Teenage Portfolio 2017 by Teenage Magazine

you’ve graduated. what’s next?

The Ultimate Guide To Securing Your Dream Job Kickstart your career with these sure-fire tips on making your mark in a competitive workforce

Navigate The Corporate Waters Like A Pro The truth about professional networking and building a smoothsailing career

A Modern Millennial’s Wardrobe To Success A complete catalogue to keep your work style fresh and fierce without breaking any dress codes

Managing Director Dennis Pua

Publisher

Foo Mei Siah

“Keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things. Your curiosity will lead you down the path of success.” – Walt Disney

Operations Manager Emmeline Lee

EDITORIAL Deputy Editor johanna teo

Hey everyone, Congratulations on your graduation! Your hard work has paid off and you’ve finally made it. Take the time to be proud of all you have accomplished. Closing this chapter marks the beginning of a new and exciting adventure. For most of you, that means trading in your textbooks and entering the workforce. This transition will be the biggest for you by far, as you’ll be heading not only into the working world, but also into the first phase of true adulthood. As you progress in your career and life, you will experience many challenges – while they may seem daunting, recognise these moments as learning

opportunities upon which you can grow and evolve as a person. Take these obstacles and build your success and rewards upon them. After all, as the saying goes, “A diamond is merely a lump of coal that did well under pressure.” It doesn’t matter where we start out, but where we end up. It won’t be easy, but work hard, work smart and be that diamond in the rough. This brings us to Portfolio. Similar to Passport To Your Future, which is meant for ‘O’ Level graduates, we’ve created this annual supplement to be your guide to the workforce and beyond. Those who have been on internships would’ve gotten a glimpse of what’s in store, but

in this competitive society and economy, some might find it difficult to get a foot in the door, much less advance up the corporate ladder. And even then, there’s more to navigating the corporate waters than just showing up for work and knocking off at 6pm. It means rising above expectations, adapting to company culture, understanding the industry, broadening your network and being able to recognise and grab career advancement opportunities, amongst many others. With that being said, we hope to provide you with the essential knowledge you’ll need to kick-start your career and advance ahead. Thus, Portfolio.

Senior Writers

Bryan yeong chew Hui Ling

editorial assistant germaine cheah

Contributors alicia tey jessica khor justin loh larry yeo sharon tan yuhui yuen yi ying

ART Creative Director Aris Lai

Senior Designer beh kheng hee

sales & marketing business director marion ng

Associate Business Manager Bernard Lim

Business Executive Kamille Panlaqui

The future is yours to build, one step at a time. You’ve got this!

Joh an na Deputy Editor, Teenage

digital, print & events Manager

maggie mok

Senior Marketing Executive Loke pei ling

Marketing Executive jenny teo

Teenage is also available for your reading pleasure at: Clinics & Hospitals: KK Women’s & Children’s Hospital, National University Hospital, Singapore General Hospital, Raffles Medical Centre • Salons: Jean Yip Hair Salon, Jeric Salon, Team Salon • Clubs & Hotels: Home Team NS, The American Club, Hotel Fort Canning, Siloso Beach Resort • Residential Suites: Park Avenue Suites, Park Avenue Changi, Park Avenue Rochester • Cafes: Banana Tree, Boufe Boutique Cafe, Hyde & Co., The Loft Cafe

Published By: Key Editions Pte Ltd (Business Registration No. 200005022G) 20 Bedok South Road, Singapore 469277. Tel: 6445 3313 Fax: 6445 3373 Email: info@key-editions.com Distributor: MediaCorp Pte Ltd Printer & Colour Separation: KHL Printing Co. Pte Ltd (Business Registration No. 197801823M) 57 Loyang Drive, Singapore 508968. Tel: 6543 2222 Fax: 6545 3333 MCI (P) 078/05/2016. Published monthly by KEY EDITIONS Pte Ltd. Copyright © is held by the publisher. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. The publisher will not be held responsible for any infringements of copyright material in articles submitted by contributors. The views and opinions of the writers and contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the editor or publisher.

The Dos And Don’ts Of Networking

2 A Step Hire Get started on the path towards scoring your dream job with our handy guide

Forging professional connections has never been easier!

22 Get Heard, Get Ahead Navigate the corporate waters with ease

How one student is pursuing her love for all things fashion

36 Office OOTD Done Right Slay the Instagram game looking like a boss with these office outfit inspirations

Be His Guest Things you should know about the tourism industry

A Degree Above

Résumé Recommendation

Six hacks to make studying for your degree a breeze!

The CV essentials to make a lasting impression on your employer

Degree Decisions

Interview 101 Find out how to knock your interviewer’s socks off by staying on top of your prep game

35 Passion For Fashion

Figure out your options on the next phase of your educational journey with this quiz

24 Co-working It Win over your office mates with these effortless steps

43 The Future Is Now What can students expect from the new and improved PSB Academy City Campus?

Pay, Checked! Direct your paycheck towards these avenues instead!

10 Best Face Forward Nail first impressions looking polished and powerful with a touch of your unique personality

Heading Abroad

Out To Makan

Always wanted to head overseas to study (or work)? These tips will show you how!

Get away from the hustle and bustle of the CBD with these food haunts

Totally #SFW

Keep your online profile squeaky clean with these easy know-hows

(Net)working It

These great networking apps will set you on the fast track to success

Ready To Hustle

Lessons For Life

Build a fun yet work-friendly wardrobe with these style tips!

34 Workplace Emergency Kit Arm yourself for the office battlefield with these essential tools

Make your days more rewarding by acquiring these life skills

Keep Calm & Balance On

Master the juggling act between work and life with these sure-fire tips

interview prep

a step hire Gearing up for the super competitive career hunt? Arm yourself with our guide to scoring your first post-grad dream job. By chew hui ling

Be updated

Keep In Touch

Wading through the abyss of job listings can take up a great deal of time. Set up online alerts on the companies you’re interested in so you get first dibs on the latest positions available. And if you’re searching within various job sites, don’t restrict yourself to one specific job title – you can even include industry related keywords to widen your search scope. Who knows, you might end up sussing out some equally attractive gigs!

Sometimes, hiring managers discover the best candidates via referrals so be vocal about your job hunt. Check in with former classmates on your alma mater’s Facebook page, catch up with your Polytechnic lecturers over coffee, reach out to your internship supervisor on LinkedIn – so they can keep you in mind for any opportunities. You can also visit career fairs, networking events and industry conferences to create professional connections. These are people with direct links to your desired field, who will be able to get you ahead of the competition. Head to p. 18 for more ways you can get connected!

Take Many Shots

Boost Your RÉsumÉ

Clean Up Your Social Media

Many fresh grads tend to apply for a few job positions and wait around for a reply, but doing so will only limit your options. Send out as many applications as possible and seize every interview opportunity that comes your way. The ‘worst case’ scenario you’ll face is when you end up receiving offers all at once, but hey, that isn’t a bad thing! And even if you aren’t shortlisted for the position, it doesn’t hurt to ask the hiring manager to keep you in mind when there’s a suitable opening.

While some grads are lucky enough to land an offer on their first try, others are struggling to secure interviews. Instead of refreshing job boards all day, why not get out there and do something worthwhile to beef up your résumé? Have a cause you’re passionate about? Volunteer for an organisation. Interested in taking up a new hobby? Sign up for classes. Willing to contribute your skills? Seek out freelance opportunities. When your interviewer asks what you’ve been doing since graduation, you’ll have more to talk about! Take a look at p. 4 for a handy guide on building your résumé.

Think employers don’t snoop around on social media? Most of them do check out the profiles of potential candidates and chances are, you wouldn’t stand a chance if your online presence puts you in a bad light. Review your accounts and scrap any trace of unprofessional conduct – do you really want your future boss seeing those careless typos and unglam party shots? As much as you want to get rid of the past, it’s also important to post the right content to display how passionate you are about your chosen profession. For more tips on curating a good digital presence, check out p. 16!

advertorial

be his

guest Marking his foray into the tourism and hospitality industry through his Bachelor of Science (Hons) International Tourism & Hospitality Management degree with MDIS, Joshua Koh shares his insights gained thus far.

With tourism being a key factor in Singapore’s economy, the demand for hospitality and tourism employees has always been high. But behind the glitz and glamour of lush staycations, impressive events and posh hotels, lie tons of hard work, sweat and sacrifice. Just ask Joshua Koh, MDIS Bachelor of Science (Hons) International Tourism & Hospitality Management alumna. When asked about his first real taste of the industry, Joshua recalls, “I was tasked to entertain guests, and to be a waiter to collect their dishes. The hours were really long and it was [the norm] for staff to pull overtime.” He continued, “The hotel industry is not as glamourous as it seems. There’s a certain level of stress, meeting customers’ expectations.” Nevertheless, Joshua remained undeterred.

Seeking to further his passion for the hospitality field – he was initially studying in another private institute – Joshua Koh turned to a trusted friend for advice. “My friend, who is an MDIS alumna, told me about how the school has a conducive study environment. The students are serious about their studies and MDIS has good facilities as well.” He continues, “He also told me that the lecturers would attend to your queries even after class, and stay back even till late into the night to answer any doubts.” Upon his enrolment, Joshua found these statements to be true. Realising that this industry was not one that would be easy, his experience in MDIS helped him tremendously in kickstarting his dream.

“We had the opportunity to go on an overseas field trip, to Taiwan, [during the degree programme],” Joshua shares, “It was for an

“I learned the importance of always being prepared, and being able to foresee the future, to anticipate and to keep updated with market trends and changes.” assignment, so we had to create questionnaires targeting locals and tourists to find out about their travel and food habits. We explored many areas in Taiwan, even night markets, to find out why they would choose to patronise that place, whether their intention was to eat or to shop for example.” He continues, “I found out that Singaporeans are more willing to explore and try new and exotic types of food as compared to other Asian countries.” This experience and information gained would prove to be valuable

Courses at a glance • Master of Science Tourism and Hospitality (Awarded by the University of Sunderland, UK) • Bachelor of Science (Hons) International Tourism and Hospitality Management (Top-Up) (Awarded by the University of Sunderland, UK) THINK SUCCESS. THINK MDIS. Management Development Institute of Singapore Reg. No. 201001793H 20 May 2014 to 19 May 2018

to Joshua, who aims to either work in a tour agency or events company in the future. “Whether I’m working overseas or in

(+65) 6247 9111/6372 1000 etc@mdis.edu.sg www.mdis.edu.sg

Singapore, I would be able to use what I learned to help my clients feel comfortable, be it with the food provided or the [attractions].” Hands-on knowledge was not all Joshua gained. His lecturers imparted all sorts of valuable industry advice that would stick with him in years to come. “I learned the importance of always being prepared, and being able to foresee the future, to anticipate and to keep updated with market trends and changes.”

interview prep

resume

recommendation It takes only six seconds for a hiring manager to form an impression of you from your résumé, make those seconds count! By Bryan Yeong

When it comes to securing an interview, the important documents detailing your qualifications could be a pivotal factor between you landing a slot versus having your résumé tossed to the bottom of the stack. Include these essential components that will give you an edge over other applicants and help you clinch your dream career in no time. The difference between a curriculum vitae (CV) and résumé

A résumé is about one page long, and only covers relevant information that will help the candidate stand out. The details included should also be tailored according to the position applied for. In contrast, a CV is an in-depth document which encompasses detailed listings of achievements, education and more. It typically extends over at least two pages.

Title

NAME SURNAME

contact Street Name Postal Code Email Website Phone Numbers

PERSONAL PROFILE

Insert a brief but interesting description about yourself. Take the opportunity to introduce your unique personality traits, career goals and more.

ACHIEVEMENTS

2016 award #1 Provide the details of an award you received. 2014 scholarship #1 Scored a scholarship? Share the details here.

languages

2016 project #1 Talk about a successful project you’ve led or worked on.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE #1 LANGUAGE #2

skills

EDUCATION

2016 – 2017 university (if any) 2012 – 2015 tertiary school 2010 – 2012 secondary school

skill #1 skill #2 skill #3 software #1 software #2 software #3

hobbies

WORK EXPERIENCE 2016 – 2017 company name (Full-Time) Describe your job scopes, responsibilties and achievements while in the company. 2015 Company Name (Part-time) Part-time gigs count too. Write down what your job encompassed and what you were in charge of. 2015 Internship (if any) What did your internship entail? Remember to include any relevant experience gained.

Profile Photo

Your profile shot is the first chance your potential employer will have to put a name to the résumé. Make sure your photo looks professional and presentable. Tuck those stray hairs away, give your most winning smile, and let your profile leave a positive first impression.

Contact Details

Don’t miss the opportunity of getting a call back for an interview by leaving out your contact details. Indicating your home address, phone number, email and even your available social media handles will let employers know how they can get back to you, while subtly sending across the message that you have no qualms about sharing your online profiles with them so they’ll be able to get a better understanding of who you are as a person.

Personal Profile

Once you’ve already provided an appropriate photo and your contact details, it’s time to showcase more about yourself to continue reeling in interest for your profile. Write up a short description about your career goals and personal objectives, and be mindful to inject a sense of your unique personality to stand out too. Avoid writing in third person – your résumé will read more naturally when written in first person, plus it adds a dynamic touch.

Languages

While not all jobs may require applicants to speak a certain language, being adept at various languages can give you an added advantage should you possess the required linguistic skills. Therefore, be mindful to state what languages you’re fluent in. It could make the world of difference having that leg up over your peers.

Achievements

Won any outstanding industry-related accolades, received scholarships, or garnered recognition for a project that you worked on? Including these in your CV not only showcases that you are indeed a competent individual, but also adds to your wealth of experience to help score an interview.

Skills

Possessing an arsenal of skills is a major plus point but don’t beef up your résumé with ones you don’t own. Be honest by listing noteworthy professional skills you’re equipped with – be it from Adobe Photoshop to Microsoft Office – and indicate the extent of your proficiency. You can also throw in soft skills you possess such as Leadership and Creativity, as a bonus.

Education

You might have the necessary skill set, achievements and qualities – but another aspect that will be taken into consideration is your educational history. Affirming that you have completed studies in a course relevant to the position you’ve applied for will encourage the employer to consider you, while adding in an impressive GPA or result will secure you brownie points. Not to mention, your qualifications will also be factored in when deciding on your pay grade.

Work Experience

Detailing your work experiences till date (including internships) will assist the employer to understand how suitable and equipped you are for the position, and allows them to have a clearer judgement of how suitable you’d be for the job. Be as elaborate as possible about what your responsibilities entailed and which company you were placed at, as being generic and ambiguous may result in your application being voided!

Not everything has to look standardised and serious when it comes to CVs. Here are some details you can add in depending on relevancy.

Hobbies Throw in a handful of your hobbies to add that personal touch. You can also use pictorial expressions of your interests to make your résumé a tad more striking. It could give the employer knowledge of something you both share in common, distinguishing you as a more relatable and likeable candidate.

CAREER REFERENCES A step up to having relevant work experience, is having someone (or more) who could give glowing recommendations on your job well done. With that being said, references should definitely go into your job application and CV, but you’d want to keep your résumé short and sweet.

Résumé Length Gone are the days where lengthy descriptions about your experience are required. Employers tend to only spend 15 to 30 seconds glancing through each application, so filter out what’s unnecessary and try keeping your résumé to a maximum of one page. Before you think that’s impossible, think of how to be strategic with your layout – just like this example we’ve shared with you!

INTERVIEW PREP

interview 101 Being prepared is half the battle won – here’s everything you need to know to stay on top of your interview prep game. By chew hui ling

BEFORE Congrats, you’ve landed an interview. Ready to ace it?

Do Your Homework This might seem like the most obvious thing to do, but there are candidates who still show up having little to no knowledge about the company they’re intending to work for. Before even submitting your application, do ample research on

the organisation’s history, values and services, check out their social media accounts, and even identify their main competitors. Also, read up on industry related news so you have a better grip of the latest trends in your field. Understanding the company’s culture will give you an edge over the competition.

socialise from the get-go From the moment you walk into the office compound, be friendly to everyone you meet along the way. Riding the elevator with a bunch of your potential co-workers? Don’t just stand there awkwardly – step up to introduce yourself

and initiate conversation. Leave the hard-selling for later; treat this as an opportunity to work on your interview skills while building rapport with your soon-to-be colleagues. Even better if you have their names memorised – all the better to greet them with after landing the gig!

Dress To Impress Not every workplace requires you to don a formal suit but it’s important to look presentable; and overdressed rather than underdressed. To prevent a dress code mishap, attempt a bit of geotag researching on Instagram to observe what the employees wear and pick out an appropriate outfit that fits the vibe. If all else fails, you can’t go wrong erring on the side of smart casual (think button-down shirt and pants for the guys and a well-tailored dress for the ladies). Pro tip: have a second set of clothes handy to save yourself from coffee spills or wardrobe malfunctions. Trust us, you never know when you’ll need it.

Never Too Early

Practice, Practice, Practice Avoid getting caught offguard during the interview by conducting a mock session beforehand to work on answering questions you might be asked. Not only does it help to frame your responses, this allows you to polish your communication skills while easing your nerves before the actual interview. Get a trusted friend to act as the interviewer, but make sure they are adept in identifying the weak areas you need to improve on and provide constructive feedback on your performance. As the saying goes, practice makes perfect!

Tardiness is a big no-no in any situation, so be sure to have everything prepared the night before to prevent a mad scramble on the day itself – get your outfit ready, your documents neatly filed away and your transportation route all mapped out. You can never predict when there will be traffic delays, thus it’s important to factor in a generous buffer time while commuting to your destination. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes earlier, but use those extra 20 minutes to mentally prep yourself before approaching the receptionist five minutes prior to the arranged time. While the proverb ‘the early bird catches the worm’ does ring true, showing up too early for your appointment can be a red flag, especially for employers who have schedules to attend to before that.

Interview Checklist Tick these off your list before setting foot into the interview.

Have Your Résumé ready Prepare hard copies of your résumé and other important documents in advance just in case your hiring manger doesn’t have them ready. Bring along extra copies in the event that there’s more than one interviewer sitting in.

Prepare References and Testimonials If your former lecturer or internship employer has written a letter of recommendation, including their testimonial can help to increase your credibility. Provide professional references and contact details as companies do conduct background checks.

Figure Out Directions Look up the directions to your destination beforehand so you won’t be worried about being late on your big day. If necessary, do a location recce a few days before the interview to familiarise yourself with the route.

A Quick Mirror Check Recruiters pay attention to personal grooming. Got a few minutes to spare? Duck into the washroom for a once-over – check for lipstick smudges on your teeth, blot away sweat or smooth out the wrinkles on your outfit.

Ditch Your Electronics Before heading in, put all your devices on silent mode and chuck them into your bag until the interview’s over. Having your phone lying in plain sight doesn’t just come across as sloppy and even disrespectful, incoming alerts serve as a distraction to the conversational flow too.

INTERVIEW PREP

during Walk through the doors set to make a killer impression with these surefire tips.

Make It Personal

TELLING UNTRUTHS

As tempted as you are to simply rattle off your résumé, you can bring your otherwise formulaic script to life by providing real-life examples from your previous education or work experience (if any). At the same time, highlight the responsibilities you were in charge of so you can better demonstrate your work values: showcasing leadership expertise while heading a project to completion, developing organisational skills while managing operations, etc. You can also throw in a few memorable anecdotes that happened over the course of it to keep your interviewer engaged. With that being said, keep in mind that there’s still a bottom line you shouldn’t cross. Harmless chitchat to break the ice is fine, but avoid making inappropriate jokes, delving into controversial matters such as politics, or droning on about your entire life story.

While having stellar qualifications will put you at an advantage, resist the urge to embellish even if it’s just to impress. You’re speaking in front of professionals who can easily tell whether you’re having a Pinocchio moment during an interview – this not only ruins your chances at getting the job, but will also jeopardise your reputation in the industry before you even get started. It’s one thing to enhance your credentials, but making up a story about your qualifications or experiences will inevitably backfire. Be honest if asked, then try to shift the conversation to what you hope to achieve in the future. “I may not have much experience, but I look forward to new challenges,” is a great place to start.

Ask The Right Questions

Mind Your (Body) Language

An interview should be a twoway street. Towards the end of the interview, you’re likely to be faced with perhaps the toughest question of all: “Do you have any questions?” Don’t hold back – it’s an opportunity for you to show your interest while sounding out more about the position. While most people tend to get queries about their day-to-day responsibilities out of the way, turn the tables by giving the interviewer a chance to talk about their role (“What do you like most about working here?”) and asking questions that are intended to grow the business (“What is the company’s vision for the future?”). Just be careful not to jump the gun and bring up the topic of salary until perhaps the second meeting as it can come across as presumptuous.

You’ve heard the standard know-hows: have a firm handshake, maintain eye contact, sit up straight. Besides taking a confident stance, it’s also important to take note of your little movements throughout the interview. A major deal-breaker is the lack of engagement, so you can try to use appropriate hand gestures when speaking in order to illustrate your points. Refrain from fidgety cues such as darting your eyes around the room, twirling your hair or shaking your legs, as these are telltale signs that you’re nervous or distracted. For safe measure, rehearse in front of a mirror so you can monitor your body posture and facial expressions, and tweak your gestures accordingly.

AFTER

Ace Those Questions Navigate any curveballs thrown your way with this Q&A cheat sheet.

What motivates you?

You’re one step closer to sealing the deal. Here’s how you can end it off on a good note!

There isn’t really a wrong answer to this question, but you might want to tailor your response to the industry you’re hoping to work for. Trying out for media? Express your passion in creating content. Have a knack for business? Share the not-so lofty goals you seek to achieve in the long run. Ultimately, the aim is to assess your drive for the job and how willing you are to go above and beyond.

What are your weaknesses? “Being a perfectionist”? Bad idea. While employers are not looking for textbook answers, they want to know whether you’re self-aware about your own shortcomings and how you overcame it. If you had difficulty staying organised, talk about how you brushed up on your time management skills. With that being said, don’t get overly candid about your flaws, you don’t want to kill your chances of getting hired!

Tell me about a problem you faced in school and how you handled it. Save the story about the time you had a meltdown over spilled milk for another day. This question evaluates your ability to cope under high-pressure situations, and knowing how you handle challenges helps to determine your work attitude. Being able to think quick on your feet and make smart decisions are desirable qualities for an ideal candidate.

How can you contribute to the organisation? Chances are your interviewer already has a specific set of requirements in mind, so your best bet would be to list out strengths related to the position you’re applying for, while sharing your thoughts on how you can further contribute. Not only will they appreciate you giving your two cents, it also displays the effort that went into your research. This shows that you’re well-prepared for the interview, on top of your dedication in being part of the company.

How do you think our company should evolve in the next five years? This tests your knowledge about the industry’s strengths, challenges and opportunities. Ensure you’ve done your research beforehand – make a list of improvements you hope to see, and plan out how you can help implement these changes. Your interviewer will have a clearer idea of what value you can bring to the table after understanding your standpoint. Just remember not to slam the company’s existing practices or strategies in your quest to impress!

Get The Deets Don’t just make a beeline for the door after wrapping up the interview; make sure you know who exactly to get in touch with next so you can follow up accordingly, as well as when you can expect to hear back from the company. If you’ve yet to receive a response by the stated time frame, try dropping a friendly note to check in with them on the hiring progress. However, don’t push it further if they are evasive about making a decision. You want to seem interested, not desperate!

Seek Feedback Collect constructive feedback so you can review your performance thereafter. Be mindful not to put the other party on the spot by outrightly questioning whether you’ll be offered the position – instead, you can seek their critique on the areas you could improve on and whether they can provide any advice for you. Even if you didn’t get shortlisted, this says a lot about your character. And who knows, they might even keep you in mind for future opportunities!

Show Your Gratitude Always remember to ask for business cards and send a ‘thank you’ email within 48 hours to show your appreciation in them taking the time to speak with you. Reiterate some of the key reasons why you’d love to work for the company and what you hope to contribute in the future. If there’s a point you missed out on or a question that wasn’t covered during the interview, take this chance to further prove your worth and clear up any doubts. You might even want to reference an interesting titbit the both of you shared during the session or a specific detail you recall about the interviewer – it’s a great way to score bonus points. 9

INTERVIEW PREP

best face

forward Put together your face like how you would your résumé – polished, powerful, and with a pop of personality. It’s time to nail those first impressions with these interview-appropriate looks.

MAQuillAGE Dramatic Mood Eyes in BR616, $48 The perfect eyeshadow for everyday wear, this palette packs four versatile colours that will help you create a natural yet polished look. And it even includes instructions on how to achieve a basic look!

Maybelline Fashion Brow Promade, $16.90 Be it sculpting sparse hairs or taming unruly arches, get your eyebrows on fleek in one easy sweep.

Rimmel London 25H Lasting Finish Foundation, $24.90

NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in Cobalt, $12

Perfect, all-day coverage is but a blend away thanks to this long-wear foundation that promises transferresistant coverage for up to 25 hours.

Doubling up as an eyeliner and eyeshadow, this noviceproof eye pencil glides on effortlessly sans any tugging or pulling on delicate eye areas.

Moonshot Stick Extreme in Swizzle Pink, $27 Truly a beauty trooper for any girl on the go, this multi-tasking wonder can be used on the lips, cheeks and face for a fresh, monochromatic look.

Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions, $45 While applying concealer to blemishes might clog up your pores, this medicated formula treats and prevents pimples while providing natural-looking coverage.

Photography: Justin Loh/Shining Head Media Styling: Sharon Tan assisted by Jessica Khor Makeup: Larry Yeo using Sephora Collection Skincare assisted by Yuhui Hair: Alicia Tey using LaBiosthetique Models: Jasmine/ Now Models and Caleb/ Mannequin

By Johanna Teo

Eyes

Cheeks

Lips

During an interview, it’s important to look less ‘Social Media’ and more work appropriate. If black eyeliner looks harsh, use a dark blue eyeliner which will help brighten up your eyes.

Create a stylish monochromatic look by using the same shade on the eyes, lips and cheeks. A neutral pink hue can freshen up your overall look while keeping it fuss-free.

Stash your lip liners for this diffused lip look which perks up your pout while lending a softer edge. Simply apply and smudge out using your fingertips.

Celebrity makeup artist, Larry Yeo says: Using an extremely pink or copper eyeshadow may cause your eyes to look puffy. Add dimension and create a neutral eye by layering it a muave shade over it – this gives depth which both sculpts the eye and leaves a natural look.

INTERVIEW PREP

Hair Always make sure your hair is polished. Messy hair might give the impression that you were not prepared for the interview.

Brows While you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to do major filling in of your brows, be sure you keep them neat with brow gel.

Larry Yeo says: Keep the products you use to a minimum. For example, neaten your full brows with brow gel to hold it in place. You can use a tinted moisturiser or a sheer CC cream to even out uneven skin tone, or use concealer to cover blemishes when you need it. Remember to match the colour to your skin tone to avoid attending interviews while wearing the wrong shade for your complexion.

THEFACESHOP Miracle CC Long-Lasting Cushion, $32

Vichy Dermablend Corrective Stick 14HR, POA Whether it’s concealing unsightly blemishes or covering uneven skin tone, this handy concealer gives up to 14 hours of lightweight yet high-coverage wear. Using a tapping motion, apply the concealer and blend outward for a seamless finish.

For guys who are exploring makeup, this Long-Lasting CC Cushion is formulated with primer substance which enhances natural and long-lasting coverage even in humid weather without drying out skin.

Kiehl’s Lip Balm #01, $17 A little lip balm goes a long way – Kiehl’s Lip Balm #1 is formulated with soothing emollients like Sweet Almond Oil, Vitamin A and E to keep your lips chap- and crack-free.

Maybelline Brow Precise Fibre Volumizer Mascara, $17.90 While most guys already have enviably thick brows, grooming and defining unruly arches will help you look that much more presentable.

We Need A Hero Pomade Hero Matte, $40 A staple in the modern male’s grooming arsenal, hair pomade is an increasingly popular choice when it comes to achieving a sleek hairstyle that stays in place the entire day. Now you can head for multiple interviews with nary a hair out of place.

eats

out to MAKAN Spare yourself the CBD crowd and hit up these haunts away from the hustle and bustle. By Chew Hui Ling

For guilt-free clean eats

Loloku

1 Keong Saik Road #01-05, Singapore 089109 The CBD area is home to a plethora of healthy joints, but unlike its grab-and-go counterparts, Loloku offers a chill ambience where you can enjoy wholesome Hawaiian goodness while soaking up the Insta-worthy surrounds – think marble counters, pink flamingos and tropical prints. Poké bowls are the specialty at this brand new deli, which allows you to take your pick from signature bowls such as The Nani Tofu (from $12), The Wikiwiki Salmon (from $14) and The Koa Wagyu (from $16). For the fussier health nuts, you can also DIY your own poké combi with your choice of proteins, carbs and toppings, then upgrade it with avocado, pomegranate or slow cooked egg for extra flavour.

For pre-meeting brunches

The Daily Roundup

1 Keong Saik Road #01-02, Singapore 089109

For working in style

Monument Lifestyle

75 Duxton Road, Singapore 089534 We know it’s hard to stay sane cooped up in an office cubicle all day. Set up camp at this cosy nook instead, which has everything you need to bang out some solid work: free Wi-Fi, plenty of power points and minimalist vibes served up in a laidback setting. Their menu is a tad limited for now, but there’s a small selection of artisanal toasts (from $6.50) for those in need of a quick bite – flavours include avocado, nutella and cinnamon. If you need a caffeine boost, these guys open at 8am so you can pop by for a cuppa before getting back on the grind. Part lifestyle concept store, the gents can also get shopping done at the retail corner which stocks up a curated collection of menswear, grooming products and even surfboards. Not a bad backup plan when your buds are off to the beach!

The Daily Roundup is no stranger to working folks, drawing in an AM crowd of suits and heels swinging by for a hearty brekkie before starting the day. Tucked away within coworking space The Working Capitol, this pastel haven is great for catching up with friends over sweet crepes (from $10) or hunkering down for casual meetings with savoury galettes (from $16). For those on a healthy eating streak, they also offer light bites such as the Amazonian Acai Bowl ($12), infused with coconut water, toasted superfood granola and seasonal fruits; and the Candied Bacon Caesar Salad ($14) topped with fresh greens and an organic poached egg.

For late-night shenanigans

Don’t Tell Mama

52 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088473 Why hole up in your room eating cup noodles when you could be unwinding with good food with your best mates? After a long day at work, treat yourself to lip-smacking KoreanMexican fare at Don’t Tell Mama. An Australian brunch spot by day and fusion bistro by night, this industrial-chic watering hole only busts out its oil drum tables, raw concrete walls and rustic pipe lights after 5pm and stays open till midnight. Don’t expect anything heavy on the menu, which boasts sharing options from the likes of Beef Taco ($12), Kimchi Fries ($18) and Bulgogi Quesadilla ($14) – perfect for nighttime conversations over bar snacks and a hearty beverage.

on the job

totally #SFW Be it having your social media profiles viewed by potential employers or curious new colleagues, the last thing you would want is embarrassing content that would jeopardise your rep or career. Maintain a clean and effective online presence with these easy know-hows. By bryan yeong

“It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it. If you think about that, you’ll do things differently.” – Warren Buffett

Post Inappropriate Content

Comment About Your Work Online

The party you attended the weekend before was #Lit, and the photos uploaded online certainly prove it – too well. Pictures that feature you partying might seem like harmless fun, but it might leave a bad taste in your colleagues’ mouth. Prevent yourself from becoming the unnecessary victim of trivial gossip in the office by not posting the photos online. If that’s not an option in this digital age, utilise the ‘Privacy’ function on your social platforms and set them to be hidden from anyone of concern.

Sending out work-related updates on your social media platforms can be a doubleedged sword. While sharing your enthusiasm for work will be positively received as a whole, being overly expressive of your work achievements might be off-putting for your colleagues. While on the opposite end of the spectrum, publicly expressing negative thoughts and complaining about your workload (or boss) won’t do you any favours either. Be safe rather than sorry, by keeping both celebrations and frustrations about work solely for your trusted confidants.

Great party with the besties!

Another screwed up day at work. I wish I could just leave this place!

Use Correct Language Nothing could be a greater red flag for potential employers than your online posts containing misspellings, bad grammar or the wrong usage of words. Ensure that your profile descriptions and social media updates are free from mistakes and be sure to proofread before publishing them for public viewing. If you need a second opinion, get a trusted professional or your parents to make any required amendments. Refrain from using vulgarities even in casual posts – they certainly won’t add any intellect to your viewpoints and could reflect badly on you if noticed by corporate peers.

OMG!! My colleague’s makeup is really #CMI

Subscribe to Your Career Interests Notice your colleagues liking the same Instagram posts you do? Subscribing to online feeds and official brand accounts that are related to your scope of work will not only keep you updated, but also let others know you have similar interests – which both increases your relatability factor and makes for good conversational topics the next time you see them IRL. With that being said, staying up to date with industry news guarantees you won’t be left out in professional conversations, all the better for you to mingle with!

Be Offensive

Be Careless

While everyone has the right to their opinions, being overly vocal on your views of social matters might just land you in hot soup. We’ve all witnessed cases of controversial statements and behaviour going viral online, which led to companies firing said employees. Instead of ignorantly following in their footsteps, prevent yourself from committing a similar blunder by steering clear of airing any offensive opinions online. Should you feel affected by a situation and feel the need to share your thoughts on a public outlet, write them down in an objective, professional and inoffensive manner. Getting a high number of likes and comments on your page can be a good thing – but only when they’re for the right reasons.

If you’re in charge of managing your company’s online profile, this might see you juggling multiple social media accounts between your work and personal profile. Before uploading anything, be sure you’re about to blast the correct content to the right account and channel. You’d not appreciate the panic attack that comes with accidentally sending out a shameless #Selfie on your work account, risking unwanted questions from your boss before you manage to take it down. Never take social media for granted and remember to meticulously examine every single aspect of your postings before uploading them!

My boss is not even here! Why am I here?!?

My boss just loves to push her extra work to me...

Filter Personal Matters From Your account Having a work-life balance goes further than just knocking off punctually to spend time with loved ones. Keeping your personal and professional lives separate online is an essential, unspoken part of the job too. Your bosses and colleagues don’t need to see your lengthy Facebook status updates about how badly your day went or whatever you choose to rant about next. Shed a positive light on your social posts and good vibes will return your way. Always remember, nobody likes a perpetual downer!

Got promoted in only my third month. Woohoo! I think my boss loves me :)

Keep It To A Minimum Social media updates tend to have higher views if they’re posted less frequently – even Facebook’s algorithm marks persistent posts as spam! Do yourself a favour and avoid being classified as a ‘spammer’ and maintain your posts to the essentials. Posting too often (and during working hours) may give the impression that you’re on your phone 24/7, inadvertently giving rise to the assumption that you’re shirking away from work. The next time you’re poised to upload multiple images on Instagram, ask yourself: “Do my followers really need to see it from three different angles?”

on the job

(Net)working It Set your career on the fast track to success with these great networking apps! By Bryan Yeong

Free, available on Apple iTunes App Store and Google Play Store

The first step in the working world is setting up your LinkedIn profile. Essentially the Facebook for professionals – connect with industry peers, keep tabs on jobs and corporations that are curated to your preferences and enable other professionals to get in touch with you easily. Put up your most professional profile photo (selfies are a no-no!), fill in your online résumé with your educational and career background, link up with friends and work associates – and you’re all set to take the workforce by storm.

Lunch Kaki

Free, available on Apple iTunes App Store and Google Play Store

Contrary to popular belief, social apps don’t always equate to dating or meeting that ‘special someone’. It could also mean broadening your professional network or even creating job prospects. Enter Lunch Kaki, the local social networking app that puts a professional spin on your casual lunch break. With the app, meet like-minded lunch companions around your office area, arrange for meetings with clients, or even meet with potential employers for interviews in the vicinity. Socialising over food? Sign us up please!

City Hour

Free, available on Apple iTunes App Store

In between meetings and realising you have time to spare? No problem. Download the City Hour app to connect with fellow professionals within an 80km radius around you. Take networking to the next level by using the app to filter possible meetups according to people with similar interests and specific industries, and you could be meeting your next business partner or employer just around the corner. You can also sync your contacts with your Facebook and LinkedIn accounts to create job opportunities with people you already know.

Meetup

Free, available on Apple iTunes App Store and Google Play Store

If you’re looking to set your career in the right direction, Meetup just might be the app that helps you do so. Effortlessly search for groups, meetings or events in your country that are catered to your interests, and start networking with others to learn, share and discuss more on industry insights. There’s a wide array of Meetup categories as well, ranging from Photography to Tech groups, so you’ll definitely be able to find one that suits your needs.

Shapr

Free, available on Apple iTunes App Store and Google Play Store

A networking gem, Shapr gives you the option to connect with fellow professionals based on who you’re interested in befriending. Anonymously swipe through suggested business profiles based on their interests, locations and experiences and get acquainted once a match is made. You never know who you might encounter, and you could very well be swiping your way to a successful career!

CamCard

Full version available at $1.48 on Apple iTunes App Store and Google Play Store

Put away that bulky stack of name cards and store them in an all-in-one solution with CamCard. If this feature doesn’t make your life any easier (and wallet slimmer), the app also allows you to exchange e-cards instead of traditional cards with new contacts, and fetches you updates on industry trends and happenings so you’ll never run out of topics to discuss with the right crowd. The Lite version lets you store up to 200 contacts and is available for free!

Meeting strangers online inevitably poses potential risks and dangers. No matter how well you get along with that individual, always be cautious of your safety!

on the job

The Dos and Don’ts of Networking Not sure how to start forging connections through the industry? We’ve got you covered. By Bryan Yeong

You’re just about to enter the working world and you’re already preparing yourself for the start of a new chapter. Before you psych yourself out at the sheer thought of all the

industry lingo to learn, new responsibilities to handle and establishing your presence in the field, learn these insider tips that will have you networking like a seasoned professional in no time.

Ask Questions The key to building up working relationships is to constantly enquire more about the other party, showing interest and eagerness to learn more about what they do and what else they’re working on at the moment. Raising questions to new contacts will also spark them to courteously ask the same towards you, which is the golden opportunity for you to share more on your profession. If you want to get acquainted with a key contact in the room, or should you be seeking advice from an industry expert, don’t shy away from asking mutual contacts for an introduction. You’ll never know the possibilities unless you try!

Overcompensate While you may feel pressured to perform work favours for new contacts, don’t make the mistake of doing so at the expense of your career. It’s best to be realistic and honest about your capabilities – so should anyone ask for your help in a particular situation, you’ll earn their trust when you provide what’s expected and not underdeliver. Being consistently reliable will also gradually allow you to make a name for yourself in the industry, and make you a standout to your peers and superiors alike.

Follow Up

Be Sincere

Nothing is more of a wasted opportunity than when a fresh connection runs stale after the initial introduction. Make sure to follow up with the new contacts you’ve made by thanking them via e-mail or text message to express your pleasure at the encounter. Extending an offer to show you’re willing to help with anything they may need in the future will also leave a positive impression and give them reasons to keep you in mind for possible partnerships or projects.

Being genuine can also work in your favour with contacts and get you in their good books. If you can’t make it for an event or appointment, it’s better to be upfront and say you’re tied up with other commitments rather than giving false hope and not show up. People would appreciate your sincerity and be more willing to invite you to future gatherings. Be mindful to also be authentic to your personality and not pretend to be someone you’re not just to try impressing industry veterans – with their years of experience, they’ll likely see through your act. When it comes to networking, honesty is still the best policy.

Have An Open Mind Networking might be daunting, but it is essential to approach everyone you meet with an open and welcoming mindset. Be it colleagues, clients or industry players, you’ll definitely meet people from vastly different backgrounds and walks of life. Avoid counting out communicating with anyone simply based on first impressions. Rather, be friendly and receptive to everyone who approaches you and exchange courteous smiles should you share eye contact with a stranger. It’s certainly better to be remembered as friendly rather than misunderstood for being anti-social.

Neglect Your Social Media Social media has risen through the ranks to become the most important tool in the networking game. Apart from curating an impressive profile that represents your signature brand, you can also use your digital platforms to connect with your peers or even industry veterans whom you might not have had the opportunity to meet IRL. But don’t get overzealous in your attempts to broaden your network. Take heed of basic online etiquette like not befriending personal Facebook accounts till you’re actually friends with the person or dropping overly personal DMs on Instagram/Twitter. Find out more about keeping a healthy online presence on p. 16!

Be Unprofessional Even though networking involves social gatherings and ample conversation, don’t neglect the fact that you’re still representing your company and that you should always maintain a professional image. Steer clear from raising overly personal or intrusive questions towards people you just met, and making inappropriate jokes that might backfire on your genuine intentions. Nobody likes attention seekers, so channel your efforts into making meaningful conversations – you’ll end up leaving a positive impression this way.

Take Advantage of Your Connections Likewise, with helping others out with favours, it’s perfectly acceptable to ask your contacts for assistance on your own projects as well. Just make sure to not cross the line and push for personal favours or overdo it by only contacting them for this sole purpose. Maintain a friendly but respectful rapport with your connections to avoid suggesting that you only reach out when you need something from them. There’s a distinct line between being an opportunist and an exploiter – be sure not to be the latter.

on the job

get heard, Get Ahead Secured your dream job and eager to make your mark in the industry? Here are eight need-to-know tips to help you navigate corporate waters, and thrive while at it. By JOHANNA TEO

Take Initiative

Understand Your Company Basic research would’ve already been done during your interview phase, but in-depth understanding of company objectives, key businesses, policies and even day-to-day operations are in order. Finding out the big picture (and how your role fits in) can better equip you with the knowledge needed to move ahead. Being observant, asking your seniors and even reading company newsletters will go a long way in helping you attain a broader prospective.

Tip: Being the new kid at the workplace, it can be intimidating to voice your thoughts or ideas and risk looking foolish or worse,

Doing your job and doing it well is a given, but being proactive will not only improve your work performance, but also help your employers recognise you as a company asset and perhaps even management material. Small actions count too; from being able to carry out tasks and exceed expectations, to thinking ahead on how to improve the outcome of any given situation, to sharing fresh ideas and suggestions during meetings, having initiative will put you on the fast track to career success.

causing your boss to view you

#2 Get Industry Updated A follow-up to the first point, understanding the industry and knowing who the company’s competitors are (and what they’re up to) is important especially if you’re new to the field. Keep abreast of the latest industry trends via social media or digital platforms – set a Google alert on relevant companies or keywords if you have to. At the very least, you’ll have impressive material for work-related gabs with your colleagues. #KnowledgeIsPower

unfavourably. But don’t let this stop you from speaking up or retaining your own perspectives – at the very least, your opinion could drive productive discussion which could eventually generate a much-needed solution, or you could find likeminded colleagues who were holding back on the same thoughts. It’s completely alright to not subscribe to mob mentality. Having your unique mindset will set you apart from the ‘Yes men’ of the pack.

#4 Socialise, Socialise, Socialise Establishing a good rapport with your colleagues (and not only the ones you work directly with) fosters not only a healthy working environment that encourages effective communication; it can also positively affect how higher management perceives you. And you’ll be able to truly flourish, being less intimidated in the company of your work-friends and more likely to speak out and step up for leadership opportunities. Did anyone say career advancement?

#5 Dress To Impress “Dress for the job you want, not for the job you have” – while clichéd, this phrase does ring true. Although the standard dress code differs according to industry, dressing appropriately for your work environment projects a professional image that encourages positive impressions from colleagues and clients alike, while boosting your confidence. New to the company and not sure how to dress? Take style cues from your bosses/ supervisors; subtly mirroring their style might even subconsciously lead them to seeing you as one of them. Need more workplace-appropriate style tips? Head to p. 28!

#6 Promote YourSelf Unsurprisingly, the route to promotion starts with yourself. While it may easily come off as bragging, tooting your own horn (albeit subtly) is a good way to highlight achievements that might otherwise be missed. Some ways to do so without seeming obnoxious would be to constantly (and casually) keep your boss updated on progress, forwarding your supervisor an email from a satisfied customer, or even updating your LinkedIn to reflect your accomplishments. Don’t be afraid to draw attention to your colleague’s good work too – help nurture an environment where good performance is recognised and praised, and others will consequentially highlight your own work successes!

#7 Tip: Office politics are inevitable, but help to foster a good work environment by not participating in negative behaviour. Lead by example – if there’s something that upsets you, address the issue directly instead of skirting the problem by mouthing off to your work friends.

be actively involved Similar to joining a CCA back in school, getting involved in work-related side projects is a great way to score points and gain fun new experiences while getting to network within the company. Try volunteering your services to organise the next team building session or opt to lead the next corporate responsibility event – as long as it doesn’t interfere with your daily tasks, you should be good to go!

#8 Tip: Keep a list of your achievements – awards won, projects managed etc. – as you score them and make sure it is updated weekly/monthly. These are quantifiable facts that will come in handy for your next performance appraisal or to beef up your résumé.

Always Be Learning You may have just graduated but that doesn’t mean the learning stops. Whether it’s upgrading your skill set during your own time, snagging company training opportunities or actively seeking out new information while on the job, be receptive to learning opportunities and information that may shape new perspectives and future pathways.

on the job

co-working IT It’s a no-brainer that getting along with your colleagues will make work more enjoyable. Here’s how you can win over your office mates in six easy steps! By chew hui ling

You Had Me At ‘Hello’ You may not be much of a morning person, but plodding into the office without making an effort to acknowledge others can be seen as disrespectful. It’s only basic office etiquette to greet your fellow colleagues, so make it a habit to greet those you encounter on your way to the office. That’s not to say you should always make an entrance; keep in mind that there are some who are already deep into work and prefer not to be disrupted

so just a simple smile or nod will do the trick. These small gestures can go a long way!

Let’s Get Personal Work can get a tad mundane, and sometimes the only thing that makes it better is the people around you. We’re not asking you to be BFFs, but it wouldn’t hurt to ask how their weekend was, or finding out what their hobbies are over coffee. Getting to know each other on a personal

level will make others feel more comfortable around you while encouraging a cohesive work environment. Beyond working for the same boss or having the same office crush (uh-oh!), you might even discover common interests between the both of you!

Be A Go-Getter If there isn’t much on your plate, ask around if your higher-ups need a hand with anything – whether it’s helping to coordinate the logistics or contributing ideas

for an upcoming campaign. Of course, you should always seek the green light from your supervisor before acting on your own. Taking the initiative to go beyond your job scope not only earns you respect from your co-workers, but also shows your boss that you can be a valuable addition to the team. Tread lightly though – you don’t want to end up being the resident pushover! Volunteer only when you can, not because you’re being taken advantage of.

Play The Blame Game Let’s say you were tasked to lead the team in completing a project, but you messed up. Would you a) take responsibility of your actions or b) point fingers at your own teammates? If you chose the latter, you’re portraying yourself as untrustworthy and self-centered. Whether you’re the one at fault or not, throwing your colleagues under the bus is unprofessional and you ought to address the issue with a cool head. Don’t let the ill feelings fester – explain to your boss exactly what went wrong and apologise to the others at an appropriate timing. Everybody makes mistakes, but it’s knowing how to handle the situation with grace that matters.

Rear The GreenEyed Monster

Too Much Info There’s nothing wrong with being chummy with your colleagues, but it’s also important to know where to draw the line. A lot of us get so wrapped up in talking about ourselves that we tend to spew everything about our personal lives. Your deskmate doesn’t need updates on your never-ending neighbour wars, and spare the new hire from overhearing your breakup drama. Oversharing could potentially jeopardise your career so be cautious of what you choose to share – if someone looks uncomfortable, switch gears on the conversation.

It’s all too easy to get swept up in jealousy, especially in a high-pressure environment where you can’t help but pit yourself against others. While it may start out as friendly rivalry, you may not realise when the green-eyed monster rears its ugly head and you end up turning against your own peers. If you find yourself on the edge of sabotage territory, an honest conversation is in order. Chances are, your nemesis might be struggling just as much. When you put yourself in others’ shoes, it allows you to understand their perspective and feel better about yourself. TIP: Instead of letting someone else’s success get you down, channel the negative energy into positive motivation and challenge yourself to learn from them and work even harder!

Get into your boss’ good books with these starter tips. (no, there’s no bootlicking involved!) #1 Ask for feedback. Don’t be afraid to get your boss’ opinion upon completing a task. Instead of blatantly fishing for compliments, pose specific questions like “How did the meeting go from your perspective?” and “What do you think I could’ve done better during the presentation?”. While this helps to review your performance, it’s also a chance to foster a deeper relationship.

#2 Strive to exceed expectations. For instance, if you’re assigned a project to be submitted by a certain deadline, keep your boss informed of your progress but surprise them by completing it earlier than expected. This demonstrates your ability to manage your workload effectively and sets you up for bigger opportunities ahead.

#3 Know Their Preferences. Pay attention to your boss’ communication style so you can learn to adapt accordingly. You may prefer keeping things short and sweet, but if your boss wants to receive an in-person debrief or a detailed account of what went on after every meeting, it’s probably in your best interest to change up your approach. #4 Be authentic. Everyone wants to be noticed, but don’t be perceived as the person who kisses up to the boss. Delivering a cup of coffee to their desk every morning is uncalled for, but they’ll definitely appreciate you grabbing one for them on your way back from lunch every now and then.

on the job

PAY, CHECKED! Received your first paycheck? Resist the temptation to shop! Here are six better areas to direct your cash to, that your future self will thank you for. By Yuen Yi Ying

Pay Yourself

Commit to saving a percentage of your income each month as a deposit for the years to come. When you start early, you’ll generate more returns on the interest the bank pays you (it’s called compound interest), and it’s an added bonus that you didn’t really have to work for! Putting cash in a regular savings account won’t help your money grow quickly, but before considering investments with potentially higher returns, always speak to a financial advisor and examine your options.

Get Rid Of Debt

Student loans and credit card debt have rather high interest rates, and if you don’t pay them off as soon as you can, you might only be able to cover the interest without getting rid of the owed sum. This could seriously affect your chances of getting a loan in future and senselessly eat into your future income. To prevent this scenario, avoid setting up more than two credit card accounts or you might be tempted to spend lavishly. If you have a giant loan that lets you make a payment every two weeks instead of monthly, opt to do that so you can make 26 payments a year instead of 12. This shortens your loan period – and thus the monthly interest on the sum owed – saving you loads of cash. It’ll be tough curbing your spendings, but this method will literally pay off.

Get Insured

If you haven’t already gotten yourself a life plan, it might be a good time to start thinking of one. Getting insured helps you pay for healthcare if you get sick, mitigates potential earnings or asset loss, and helps support your family financially if something happens to you. Try to get it as soon as possible as insurance is cheaper when you’re younger and healthier. If you develop health issues before getting insured, those might be excluded from your coverage or spike the price of your payments. You’ll also need to pay those premiums over a couple decades or so, and you don’t want to worry about those fees when you’re trying to retire. Again, always seek out a trusted financial advisor and review your choices before committing to a plan.

Take Steps Towards Owning Property While a car is cheaper, it’s a depreciating asset and you don’t need one to impress anybody. Also, paying rent is pointless when the money could’ve gone to paying for a house of your own. Of course, buying property requires a sizeable sum of cash, so work towards it as early as you can. Once you’re a homeowner, you can choose to live in your house or rent it out later to generate extra income.

Create Piggy Bank Savings for Emergencies

Don’t neglect the power of saving loose change! Make full use of your piggy bank by depositing coins remaining in your wallet at the end of every day. Staying committed will have you realise the effectiveness of it when you surprise yourself with how much savings you’ve accumulated after three months!

Invest in Your Business

Avoid Paying Taxes

If you’ve got a great idea, why not kick it off the ground? Youths have a natural entrepreneurial streak powered by fearless courage, a sense of adventure, abounding energy, and overflowing creativity. If the business generates an income, be sure to re-invest the profit into your company rather than frittering it away. This could mean hiring staff to improve productivity, upgrading your tools or website, and increasing your range of products. Every few months, review your business so you know what works and avoid expanding faster than you can keep up.

No, we’re not talking about income tax which you should never evade. We’re talking about sales and service taxes which you incur when you eat out or buy things. Be modest with your spending and ask yourself if you really need the item you’re trying to get. You can always buy these things later or trade up your gear for fancier models when your cash flow is in a better place. Not having to prove yourself will make you happier in the long run!

ON THE JOB

ready to hustle A wardrobe essential that is both easy to wear and office appropriate, stripes are a versatile design that will go well with tailored trousers or midi skirts, no matter if it’s slightly oversized or in a fitted style.

You can’t go wrong with a midi skirt. Amp up your style factor by including interesting textures or subtle design details which would keep your outfit from looking dull and unfashionable.

Downsize your purse into this cute clutch that’ll bring you from day to night with its sleek envelope design that’s roomy enough to store the essentials for work, but not too bulky for dinner dates. Shenel knotted top, $29, The Editor’s Market White button-down top, $39.90, UNIQLO Teal slim fit pants, $39.90, Pur Pur Structured trapeze bag, $89.90, Black stilettos, $53.90, Charles & Keith

Photography: Justin Loh/Shining Head Media Styling: Sharon Tan assisted by Jessica Khor Makeup: Larry Yeo using Sephora Collection Skincare, assisted by YuhuI Hair: Alicia Tey using LaBiosthetique Models: Jasmine S / Now Models and Caleb C / Mannequin

Stripe shell top, $79.90, Colin envelope clutch, $39.90, TOPSHOP :CHOCOOLATE pleated skirt with suspenders, POA, i.t Silver tassel shoes, $39, The Editor’s Market

Don’t slip into the corporate uniform just yet! Ahead, stylist Sharon Tan shares her top tips for building a fun yet work-friendly wardrobe.

The easiest thing to throw on during lazy days and yet still look polished, stand out from the snooze-fest dresses by choosing pretty pastel hues and creative necklines.

A surprising style staple, wide-legged pants class up any outfit while adding visual length to petite figures. Adding a belt around the waistline will tie your look together and create a leaner silhouette.

Choker-strap dress, $35, The Editor’s Market Cuff bangle, $24.90, Multi-circular buckle handbag, $79.90, Black stilettos, $53.90, Charles & Keith Lace textured blouse, $69, CRAYON Ducan wrap pants, $49, Silver tassel shoes, $39, The Editor’s Market

Wear the party on your feet with fancy footwear that’ll keep your colleagues on their toes (in a good way). This pair of metallic silver loafers might seem a tad too fun for work wear, but paired correctly, it can complement a neutral colour palette without distracting from it.

ON THE JOB

There’s no excuse not to dress up! Get ready to take on the corporate world with these style tips and outfit inspirations.

Every guy should own a decent suit, be it for a classy work event or a formal occasion. Here are two quick sizing tips to help you get the perfect fit!

Colour coordination can make or break your entire outfit. Whether it’s keeping your outfit safe by sticking to a monochrome palette, or colour-charting your way to success, it’s best to stick to only one printed/brightly coloured item for a start.

When unfolded, the sleeves should stop slightly beyond your wrist, enough for 1/4 inch of your shirt cuff to be seen when your arms are extended. Check that your blazer isn’t too snug or loose by fastening the top button. If it creases or pulls against the button, then it’s not a good fit. White button-down shirt, $99, G2000 Linen checkered blazer, POA, Linen checkered slim trousers, $79.90, H&M Dr. Martens 1461 black smooth shoes, $209, Bratpack Watch, Black leather belt, Socks, Stylist’s own

Checkered button down shirt, $69.90, Blue suede leather belt, $39.90, TOPMAN Navy slim fit trousers, POA, G2000 Daniel Wellington Classic Black watch in rose-gold, $239 Black leather shoes, Stylist’s own

Liven up a classic shirt with accessories in classic prints. If you’re bold enough to mix prints, pick a tie with a colour and design that is contrasting against your shirt. Pair large patterns with smaller ones so they complement each other visually.

With simple layering, sweater-weather outfits can be suitable for the workplace too. Pair a textured grey knit top with a teal collared shirt for a pop of colour. A pair of slouchy charcoal pants will tie in nicely with the loose-fitting top.

Denim button-down shirt, $99, Stripe tie, $53, G2000 Heather grey slim fit trousers, $73.90, TOPMAN Garmin fēnix 5X, $1,099 Black backpack, POA, Cumulus Nimbus Dr. Martens 1461 black smooth shoes, $209, Bratpack Black leather belt, Stylist’s own

Swapping your standard briefcase for a functional backpack? Keep your image professional by selecting one with a sleek, fuss-free design; aim for sophisticated, not sporty.

Gingham knit sweater, POA, G2000 Teal button-down shirt, $53.90, TOPMAN Spring Icons by The Weeknd slim fit cropped trousers, $69.90, H&M Daniel Wellington Classic Canterbury, $239, Black leather shoes, Stylist’s own

ON THE JOB

On him Brushwork printed shirt, POA, G2000 Spring Icons by The Weeknd slim fit cropped trousers, $69.90, H&M Blue suede leather belt, $39.90, Parrot printed socks, $13.90, TOPMAN Klokers KLOK-01 watch in new port yellow, $699, ANTÉ Black leather shoes, Stylist’s own

As a rule of thumb, the waist of your pants should fall just two inches below the belly button. To test the fit, try sitting down – your trousers shouldn’t be straining against your thighs, and it should fit comfortably above your knees while tapering slightly below. And for the ever tricky pant length situation, a slight break in the hemline is a classic way to look contemporary yet professional.

On her Blue Ferron side-button jumpsuit, $39, Black lace choker, $9, The Editor’s Market Brown circular buckle handbag, $79.90, Silver knot cuff bangle, $29.90, Black stilettos, $53.90, Charles & Keith

A versatile outfit choice that looks both professional and dynamic, jumpsuits are a trendy solution for balancing different dress codes. To avoid looking too informal, keep the hemline of your jumpsuits to below knee-length.

Triangle drop earrings, $23.90, Topshop Slim fit shirt $39.90, H&M

Solvil et Titus 06-2983-004, $280, City Chain

Striped top with bow, $49.90, Zara

Festina Mens Chronograph watch, POA, Aptimos

Embossed geometric belt, $19.90, Bershka

Corporate

gear

Conquer the workforce clad in these powerful style essentials

Rahul&Anthony â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Gagliardoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; bifold wallet in Abyss/ Rubino, $220, Zalora

Metallic leather coin purse with tassel, $16.89, ASOS

Ucon Acrobatics Ringo backpack, $119, Naiise

Basic pink tote, $39.90, Pull & Bear

Yellow neon mid-heel sandals, $55.90, Bershka Burnished leather slip ons, $119.90, Pedro

On THE JOB

workplace

Emergency Kit Be prepared for any boo-boos on the office battlefield with these essential tools. By chew hui ling

Hair accessories Let bedhead hair stay in place and keep flyaways at bay

Sanitary pad pouch Ready yourself for when Aunt Flo comes to visit

Eyedrops Perk up those peepers for dull mornings

retractable Cable Keep your carryall neat with this retractable cable

Featuring Sante FX V+ Eyedrops, $18.22, Ebay

Portable charger Juice up your gizmos in a pinch

Caffeine But first, coffee. Need we say more? Featuring Starbucks VIA Ready Brew Caramel Latte, $6.90

Breath mints Gotta stay minty fresh for those impromptu networking sessions!

Pen & notebook Keep writing tools handy for jotting down quick notes and ideas

Plasters Paper cuts ainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t got nothing on you!

Smartphone A true professional needs to be connected all day, every day! Featuring LG V20, $998

Photography: Justin Loh/Shining Head Media Styling: chew hui ling and beh kheng hee

Featuring M.Craftsman 5,500mAh Portable Charger, $79

advertorial

passion for

fashion Forget learning about the fashion industry from hearsay and the silver screen. Chen Hai Yao, Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Fashion Design student, reveals what it’s really like being in the industry.

Growing up, Chen Hai Yao always knew she had a flair for fashion. But it was only upon joining MDIS that she cemented her decision to pursue a career in fashion. “I was studying in the language school in MDIS, I chanced upon the fashion studio and saw the stylishly dressed mannequins in the window. I realised that I wanted to design my own clothing, thus I chose this course, and to continue my studies with MDIS.” Currently in her final year of the Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Fashion Design degree programme, Hai Yao has gained impressive industry experience via internships and school-recommended gigs, even before graduation. How has your experience in this course been thus far? “I never thought there was going to be so much sewing! I initially thought that I would simply be

sketching out my designs, and that someone else would be making it for me. (Laughs) But after joining, I learned how to use the machines, sew, cut the pattern pieces and even marketing. As a designer, you cannot simply focus on your creations. You need to consider your market, do research to find out what the customers would want.” Describe your style. “My personal style is more simple. I prefer my outfits to be in simple colours, while I showcase a wilder side in my designs. It helps me to express different sides of myself – I’m currently working on a punk collection.” Tell us about your internship! “During my internship, I mainly took clothing measurements for the clients, to custom make their garments. In school, we usually use model sizes where

everything is similar. But when facing customers, I learned how to work with different body types and sizes. I chose this internship from the other companies that were available from the school, because measurements and working with different forms are my weaknesses. It was helpful for me that I already knew the basics before the internship, and that made it easy.” What were some of the highlights of your course? “My classmates and lecturers. For my classmates, we became so close with each other that we’d even go travelling together because only we can understand the stress on our studies. Our lecturers not only teach us about design fundamentals, they’ll also give us suggestions on finding a job etc.”

You’ve worked as a costume assistant for high-profile designers at Singapore Fashion Week for two years. How did that opportunity come about? “My lecturer asked for volunteers and I raised my hand (laughs). There are many opportunities like this given by the school. We helped to organise the show and pick out the right clothing for the models casted. It was then I learned that although the fashion show lasts only 10 or 20 minutes, we’d have to prepare and work on it for days beforehand.” What would you like to say to those who are thinking of joining MDIS School of Fashion and Design? “Although the course is tough and stressful at times, the knowledge you will gain definitely pays off. It will make you not only one step closer to your goals – you will learn what you want to learn, and more than what you want to learn.”

To find out more about School of Fashion and Design programmes, SMS TEENAD05 <space> Name <space> Email Address to 97539522

Courses at a glance

• Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Fashion Design (Awarded by Nottingham Trent University, UK) • Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Fashion Marketing and Branding (Awarded by Nottingham Trent University, UK)

THINK SUCCESS. THINK MDIS.

(+65) 6247 9111/6372 1000 etc@mdis.edu.sg www.mdis.edu.sg Management Development Institute of Singapore Reg. No. 201001793H 20 May 2014 to 19 May 2018

ON THE JOB

office OOTD done right Be it smart casual or classic formal, corporate looks can be both fun and stylish. Get down to business with these outfit inspirations. By Bryan Yeong

MICHAEL VINCENT ACOP @vincefurukawa

Play up your personality with a dash of pastel hues and depending on your dress code, finish it off with a pair of stylish sneakers!

NICOLE WONG @ncwong

A timeless matching blazer and pants combo never fails to look chic for any work occasion.

BERTILLA WONG @bertillawong

Who says suits have to be a shade of clichĂŠ? Make a bold statement with an unexpected pop of colour.

EDWARD RUSSELL @edrussell

The classic white shirt and tailored suit combination is the perfect go-to staple for every manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wardrobe!

Becks ko @becksko

CLARENCE LIM @clarencewx

For days when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re rushing out of the house and shuttling about meeting different clients, sticking to a stylish, monochrome outfit is your safest bet at impressing with ease.

Experimenting with textures can do wonders. Make a long, pleated skirt the star of your outfit by pairing it with a classic top and accessories of muted tones.

RACHEL LIM @ms_rach

Pinstripes add a professional flair to your outfit, while high-waisted pants elevates your figure visually to make you seem taller!

EFY RAMDAN @efymefy

Opt for a jacket look that can have you going from day meetings to night parties in a second just by shrugging it off.

TIMOTHY KONG @timotakoyaki

For dress-down days at work, a simple T-shirt and bomber jacket will do the trick.

ADVERTORIAL

a degre Pursuing a degree degree or juggling

Develop a study plan Upon receiving your school timetable, exam dates and assignment deadlines, craft a study plan for each semester, down to the number of study hours to put in and which topics to cover. Having a detailed overview will help you stay organised even with a busy schedule. However, do not be overly ambitious; plan a routine where work and class-related tasks can be seamlessly slotted in without having to neglect either aspects. Keep a clear line of communication with your lecturers. Be it clearing doubts about the school syllabus or helping you gain a better understanding of project expectations, Kaplanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pool of experienced lecturers will guide you through any questions you may face.

Tip

e above after your tertiary education has become a mandatory next step. Be it going for a full-time between a part-time job and study, here are six hacks to help make your upgrade a total breeze.

Find Your Study Style

Be Willing To Make Sacrifices

Communicate Clearly

Make Good Use Of Your Time

Additionally, identifying your studying style (if you haven’t already) will help you streamline and lay a solid foundation for an effective study plan. If you study well during the day but are too busy working during weekdays, leave the heavy-duty cramming to the weekends while putting in light studying in the evenings. Or if you’re an audio learner who absorbs information better at night, download audio books for nightly sessions. It’ll take trial and error to find out what works best for you, but it’ll pay off in the long run.

Being in a full-time degree programme is a much different ballgame from your tertiary education. Between juggling projects or studying for exams, there’s not much time left to spend on anything non-assignment related. And in order to have exemplary grades, you would have to commit even more of your time – be prepared to cut down on social and personal activities. Prioritising your life will be tough for sure – on the bright side, Kaplan Higher Education Academy’s plethora of industry-ready and engaging courses will make studying a breeze!

Should you decide to pick up a part-time job to help with your finances, an ideal gig for full-time students would be one that offers a flexible schedule and doesn’t demand overtime. This is important especially during exam/project crunch time. If you’re in a situation where work too demands extra time and attention, be sure to clearly communicate with your management and colleagues, whether it’s about you needing to take time off during exams, or leaving on the dot when rushing for assignments. In addition, when it comes to group projects, being upfront with your classmates about your work situation and schedule will help them to understand the responsibilities you already have on your plate.

When it comes to juggling work and fulltime studies, every single second counts, so take advantage of spare time you might have in your schedule. Travelling to and from school or your job? Prep digital notes to read on the train. Having your lunch break? Pack your own food so you’ll have more time to focus on assignments. Time management is essential! Travelling across the island from your workplace to school is so much easier when studying with Kaplan. With two campuses conveniently located in the heart of the city near five MRT stations, you’ll minimise the hassle and still be on time for class!

Tip

Registered with Committee for Private Education UEN: 199409389H Validity: 20-05-2014 to 19-05-2018

Keep Yourself In The Pink Of Health Maintaining good academic and professional performance is a huge responsibility to take on. And while pulling late nights might be inevitable, it’s now more important than ever that you keep your health up and stress levels down. Go for a short jog, eat healthier, spend time with your loved ones – don’t skimp out on things that’ll help keep your happiness levels elevated!

OFF THE CLOCK

degree

decisions So you’ve finally graduated and thrown your mortarboard in the air. Now that tertiary education is done, you may still have a next step to consider – which degree course to pursue? Take this quiz to help you figure out your options. By bryan yeong

1. What was your favourite subject in secondary school? a) English b) Literature c) Physical Education d) Geography e) Mathematics 2. In your group of friends, what would you most likely be doing? a) Planning and organising meetups b) Being the life of the group c) Recommending workout plans for your friends d) Encouraging them to save the environment e) Counting how much everyone owes at the end of your meals together

3. When you’re facing a personal issue, you will... a) Write it down b) Watch dramas and listen to music c) Go for a run d) Explore nature e) Think about every possible way to solve it 4. What is your definition of a fun weekend? a) Socialising at a random party b) Checking out the new musical playing in town c) Exercising to get your fitness on. There’s nothing like feeling the burn! d) Going for a hike in the great outdoors e) Challenging yourself with sudoku puzzles

5. Your friends best describe you as: a) Friendly b) Dramatic c) Sporty d) Adventurous e) Meticulous 6. Which TV show character do you most identify with? a) Carrie Bradshaw (The Carrie Diaries, Sex and the City) b) Rachel Berry (Glee) c) Archie Andrews (Riverdale) d) Ron Swanson (Parks and Recreation) e) Sheldon Cooper (The Big Bang Theory)

Tip: Choosing your next academic path can be a daunting process. If you’re uncertain over what course interests you, do consider a field that relates somewhat to your previous subjects in tertiary education to further develop your knowledge on them!

7. You thrive best when surrounded by people. a) Yes! I need plenty of daily interaction to do my job b) I feed off other people’s energy but my focus is on my own performance c) I’d rather analyse people than work with them d) I’d feel more comfortable working with a small group of people e) Definitely not. I need my personal space and would rather be independent 8. What type of accounts do you follow most on Instagram/Twitter? a) Social media influencers b) Accounts with inspirational content c) #Fitspo gurus d) Wildlife and scenery e) Hiliarious memes accounts

mostly

9. You have a day all to yourself! Where would you most likely be spotted at? a) The latest flea market, socialising and checking out quirky items to buy b) Esplanade. There’s a free show to catch! c) The gym, just working on my fitness d) At the beach, nothing like a bit of sea and sand e) Staying at home to catch up on my sleep 10. You’ve just made a new friend. What is the most important thing you’ll enquire about them? a) Their Instagram feed b) Their hobbies and interests c) Their fitness habits d) Their philanthropic beliefs e) Their money management skills

mostly

Communications and Media Studies You aspire to be the next media industry maven and look set to climb your way up both the social and corporate ladder, one contact at a time. A degree in communications and media studies will equip you with the necessary skill sets to pursue almost all aspects of a media role – from public relations to journalism – suited to your personal preference. Be prepared to attend events and socialise aplenty. Your people skills will be needed to excel in this course.

Theatre Studies To quote Shakespeare, “All the world’s a stage”, and you want to be a part of it. Be it front and centre performing for a large crowd or behind the scenes watching your concept come to life, theatre is the way to go for you. Not only do you love telling stories and challenging yourself to represent different characters, but you live and breathe the craft as well. Take on a niche degree in the field of theatre, where you’ll explore everything in depth, from script to stage.

Health and Sports Sciences You’re always up for working a sweat and have an avid interest in personal health, so perhaps it’s time to consider studying all about it with a course on Health and Sports Sciences. Flex your brain muscles to understand the science behind our bodies and how to maintain its fitness. You’ll also learn what it takes to possibly become an instructor, a coach or a trainer – perfect for a health nut.

Environmental Studies Having passion for how our great big planet works is something you identify with, and it’s your personal ambition to find ways to conserve the environment and contribute back to it. Following this route alongside a degree in Environmental Studies will further develop your passion for nature, and assist you on your path towards saving the world!

Accounting and Finance Whether it’s finding your corporate home in an international bank or accounting for a small firm, numbers are your thing! No permutation can slide by your sharp observations and you’re sure to get every profit and loss statements balanced. It’s not a common proficiency to possess, so why not hone it further by venturing into a degree in Accounting and Finance? The industry is also known to be one where remunerations tend to be rewarding, so study hard and it just might pay off!

EDUCATION IS THE PASSPORT TO YOUR FREEDOM It starts at PSB Academy | The Future Academy

Our 2015 Graduate Employment Survey by idstats research consultancy proves that:

Almost

9 in 10 More than

6 in 10 2.1 months

PSB Academy graduates gained employment within 6 months

PSB Academy graduates beneﬁtted from our courses in forms of pay increment, promotion, switching to a better job, among other beneﬁts

was all it took on average for PSB Academy graduates to ﬁnd a job

* Source: The Graduate and Employment Survey 2015 was commissioned by PSB Academy and conducted by research ﬁrm idstats for local/international students from part-time / full-time certiﬁcate, diploma, degree and postgraduate programmes. Visit www.psb-academy.edu.sg/GES2015 for more details.

EZEBELLA BINTE ABDULLAH Bachelor of Engineering with Honours in Mechanical Engineering, Class of 2018 Coventry University, UK Engineering Assistant in Aerospace Manufacturing

Visit us at futureacademy.sg

ADVERTORIAL

The future is now Recognising the importance of tech-savviness and forwardthinking, PSB Academy is rolling with the times and evolving into an academy that is truly attuned to the future. PSB Academy (PSBA) is moving to greater heights! With the unveiling of a new city campus in Marina Square, the esteemed private education institution is primed to bring full- and parttime employees an easy upgrade of their skill sets for the future economy. Ahead, Dr. Sam Choon-Yin, the Dean of PSBA, shares how PSBA is evolving into an academy attuned to the future.

Collaborative Learning Will Be Highly Encouraged

“Our new city campus at Marina Square is an expansion of our facilities at Delta campus, where we will continue to hold skills-based programmes with actual labs and facilities on campus that enable students to do hands-on experimentation and discovery. Designs around these new facilities are centred on the theme of making ‘learning an adventure’, one that would encourage curiosity and exploration as part of their education journey.”

Expect Top Notch Facilities

“We are planning for 29 classrooms, and designing them all in a ‘no-front’ classroom format, to encourage maximum interaction between lecturers and their students. We are also planning for two MBA (Master of Business Administration) seminar rooms which are

acoustically-treated, so that even without a microphone, voices of students and lecturers would be sufficiently amplified for twoway communication amongst the whole class. They would also be equipped with videoconferencing facilities so that university partners can conduct lessons remotely. Our students in media and communication studies will have access to a TV and radio studio, for hands-on training in real-world media production environments.”

A Step Into A High-Tech Future “On top of the new campus, our investment in technology will be a key focus for the institution. In a bid to make learning online and offline a contemporary, seamless experience, PSBA will be launching a new version of Moodle, an e-learning platform, across all its classrooms. This learning platform gives educators, administrators and

learners access to a single robust, secure and integrated system that automatically syncs video recording of lessons and lectures with the school’s scheduling systems to create downloadable content for more online learning and revision material.”

Receive First-hand Access To Industry Professionals

“PSBA has been forging close industry ties with leading organisations to ensure that its learning journeys are bolstered by relevant industry skill sets. Last June, PSBA launched CollabX, a series of forums that infuses best practices from industry with academia and research to prepare aspiring practitioners

for the needs of the future economy. It has been reassuring to hear that both industry and university partners at CollabX recognise that the value of an aspiring practitioner goes beyond formal qualifications, whether one is a graduate with a local or external degree. What matters more are the skill sets that one brings to the table – that are imparted through close collaboration between industry leaders and academic institutions. We encourage our students to also be active contributors to the community, and work with associations like SAFRA, the National Youth Council and Community Centres and TED Talks to provide opportunities for volunteer work and ideation of CSR initiatives.” 43

OFF THE CLOCK

HEADING ABrOAD So you want to study (and work) abroad? It’s not as tough as you think! Take your first steps with these tips. By YUEN YI YING

Plan your journey If you’ve always harboured hope of moving overseas someday, you’ve probably already thought of where you want to go. Maybe you’ve even taken steps to build up finances, contacts, and relevant language skills. Good for you! That’s a great starting point. If you haven’t yet made up your mind on where to go, don’t worry. The most important thing is to not be overwhelmed by options, which may cause you to avoid making a decision for fear of missing out on what the other choices could offer. Try this fun brainstorming exercise to focus your thoughts. Start by penning down all the

reasons you want to move overseas, then think of five cities or countries you’d love to move to. Take practical considerations into mind, including cost of living and distance. Now, cut your list of countries to three contenders. Review your list of reasons again, and decide which two of these three cities would make you happiest. From here, you can look at what’s available to you in these countries in terms of further education or job prospects and start your application process.

Think About Cost It’s not a fun subject, but thinking of the cost involved is possibly the most important consideration for when you’re moving overseas, as costs do quickly add up. It’s also

good to think about this early on as you need time to gather the necessary funds. Most people usually factor in airfare, rent, school, and legal fees, but they forget about less obvious costs such as administrative fees for obtaining documents, the pricey tests they’ll have to take, materials needed for their course, as well as set up fees for buying toiletries, bed linen, and kitchen condiments. Be thorough when calculating the figures and always budget for unexpected expenses. If you don’t already have the money available, there are three methods most people use to get funds: bank loans, university scholarships, and

company scholarships. Of these, a university scholarship is most ideal as it requires no repayment, and you’re free to do what you want after your studies. Plus, it’s a good thing to have on your résumé! Company scholarships are also popular, but often require you to sign a bond to work for the company for a few years. While that means guaranteed employment, it also means you’ll have to persevere at the job whether you like it or not – you can’t switch your degree on a whim, and you might not be able to stay on in the country of your choosing. Applying for a scholarship takes time and you might also have to prepare a portfolio beforehand. Start early if you decide to take this

Moving overseas comes with several difficulties. Consider these before taking that leap: 1

route. Some companies and schools may not openly offer scholarships, but if you reach out and share what you can offer, you just might get the funding you need.

Finding Employment Overseas The easiest way to get a job overseas is to start off as a student. Not only does this let you assimilate the customs and lifestyle, it gives you time to build contacts and consider whether living in that city is right for you.

In some countries, students can apply for a work visa that lets them earn some income while studying. These have several restrictions, including the types of jobs you can do or the number of hours you can work – after all, you’re there to study! However, internships and short stints of work can lead to job opportunities afterwards, so as far as possible, try not to waste your holiday or part-time gigs on generic jobs like waiting tables or working the supermarket checkout. Instead, try to get an admin job or help out at a design firm, for example.

Some countries allow students to apply for visas that let them stay on after graduation to find employment. You should look into these (especially before your student visa runs out) as they’re often a lengthy and time-consuming process, plus they may require documents like police checks, which can take a while to process.

Getting a job overseas if you haven’t lived or studied there If you’re trying to get a gig in a country you’ve never lived or studied in, the process is a lot trickier, but not impossible. To start, it helps if you have a skill or vocation that’s in demand within the country, which might be something to consider when choosing your tertiary courses. There’s no guarantee that demand will not wane by the time you graduate, but that’s a risk you’ll have to take. It also helps to specialise. While being a jack of all trades in Singapore is seen as a good thing, overseas companies prefer their employees to be extremely specialised at what they do, and if you’re well-

known enough in your field, they might even reach out to you! Alternatively, connecting with recruiting firms is a good idea as they’re always looking out for talent and usually have jobs on hand. However, be prepared to travel as people like to see interviewees in person. Otherwise, be sure to have a solid Internet connection and get familiar with video chat applications. Many countries also offer visas for people with exceptional talent. These include highly acclaimed scientists, Nobel Prize winners, and well-known artists. But fret not if you’re none of those as there may be special visas just for your industry – for example, those in the creative trade can sign with literary, acting, or photography agents who will help you apply for a visa. Popular jobs overseas are competitive and can have thousands of applicants, so make sure your portfolio is in top form and apply to several positions daily. Don’t get hung up on a certain post – it’s much easier to change gigs once you have your foot in the door.

You’re going to be away from friends and family for years, and you have to be ok with missing out on large portions of their lives.

2 If you work overseas, you’ll have a limited amount of leave which you’ll have to split between actual travelling or heading home to visit.

3 If there are emergencies back home, you won’t be able to travel back quickly or do anything to help.

4 You should be comfortable mixing with the locals and not just sticking within your comfort zone.

5 You have to be mentally prepared to handle dangerous situations including strikes, violence, prejudiced encounters and natural disasters.

6 If you run out of funds, you might have to go home.

7 When you’re alone and fall sick – whether it’s a migraine, fever, or a severe bout of food poisoning – it’s very hard to care for yourself when you can barely move.

OFF THE CLOCK

lessons for life Beyond the skills you need for school or your career, these essential ones will make your days much happier and more rewarding. By YUEN YI YING

Moving beyond small talk

Asking “How was your day?” or “What brings you here?” is nice and polite, but the conversation dries up pretty quickly after and is frankly quite forgettable. If you’re trying to make an impression or really getting to know someone, try more thought-provoking queries instead, like “What was your favourite part of this week?” or “Why did you choose the line of

work you’re in?”. Be genuine and interested, and the person will likely respond the same way.

Reflecting on each day

In school, we get tests every semester to see how much we’ve learnt. At work, we have quarterly reviews to assess our growth. It’s good to think about your experiences so you can take the learnings, develop them, and improve.

In private however, you can do a mini reflection daily, thinking about what went well that day, what could’ve been better, and how you can approach tasks in future. This helps you implement new lessons immediately and prevents a bottleneck of unresolved issues and emotions.

Being flexible

The world doesn’t operate in black and white. In fact, most

of it is grey, so sticking to your meticulous life plans can never be a guaranteed blueprint for success. Think of it as a guide instead. You know the direction you want to take, but if you encounter obstacles in your way, don’t be afraid to change course or go around it. No matter how clear a route may seem, we never really know what lies ahead till we get closer but don’t worry, some of the most beautiful experiences

important skills along the way. Have foresight and faith even when things aren’t completed within your projected timeframe – think of civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr and artistinventor Leonardo da Vinci. The fruits of their labour were mostly achieved after their lifetime! When in doubt, remember that perseverance, passion, and effort will always move things forward.

Developing more empathy So often, we can’t understand why people struggle with seemingly easy things in life, but everyone’s tests and capacities are different. Something you’re strong at may be difficult for others to understand. Also, our upbringing, values, and financial backgrounds are vastly different, setting us up for different challenges. The more you mingle with people and the more you travel, the more you’ll understand this and hopefully be able to help.

come from taking the path less travelled.

are generally helpful and trustworthy. When discussing, share your ideas, but don’t insist on them. Perhaps a better plan will come out from the conversation, and even if it proves to be a wrong move, it’s better to be united and working towards a common goal rather than trying to undermine each other’s actions.

Consulting with others

We don’t have all the answers, and neither should we pretend that we do. However, society has conditioned us to think that we’re not as clever or capable if we don’t have solutions to every problem. That’s not true. When in doubt, it’s best to ask others for their opinions, even though it may seem scary to open up about things you don’t know well. When you’re sincere, people

Being curious about the world

Singapore is a comfortable place to grow up in. It’s modern and we have access to all sorts of information, which lulls us into believing we’re forwardthinking. It’s true to some extent, but before you get too comfortable, challenge yourself to think of life beyond what you know; beyond what your friends and family hold to be true. Read everything you can, even on topics that don’t seem

to interest you, travel as much as possible, and talk to people of all walks of life. Consciously try to do this for at least a year, and you’re bound to experience a lightbulb moment when you discover that there’s so much more to the life you thought you knew.

Building patience

Owing to our fast-paced consumer culture, we lean towards things that deliver immediate gratification. We job-hop because we feel like we’re not climbing the career ladder fast enough, or we buy things beyond our means. Well, Rome wasn’t built in a day. Things that are worth doing take time and sacrifice. It’s important to be patient with yourself when trying to learn. It’s also important not to skip steps as you pick up

helping others

Having respect and formality

Don’t people say that to teach is to learn? It’s all about reframing the concept that learning is one-way – teacher to student. When you’re ahead, sometimes it’s frustrating to have to slow down and help others, and sometimes it might even seem beneficial for you to be ahead of the competition. However, if everyone progresses together, more work can be done, and you’re also not tasked with all the heavy lifting which can make you burn out quickly. Besides asking people how they hope to contribute, be sure to add “and how can I help you with your goals?”.

Singapore has somewhat of a casual culture, and it plays out in the way we speak and dress. Being easygoing is fine, but we can’t be too relaxed about everything. It’s important to show up to interviews prepared, dress up for formal events, be punctual, and even learn to communicate properly so people don’t have to guess what you’re trying to say. This shows respect for other parties and the occasion, and in some ways also makes people take you more seriously.

OFF THE CLOCK

keep calm & balance on For fresh grads who are getting their start in the workforce, first gigs can be incredibly demanding. Fret not – these surefire tips will help you master the juggling act, stat. By chew hui ling

Set Ground Rules It can be tricky navigating your first professional role. While you feel obliged to make a good impression, by being extra helpful or taking more initiative, there will be others who try to take advantage of the office rookie. If a colleague comes over and dumps a pile of work on you, check with your boss before taking on the task. It may seem like a harmless favour at first, but be careful to not let your peoplepleasing tendencies become a norm. Just because you’re the new kid doesn’t mean you can’t stand your ground – establishing boundaries from the start will allow everybody to respect your worth. #Adulting done right!

Rethink Your Priorities Showing up to work early, staying in the office till wee hours, clocking in four hours of shuteye if you’re lucky, and eventually moving up the corporate ladder. The end result may look good on paper, but are the extra hours worth your sanity? Efficiency is key, so it’s important to understand your productivity patterns and streamline your workload strategically. Work better in the AM? Start by getting the hard stuff out of the way in the morning and save the less urgent emails, calls and meetings for the afternoon and vice versa. You’ll feel so much more productive when you’re in control!

Lay Off The FOMO Can you go a day without checking your inbox? Research shows that an average employee receives 121 emails daily, which explains why many tend to obsessively hit refresh throughout the day. While you may think being on the ball with your replies makes you more productive, chances are you’re just stressing yourself out and hampering your workflow – those who chain themselves to their emails outside work log as many as 10 extra hours of work every week! Start by disabling push notifications from your phone and unsubscribing to unnecessary junk that clog up your inbox. You can also make use of filters and labels to organise your emails into separate folders so you know which to prioritise.

“You can’t do a good job if your job is all you do.” – Katie Thurmes, entrepreneur

Make Time For Downtime Between the never-ending deadlines and jam-packed calendar, having personal time or a social life is probably the last thing on your mind. Why not make downtime a part of your goals and work towards achieving it? Schedule two to three stress busters of choice into your to-do list for the week – be it going on a morning workout, having a midday coffee break or catching up on your favourite K-drama after work – and make it a point to discipline yourself if you fail to tick off a certain ‘appointment’. Now you’ll have something to look forward to each day; how’s that for motivation?

Cert No.: EDU-2-2091 Validity: 05-12-2016 to 04 -12-2020