FACTS
A Foreign Service career is more than just a job. To be effective, Foreign Service Officers (FSOs) need to have a good grasp of world affairs and a firm understanding of Singapore’s position. As a FSO, you are Singapore’s bridge to the world. You will be involved in the formulation, review and implementation of policies related to your assigned portfolio. You must be versatile, be able to analyse issues critically, strategise and achieve outcomes. You need to be able to persuade and assert, and cultivate good interpersonal relations while keeping Singapore’s interests at heart.
mfa_career@mfa.gov.sg @mfacareers INSTAGRAM @mfa_sg LINKEDIN @Ministry of Foreign Affairs Singapore FACEBOOK
DEGREE DISCIPLINES
• Accounting • Business Administration • Economics • Engineering • Finance • Humanities, Art and Social Sciences • IT and Computer Sciences • Law • Maths • Sciences • Social Work • Teaching and Education
With 50 Overseas Missions around the world, a career with MFA offers unique opportunities and rewards. Throughout your career as a FSO, you will alternate between Singapore (HQ) and our Overseas Missions. Depending on your competency and inclination, you can develop your career in either the Functional and Corporate track or the Political and Economic track. As you progress within the Ministry, a series of varied and enriching assignments and milestone programmes will groom you for future leadership roles.
CAREER SECTOR
An exciting career of unparalleled opportunities on the frontline of global development awaits. For those of you who are up for the challenge, come join us at MFA!
Graduate jobs: Applications accepted all year round Internships: Applications open in the third quarter of the year. Visit our website for more details.
• Public Sector
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Apply online at Careers@Gov. APPLICATION PERIODS
NTUC INCOME WEB
https://www.income.com.sg/careers
LOCATIONS
• Singapore – Central • International
BUSINESS FACTS
NTUC Income Insurance Co-operative Ltd (Income) is a leading composite insurer in Singapore, serving more than two million policyholders. Our ambition is to protect every life and every home by making insurance simple, accessible and personal for individuals from all walks of life. Income was established in 1970 and remains the only insurance cooperative in Singapore. Our financial strength and diversified investment portfolio is reflected by our strong credit rating which underpins the delivery of our commitment to customers. Income’s innovative, data-driven and omni-channel approach also puts us at the forefront of customer-centric solutions to meet rapidly evolving needs and help empower better financial well-being.
DEGREE DISCIPLINES
Roles you can look at include: • Operations • Actuarial • Finance • Information Technology • Business Excellence • Marketing We welcome all graduates to explore and indicate their interests on our career site. We are open to all disciplines. CAREER SECTOR
• Insurance and Risk Management
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Apply online at https://www.income.com.sg/careers/working-at-income.
For more about Income, please visit www. income. com.sg.
www.smu.edu.sg
THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2022 | 85
JOBS AND INTERNSHIPS
MY JOB I am currently an Assistant Director in the Human Resource Directorate where my team oversees the development and review of MFA’s strategic human resource strategies. Prior to this I was the First Secretary (Admin & Consular) at the Singapore Embassy in Qatar, where I had a multifaceted portfolio, managing consular work, financial and procurement issues, vendor management and Protocol.
FINDING FULFILMENT IN MAINTAINING FOREIGN AFFAIRS NAME: Ignatius Tan DEGREE: Bachelor of Social Science, Singapore Management University (SMU), 2014 ROLE: Assistant Director, Analytics and Research – Human Resource Formerly First Secretary (Admin & Consular). Singapore Embassy in Qatar (May 2018 to August 2021) EMPLOYER: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
WORKING TO EXTEND SINGAPORE’S DIPLOMATIC TIES NAME: Sumaya Baqavi DEGREE: Bachelor of Business Management (Finance), Singapore Management University (SMU), 2009 ROLE: Deputy Chief of Mission and Counsellor, Embassy of the Republic of Singapore in Doha, State of Qatar EMPLOYER: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
86 | THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2022
HOW I GOT MY JOB All Foreign Service Officers (FSOs) have to go through a three-round selection process which consists of a series of tests which assess the candidate's language and analytical ability, a one-day assessment centre and a panel interview. THE HIGHS AND LOWS Working as a diplomat overseas allowed me to make a difference to the people I worked with, and the lives of Singaporeans in Qatar. This ranged from managing the operations of the Embassy and facilitating high-level visits, to helping distressed Singaporeans in their time of need. That said, working overseas comes with its challenges. You will have to adapt to a new country and culture, while, in some cases, learning a new language. However, the Ministry and my colleagues were always there to provide me with support. Prior to assuming post overseas, MFA sponsored MY JOB As the Deputy Chief of Mission, my main role is to work on ways to strengthen the bilateral relationship between Singapore and Qatar. I also closely monitor political and economic developments in Qatar and the region, and look out for issues that are in Singapore’s national interests. Qatar is a small state like Singapore, and a like-minded and important partner. I also oversee the running of the Singapore Chancery, including administrative and consular matters. HOW I GOT MY JOB Initially, like most SMU business students, I planned to join banking. However, I changed my mind after a summer internship at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). I felt that it would be a more meaningful career, and I was not wrong. Although I had completed an internship, I still had to go through a rigorous recruitment process, which consisted of psychometric and writing tests, a full-day assessment centre that simulated a typical day of a Foreign Service Officer (FSO) and finally a panel interview. THE HIGHS AND LOWS Overall, I have had a brilliant time in MFA – exposure to foreign policy making, the privilege of listening first-hand to world leaders, and the benefit of experiencing different cultures. I have travelled on work assignments to various
my Arabic language classes which allowed me to operate more effectively in Qatar. My colleagues also brought me around the city to help me settle in. We developed a bond through our time in Qatar and still grab meals together whenever we can even after we’ve returned to HQ in Singapore. When news of the pandemic first broke out, MFA also reached out to ensure that we had access to the necessary protective gear and good medical facilities. MY HAPPIEST MOMENT AT WORK One of my most memorable moments was when I helped secure safe passage back to Singapore for a Singaporean lady and her four young children who had been trapped in a danger zone for several days. The sheer relief and happiness in her voice when she realised she was finally safe made an indelible impression and remains a constant source of motivation for me. SOME ADVICE FSOs need to be flexible and quick on their feet to respond to dynamic situations. It is also important to be calm and empathetic, particularly when somebody is in a tough situation and requires Consular assistance. While building up these skills can take time and the work can be challenging, a career in MFA provides a unique and unparalleled experience that allows you to grow both professionally and personally. countries, ranging from Rwanda to Mexico to Bulgaria. Through MFA, I have also had the opportunity to attain working level proficiency in Portuguese and Arabic after undergoing language training in Brazil and Oman respectively. An MFA officer would have several highs in his or her career – the personal satisfaction my colleagues and I get when an important political or economic initiative comes into fruition is unmatched. That said, life is not a bed of roses! At MFA, we work hard and put in long hours. It is not uncommon to sacrifice personal time. It is a 24/7 career. MY HAPPIEST MOMENT AT WORK I was privileged to be part of the pioneering team that set up Singapore’s first and only embassy in Latin America. A moment that I will always cherish was when “Majulah Singapura” played on Brazilian soil at the Singapore Embassy in Brasilia for the first time. SOME ADVICE The degree you graduate with does not really matter. What you do need, however, is an open and curious mind, coupled with strong conviction in your beliefs and principles. What I love about MFA is that we have all kinds of people with all kinds of opinions. But at the end of the day, as an organisation, we work together and strive to do what is best for Singapore and Singaporeans.
www.smu.edu.sg
JOBS AND INTERNSHIPS
SHOPEE SINGAPORE PRIVATE LIMITED
5 Science Park Drive, Shopee Building, Singapore 118265 WEB careers.shopee.sg SHOPEE BLOG shopee.sg/blog/category/shopee-careers-lifeatshopee/ LOCATIONS
• Singapore • International – Malaysia, Thailand, Taiwan, Indonesia, Vietnam, Philippines and more
BUSINESS FACTS
Shopee is the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan. We connect shoppers, brands and sellers across Asia and other fast-growing markets, empowering anyone to buy and sell anywhere and at any time. Supported by integrated payments and logistics, we offer a wide product assortment and popular entertainment features tailored for each market. We are also a key contributor to the region’s digital economy with a firm commitment to helping brands and entrepreneurs succeed in e-commerce. At Shopee, we value our employees and strive to provide the best for them. We constantly offer training opportunities and provide a vibrant working environment to promote a fun and collaborative work culture. Most importantly, we ensure that our employees’ well-being is taken care of while giving their best at work.
@shopeecareers @Shopee INSTAGRAM @lifeatshopee LINKEDIN
DEGREE DISCIPLINES
• Business Development & Partnership • Cross Border E-commerce • Data Analytics • Design • Engineering & Technology
• Legal & Finance • Marketing • Operations • People • Product Management • SeaMoney
CAREER SECTOR
• IT and Technology
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
For career and internship opportunities, visit careers.shopee.sg. Find out more about our #LifeatShopee: bit.ly/LifeatShopee. APPLICATION PERIODS
Graduate jobs: Applications are accepted all year-round Internships: Applications are accepted all year-round
Whether you are an intern, fresh graduate or mid-careerist, you will have the support you need and be given the responsibility to make an impact on the growing business. Develop skills and get hands-on experience working with some of the best minds in Shopee!
TIKTOK
One Raffles Quay South Tower, #26-10, Singapore 048583 TEL +[65] 6950 4420 EMAIL sg.campus.recruitment@tiktok.com WEB https://careers.tiktok.com/campus LOCATION
• Singapore – Central
@LifeAtTikTok @TikTok YOUTUBE @LifeAtTikTok TIKTOK @LifeAtTikTok LINKEDIN
DEGREE DISCIPLINES
Tech Roles:
• Algorithm Engineer • Backend Engineer • Data Analyst/Engineer • Frontend Engineer • Infrastructure Engineer • Machine Learning Engineer • Mobile Engineer
• Network Engineer • Quality Assurance Engineer • Research Engineer • Security Engineer • Site Reliability Engineer • Testing Engineer
Business Roles:
• Product Manager • Data/ Risk Analyst; • Operations
• Corporate Function/ Support
BUSINESS FACTS
TikTok is the leading destination for short-form mobile video. TikTok has global offices including Los Angeles, New York, London, Paris, Berlin, Dubai, Singapore, Jakarta, Seoul and Tokyo. TikTok is committed to creating an inclusive space where employees are valued for their skills, experiences, and unique perspectives. Our platform connects people from across the globe and so does our workplace. At TikTok, our mission is to inspire creativity and bring joy. To achieve that goal, we are committed to celebrating our diverse voices and to creating an environment that reflects the many communities we reach. We believe individuals should not be disadvantaged because of their background or identity, but instead should be considered based on their strengths and experience. We are passionate about this and hope you are, too. We are looking for talented individuals to join us. If tackling challenges in a fastchanging industry does not scare you, work with us and challenge yourself to create impact!
CAREER SECTOR
• IT and Technology
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Apply directly via our careers page at https://careers.tiktok.com/campus. If you have any questions, please reach out to us at sg.campus.recruitment@tiktok.com. APPLICATION PERIODS
Spring Cycle: Around Jan – Mar Fall Cycle: Around Sep – Nov
88 | THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2022
www.smu.edu.sg
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