billie eilish the teen pop star everyone’s talking about
kickstart the next chapter of your life with Portfolio, your adulting guide to winning in the real world
five youths who took on unconventional careers
the
list
meet the voices of the new generation
MCI(P) 088/11/2018 | $3.90
www.teenage.com.sg
TheOfficialTeenageMagazine
the ultimate career star ter pack for fresh grads @TeenageMagazine
16 17
WOMEN IN CHARGE
text: chew hui ling
she’s the boss
WE MIGHT KNOW THEM FOR THEIR CELEBRITY PERSONAS, BUT THESE KICKASS L ADIES ARE ALSO KILLING IT IN THE ENTREPRENEURIAL WORLD WITH THEIR OWN BEAUTY EMPIRES.
LIL AC by Lily MayMac
Pony Effect by PONY
TEENAGE’S PICK:
Pony Effect Prime Protect Sun Base Besides providing your skin with broad spectrum protection, this multipurpose sun cream also doubles up as a makeup base so you can skip a step in your makeup routine. Talk about convenience!
Park Hye Min, better known as Pony, is many things: a makeup artist who has worked with K-pop stars CL and Yeeun, a YouTuber with over 4 million subscribers, and more impressively, a bonafide girl boss with her own cosmetics line. Known for its range of holographic multipalettes, matte lippies and full coverage formulas, Pony Effect has become one of the most sought-after K-beauty brands in the market. Previously only available online, it has since made its way to local Watsons stores last June. Time to stock up!
These days, anyone can be an influencer – however, it’s not often you get to build an entire career out of it. In the case of Lily MayMac, the Aussie darling is no stranger to the social media world with over 3.9 million followers on Instagram; but she has since proven herself to be more than just good looks. After a series of glitzy collaborations with makeup giants like MAC and Stylenanda, the 25-year-old took the opportunity to strike out on her own with a new vegan lipstick line known as Lilac. Although it only consists of three shades for now, we’re certainly hoping that she’ll introduce more colours and products in the future!
TEENAGE’S PICK:
Lilac Matte Liquid Lip in Zahara Fancy lips like Lily MayMac? Lightweight yet incredibly longlasting, this matte lippie comes in an ultra-flattering MLBB hue that’s perfect for the no-makeup look.
Glossier by Emily Weiss
TEENAGE’S PICK:
Glossier Birthday Balm Dotcom Touted as a “universal skin slave”, this do-it-all lip balm comes packed with natural emollients to keep your pucker moisturised. Oh, did we mention this one’s inspired by Milk Bar’s famous cake? Yum!
Back in 2014, no one really thought it was cool to look like a freshly glazed donut – until Emily Weiss and her Glossier brand came in to up our glow game. Fronted by the reality TV star-turnedCEO, it didn’t take long for the brand to ascend to cult status, thanks to its line of understated yet oh-so-
Instagrammable products (think moonlit highlighters and multi-purpose balms) that are a hit amongst millennials. Today, Glossier has grown into a billion-dollar empire that surpasses millions in annual revenue and boasts nearly 2 million followers on Instagram.
Kylie Cosmetics by Kylie Jenner
TEENAGE’S PICK:
Kylie Cosmetics Blush in Crush Recreate your favourite Kylie looks with this crush-worthy shade for the perfect flush.
You can’t talk about celebrity makeup brands without mentioning the one and only Kylie Jenner. At just 21 years old, the enterprising reality star is known as the “youngest self-made billionaire” in the world, according to a recent report by Forbes. In between Keeping Up With The Kardashians, brand sponsorships and mum duties, the youngest of the Kardashian-Jenner clan also manages her Kylie Cosmetics brand as its face and sole owner – which now boasts an estimated value of $900 million. Say what you will about Kylie, but we can all agree that she’s got some savvy business chops.
Blanc & Eclare by Jessica Jung You may be familiar with her as an OG member of the iconic girl group Girls’ Generation, but did you know that the multihyphenate’s also a beauty entrepreneur? Having made her mark in the fashion scene with a ready-towear line under her Blanc & Eclare label, the 30-year-old TEENAGE’S PICK:
Blanc & Eclare Serein Moisturizing Cream Packed with nourishing ingredients, this daytime powerhouse keeps your skin fresh, dewy and radiant round the clock.
has since expanded the business to include a new beauty range, Serein. Priding itself on using high-quality ingredients, this hydration line has all the essentials you need to refresh your skincare regime. Now we know the secret to Jessica’s clear, glass-like complexion!
18 19
DRESSED FOR SUCCESS
text: chew hui ling
WHO SAYS WORK OUTFITS HAVE TO BE BORING? TAKE STYLE NOTES FROM THE SPRING/SUMMER 2019 RUNWAY AND STRUT INTO THE OFFICE IN THESE CHIC, ON-TREND LOOKS!
RUN WAY to office BY CAROLINA HERRERA
BY DOLCE & GABBANA
Who d o e s n’ t lo v e p o lka d o t s ? T h e t im eles s p a t t er n h a s b een p o p p in g u p e v e r yw h e r e f r o m f low y d r es s es t o r om a n t ic b lou s es – a ll w h ile s t a yin g of f ic e a p p r op r ia t e!
feeling dotty
1. 23 . 4. 5.
Polka Dot Shirt, $49.90, Zara
6.
Metal Top Handle Bag, $65.90, Charles & Keith
Polka Dot Open Hoop Earrings, $9, Pomelo
78.
Polka Dot Cami Dress, $63.90, Topshop
9 10.
Spot Feather Trousers, $126, Topshop
Polka Dot Top, $55.90, Zara
Polka Dot Blouse with Tie Detail, $39.90, Bershka
Polka Dot Print Wallet, $19.90, Mango
Triangle Polka Dot Scarf, $22.90, Zara
Printed Halterneck Top, $29.90, Zara
32 33
RISE AND GRIND
text: fabian loo
kopi break
KICKSTART YOUR DAY WITH A C AFFEINE BOOST FROM THESE COFFEE JOINTS IN THE CBD THAT OPEN EARLY IN THE MORNING (ALL BEFORE 10AM!).
Kafe UTU 12 jiak chuan road, singapore 089265 opening hours: 8am – 5pm ( wed to mon ) Take a sip on the wild side with Kafe UTU, Singapore’s first cafe concept inspired by Africa. The menu is a celebration of its colourful culture; the flavours are just as exciting. On the drinks front, the UTU Ink ($6) is a safe bet. This cold brew uses Ugandan beans for a rich, chocolatey flavour while delivering a jolt of caffeine. Other kahawa (coffee in Swahili) options include the mocha variation of Bidibado ($6); and the Ibada ‘Ritual’ ($6), a quad ristretto shot over Hokkaido milk. If time permits, come back for lunch and sample exotic dishes like Swahili Fish Curry ($29) and Liberian Peanut Chicken Stew ($28).
Scan me for more cafe guides and food recs!
Maxi Coffee Bar 31 club street #01-02, singapore 069468 opening hours: 8am – 5pm ( mon to fri )
It might be hard to locate Maxi Coffee Bar, but those who do will be treated to a warm space, friendly faces, and a humble menu. For something different, get the Iced Cereal Milk Latte ($7.50) which is almost like a grown-up’s breakfast in a cup. The taste is layered: sweet from the cereal, which transitions gradually to smooth espresso. Also unique to the cafe is the tropical Coconut Cold Brew ($7.50), where the subtle fruity sweetness and coffee brew come together in a refreshing concoction that’s great for beating the heat. And in a similar fashion, Maxi Coffee Bar serves up a novel combination of Miso Peanut Butter Honey Toast ($6) – sweet, salty and savoury all at once.
Nexus Coffee international plaza #01-15, singapore 079903 opening hours: 7.30am – 4pm (mon to fri)
The menu at Nexus Coffee is lean and focused: chai, chocolate, matcha and coffee in its variations. This no-frills kiosk stands out with its teal blue exterior, but it is the coffee served that deserves special mention and makes you come back for more. To lend some variety, different beans are available for espresso and filter options, each with their own special profile. Keep things simple with a Black Coffee ($4), or beat the heat with an Iced Mocha ($6) – either way, you will find yourself with a caffeine boost that will lift your tired mind.
34 35
RISE AND GRIND
Bearded Bella 8 craig road, singapore 089668 opening hours: 7.30am – 5pm (mon to thurs), 7.30am – 11pm (fri), 7.30am – 6pm (sat & sun) Quite literally, Bearded Bella serves up winning cups of coffee. Its coowner, Regina Tay, holds the title of Singapore Barista Champion 2016, and has under her belt experience as a barista in the coffee capital of Melbourne. There, she learned about its thriving coffee culture and sought to recreate her own back in her homeland. Those lucky enough can spot her behind the coffee machine, pulling shots made from a special house blend of thoughtfully sourced beans – carefully roasted in-house to create its delightful flavour profile. Prices start from $3.50 for a single espresso, which pairs well with their selection of homemade cakes and pastries.
Kebun 531 upper cross street #01-41, singapore 050531 opening hours: 10am – 7pm (mon to sat) For a healthier, non-dairy option, try popping by the country’s first vegandedicated latte bar. Located opposite Hong Lim Food Centre, Kebun whips up vegan options of your favourite caffeinated drinks. Here, conventional milk is replaced with their special handcrafted cashew ‘mylk’ – which is made from premium, whole cashews that are said to be a healthier alternative. Try the Kebun Earl Grey Latte ($5) infused with the fragrant bergamot, or opt for the nutty Seoul Misugara Latte ($5.50) which comes with an aromatic blend of black sesame seeds, black beans, black and brown rice, and barley grains. Those looking for a gentler dosage of caffeine can also look forward to Kebun’s range of exotic tea blends (also vegan!).
Five Oars Coffee Roasters 39 tanjong pagar road, singapore 088462 opening hours: 8am – 10pm (mon to sun) With a name like theirs, you know that this is a place that treats coffee seriously. Five Oars Coffee Roasters ticks all the boxes for the modern cafe-goer: clean, minimalist interior, an extensive brunch menu, and good cups of coffee. Beans are roasted in-house, and they serve the usual suspects of espressos ($3), pour-overs (from $6) and iced variants (from $5), which are executed with no faults. The food menu is also tempting enough for you to make a return during the weekends. Without the need to rush for deadlines and meetings, indulge in Insta-worthy dishes like the Truffle Benedict ($20) or Mentaiko Royale ($21) with a cuppa in hand, while enjoying the botanicaldecorated surrounds.
Parallel 1 raffles place #b1-34, singapore 048616 opening hours: 7.30am – 9.30pm (mon to fri) In need of a quick caffeine fix? Drop by the conveniently located Parallel (they have two outlets in the CBD). Raffles City is the brand’s second outlet, where they run regular $2 Friday promotions on their coffee menu for an affordable treat. For those familiar, Parallel makes their coffee using beans from specialty coffee roaster Common Man Coffee Roasters. Beyond just coffee, folks with a sweet tooth can get a healthy dose of sugar with their range of smoothies and acai bowls. Made without added fructose or syrups, Parallel serves up acai bowls (from $8.90) that come packed with natural goodness from ingredients like goji berries, sunflower seeds and nut butter.
38 39
OUT OF THE NEST
photography: lim ming long styling: leyna poh
adulting essentials THESE GROWN-UP NECESSITIES WILL HELP YOU GET THE JOB DONE THROUGHOUT THE DAY.
bath rituals S t r e a m lin e yo u r mor n in g r ou t in e w it h t h es e n ex t - le v e l b a t h r oom kn ic k- kn a c ks . Rose Quartz Facial Roller, $40, Gallery & Co. Foaming Net Ball, $2.30, Organic Cotton Towel, POA, Acrylic Cup, $9.90, Traveller’s Wash Board, $7.90, MUJI. Black Steel Tray, $34, atomi. Ouur Epping Socks, $38, ACTUS häuse. Ashley & Co Vine & Paisley Hand Wash, $45, Ashley & Co Shampoo, $55, The Zero Ways Bamboo Toothbrush, $7, Brooklyn Candle Studio Japanese Citrus Candle, $27, kapok.
home office heroes Keep you r w or k d es k c lea n a n d org a n is ed w h ile s t a yin g in s p ir ed w it h s om e c h ic s t a t ion er y. Glass straws, $7.90 each, Qualy Dinsor Stationery Holder, $32.90, Gallery & Co. Clock, $46, Desk Broom, $6.90, Acrylic Stand, POA, Black Ruler, $1.60, 2B Pencils, $2.30 each, Water-based Pens, $1.30 each, MUJI.
40 41
OUT OF THE NEST
in with the cool On e- of - a - kin d a c c es s or ies t h a t w ill m a ke you f eel ju s t t h a t b it m or e c on f id en t . Minimalism Card Holder, $18.90, Super Attic IOTA Collection Pins, $60, Gallery & Co. Hasami Ceramic Mug, $43, ACTUS haĚˆuse. Frosted Glass Ring Holder, $5.90, MUJI. Filt Fish Net Bag, $28, Hay Kutter Candle Holder, $35, kapok.
lazy daze Cos y w eeken d es s en t ia ls f or d a ys w h en a ll you w a n t t o d o is lou n g e a r ou n d . Spoon and Fork, $48, atomi. Adilette Aqua Slides, $35, adidas. Polkaros Cup & Bowl Set, $29, Leia + Lauren Orange Print Shirt, $42, Straw Bag, $89, Gallery & Co. Acacia Bowl, $5.90, MUJI.
42 43
TECH TALK
text: fabian loo
pretty smart gadgets SPARK JOY IN THE WORKPL ACE WITH THESE NIFTY GIZMOS THAT ARE AS GOOD-LOOKING AS THEY ARE FUNC TIONAL.
tune in
instant memories
Between the paper jams and complicated buttons, a printer isn’t the easiest machine to handle. But downsizing all these problems is the Canon Mini Photo Printer (from $189). Like its name suggests, this printer is compact and weighs just 160g. But packed within its petite frame is the ability to print up to 20 photos, without the need for any ink cartridges. Play around with its editing features on the application, and watch your favourite memories come to life in glossy print-outs. These smudge-proof and scratchresistant photos even make for the perfect desk decorations too!
The new Muzen On The Road (OTR) speakers ($139) are a blast from the past. Inspired by radio sets of the 1960s, the OTR range combines modern connectivity with vintage aesthetics for a unique, retro-looking design. The speakers are Bluetoothcompatible, boast a battery life of up to 10 hours, and can even tune in to the radio (talk about old-school charm!). Set it up on your work desk, or carry it around in its leather pouch – either way, this cute-as-button speaker will delight even the most discerning gadget guru in your office with its timeless appeal.
tiny but mighty
Capture vivid imagery for both work and leisure with the Fujifilm X-T30 (from $1,399). This lightweight mirrorless camera might be small in frame, but it comes loaded with hardworking hardware required for quality photo and video captures. Bring your creative vision to life with its vivid 26.1 megapixels, smooth 4K video recording, and highresolution audio recording. The result is crisp, professional output – all housed within a stylish body that comes in three minimalist-approved colourways: black, premium silver and charcoal silver.
stay on track
It’s easy to lose sight of your health when deadlines kick in. Stay on top of your fitness goals with the Fitbit Versa Lite ($248), the company’s most affordable smartwatch yet. It comes with a four-day battery life, measures your heart rate, and has over 15 exercise modes to record various workouts. Bring it to the pool with its swim-proof design, or keep it on you for detailed information of essential health indicators. This trooper even works when you’re not – it has a sleep tracking function that assesses the quality of your rest. Coupled with its sleek body and bold colour choices, Fitbit Versa Lite will fit right in your busy lifestyle.
double duty
galaxy in your hands
The 10th anniversary phones for Samsung’s S series is shaping up to be its most celebrated one yet. At 6.1 inches, the Samsung Galaxy S10 (from $1,298) has a high screen-to-body ratio that’s powered by its vivid AMOLED display. Colours are sharper, brighter, better – and so are the other features. The S10 now comes with an indisplay fingerprint scanner, an impressive ultra-wide 123-degree view to capture exactly what you see, and the highly-convenient wireless power sharing function between compatible devices.
The HP Spectre Folio ($2,299) looks unlike any other portable laptops. For one, it’s shaped like a leather notebook. The 13.3-inch convertible, when closed, comes wrapped in handcrafted, full-grain leather that lends it an air of luxury, which makes carrying it around (and using it) a snazzy affair. But beyond its handsome looks, this powerhouse of a laptop also has spectacular hardware to boot. It’s powered by one of the industry’s smallest motherboards, and delivers an exceptional battery life of up to 21 hours – more than enough to get you through a full workday and even a late-night Netflix binge before you sleep.
44 45
COVER STORY
text: chew hui ling
Z the
list
MOVE OVER, MILLENNIALS – A NEW CL ASS OF YOUNG MUSIC TRAILBL AZERS ARE SET TO TAKE OVER THE SPOTLIGHT WITH THEIR CHART-TOPPING ACHIEVEMENTS. MEET THE VOICES OF GENERATION-Z.
billie eilish cr o w ni ng g l o r y: If you feel like Billie Eilish is everywhere these days, that’s because she is – in all the best places. When 15-year-old Billie first dropped ‘Ocean Eyes’ on Soundcloud a few years back, no one expected the teen wunderkind to amass such a devoted cult following. But boy were we glad she did.
And that’s exactly what she does – she lives life and makes music on her own terms. The result: a swelling repertoire of work that includes two hugely successful EPs, several viral singles, as well as high-profile collaborations with the likes of Vince Staples and Khalid.
Her claim to fame? Besides her penchant for churning out chart-topper after chart-topper, it’s also her quirky personality and sense of humour that makes her seem so much more relatable. “I’m really weird, and you know what? I like it,” she tells Teen Vogue. “It’s special to me and it’s fun to be weird. I also hope to show people that they shouldn’t care about what others think of them. It’s you and your life. Do what you want.”
Just when you thought the Billie mania has reached its peak, she drops her long-awaited debut studio album When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go? to much fanfare. An eclectic blend of genre-defying tunes crafted almost entirely by herself and her brother (whom you might know as singer-songwriter and producer FINNEAS), it’s one of those few albums where every track is a standout. Which is why it’s of no surprise that
• She currently has seven gold and two platinum singles to her name. • She’s the first singer born in the 2000s to have a number one album with When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?. • Her debut EP Don’t Smile At Me has surpassed more than 750 million streams worldwide. • She boasts more than 40 million monthly listeners on Spotify, ranking 6th in the world! • A social media force to be reckoned with, she has nearly 25 million followers on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook combined.
46 47
COVER STORY
it shot straight to the top of the charts, making Billie the youngest female artiste – who is, for the record, still only 17 years of age – to notch the number one spot since Demi Lovato in 2009. Talk about literally living the teenage dream! Just recently, the rising pop star hit yet another career milestone with her first ever Coachella gig, sharing the spotlight with bigname headliners such as Ariana Grande, Childish Gambino and BLACKPINK. Fresh off her festival debuts, the young songstress is also in the midst of her When We All Fall Asleep World Tour and we have no doubts that her impending shows will draw massive crowds. While Billie has yet to fully take over the reigns of her predecessors, it’s clear she has the poise, talent and attitude to go far in her career. And here’s the craziest part: she’s only just getting started.
We’re not the only ones in the Billie Eilish fandom – these celebs also happen to be huge fans of hers! In a recent interview, BTS’ Jungkook expressed his desire to work with her – and even named ‘Bad Guy’ as his current favourite track. A BTS x Billie Eilish collab, anybody? BLACKPINK’s Jennie uploaded a post-Coachella picture of her enveloping the singer in a tight hug along with the caption, “My crush”. Super adorable! It’s no secret that Billie is a major Justin Bieber diehard, so imagine her excitement when Biebs turned the tables around by sliding into her DMs. The longtime Belieber even got to meet him over the Coachella weekend! Last June, Shawn Mendes tweeted at her saying, “I think you are just really crazy talented and everybody who hasn’t listened to your music is seriously missing out”. Excuse us while we swoon...
ITZY t h e it g ir ls : On the other end of the music radar, we have a new batch of young pop mavens poised to lead the next era of K-pop. Made up of five immensely talented ladies with an average age of 18, JYP Entertainment’s new flagship act has since earwormed their way onto the charts with their record-breaking debut single, ‘DALLA DALLA’ – an empowerment anthem that encourages fans to embrace what makes them different. Unlike TWICE’s usual brand of bubblegum pop, ITZY plays into the lesser-explored girl crush concept that seemingly draws influences from Wonder Girls and Miss A – a formula that works wonderfully in their favour. Besides becoming the fastest K-pop outfit to hit 100 million views on a debut music video, they also achieved the incredible feat of being the quickest girl group to take their first win on a music show. If these numbers are any indication, they are well on their way to becoming the next big thing.
• Two of the members, Ryujin and Yuna, starred in BTS’ music videos during their pre-debut days. • They took home their first music show trophy just nine days after their debut. • They scored a total of nine music show wins for their debut single ‘DALLA DALLA’, breaking a 22-year record previously held by first-gen group S.E.S.
48 49
COVER STORY
• He has a total of five Grammy Award nominations under his belt. • He’s named one of the 100 Most Influential People of 2019 by Time Magazine, alongside fellow pop icons Taylor Swift and Ariana Grande. • His latest album Free Spirit skyrocketed him to the top of the Billboard Artist 100 Chart for the very first time.
khalid s me l l s l i ke free s p ir it : Much like his ‘Lovely’ collaborator Billie Eilish, Khalid’s whirlwind rise to stardom was very much fuelled by the power of the Internet – after all, he’s known as the second most-streamed artiste in the world for a reason. His 2017 debut effort American Teen was an instant hit, drawing in listeners with compelling lyrics that speak to the broody teenager in all of us. But everyone has to grow up some day, which brings us to his much-anticipated follow-up titled Free Spirit.
No longer the young, dumb and broke kid we used to know, the R&B crooner returns with a matured sound that showcases his progression as a songwriter – without losing his authenticity and childlike charms. “I love growing up,” Khalid shares with MTV News. “I can’t wait to see where I’ll be at 25 and what type of music I’m going to make. I know for a fact that I’m gonna be young forever; even if I’m 60, I’ll still have a little pep in my step.” Wherever his next move is, we bet the rest of the world will be watching.
• Her extensive filmography includes notable roles in Girl Meets World, Milo Murphy’s Law and upcoming romcom Tall Girl. • Besides opening for Ariana Grande on her Dangerous Woman Tour, she has also toured with The Vamps and New Hope Club. • She just wrapped up her Singular Tour where she performed a total of 22 shows across North America and Asia.
sabrina carpenter g ir l m eet s m u s ic : Sabrina Carpenter needs no introduction. Fans might recognise the Disney darling from the hit series Girl Meets World, but the 19-year-old has been making remarkable moves in her budding music career as well. After lending her voice to several Disney projects, the aspiring singer decided to strike out on her own with her debut album Eyes Wide Open, which successfully marked her transition from teen actress to bonafide pop diva. Plus, she’s got the songwriting chops to boot. Most of the tracks in her third studio album Singular are cowritten by the songstress, allowing her to really come into her own as an artiste. “I’ve been working on the record for the past two years and I really just started to get a greater understanding of what I was capable of,” she explains to Vogue about the creative process behind it. “I wrote the entire thing, so I decided to call it Singular because I want it to embody that confidence of being able to kind of accomplish what you want on your own.” We couldn’t be more proud!
50 51
COVER STORY
r uel re a d y to r ul e : From busking along the Sydney’s beaches to performing in front of sell-out crowds, the young pop prodigy has come a long way since he was discovered by award-winning producer M-Phazes (“I lost my mind when I heard his voice!”). For a 16-year-old, Ruel’s credentials are admirable to say the least. He boasts numerous self-composed tracks under his belt including his earlier hit ‘Don’t Tell Me’, which was written when he was only 12. He shares, “When I write about something, it helps me figure it out in the process. I want people of all ages, whether they’re 15 or 50, to be able to relate to my songs.” And it’s safe to say he succeeded in doing just that; Ruel’s debut EP Ready has since chalked up over 100 million global streams thanks to standout singles ‘Dazed & Confused’, ‘Younger’ and ‘Not Thinkin’ Bout You’. Rounding up his already impressive list of achievements is the title of 2018’s Breakthrough Artist by the ARIA Music Awards – and that’s certainly saying something.
• He penned his first song ‘Don’t Tell Me’ when he was just 12 years old. • At 15, he made his live radio debut on triplej’s Like A Version segment with a haunting cover of Jack Garratt’s ‘Weathered’. • His smash single ‘Younger’ is now certified platinum!
62 63
C AREER STARTER PACK
text: fabian loo
job well done READY TO ENTER THE WORKFORCE? HERE’S A QUICK GUIDE TO GET YOU WELL EQUIPPED FOR A SUCCESSFUL JOB SEARCH.
Unless you’re a Kardashian, chances are you’ll have to find a job when you enter adulthood. Beyond monetary benefits, seeking full-time employment after graduation holds many benefits: gain real-world vocational experience, develop soft skills and ultimately maturing as
a full-fledged adult (welcome to the real world). We know taking that first step towards a new career path can be daunting, so we’ve compiled a handy guide to help you navigate the fresh corporate waters – and you’ll soon be on your way to landing your dream job!
where do i get started? HOMEWORK YOU NEED TO DO TO PREPARE YOURSELF FOR THE HIRING FRENZY.
1
#
find your calling Before starting your job hunt, try interviewing yourself first to find out exactly what you want to do. Have a field you’re passionate about? It’s always worth looking into jobs that align with your interests, aspirations and strengths. Try asking yourself: what exactly do I want to achieve from working? Is it a deepening of industry-specific knowledge, or the flexibility to gain hands-on experience? Either way, knowing yourself can help to set the boundaries and provide a direction when searching for a job.
tip
Some questions to help you get the ball rolling:
• What kind of environment do you want to work in? • What are the companies that are currently hiring? What do I know about them? • What are the specific job requirements needed and how do your skills match up? • What are the career prospects you can expect? • Where do you see yourself in five years?
tip
Top job search por tals to bookmark stat.
JobStreet www.jobstreet.com.sg
As one of the leading online employment platforms in Asia, this site boasts an extensive catalog of job opportunities from Singapore all the way to Vietnam. JobsCentral www.jobscentral.com.sg
Besides being home to over thousands of jobs, it also hosts a new section dedicated to fresh graduates.
2
#
be on the lookout Now that you have a clearer sense of what you want, the job search begins. There are a couple of mainstream job portals out there, but we are partial to a few: Cultjobs, Glints and StartUpJobs. Glints, for instance, is an online career discovery portal that is geared towards helping young talents. They have a blog with relevant articles and advice
MyCareersFuture for people looking to build their career, along with a user-friendly job portal that allows you to filter through categories that include experience level, job type, industry, and even location. You may also want to consider setting up a LinkedIn account – it’s a great platform to connect and grow your professional network.
www.mycareersfuture.sg
Launched as a government initiative to help locals discover suitable jobs, it allows users to search for jobs that match your skills.
64 65
C AREER STARTER PACK
3
#
first e-pressions count
how can i ace my interview? STAY C ALM, COLLEC TED, AND FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE TIPS TO IMPRESS YOUR FUTURE EMPLOYER.
To score an interview with a company, you’ll need to make the right first impression – and it all begins from that moment you send your first email. Don’t be too hasty in hitting that send button; it pays to double, and even triple check whether the information you’d just typed is factual and free from mistakes. As your initial point of contact with the prospective company, make sure your email is personable yet relevant. Address your email to the hiring manager and rename your attachments accordingly – the smallest attention to detail will go towards creating a favourable first impression, and ultimately up your chances of getting called down for an interview!
4
#
be yourself Tips on crafting a good resume that are sure to get you noticed.
tip
• Prepare a solid summary that effectively showcases your strengths • Personalise your resume according to the job description • Include necessary details such as your email, contact number and even social media accounts (if necessary) • Highlight past internship experiences and key projects involved • Run checks to rid your resume of any glaring errors or typos • Don’t forget to attach a cover letter!
It’s tempting to follow a cheat sheet of how to behave and recite off a mental script when speaking in an interview. But the easiest thing to do: be yourself (in a professional manner, of course). Rather than sounding like a talking version of your resume, inject personable anecdotes to better illustrate your skills and knowledge. This can endear yourself to the interviewers and make you stand out a little more among other applicants. Whatever you have to say about your paper qualifications is already on your resume – these people are actually sussing out your personality and assessing if you would be the right fit for the company. Prove it to them!
Anticipate these common, but telling questions asked by inter viewers.
tip
Q : Tell me more about yourself.
This gives them a glimpse into your personal life. More often than not, interests and hobbies can often allude to a person’s character.
Q
: Share with me a problem you had to overcome recently.
Answers for this will display resourcefulness and provide employers with a sense of how potential candidates may navigate high-pressure situations and everyday problems.
Q : Do you have any questions?
The worst reply: no. Come with a list of questions prepared – this is the perfect chance to show the interviewers that you’ve done your homework.
5
did you know?
#
dress to impress Before you whip out that crisp suit or little black dress, assess the type of company you’re going to first. While business formal works for most companies, those in the creative and media industry, for instance, adhere to a less strict dress code. As they say, dress for the job that you want – so take the effort to choose an appropriate outfit that will fit the occasion. Before heading in, take a few extra minutes in front of the mirror and pay attention to your personal grooming. Check your teeth (especially after a meal), touch-up your makeup, and pop in a mint. Now you’re ready to dazzle the crowd!
what’s next after the interview? THERE’S MORE WORK TO BE DONE EVEN AFTER THE INTERVIEW IF YOU WANT TO SECURE THE JOB. WE’RE ALMOST THERE!
6
#
7
#
33%
of employers make a hiring decision in the first 90 seconds, according to Forbes !
65%
of hiring managers say that clothes could play a decisive role in deciding between two almost equal candidates.
8
#
close the loop
play the long game
the good problem
After leaving the interview room, take some time to craft a thank-you email to those whom you’ve met and recap any learning points that you took away from the conversation. It will leave a stronger impression for yourself and help to build your professional network as well. You can even take this chance to talk about something you missed out during the interview – it’s almost like a bonus round for you to squeeze in some extra brownie points, so use it well.
Rejection is part and parcel of the process, so do not be disheartened if you didn’t manage to get shortlisted for the job. Instead of giving up, take this as an opportunity to learn from your mistakes and correct your course. Too nervous and got tongue-tied during the interview? Failed to relate your strengths with the needs of the job? Either way, be sure to collect feedback and seek to improve yourself. Who knows, they might keep you in mind for future opportunities!
What happens when you’ve prepared yourself well enough – too well, in fact – that you received multiple offers? While it’s certainly a good problem, it’s important to give yourself ample time to mull it over. Consider things from all fronts: location, working hours, salary package, non-monetary benefits, upward mobility, company culture... and the list goes on. The point is: make your first career move one that counts.
66 67
UNCONVENTION AL HUSTLES
text: chew hui ling
not so
ORDINARY
NOT ONE TO SETTLE FOR THE REGUL AR NINE TO FIVE? FROM A JAGUA TATTOO ARTIST TO A PROFESSIONAL COSPL AYER, TAKE INSPIRATION FROM THESE FIVE INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE C ARVING THEIR OWN C AREER PATHS BY TAKING THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED.
Scan me to watch these inspirational youths in action!
Gravity-defying stunts, jaw-dropping tricks and hours of strength training are all in a day’s work for Louis Sue, who’s one of the few professional male pole dancers in Singapore. Often regarded as a feminine dance form, the dance instructor of PXD Pole Studio defies traditional norms by inspiring more men to take up the sport. To share his passion with the masses, the budding champ even took part in Asia’s Got Talent where he impressed the judges with his undeniable talent.
louis sue
on p ic kin g u p t h e u n c on ven t ion a l s p or t :
“I was looking to do something that incorporated both fitness and dance. Watching professional pole dancers defy gravity with seemingly impossible tricks really drew me in. I told myself to give it a try and signed up for a trial class. In my first lesson, I could already see how supportive the community is and how elegant yet strong pole dancers are. Just like that, I fell in love with the sport.”
on b r ea kin g g en d er s t er eot yp es : “Although pole
dancing is still considered a femaledominated dance form, more and more guys are starting to enter the scene and creating a style of their own. In fact, we see about two to three males in each of our classes now, compared to almost none previously.”
pole dancer
age: 26
on t h e loc a l p ole d a n c e s c en e: “I feel that pole dancing has
become more widely accepted as a sport in Singapore. Even through there’s definitely a fair share of people who are still unaware of what pole dancing is about, I hope that we can continue to share our passion with the masses.”
on t ip s f or b eg in n er s :
“The main struggle isn’t the lack of strength or flexibility, but rather the fear of trying. Much like any other sport, all you have to do is take the first step; everything else can be built progressively over the course of this sport. Just give it a go, you won’t regret it!”
age: 24
UNCONVENTION AL HUSTLES
See Min is not your average tattoo artist. The founder behind Henndrawn, the NUS sociology graduate prides herself as the first ever jagua tattoo artist in Singapore. For the unintiated, she specialises in using organic fruit-based ink to create stunningly realistic body art. The catch: it lasts for just two weeks, but you get the freedom to try out something new each time. With her eye for detail and penchant for experimenting with diverse styles, her bold yet tasteful designs are sure to make a unique statement.
on u s in g a r t a s a c op in g m ec h a n is m : “When I was 18, I was
really stressed out from A’Levels so I resorted to art as a creative outlet. I’ve been drawing all my life, and got introduced to the idea of tattoos by my favourite celebrities like Jolin Tsai. However, my mother didn’t allow me to get a real tattoo thus I decided to innovate and began doing temporary tattoos.”
on c h a n g in g t h e p er c ep t ion t ow a r d s t a t t oos : “While focusing
on my own problem of not being able to have tattoos, I accidentally solved the problems of others. It then dawned on me that a natural curiosity and demand for jagua tattoos was created due to the social stigma of tattoos in Singapore. I want people to realise that having tattoos doesn’t change who you are as a person. In fact, it might even help to bring out one’s unique identity.”
on t h e m os t f u lf illin g ex p er ien c e s h e’s h a d :
jagua tattoo artist
ng see min
68 69
“It’s easy to forget that every client comes to us with a purpose for the tattoo. So I created a movement called #OurMessageToYou where we encourage people to share their stories with us in exchange for a tattoo. Through the intimate exchanges, we realised the healing power of jagua tattoos and what we can bring to our clients.”
on a d vic e f or a s p ir in g b od y a r t is t s : “Listen to your heart. If you
want something, nothing can ever stop you. When you start to fear, it’s a sign to actually do it because it means you’re ready to step out of your comfort zone.”
lee yee kien
age: 22
street musician o n h i s p er s on a l m u s ic a l s t yle:
A mathematics and economics student by day and busker by night, Yee Kien is part of an emerging group of individuals who aren’t afraid to make the city their stage. When he’s not performing to the tunes of Ed Sheeran and JJ Lin on the streets, the talented musicmaker can be found showcasing his beatboxing skills in local and regional competitions, even bagging a couple of awards from it. So, the next time you pass by a busker, stop for a moment... and listen.
on a n im p or t a n t lif e lesson:
“My personal style in music is pretty niche; even though it covers a wide range of genres, my style of delivery is all through my vocal chords. Beats, you got it. Guitar, coming right up. Er-hu? Violins? Electric guitar? All me! I use this arsenal of sounds I’ve picked up over the years, input it into my looper and fit it into the songs I sing. I’m essentially a one-man acapella band!”
“I’ve learned that passion is what makes the world go round. Buskers may be on the streets for different reasons, but they are all there with one common purpose: to spread their passion to the world. When you actually stop and listen to one, you can most definitely feel their passion, and that drive is what makes people do what they do.”
o n h is m os t m em or a b le a u d ien c e in t er a c t ion :
on p lu c kin g u p c ou r a ge:
“Once, I was busking near the residential area and someone complained so two police officers came to investigate. I thought my busking license was going to be revoked, but to my surprise, the police officer gave me a pat on the back and said, ‘Bro, you were awesome! Keep doing what you do.’ Those words of encouragement meant a lot to me and it inspired me to keep going.”
“It sounds cliche, but I would say: just do it. It gets easier after you sing the first song, so take the courage to make the first step. If you’re hungry and you wanted food from the coffeeshop across the road, but you chose not to because you fear getting run over by a car, you’ll never get your food. Remember, there will always be people stopping to watch you perform and that’s all that matters.”
72 73
BUSINESS AS USUAL
text: dannon har
out of office
the working capitol 1 keong saik road, singapore 089109 www.theworkingcapitol.com Taking over the historic AIA building, The Working Capitol merges five shophouses into one giant coworking space. An open-concept interior spanning 33,000 square feet, it’s blessed with an abundance of natural light from the shuttered windows, despite the fact that it’s decked out in a mandatory whitewashed colour scheme. It also has private offices, meeting rooms and a dedicated events venue with flexible pricing plans: a day pass is $38 and a monthly plan of $425 grants you unlimited 24-hour access to a workspot. In need of some after-work entertainment? There’s even a beer garden and three restaurants where you can host company dinners and team happy hours.
WHETHER YOU’RE AN ASPIRING ENTREPRENEUR, A SIDE HUSTLER OR JUST SOMEONE WHO C AN’T GET MOTIVATED WORKING FROM HOME, THESE STYLISH COWORKING SPACES WILL KEEP YOUR MONDAY BLUES AT BAY.
clubco china court #01-05/06, singapore 048422 clubco.spaces.nexudus.com Ever needed a coworking space on-demand? This centrally-located collaborative space lets you drop in and drop out whenever you want with flexible passes and plans ranging from $35 to $500, while still allowing more permanency with dedicated memberships starting from $750. The best part? You can redeem your paid value at adjoining restaurant Club Meatballs, which means you get to enjoy delicious grub and beverages for free when you’re on the job, technically. Not a bad deal if you ask us!
21moonstone 21 moonstone lane #09-01, singapore 328462 www.21moonstone.com Touting itself as one for the millennials, this coworking space by day and dive bar by night (on Fridays and Saturdays) takes over what was once an industrial canteen and converted it into a buzzing hangout. A dedicated personal desk goes for $500 a month, while a hot desking package costs $250 for eight days of use per month. Did we also mention The Sam Willows’ Narelle Kheng is one of the co-founders (who serves as an ocassional bartender)?
nuspace singapore 51, Changi Business Park Central 2 #02-06, Singapore 486066 nuspace.nulab.com The only one to provide a free space (yes, free!) to work from, NuSpace at Changi Business Park is perfect for remote working on the fly without the burden of commitment – and it doesn’t end there. A fully-stocked pantry with complimentary coffee and snacks is also available, complete with free Wi-Fi, a foosball table and plenty of networking opportunities with regular tech talks, workshops and events. The only catch? It’s free for one year for all Nulab account member sign-ups (which is also free) only.
