KT Academy

Questions to think before accepting the offer

2012-01-18T06:22:00.000-08:00

For interviews, the essential question is "will I be recruited?" Let's say if the Recruiter hands you an offer....isn't that simply exciting?

Hang on first...sometimes it's good to take a step back to evaluate your options as you hope that your expectations are closely aligned to the organization.

Assume this is the final round with all circumstances, personal factors and opportunities remain equal, you might be asking these pointers below.

Objective is to find out an excellent fit (of over 90%) between the company and you.

1) Have you negotiated the salary package that could fit into your needs? Or do you depend on the Recruiter's proposed fee only?

Yes/No/Maybe

2) Can you visualize the job scope? (i.e. what you will do, the type of work)

Yes/No/Maybe

3) Does the company tell you vague answers on your future with them?

Yes/No/Maybe

4) The company promises you certain things in return that sounds too good to be true?

Yes/No/Maybe

5) You make many baseless assumptions on your end without proper questioning and verification from the Recruiter?

Yes/No/Maybe

6) Is the interview conducted in a professional and ethical manner?

Yes/No/Maybe

7) The Recruiter forthcoming in their answers to you?

Yes/No/Maybe

8) Have you understood your contribution (skills/abilities) to the job?

Yes/No/Maybe

9) Do you know the "negatives" of the job position?

Yes/No/Maybe

10) Has the Recruiter shown enough respect to you (as an interviewing candidate)? For example, you have waited 1.5 hours for him/her without valid reasons

Yes/No/Maybe

There can be more but I think the above is justifiable for you to make better informed decision. The key thing is, out of the 10 pointers, which is the most important to you?

And what are the second and third considerations?

If you have managed them well, you could be excited and eagerly looking forward to the new position, realizing that you have analyzed some of the potential pitfalls.

1 in 4 IT staff plans to quit

2011-10-08T11:41:00.000-07:00

In an article published in Straits Times "1 in 4 IT staff wants to quit", a survey done by the Singapore Computer Society (SCS), the numbers are pretty alarming.

The poll shows that younger workers, especially new entrants to the industry have a stronger desire to leave.

Main reasons - low prestige, poor work-life balance.

One of the IT executives mention that IT workers are usually treated as back-end staff because IT is secondary to businessess. Thus, he feels like a "help" walking button and has to pander to people.

There are others whom feel that they need to constantly upgrade (software developers) their skills and knowledge, making it tiring to keep up with the latest technology - matters made worse when they do not feel well remunerated & appreciated.

Low increment rates in the industry may also lead to job hopping. What can be done to resolve the issues?

I have tabluated 3 key recommendations:

1. Personal expectation, company and industry expectation

When a person advances into the field of IT, it's always advisable to list down the top 5-10 things he wants out from the job. Specifically, it's better to state the specialized field - for example, hardware (networks), software (games & animation). This helps to shape the focus and manage satisfaction since IT evolves quickly in general. On the other hand, basic research into the industry is useful - talk to contacts you know who is in their roles to find out the constant challenges faced by IT Professionals. The objective is to find the fit between YOU, the roles in IT and how you can exploit the opportunities.

Because we can't control things cemented within the organization (e.g. work-life balance as some IT jobs need to be on 24/7 standby) - what we can control is to define what we want: the 5-10 things will come in handy. Once opportunities maximized in short to mid-term, probably that person will be able to move on to a new role after gaining experiences.

2. Broad-based strategic mapping of the IT industry

If you are trained in IT, what other areas are you able to transit and move within the same sphere? Do you need further upgrading and certification?

Did you take out a piece of paper and draw out the various career options in IT? For example, moving from an IT Analyst to a IT Business Consultant?

What are the things to consider? How about progression across international waters?

A point to note is your overall marketability such as soft and technical skills. A Project Manager in his 40s said "I was trained in IT, what else can I do?" - there is plenty and probably he will realize after identifying the options available and connect it with his inner strengths, abilities and positive mindset.

3. Recognized associations with strong government & overseas links

We are moving into the Information & Technology Age, with cloud computing as a potential trend in future. Companies should recognize this!

Hopefully, associations such as SCS and many others will come together, pull in resources and form a centralized hub where IT workers will win prestigious local awards, lobby for higher perks & remuneration and have the opportunities to branch out regionally. Exchange programs can be facilitated at PMEBs level. A level of government intervention and encouragement will help spur the movement.

Seminars can be arranged for company bossess that talk about exploitation of technology to reap in higher earnings - IT personnel will form the backbone of producing greater business efficiency. The problem lies in the fact that most IT workers are on contractual basis, freelance or hired by "unscrupulous" agents.

In-house and fully contracted, though add on to the manpower costs, will reap in longer term cost benefits upon offering the ready support as part of the family.

Youth Employment in Indonesia

2011-08-09T10:10:00.000-07:00

An article published by "The Sunday Times", dated May 29, 2011 - "Youth Employment in Indonesia - Job-seekers are willing but unqualified

Picture this:

"Diploma holder Yuni Sugrondo has jumped from one contract job to another in the last three years. Her stints as administrative assistant paid up to 1.5 million rupiah (S$220) a month, just enough to buy food and contribute to her family's expenses for their house. The 24-year old, who studied management at a private institute in Jakarta, has not been able to find a permanent job. Employers tell her she lacks specific skills for the jobs in human resources that she really wants."

"That is why I want to take a course in human resources so I can get into that industry. But first, I need to earn enough to save money", she said."

Ms. Yuni is among a growing number of Indonesians aged between 15 and 24 who have yet to benefit from Indonesia's economic boom, analysts say. The problem is many of these young people lack the education and skills to land well-paying jobs.

The General Manager of online recruitment firm JobsDB in Indonesia, Mr Chandra Ming, cited the information technology (IT) industry as an example. Of the 200,0000 vacant positions, only about 40 per cent are filled because workers lack the qualifications.

"For every IT job advertised, we get around 80 to 120 CVs monthly", he said. Often, the hiring firm is looking for Degree to Diploma holders, but many candidates are high-school graduates, he added."

Already, university graduates face keen competition for decent work. The situation is even bleaker for the less skilled.

This is because Indonesia's service sector - which includes trade, communications, transport and construction and requires better-skilled workers - has expanded while the labour-intensive manufacturing sector has slowed down. Analysts have noted that the income gap between graduates and non-graduates continues to widen.

Moving forward, here are my 5 pointers:

1. Due to the trend, we often see talent outsourcing from neighboring countries like Indonesia to fill in the "gaps" of work which we local Singaporeans may not be keen to take up - this can be attributed that the qualities needed are not too far-fetched. Furthermore, companies are able to hire them at a lower cost, judging the strength of the Sing dollar currency against Indonesia Rupiah. Naturally, the workers from Indonesia are motivated to look for overseas jobs. Therefore, with a foreign work population adding to the crunch (but offering work expertise to us on a holistic perspective), for certain areas like general services, we may see a squeeze in the employment numbers. Perhaps more can be done for the lower rung of employees.

2. Singapore, being a leading education hub, focuses on higher end qualifications and upgrading, so that we could remain competitive in the longer term due to our open economy. If we do not take the necessary actions to evaluate our personal career marketability on a bi-annual basis, chances are that we may be left behind should our skills remain non-competitive to meet the growing demand of the industries, for instance the rise of social media. Certainly, we do not want to be left out. This can be made worse for any career transition mode.

3. If Indonesia service sector is growing, with a large population size, there could be opportunities within its sub-sectors. Try to identify the hot spots, gather contacts and speak to them if this is something that interests you. Perhaps you might find yourself working for a global organization where Indonesia is a country office only or the firm may be considering viable expansion options. Contacts are important in today's well connected world.

4. A mix of consultancies, training and development centres and related associations could help equip the Indonesian graduates adequate knowledge in certain areas, much needed by local and foreign companies setting up their base in Indonesia.

5. If situation continues, there could be a problem of higher unemployment rate amongst the young. Contract-based jobs are temporary and will not be helpful in the long term. At school level, a closer connection between the institution and the key companies/corporations in the industries could help facilitate effective internships and placement programs, thus securing jobs for the fresh graduates. India is an example where leading banks held roadshows in prominent business schools.

In short, a case study like Indonesia will provide some key takeaways for personal career planning. especially in trend spotting and maximizing opportunities. After all, Indonesia is home to palm oil plantations and may be the catalyst for future retail boom, considering the large population. Not to forget the petrochemical sector. An outsource of talent may pave the way for a globalized workforce.

5 ways to ask for a pay raise

2011-05-16T21:49:00.000-07:00

The economic growth of Singapore is fast increasing over the past years. But the question is, are your wages growing in tandem, or at the very least, you are remunerated for the effort done, hard (& smart!) work and accomplishments made?

The point is, how do you best negotiate a pay raise? While there are no proper regulations or a structured framework, you may want to consider the points below.

Note: There is no guranteed success. The most important is to have a 2 way communication exchange between your boss and yourself.

1. Use a written document

If possible, draft a brief proposal to outline why you should deserve a raise or increased benefits. State the things you have done and thus, brought the company to greater heights. Numbers are examples to highlight the strong points across - for example, "last year, as a hardworking salesperson, I help the company achieve a 10% rise in overall turnover when I approach the niched players which are untapped markets". Make it 3S - short, specific and straight to the point but sound humble.

The key thing here is you have to be proactive in sending a note to your boss, make an appointment (if need be, take him or her for lunch for an informal setting) than waiting for performance appriasal period. Try not to wait till he or she approaches you because it may sound too sudden and you may not be prepared for it.

2. Create a stake in the outcome

Prior to point 1, think back - does your company has a benchmark, KPI (key performance indicator) or quota to meet? If you have met the management expectations, document it down in the proposal. Preferably, split into 3 parts:

(a) How well does the company perform?
(b) How well did you think you perform?
(c) Did you met the management expectations and if surpass, what's the record?
(d) How did you manage the team? (for Managers, Team Leaders)
(e) How does your boss think of your performance?

You could list down the above questions and discuss with your boss, emphasizing the need to reach a mutual conseneus and for yourself, to improve and strive further, henceforth the interest to stake a claim and get yourself rewarded. If there is a need to, you can ask for a one-time bonuses/performance fee, this depends on the company policy, subjected to her regulations. Be open and sound professional.

3. Flexible backup plan

Do you have a backup plan should the outcome not desired after placing a stake during the discussion and handing in the proposal? And if all options fail, what will you do? It will benefit you to have plan A, plan B, plan C. In other words, you can make hard copies of different proposals that tied down to various scenarios, taking into account your boss leadership style, the company culture and policy and your contribution towards the company's future direction.

For instance, if 20% pay raise is not possible, you can opt for 10% raise - backup plan A. it's always wise to have a range before the discussion.

4. Questioning

This is the point of inquiring to gather intelligence on the spot, so as to accommodate both sides. After all, you are negotiating with your boss. One alternative is to throw the "pressure" back, asking behavioral-based questions (not closed-ended) to seek a better understanding. Questions such as:

- How do you feel about my proposal?
- In what circumstances will you remunerate employees further?
- What type of arrangement do you consider such that we could mutually agree?
- I hope to contribute more but will like to inquire your thoughts on my proposal?
- What about my past performances that co-relate to the company agenda?

5. External evidences

This refers to the country's inflation rate, mean average wage of the Profession, media articles etc. Such details, though it's a psychological benchmark, it will add color to your proposal.

Usually the transition will be smoother if you are a Star Peformer in the company over the years, not just your individual performances but an overall team player who is friendly, helpful, has the right mindset, optimistic, dynamic and tactful in managing/interacting with people around. It depends on how you will like to position, at this moment right now in your company

But if you put a high wager without any validity, chances are that your end result will disappoint you greatly.

If you require any assistance on the proposal or need a chat, feel free to contact me. I can't work wonders but will be happy to sit and explore the solutions. Because every situation is vastly distinctive and unique.

And of course if all else fails, bearing in mind that you have exhuasted all options, this is probably where you may consider strategic job jumping or change career for a better remuneration package. Remember to be professional, do not threaten to leave if the outcome does not sway in your favour.

Good luck! :)

Growing industry trends in Singapore

2011-04-09T20:19:00.000-07:00

Interesting trends to look out for on the growing industries in Singapore:

(a) Green technology
(b) Media - film & television
(c) Design, games & animation
(d) Medical sectors - nurses, niche-based medical field & research
(e) Hospitality - launch of IR (Integrated Resorts) boosting tourism receipts
(f) Luxury - retail, wines & spirits, travel, accessories etc.

What does it means?

Job opportunities in the near future. Keep a close eye on the companies that has businesses in these sectors.

For instance, Pernod Ricard belongs to (f) - there is a Singapore office. Banyan Tree, a leading luxury travel operator falls under (e)

For (b) & (c), our local government is attracting large international companies to set their base here. An example is LucasFilm. Recently, we have our own local talent being selected to work on an animation movie project called "Rango".

For (f), we may be geared towards a growing regional luxury goods hub with foreigners coming to spend $$$$$ in Singapore. The items include fine wines and champagne, luxury handbags, accessories, pens and clothes. The main bulk of spending comes from China.

So there you go! Identify what is the next emerging industry trend and co-relate your potential to better advancement. But please do your ground work first.

Be warned! Do not follow the trends blindly. Understand what is your end objective.

Happy Hunting!

10 basic questions to ask yourself - areas to think about when planning your career direction

2011-03-20T07:52:00.001-07:00

When I speak to most people, it seems that a handful may not know where to get started. So I decide to compile a quick summary of 10 basic questions - key areas to think about when planning your career direction:

1. What do you want to be in 5 years time? (5 years is typically used as a benchmark)
2. Able to rattle off your top 3 achievements in life; if not best accomplishment?
3. Do you know how to transfer your skills to your dream career?
4. What does your friend say you are good at?
5. What type of things do you learn and pick up easily?
6. Identify one key point about the Profession that you like very much
7. What is your top motivation for choosing such a Career? Is it sustainable?
8. What do you expect out of that Profession? Does it fulfill your personal vision?
9. How can your personality and values help in shaping your career decision?
10. Have you exhausted your network in exploring feasible career options?

If you need to explore further, feel free to email me at ktservices@mail2world.com

The Importance of an Exit Plan

2011-02-19T01:52:00.000-08:00

Recently, I have round of drinks with my friend, Terry. Terry works in the FMCG sector. He is single and stays with his parents.

Terry says "Hey Ken, do you know I have a pay raise of 10%?"
Sounding happy for him with eyes light up, I reply "Great! Now your earned income base rises!"

Terry retorts back "As delighted as I am, strangely I just do not feel satisfied"
My voice chokes back - "Is it you want more? Humans are not easily contented financially"

Terry - "It's not that. It seems my personal wealth depends very much on my take-home pay. There is a price to pay when the management gives me a pay raise; that is I have to perform and meet my new responsibilities. I will work hard but the problem is, I am worried about my main source of income being cut should my boss finds me redundant. It's very competitive here. When this happens, I will be transferred out. I do not wish to work in other divisions since I have little interests and can't find a match to expand my career potential".

Terry has a concern on his work performance. He wonders about his next term delivery and if he is able to match the company's expectations, prior to the pay raise. The question is, Terry is only dependent on this source of income. Finance aside, will his career be jeopardized?

He has this query in his mind - "what happens if there is someone junior whom is able to replace him and worse, proves a more convincing wage dollar per headcount basis?"

Let say all factors discounted out, what can Terry do if the boss transfer him out?

Will it help if Terry has drawn out various exit solutions? In other words, he has a platform to fall back on.

Sipping my hot pipping Chinese tea, I take out a blank piece of paper and specify 3 key areas for Terry to consider. I hope to broaden his perspective:

1. Start a part-time business
2. Re-visit his career interests and define his 2nd mode of pathway
3. Understand his career priorities

During his term of employment, he could set aside time to address point 1-3. While moonlighting is not supported; however a part-time business is able to contribute to his income profile, as part of his exit strategy plan. The best part is he is holding on to a job while preparing for an escape route. Examples include tuition, social media, organize events, Trainer, computer technician etc.

Terry needs to examine his strengths, understand hobbies that he is keen to pursue on and utilize them to build a business around it.

On the other hand, Terry can take this opportunity to assess his career pathway by asking himself a few basic questions:

(a) Switch to another Profession? Why and what is the main reason?
(b) If he continues in this current role, what will be the outcome? Is this what he wants?
(c) What options available to tap on?

Terry's career focus is to work towards the goal of being a Senior Manager. And he is not sure if the current work environment and advancement opportunities allow him to do so.

As a result, the importance of an exit plan is very useful. We can't predict results (only visualization and forecasts) the next day but expect the unexpected.

In the case of Terry, his boss may be unpredictable, considering the past employment history of the company. Thus, I have decided to work with Terry together.

How about yourself? Do you have an exit plan?

Japan lost generation - the young but talented people

2011-02-02T06:43:00.000-08:00

I read an interesting article published entitled "Japan Lost Generation"
http://www.businessweek.com/globalbiz/content/may2007/gb20070517_814046.htm

It is sad to hear that the young, promising local graduates are unable to find a job, not just because of the weak employment market, but the employers perceived value on the senior workers. Some Recruiters feel the young may not have the relevant skills and are inexperienced. It is this societal suffocation that constitute to an already ailing economy since the Japanese bubble and underpin the growth of a healthy workforce.

Seniority and hierarchy remain prevalent in Japanese companies. No matter how talented the young is and how hard he works, he could not rise in ranks above a senior person whom may have deteriorated in their performances but remain important to a company success. Hence, the unpolished young gems could not shine further. He can't just hop from one job to another as too much job hopping is completely frown upon by the local society.

On the contrary, we are living in a rapid information age. The young can contribute to new ideas amidst the economic stagnation of the local market. Should the Japanese companies venture overseas, the young and educated generation is able to speak and write English, communicate better and develop fresh concepts that help to drive effective business innovation. The end results? Potential for higher productivity and bottom line.

Look at the likes of Hello Kitty and we know how successful a Japanese franchise can be. Look at the likes of Kirin beer and we know how influential a conglomerate is.

Effectively, a good mix of young and old will help. So the question is this - where does the young Japanese head to?

Overseas. Yes, the chance for them to integrate into a multi-diverse global organization that embraces their skills. Offering ad-hoc Japanese lessons to foreigners outside of Japan could be another feasible option. Or chained Japanese cuisine classes in Asia.

I spoke to some young Japanese whom share the same sentiment as mentioned above. They worked in America for a number of years on contract basis. Due to local family roots, they could not renew the contract. Once back in Japan, their work culture changes entirely. Local Japanese firms hire them because of the regional experiences. Still, they will have little room to expand their potential and have to listen to the traditional corporate thoughts melted out by their chiefs. The young does not like it unfortunately. So, given a chance, they will like to venture out completely from Japan and ply their trade globally. Right now, they are saving every penny and taking on part time jobs - dual income streams. And it's draining their health.

I reckon if this continues and worsens, we will see an outflow of raw talent, from Japan to worldwide. Think about this when the young are not offered a conducive platform:

(a) Japan workforce remains dull, at a matured stage that lacks spark and creativity
(b) High unemployment rate when channels of job opportunities are wound up internally
(c) A chance for the young Japanese to migrate instead of returning back to contribute
(d) Already an aging population, the numbers increases when the young migrates
(e) Poorer integration and acceptance of the young leading to stifle work environment

For me as a Career Coach, to my opinion, I feel the young should be given an ultimate ticket. The ticket to such career freedom and choice, not what the society shapes them but how they could break out of the cultural shell and maximize their strengths.

I will be personally delighted to speak and coach the younger Japanese (in English). If you happen to know any of them in distress, please let me know :)

My email is found in the blog.

Social & Conversational Skills

2011-01-23T06:02:00.001-08:00

A guy comes up to you with excellent qualifications but lacks the softer skills, the intangibles that could cast a lasting impression.

What I mean of the lasting impression - you envision that he has the ability to go far, you are able to nurture him into a gemstone. Basically, his character shines that capture your inner thoughts.

How can this be done during interviews?

- Social
- Conversational
- Dress Code

I shall focus on social and conversational as I assume dress code is something that most people will understand through reading articles and getting the top 10 tips on how to dress well for interviews.

Social

It is the comfort level felt between the both parties, such that the Interviewer and the Interviewee are at east to communicate with each other. Like a social setting between friends. Just that it is in a Professional and unknown environment because you do not know the other party well and naturally feel the interior design of the interview room gives you the creeps...

When you step into the room, what do you do first? Shake hands, smile and say "Hi" or do you smile, look the person into the eyes and concurrently put out your hand and say "How do you do?"

Which will be better - the 2nd answer right? Naturally, the tone of your voice, the sincerity, the firm handshake and the smile are infectious. This is the beginning of a social corporate setting during the start of an interview. It helps if the Interviewer is friendly. If not, you can be the person to do the ice breaker first by asking "how is your day?". Take notice of the person body language and how he reacts to your social vibes.

Conversational

This applies during the point of verbal engagement between the Interviewer and Interviewee. It's how you speak that makes the person engaged, how you receive his answers and how you react to the questions posed. Suppose the Interviewer will to ask a typical question - "what are your strengths" - do you immediately answer point 1-5 about your key competencies or do you keep silence for a while and try to come up with personal experiences to explain your abilities?

Turn the table around - will you as a Listener prefer to hear stories or someone quoting point 1-5 facts?

That, to the extent is conversational. Interviews are not meant to be Q&A sessions but the discussion locked in between both parties. One must be adaptable, yet smiling and being confident always to carry a unique identity in talking. The brand YOU has to emerge from being a good Conversationalist to sustain the level of interest and build a character that fits into the position.

There are more to come in polishing the social and conversational attributes by focusing on certain techniques. After which, you could define your personal style. The style that able to define your identify known to the Interviewer.

One thing to note - such skills do not apply to interviews only but any mode of communication and networking. It does relate to presentation, depending on the agenda. The point is that both social and conversational are transferable and could form a package on the outside, apart from your internal qualifications.

Need help? Feel free to drop me an email. We could meet up for a chat over coffee in analyzing your gaps for interviews/communication.

Alternatively, there is personal coaching available for interviews.
Email - ktservices@mail2world.com

The year of 2011 - time to reflect?

2011-01-01T01:52:00.001-08:00

The year of 2011 has started. Happy New Year to all!

Looking back, I began to reflect my past work done as a competent Career Coach. Primarily, the topics included in my materials:

(a) Career Planning
(b) Interview techniques
(c) Resume & cover letter editing
(d) Personal profiling such as strengths & weaknesses
(e) Needs-based analysis
(f) Understand business mechanisms
(g) Listening skills
(h) Verbal communication

So, the list goes on and on...

This year, I am delighted to understand that majority of my clientele found the personal career coaching sessions helpful and informative, with the standardized set of approach and consultative one-to-one practical work.
(see testimonials at http://kttestimonials.blogspot.com/)

Of course, there are handfuls that may not be ready or be constrained by personal challenges to consider career coaching as an option; this despite their self-acknowledgment to do so. The common inner critic is, "it is not the time now" Bearing all external circumstances and unforeseen obstacles, problem is "when will be the right time"? Do you place high priority or simply procrastinate?

Career is not just about jobs, industries, interviews and resumes. It is alive and ever-changing always to seek enhanced continuous improvement (CI) and equip with better skill sets. A stage of going from point A (current) to point B (future). Alongside, you are able to identify transferable qualities and turn weaknesses to new found abilities, helping to visualize a rewarding pathway that you enjoy doing.

Question is this (to self-reflect for 2011) - are you stuck, confused or uncertain? Perhaps work boredom, career dissatisfaction, stigma of unemployment, lack of improved remuneration or dull corporate environment? Whatever the case, 2011 could be a turning point in your life. Re-define the goals and reflect back the initial interests – “what do I like to do”? What will motivate you in 2011?

For me as a Career Coach, I have enjoyed talking and understanding people. In addition, I can’t be stagnant. I have to be commercially aware yet have a penchant to guide, motivate, advise and work closely with individuals on a customized basis. Service from the HEART was constantly in me. In the year of 2011, I have decided to embark on a detailed research program to compile interactive hands-on exercises and incorporate new fields of learning.

Here are my top 5 key areas for 2011:

1) In-depth BBI (behavioral-based) and competency-based interviews
2) Define your personal selling style (in our advertisement-driven world, we are constantly bombarded by sales ads. Why makes you adopt a certain brand?)
3) Soft skills advanced exercises such as presentation – design your personal framework
4) The brand “YOU” in the corporate world and on a social level
5) The negative part of YOU – everyone has fears. Include myself too!

What is your career plan in 2011? Quit and get a new job or pursue your personal interests? Stay in line with existing Profession or upgrade further?

Has your goals include "Career". If not, have you align with your intended direction?

Have fun thinking but remember nothing beats being healthy & jovial :)

What is your unique passion?

2010-09-13T06:11:00.000-07:00

Recently, I read papers about dynamic individuals pursuing their unique passion till their interests develop into potential, realistic career pathways. They are able to visualize the intended direction and understand their inner potential.

I spoke to a number of people whom eyes sparkle brightly whenever their personal enthusiasm of a particular subject is analyzed further.

Let's assume all internal variables remain constant such as life challenges and financial constraints are not major influencing factors, as well as external obstacles not detrimental such as perceived societal stereotypes. We are talking about legalized boundaries, in case you may be wondering off your limits :-)

I churn out a list of 50 interests:

1) Outdoor Adventure Advisers
2) Market Trader / Investor
3) Critic - movie, general affairs, food etc...
4) Blogger
5) Hobbyists - stamps, toys, recycled materials etc...
6) Computer Technician
7) Private Tutor
8) Restaurant Owner
9) Self-Proprietor
10) Musician
11) Composer
12) Game Animators
13) Stuntman
14) Singer
15) Fengshui Master
16) Fortune Teller
17) Dating Gurus
18) “Tai-tai”
19) Massage Therapists / Reflexologists
20) Trainers / Instructors
21) Hacker
22) Conference Speakers
23) Magician
24) Fashionists
25) Dancers
26) Tour Manager
27) Designers
28) Cartoonists
29) Artists
30) Bodyguard
31) Consultants - fashion, business, PR etc...
32) Cosplay
33) Explorer
34) Farmer
35) Professional poker player
36) Writer
37) Planner - wedding, life, financial etc.
38) Car Racer
39) Conservationists
40) Drivers - bus, taxis
41) Busker
42) Ambassadors
43) Undercover Agents
44) Professional Conference Organizer (PCO)
45) TV Host
46) Website / Software Developer
47) Hawker
48) Storyteller
49) Athletes
50) Priest

Just for your reference only. Please evaluate your profile carefully. For me, I love personal career coaching. How about you?

Anything worth to explore further?

Unsure? Why not have a cup of coffee with me :) - email: ktservices@mail2world.com

A Job vs. A Career

2010-08-19T08:26:00.000-07:00

For the past months, I have been busy with one-to-one personal career coaching sessions with my clients. It's always interesting to understand people from all walks of life and for me as a Career Coach map out alternatives and provide sound career guidance. Did not really have the time to blog. But I am back now!

Back with refreshing ideas to pen it down - one interesting topic that pops up is

"A Job vs. a Career?"

First and foremost, how do you define career to your own perspective? Do you prefer a simple, mundane (or sometimes exciting) and organized life, working from a typical 9am to 6pm for an organization? Working for years and therefore call it "Career" till you retire?

Think about this:

Maybe I may change my job, undertake the same Profession but still prefer working for a company because it's my career. My resume tells a story about my career. So the cycle continues with new jobs after squeezing each drop of work satisfaction from the old job, meet your potential, work for years and perhaps move on to a new company that offer better advancement opportunities. Till the day I reach the peak, make an achievement and get promoted with the company. Grow hand-in-hand together.

If your answer is yes with getting a fixed income and envisioning your career progression with the companies to the position desired, it may come to a point where you may face internal challenges with yourself, evaluating the next career pathway at some point of time due to the fact that you can't seem to find career happiness....for some strange reasons. Does it happen to you?

Especially when things do not come your way such as stiff environment, overly high expectations, sticky colleagues, bad day at work or other external factors etc.

Issues evolving:

(a) Am I just a paid salaried worker having a job and hence, this is my career?
(b) How far can I reach to be THAT position I want to be?
(c) THAT position gives me prestige, perks and attractive remuneration. Important?
(d) What exactly do I want in my career? What do I like to do in my life?
(e) What is my main interest that keeps me going?
(f) My job is getting boring. I do not see myself improving and climbing up
(g) My personal obstacles that stop me from realizing my career dream
(h) What must I do to make myself happy in my career?

Each day, we face with negative vibes (e.g. peers telling you to stop daydreaming) and some dosage of positive vibes (e.g. peers whom say "you can do it mate!") Of course in some point of time, we have to be realistic. Hey, we are living in Singapore...money matters. We need to be financially intelligent too. So realistically, the thought of pinning your career to a day-to-day, back-to-back job is there. The scary unimaginable feeling of losing a job, thus the income stream.

For myself, I do not deny this. Along the years after traveling regionally, I come to realize that a job is a tool to keep us going and earning the $$$, required for basic needs and slowly moving up to higher needs (Maslow needs), apart from building up my soft skills and personal experiences. A mutually exclusive agreement between you and the company. It depends the level you are in within the organization.

As a result, you may want to consider passive income streams or secondary income. This form part of your career investment portfolio.

Career encompasses much more. Areas that are intangible but help to develop your full spectrum of life and how you view it on a long term basis, apart from just a job. For example - during your corporate life, you may have found some new friends, new contacts whom are your Mentors till today? On the other hand, you may have develop passion for a key area and hence able to pursue it on your leisure time? One step better, your love life with fellow colleagues? (quit the job, get the life!)

Flip the coin round, if one day you have the chance to shape your own career based on your underlying interest and NOT thinking about getting a job, what will you do? Say you given 1 hour freeze and turn the clock back, what will happen? Can you grow that interest to a passion and slowly to a career, a life you always wanted?

Some find the potential overseas. Such as music and the arts, film and television. Some push the boundaries and realize the unexpected in themselves. Such as own business. Some are contented in their current status. Some are conceived by external environment and people around them. Such as friends being Investment Bankers and they will like to take on the role too without understanding their personal career profile.

Whatever reason, we always need to review our career options. You can be happy in a job one day, get kick out another day, feel depressed over a lousy day at work or find a new job. But you can never take away that little, little, little career interest in you. You need that sparkle.

Meanwhile that little, little, little career interest of mine is "Career Coaching"
I hope you can find yours too!

Ways to be a Star Performer

2009-09-14T11:47:00.000-07:00

Star Performer - people that excel, perform to the very best, develop their strengths, rectify their weaknesses, being mentally strong and believe in successes.

10 simple ways to be a Star Performer

1. Think & take small steps
2. Do your research in your own time for your line of work on a regular basis.
3. Ask management what you can do to make yourself more valuable
4. Ask for assignments no one wants BUT try not to spread yourself too thin.
5. Create plans to solve problem areas at work. Can be a one-two page document
6. Assist colleagues when needed. Lend a helping hand. They will remember you!
7. Add things to your “to do” list. Be focused & constantly aware. Expand scope
8. Give others the credit when your counterparts perform well. You need them
9. Focus on important relationships – contacts that help to you
10. Stop underestimating yourself

Are you one of them? If not, will you like to be one?

Or are you facing extreme career challenges? If the answer is "yes", take action now! We provide one-to-one career coaching session; with practical lessons & role play scenarios.

Email your name & contact details to ktservices@mail2world.com

Resume Writing & Interview Workshop

2009-05-10T10:06:00.001-07:00

Have a peek into past sessions: (attached below is RAW footage)

(a) Structure of a cover letter

(b) Parts of a resume: a brief summary

* Disclaimer: There are no 100% proven resumes, cover letters & interviews. In no circumstances is the trainer held liable for their outcomes of any nature. The trainer shall not bear any responsibilities whatsoever in lieu of the individual’s actions during the resume writing & interview process.

Starting pay for Graduates in 2008

2009-04-15T05:37:00.000-07:00

Starting pay for Graduates in 2008

Thought this might be useful. Not long ago, MOE has just conducted and released the results of a survey done regarding the starting salaries along with the employment rate of graduates from NUS, NTU and SMU in 2008. The results of the survey can be seen in the pictures below. The results of this survey are quite interesting and should offer an insight to those who are contemplating on which courses to choose in universities. At least you can get a benchmark estimate of your starting pay.

* Please treat this as a guideline. Your career objective may not necessary be monetary-driven. Be mindful of how you define your own career satisfaction.

Let your staff do the talking!

2008-12-27T22:35:00.000-08:00

Let your staff do the talking! - A two-way communication

Don't tell your staff what to do always - Encourage them to think for themselves & come up with great ideas.

Most of the workplaces I noticed seem to have Managers/immediate Superiors telling their workers/employees on the next step/what to do. There is nothing wrong in doing so. However, it will come across as a one-way communication because a general stereo-type perception was developed - that they have better experiences, knowledge in the workplace, so therefore I should listen to them; what position am I to question? When that happens, you restrict innovation. Your workers know the latest trends & developments, the up-to-date technology advancements. They have many more heads than you, as a Manager does. Therefore if you want results, try to pause for a moment; stop telling your employees what to do. Instead, ask them thought-provoking questions. This will work out well, especially for traditional companies, family oriented firms whom are not adaptable to changes.

It gets people thinking themselves about possibilities and, when they come up with their own answers. They are energized & excited about implementing them.

A tremendous amount of brainpower is wasted every day because Managers still think their job is to tell people what to do. But in reality, workers know much more about the work they are doing than the boss does. Being told what to do can actually sap their motivation.

The problem is that even if you as a Manager, has a winning idea, your staff may still be resistant to it because the suggestion came from you. People often question and react negatively to ideas they didn't think of themselves.

On the other hand, when your team members come up with an idea themselves, it creates positive feelings that make them want to take action.

How to make that happen? Let's get started:

1) Get permission. People may be too preoccupied to listen. Schedule a time, ask everyone when they are willing to pay attention

2) Describe the process. Tell people that you are going to ask them questions about what they are doing & make it clear they are expected to do the thinking & come up with their own conclusion

3) Start with the present. For instance: what are you stuck on? How long have you been thinking about this? That will identify the issue and get people focused.

4) Clarify their understanding. E.g. What have you done so far? What alternatives have you identified? Which do you think is the best alternative?

5) Listen carefully & stimulate action. If more than one option is identified, ask further questions to help your staff decide which one to pursue.

The goal is for your team members to conclude: I just decide what I need to do. As it's their idea, they will be committed to take action. If you want to work with people with no hope, you have to look like the solution and not the problem.

Suggest a question such as: "what do you need to do to make this work?" or "what do you want to do next?".

Because the brain is always making new connections, this will encourage the development of new habits & goals.

One thing to note - being questioned may scare people because they fear they are being evaluated on their answers. Hence, it is vital that Managers explain the goals to their team members & stress that they are not being judged.

Some examples of questions Managers can ask to help employees gain problem-solving insights:

(a) How clear is your thinking on this?
This may lead team members to analyze if enough time has been spent thinking about an issue

(b) What would your most desired outcome look like?
This helps to create a mental picture of the goal

(c) How will you know when you have been successful?
This helps people to visualize what completion would look like and how satisfying it would be to do well

(d) How are you going to be accountable for this?
People often make promises they don't really intend to keep. Making a commitment to be accountable strengthens resolve

(e) What would need to happen for this to be an outrageous success?
This question gets people thinking in new ways, opening up possibilities for grander outcomes.

Help your people to think better. Don't tell them what to do next. You will be pleasantly surprised!

I am on LIVE! Talkshow, 93.8FM - The Living Room

2008-12-18T07:55:00.000-08:00

I have been invited on air by 93.8FM - The Living Room, MediaCorp Singapore for a LIVE! talkshow on 18 Dec (Thu) from 11am - 12noon.

Spoke about career development. Topic of discussion is:

----> school leavers choosing the type of courses in universities
1) factors affecting choice of courses
2) a quick broad range of courses available (do not have time to talk so many specialisations during the time slot when on air)
3) quick summary of questions you should ask yourself when select a course in university.

Wanted to share with all my readers - the REPEAT telecast is tonight, 18 Dec (Thu): 11pm - 12midnight. Tune in to 93.8FM.

Channelnewsasia: from 2am - 3am (if you not yet zzz)

Thank you 93.8FM!

Career Pathway Series - Part 1

2008-12-14T03:25:00.000-08:00

Career Pathways Series - Part 1

Part 1:
I decide to compile (in summary) a variety of interesting pathways an individual can consider in their possible career direction; be it a switch of career routes or further advancement to better opportunities. Each field can be divided into several sub-sectors. (e.g. arts - specialise in journalism).

* Expand your career horizon & consider your options carefully. Seek advices & opinions before embarking on your next decision.

(a) Business

Commerce (e.g. Accounts & Finance)
Marketing
Law
Management
Property
Business Administration
Sports & Recreation Management
Tourism & Hospitality Management
Event Management
Logistics & Supply Chain Management
Business & Enterprise (Entrepreneurship)
Human Resource Management

(b) Education, arts, design & social sciences

Architecture
Arts (e.g. focusing on journalism, international studies, psychology etc.)
Linguistics
History
Industrial design
Media - (e.g. interactive media, multimedia, general media)
Social work
Social science
Visual arts
Creative arts
Visual communication
Education (e.g. junior primary, primary, secondary, early childhood etc.)
Journalism
Applied languages & intercultural communication
Psychology
Communication
Criminology
Music

(c) Health Sciences

Medicine
Occupational Therapy
Speech Therapy
Nursing
Laboratory Medicine
Medical Radiation (e.g. diagnostic radiography, nuclear medicine, radiation therapy)
Human Movement
Midwifery
Nutrition & food sciences
Pharmacy
Physiotherapy
Podiatry
Health Science
Vet Science

(d) IT, Engineering & Environment

Mechanical engineering
Aeronautical engineering
Chemical engineering
Mechatronic engineering
Computer systems engineering
Civil engineering
Electronics engineering
Telecommunications engineering
Software engineering
Maritime engineering

Information systems / Information Technology
Information & communications technology
Computer science

Sustainable environments (e.g. environmental protection & management, geographical & earth systems, geospatial information systems)
Landscape management
Urban & regional planning

(e) Sciences

Chemistry
Physical & life sciences
Natural & Agricultural science
Nanotechnology
Zoology
Wildlife management
Biotechnology
Sport science
Geoscience (e.g. mineral geoscience, petroleum geoscience)
Neuroscience
Psychology
Behaviour
Molecular biology
Microbiology
Marine Science
Environmental
Earth science
Cell Physiology
Biomedical science
Biophysics
Astronomical science
Anthropology
Archaeology
Animal science

(f) Hospitality

Culinary
Gastronomy
Event & exhibition
Travel & tourism
Sports & recreation
Hotel & resorts

* Series to be updated again as there are plenty of specialised fields.

The "PAVE" formula - mindset to better success

2008-12-14T01:50:00.000-08:00

There is something interesting that I want to share with all my readers. How to secure the right mindset to achieve your goals?

Using the "Pave" formula:

P = Preparation
A = Affirmation
V = Visualization
E = Enthusiasm

Let me explain more details:

1) Preparation

Do you agree with me that once you are well prepared, you will be more confident and more focused? On the other hand, if you are not prepared, you will fear failure. This fear may undermine your confidence.

Think back the time when you were in school. When exams are approaching and if you had studied thoroughly with deep understanding, will you fear the worst or mentally prepared to score well when you enter the exam room?

2) Affirmation

Most of us during certain point of time in our lives, we always tell ourselves more negative things than positive ones. We are always driven by admiration of others and downplay our own abilities. This is also spurred by the fact of news media highlighting the achievements of others. So what to do then?

While it's not easy to silence the little critic in your head, but you can try outgunning him by using more positive self talk & affirmation. If you are focused and believe in your own positive traits, your own strengths, try using the following phrases below. Every individual is unique and may realize their own talent with strong affirmation of themselves. It's like creating a realistic world of your own expectations

(a) Use "I" word. This makes your affirmation personal & real. Tell yourself how YOU can do it, how YOU can achieve it, the plans YOU take and how YOU can be more valuable than others - in other words how YOU can shine within your own capabilities.

(b) Adopt the SMART affirmation. Please do not fool yourself. Make your affirmation realistic & believable unless you think you can be the next Minister of your own country!

This also does not mean you should aim low in your affirmations. You are not always an "OK" guy. Extraordinary measures CAN happen if you believe in yourself; if you stretch your mind to do the impossibles if you can. YOU are totally unique & irreplaceable. YOU are the one to shape your own destiny. Just need to believe in yourself, soar in your confidence and ride in the mood to meet your goals.

3) Visualization

Research suggest that the brain cannot always distinguish the real from the imagined. This means that if you stock of remembered positive experiences not sufficiently empowering, you can simply create some mental images to boost your self-confidence.

Visualize yourself confidently in propelling to the short term/long term targets of your written choices. For example, try to harness enough courage to ask your boss for a raise (that is of course you think you are worth that pinch of salt!) or ask the man/woman of your dreams out for a date. What can possibly happen in the end? Do you think your boss will sack you or downgrade you when you ask for a pay adjustment? In fact, your boss will not know your inner thoughts if you are unwilling to share. I agree this may be hard as most Asians by nature are not taught to "disrespect the elders" or there is a sense of embarrassment, fear if you open up this question (e.g. your fellow colleagues may oppose your views). But your boss may think likewise or appreciate your open end discussion, so that better rapport can be built. I cannot guarantee you the next pay rise; least to provide answers through project visualizations. Always think of a possible scenario to visualize your pockets of successes. Doesn't matter whether your mental images are memories of actual events or mere fantasies. The purpose of visualization help to build confidence & a pathway to your intended goals.

4) Enthusiasm

If you want to appear confident, you need to move people emotionally as well as rationally. To do this, you have to be enthusiastic. When others sense you are passionate about a certain issue, they may perceive you as confident & convincing.
They may more likely to regard you favorably or accept what you say. Enthusiasm to my understanding spread like contagious diseases.

After reading the "PAVE" approach, use it. Do it now and foresee yourself scaling to greater heights.

Cheers!

My article published in Career Central Magazine

2008-12-14T00:16:00.000-08:00

Here is my article that was published in the "Career Central" Magazine - Resolving Conflicts At Work. For full article posted on Career Central - go to: http://community.jobscentral.com.sg/node/873

Career Central Magazine was started by JobsCentral and being distributed to the polytechnics, universities in Singapore.

Enjoy reading!

Networking - the connectivity

2008-10-27T08:57:00.000-07:00

There are several networking events in which you can build up several essential business contacts - be it for work, job recommendations or any other useful purposes. They will be useful for your career advancement when you can gain valuable insight onto the growth of an industry or even its job prospects. You may be even referred to a job position. In addition, you can better develop your skills - interpersonal & communication, presentation etc.

Therefore, I will touch base upon the interesting topic of "Networking - the connectivity".

There are many books you can read up on it. I will not dwell too much on the theories. I shall summarize shortly on the things you should look out for to better enhance your networking skills

1) Do a background study
More often when we attend a networking event, we lack strategic focus and do not know the essence of it. Typically, an invitation will be given out that states briefly the profile of the speakers, the event objectives, whom its targeted for and the subject content. Wait a minute. How about knowing more about the company background and the industry? Do you know a lot about the sectors? Can we project the type of audiences that will turn up and if these people are the group of personnel you want to network with? If it's being held in a very posh venue with strict RSVP and other abiding regulations, you can make a perceived assumption that you are looking to interact with people of higher management level, preferably CEO, MDs, VPs. Hence one should be competent in his industry knowledge and professionally sound & look good.

2) You cannot network with everyone in the room
Unless there is a segment where the compere allows this, you can't possibly get all the contacts in the room. Be extremely observant in little things around you but maintain your composure. When someone near you exchanges his business cards with anhother person, you can shift your eyes away to notice the type of business he is in (but not too obvious). Alternatively, walk around and take better notice of groups chatting with one another. This will be your target because you can easily exchange your contacts with 3 to 4 people. Also once you managed to hook up with a person, spend at most 5-10 minutes as your time is limited and you wish to network with more people. Promise to the other party that you will stay in touch with him (that is if you will).

3) Be likable & approachable. Be brave, sincere and passionate to network
People come from different backgrounds and react differently to unique behavioral norms and attitudes. Similarly in a networking event, you will get to meet many interesting people whom demonstrate different communication styles. You can learn from them as you observe! On the contrary, there are certain lingo which may be a no-no to the other party (such as flaring your arms too much as if you are getting agitated easily or asking him how many kids he has, is he married) when he may misinterpret your actions/thoughts. Therefore be as professional as you can, talk with more assertiveness, remain calm & composed, friendly, smile and focus on the person you are conversing with. As first impression counts. Be likable and try not to blow your horn too much. I have seen business people literally bringing their businesses to the sky. Do also take note not to bring down other organization business or having your own strong thoughts on certain sensitive issues (such as country politics). Lastly is to be brave on saying the first "hello, how are you" to strike your first conversation.

4) Your social norms
In most networking events, you will find refreshments, lunch or dinner. Try not to take food that is difficult to handle. Chicken wing is good if you go to a corner and eat (without the party looking at you how you dissect the wing). This is an intangible communication norm that will not be told but add marks to your professional outlook. Another will be untold body language. If you make your first contact with an individual and you find that he is shuffling around, eyes rolling and does not take attention to what you say, forget it and move on. Shake hands with him and say it's nice knowing you. Then there will be others who screen at you from top to bottom, making you uncomfortable. Well, take it like a pinch of salt, smile, project a strong voice and introduce yourself. He may be surprised and know that you have what it takes to network like a true gentleman/power lady. To the other way round, your body language is also important for others to assess if you are sincere or just promoting your business. Take pride in knowing what your conversing party does. Ask him questions pertaining to his line of competence (if you know, if not, be polite and seek his advice). Upon which, you will get his interest

5) Your introduction & ice breaker
Think about how you plan to introduce yourself and ask the other party questions. It is like a one liner that says "Hi, how are you?" or more detailed "Hi, how have you been? Does the food taste good?" There is no formally right or wrong answers. You have to be comfortable in telling people whom you are, what you do. Sometimes it's better to let the other party ask you questions or he tells you about his business (the conversation can carry on further). Avoid lines such as "Hi, my name is xxx. I am from xxx company and work in the xxx industry. My responsibilities ....." Its getting too advertisement driven. Try not to make too much "small talk" without focusing on the main topic. Be specific, knowledgeable and discuss issues/obstacles in relevance to the industry but not to the extent of your first introduction - "I heard this industry is not faring well, what are your opinions"? A good eye contact, firm handshake, smile and professional look with a simple tag-line "Hi, my pleasure to meet you. My name is xxx in the xxx industry" then you exchange your business cards.

Here are some things which I had seen in several networking events:
(a) wearing shorts & slippers to formal events (overly dress down, *gulp*)
(b) food crumbs around the mouth while talking
(c) overly fidgeting with own body parts while talking (lack of self confidence?)
(d) boasting about their abilities, skills & businesses they are in (usually will know from their tone of their voices, their great emphasis on certain points which are overly expanded, so as to justify his verbal evidences which in case it may be spoiled beans if the other party knows about the actual facts)
(e) not answering to you much when you introduce yourself, eyes shifting away to other direction, screening you from top to bottom ---> take it like a pinch of salt, wow the contact if possible, if not, move on!
(f) asking first-time questions that are out of the blue (e.g. "are you single or married and how many bf/gf you have, political sensitive queries)
(g) giving out business cards excessively, asking people to contact him if there is any needs (overly driven salespersons whom usually gets negative reviews)
(h) going for free food during networking events
(i) weak handshakes (e.g by fingers) unless stipulated by religion or faith

Remember to to regularly stay in touch (with IMPORTANT, USEFUL people because time is limited - quality counts) with your contacts after the network (drop a line and ask your contacts out for lunch, not just few simple emails)

5 common FAQ (interview questions)

2008-09-17T09:07:00.001-07:00

I have briefly gathered 5 common questions (not in order) - what you will be asked during the interview. There are no right & wrong answers, but remember to answer them professionally & intelligently:

1) Tell me more about yourself / briefly explain about your background
- interviewer may wish to know your qualifications, experience, skills learned, hobbies, awards & achievements, your character. You may want to put in a brief personal experience in the past that you learn before.

2) Why do you choose this job?
- mostly people will mention "because good career prospect". but in the first place, what you mean "good" and how do you know this can help you advance your career to the type of career you want? You may want to say you choose this job because you see that you can value-add to the company roles & vision (read company profile through website) with your own skill sets and you see your own passion & commitment to continuously strive to excel better.

3) What is your expected salary? why?
- Now, this is a very tricky question. You worry you may market yourself too low and if too high, company find you overpricing yourself. Therefore you may ask them back "what is the industry expectation?" This depends on your own skills, abilities and experiences again to align to the salary scale. Ultimately be frank and state your expected salary

4) What are your weaknesses and strengths
- Strengths no problem. Humans afraid to tell weaknesses. They worry jeopardize their chances of getting the job offer. Employers want the truth and hope you are sincere in them. So explain to them that humans are not born perfect and your weaknesses are ......then you mention that you always believe in continuously strive to learn & be better. State your own experience on how you overcome your own weaknesses and realize your own mistakes. Be pragmatic.

5) It seems you always change jobs over the last 2 years and not ready to settle down. Why is that so?
- Now, many people will mention "because of better career advancement". Technically its not wrong, however it gives employer not a precise answer and he may think his organization will not give such leverage to you. how you define advancement? is it when you become Manager then you are satisfied? because people are NEVER satisfied and always want to rise further due to peer pressure. Therefore you may mention that you are not a job hopper (hopefully you are truly NOT!) but change jobs because you wish to be exposed and learn from certain industries that gives you certain skill sets. Besides the normal remuneration, satisfaction, environment, you find that changing jobs could allow you to meet people from all walks of life, thereby you gain cross-cultural communication skills and interpersonal abilities, something school does not teach. Gradually, you find yourself growing personally and have a broader, wider horizon. Then you further emphasis that now you have in the past learn many scenarios and now manage to find something that suits your characteristics which you will fully put in the full commitment.

Hope the model questions & answers help remember no right or wrong answers. answer them CONFIDENTLY (not overconfident or under confident), clearly and professionally.

Simple pointers for interviews

2008-09-17T09:07:00.000-07:00

Here are some interesting insights on "what to wear for interviews". I believe many out there will know exactly what to do. These pointers are just for gentle reminders.

First of all, it depends on your job scope, you have to dress well, look great & smell nice before the interview.

I seen fellow interviewers wear shorts & slippers for the interview with a new paper on hand! Terrible. Respect the job, respect the organization, respect the interviewer. In turn, they will give you "extra marks" for your appearance.

So what do we mean "first impression"

In summary:

1) Iron your business shirt & have a matching tie. Avoid "mickey mouse", "donald duck" ties. Comb, gel your hair & have a tidy, neat outlook. Treat the interview that you are going for an important function

2) Outraged dressing is a no-no. For example, hide tattoos, bottle caps earrings...

3) Smile, be polite & friendly. Greet your interviewer "good morning/good afternoon", how are you today? Had your lunch/breakfast?". Everyone likes to feel appreciated and you can do so to the interviewer. Let him feel comfortable with you. But do not do too much PR otherwise it looks "fake".

4) Some companies (e.g. Japanese organizations) do take account on certain "unseen" terms. If you are being wheeled to a boardroom, avoid sitting in the front as these are for higher management personnel. Sit somewhere in the middle or closer to the 2nd/3rd row where you can have a comfortable face-to-face chat with the interviewer. No ringing of handphones during the interview. Do not look nice. Put slient mode. Also during waiting for the interviewer, try not to fidget too much with your mobile, SMS your mobile, or talk in your phone like your grandfather place. Remember many eyes noticing you. Greet the receptionist. She may tell the interviewer that you are friendly & appear nice.

5) Be punctual. Even if you are really late, call the interviewer up and apologise. When you arrive, sincerely apologise to the interviewer. Ask him on how his day has been, so as to let him regain his positive impression of you. Remember he has already seen many interviewers & is tired for the day.

You are a package, a parcel for the company to unwrap & discover your untapped potential. In order to beautify the package, you need ribbons & decorations. Thats where you have to take the effort to groom yourself.

Once you feel good, you will have a strong sense of confidence. Your interviewer will develop focused lasting impression of you.

Good Luck!

Career & Personal Development: Achieving Success

2008-09-12T23:19:00.000-07:00

* Please do spread the name of this blog to your friends, partners, families, relatives & to anyone you know, so that we together can keep learning & strive to be what we want to be; what we as unique individuals hope to achieve on our career goals.

Today, I shall focus on Career & Personal Development - Achieving Success

As a career management professional, you may be asked "How can one ensure better career success"? While there is no single method to achieve this objective, here are some things to consider on to get on the right path. With the right skills and a positive mindset, you can look high up the career ladder (no matter if ladder breaks, you will still climb back on, repair it & move forward!)

1) Regular activity

Successful career planning is not an one-time activity but a lifelong process. Mapping your will help you to track your progress. So how do I start on then?

(i) Your interests
(ii) Your hobbies
(iii) Your transferable skills
(iv) Past accomplishments

Think about the above-mentioned. They are all clues to opportunities which may await you in future. Defining your career goals clearly will help you align them to career trends (e.g. Integrated resorts slated to built around in 2010 and more job opportunities, over 10k will be created). Once you regularly review & plan your career, you will be better prepared for whatever lies ahead. Use SMART (specific, measureable, attainable, realistic with time period) to plan out your objectives. Google SMART if you need to know more.

2) Winning attitude

Attitude can't be changed overnight. However they can be gradually altered to the benefit of the individual even if he does not realize this. Consider this:

The happiest and most successful people see themselves as winners and maintain an optimistic outlook as they move toward their goals. Unhappy and unsuccessful people often have a pessimistic outlook on life. They lack confidence and have a deep-rooted belief that they cannot do much or do it well. They do not realize that they are advertising themselves as losers.

Develop a winning mindset. How to do that? Start thinking now by asking yourself these questions:

(a) During your work/study/anything you do, do you foresee yourself to lose out (e.g. score poor marks in tests) even before you start embarking your task?

(b) Are you the type of individual that gives up easily? Have you exhaust all your resources to tackle the problem? Or do you always rely on someone's help to solve the issue for you?

(c) Do you always think that you cannot perform a task because you lack the skill & ability? Have you ever tried once to see if you can do it?

Try to tell yourself that "you can do it" just like what you see in Nike's advertisement. The tick represent the tick in your life, impossible becomes possible. Look at the handicapped. They have the winning mentality in Paralympics and I am sure you can too. Slowly when you push yourself to the limits to the best you think you can do, you realize that your approach to things have changed. Therefore think of a winning tag-line & philosophy. It can go like "I am the best, better than Beckam". It acts a motto for you shall remember it and act upon it.

3) Move on

Never become too comfortable in your current job. If you have been in the same job for 3 years or more and you are doing similar, if not the same work, there comes to a point of them that you ask yourself "am I learning new skills and enhancing my competency"? To experience the best of life, seize opportunities which you foresee coming. Grab it. Now I must also emphasize that most individuals always wait for opportunities to drop from the sky. It's NOT always the case. You have to source for it. Look around you, analyze your own personal life. Are there contacts you know whom can provide a door of opportunity for the passion that you like to do? If not, is it time to get out and know more people from other trades through networking events, forums etc?

Do not always dwell on your sad past and unfortunate incidents. Once a taxi driver in Australia told me "hey mate, do you know why I am driving a taxi now?" He further lamented to me, an unknown stranger - "that's because I love enjoying what I am doing right now. I have packed my bad experiences in a haversack whilst working in a high life, jet-setting corporate environment and have ever since buried it in some dirt-dark cemetery." Ask yourself: are you sure you really be able to move on? Have you packed your unhappy past to a dark alley only or buried deeply into the cemeteries?

4)Positive values

True winners live by the virtues of fairness and decency. To succeed in long term, you must know what is right and wrong. Use these standards of behaviour every day in your business and personal life. Just like a business which have code of ethics, you must also have your own "personal life of ethics"!

5) True pain into gain

No human life is free from suffering. When hard times become anguish, there is no point becoming bitter. Winners face suffering head-on & try to turn the pain into gain. Develop your career resilience. If you are retrenched and if you have the cash, use these time to upgrade new skills. With that, you are better equipped to find new jobs. Who knows you may form new horizon & know what exactly you want to do through re-training. Another way is to undertake voluntary work in organizations which act as a new door to opportunity. Don't always look back on your pains as these doors of anguish are shut forever in your life. Learn from them, be exposed more, get out more because the world is your oyster.

6) Learn to laugh

Cultivate & maintain a sense of humour. Humour cleanse the spirit, lightens your burden and keeps you from taking yourself too seriously. We are already living in a pressure-cooker environment in such highly urbanized commercial settings. Therefore, learn to smile & laugh more. Most importantly, find happiness in doing the tasks assigned to you, no matter how difficult. Normally we complain, we sulk when new things come, especially we hate changes & not embracing it. Remember when I talk about winning attitude? Is it in you? Take it in your stride and test your ability if you can do it. Of course not everything you learn to accept; however taking it simply & easily may help others to see your "can do" attitude, a commodity most employers treasure. Otherwise why assign to you at the first place?

7) Help others

The most satisfied people are those who help others. Offer to mentor juniors or new hires in your work. In school, help your peers. Or find time to do something for the community via voluntary organizations that you see visions similiar to the one you are looking for. By working in the community, you not only hone some of your work skills but also be noticed by those who may influence your career advancement & successes.

Conclusion

Every individual define successes in their own definition. Small achievements are also considered successes. Because we are always influenced by others' great successes; hence we are inspired to be like them. Sometimes we have to take a step back and analyzed if we wish to imitate them. Its good to learn from them, their strategies, their mindsets and get motivated. Ultimately, the word "success" stems beneath yourself & not those high achievers whom have also defined "success" in their own terms. Otherwise we have many Warren Buffetts or Donald Trumps around.

Work within your means, push yourself if possible, have a great, positive attitude, be focused and draft out your OWN strategies. Remember to pen down your thoughts and not just saying it. Slowly, you achieve results; be happy and people around you will start to recognize your talent. You corporate ladder is just some miles behind only. Go catch it. Surely you do not want to be the next 1,0000000 people living in the pessimistic times of lives.

Personal Development: Politicking

2008-06-23T08:14:00.000-07:00

Before I will start off another interesting personal development topic, I will like to say "thank you" to all who support my blog. I will keep all posting coming. Hope all enjoy and find my blog useful for your own self-development & career advancement.

GAMES PEOPLE PLAY

Politicking - who does it and why?

"Backstabber" ----> expression commonly used to describe an employee who strives to achieve personal gain at the expense and detriment of others. Such individuals are generally disliked, but like them or loathe them, most people, at some point, have participated in what is term "political behaviour" at work.

Lets define "politicking" first.

Politicking -----> attempt by individual employees to enhance their career prospects by engaging in behaviour that places them in positions of opportunity or in an otherwise favorable light. Usually taken place outside the scope of one's job.

Lets now see what does "political animals" are who tend to show such behaviour:

1) High self-monitors

They are conscious of the signals that their behaviour gives out and are aware of how it can be used to their advantage. Adaptable to any prevailing political climate.

2) High degree of control

They have a strong belief in controlling their own destiny as opposed to leaving it to circumstances. These people have an ability to manipulate a situation in a way that outcomes favour them personally

3) High desire for power and control

Their need for power and control often shows better than the need to be liked. Able to cope with being unpopular

Lets see what are the factors affecting politicking to take place:

(a) Investment in the organization

Employees who have spent some time building up their career within an organisation are likely to devote more energy and time to politicking as a way of justifying the time already spent developing a power base in that organization.

(b) Scarcity of opportunities outside

Employees consolidating their position within an organization because lack of opportunities outside

(c) Age

As people grow older, opportunity of finding employment gets lower

(d) Immobility

If employees' mobility is restricted as a result of their personal circumstances

(e) Low trust cultures

Lack of trust ----> lack of confidence ----> drafting personal strategies to protect their own interests

(f) Role ambiguity

Blurred divisions of authority give rise to the need for employees to reduce this ambiguity by developing their own allegiances, power bases and lines of authority

(g) Unclear performance target

Employees want to create their own performance criteria

(h) Downsizing

Threat of job losses, politicking seen as a survival strategy

Lets see how to SURVIVE the political onslaught:

(i) Present ideas in favour of organization goals

How the ideas benefit the organization rather than achieving your own goals

(ii) Develop the right image

Adopt a style of behaviour & image that conforms to the cultural norms of the organization. You do not want people to "bad-mouth" you, don't you?

(iii) Appear indispensable

Try to create the illusion that you are indispensable.

(iv) Be visible

Be seen to be taking an active part in social as well as work activities

(v) Develop allegiances

Develop strategic allies at different levels within an organization. Also to be seen to be popular

(vi) Avoid "tainted" people

Avoid too much contact with fringe employees, those whose loyalty and ability are questionable

(v) Support your boss

Finally to be a true politicker, you should be seen to support your superior WITHOUT being labeled as "boot licker" or a "yes man" by others

Conclusion

Political astuteness is a necessary skill in any context. Be it in school, work or within your own group of friends. It happens everywhere. We live in a world where increasingly one individual can benefit at the expense of another.

Therefore we cannot avoid it. Instead we should face it, learn from it, be strong, develop a mind of presence to identify what solutions can be undertaken. Everyone has a unique set of characteristics. The thing is that if you can match your character to the "political animals" around you, you win. If your answer is "no", you are not ready for the "real world".

How to further improve? Through experiences & observation. Tell yourself no one likes to be back-stabbed, treated indifferently; that we should fall from grace, only to climb further ahead to learn how we can be a better, useful person to avoid political conflicts amongst your peers. Leave such people alone. Focus on your goals.

Do not seek revenge for revenge will seek upon you.

Spend more energy thinking how you can benefit from politicking, ride on it, navigate around it to win your next work promotion. I admit politicking will affect you, its not so simple as one thinks. However, if we do not view politicking in a positive way, we will never be strong and will always be the victims.

Then you ask me. How to be strong? Well, one way is to talk with your peers on how others back-stab others, how one tackles a political battle. Surely, there are people in your environment gossip about such matters. Do not get too involved. Just casually ask what happened and how it was solved. As much as you hate them, you need to learn from these people.

At the end of the day, you have to reconcile your own sense of self esteem, integrity and dignity if there is a need to be in the political battle. Do you wish to be the General or the soldier who follows?

If you aspire to be the political General, then learn what a General does and apply his traits to the real world setting. That's how some top leaders be what they are today. They are politically wise & street smart.

Politicking is a game of opportunities - maximize it wisely. Is your GAME now!