THE SMU C@R4R GUIDE 2019 - Singapore Management University
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THE SMU C@R4R GUIDE 2019 MCI (P) 007/11/2018
Be
vigilant and safeguard our position on
the global stage. Advance our interests around the
world. Our Singapore, our frontline
Join the Foreign Service.
FOREIGN SERVICE CAREERS
A career in MFA is a unique lifestyle, with assignments in Singapore HQ and
our 50 Overseas Missions. It requires intellectual rigour, analytical thinking
and excellent communication skills.
Be on the frontline of global developments as a Foreign Service Officer.
Depending on your competency and inclination,
you can develop along these career paths:
• Functional and Corporate
• Political and Economic
Join us in flying the Singapore flag high.
Discover a career with global reach at
www.mfa.gov.sg /career
INSIDE THIS GUIDE
Kickstart Your Job Search on Campus Tap on the SMU Alumni Network
3 Message for Undergraduates 50 Hear from SMU Alumni
3 Message for Postgraduates 57 SMU Alumni Relations Network
4 Career Services at SMU
8 Meet Your Career Coaches Jobs & Internships P58
Adapting to a Changing World
10 Career Resilience for Millennials
THE SMU
THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2019
C@R4R GUIDE
12 Thought Leadership: Developing Career 2019
Resilience
19 Sectors on the Rise
24 Joining a MNC vs SME vs Start-up
Your First Job and You Produced by MCI (P) 007/11/2018
27 Your Career and You
28 Top 3 Things to Look for in a First Job (Company number: 200301978M)
1 Lorong 2 Toa Payoh
#05-04 Braddell House
29 Alternative Career Paths
Singapore 319637
Tel: +(65) 6294 6505
Fax: +(65) 6294 1043
Winning at Applications www.gtimedia.asia
Editor
30 Crafting the Perfect Resume
Candice Leow
32 Tips for Cover Letter Writing Editorial
Loh Supei, Candice Leow
34 Personal Branding and Networking Design & Production
Charlene Wong, Nurul Huda Binti Abdul Razak
Advertising
Excelling at Interviews Ron Ong, Terence Teo, The GTI Media sales team
Marketing & distribution
36 4 Different Types of Interviews Shirlyn Ting, Tang Weishan, Cheryl Tan
Managing Director
38 Mastering the Job Interview Isaac Hee
40 Tackling Case Studies International managing director & co-founder
Adrian Wood
42 Acing Assessment Centres Printer
Times Printer Pte. Ltd.
44 Grilling Your Interviewer 16 Tuas Ave. 5
Singapore 639340
45 Preparing for the Big Day
© GTI Asia Pte. Ltd, Feb 2019
48 Managing Job Offers
2 | THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2019 www.smu.edu.sg
KICKSTART YOUR JOB SEARCH ON CAMPUS
Message for Undergraduates Message for Postgraduates
Sim Cher Young Henry Yeo
Director Head
Dato’ Kho Hui Meng Career Postgraduate Career
Centre Services
I W
n an ever changing world of work, university education elcome to the 2019 edition of the SMU Career
prepares you for a myriad of possibilities. Here at SMU, Guide. In this edition, you will learn about current
we provide opportunities to strengthen your character and job prospects, insights into possible career
values, helping you to build lasting qualities that will take you pathways as well as tips and strategies to improve your chance
through challenges in your careers to come. of landing your ‘dream’ job.
As we usher in the new year of 2019, the Dato’ Kho Hui Postgraduate programmes are relatively short and intensive
Meng Career Centre is committed to ensure that you are ready and many students tend to defer the preparation of their careers
from your first day at SMU to your graduation, by offering (including job search) thinking they have more than enough
guidance for securing your first internship to your first full- time. But anecdotal experience do suggest that the time taken
time job. to secure a role may indeed be longer than you expect. This is
The SMU Career Guide 2019, which the centre publishes especially true for students who are switching careers and/or
each year, is a resource for you to begin charting your career those seeking jobs in a different country. If you also consider
direction as our team strives to empower you with the relevant the fact that many firm source for talents as early as one year
skill sets and attributes. ahead of time, it becomes essential that you start planning and
Do keep a lookout for announcements on our profiling preparing for your career from the get go.
tools, career fairs and career talks by employers across various Our team of experienced careers professionals in
industries. The Finishing Touch programme includes preparatory Postgraduate Career Services will work with you and help to
workshops which help you to be career-ready, along with an improve your chance of securing a career that is closely aligned
elective suite of enrichment workshops. to your skills and aspiration.
At SMU, each undergraduate is assigned to a Career Coach Besides one-to-one career coaching, Postgraduate Career
who is dedicated to your success. Make an appointment via Services also run various career development workshops to help
OnTRAC II to meet your coach where you will benefit from you to brand yourself in the best possible way to the recruiters.
reviews of your resumes and cover letters and other important These include workshops on resume writing, interview skills,
career advice and preparation. We conduct mock interviews networking skills, personal branding, digital profiling and
and facilitate employability workshops, in addition to helping assessment centers. We organize talks where experts would
to link you up with select employers and industries which each provide insights into their profession and we hold regular
Career Coach is in-charge of. Each summer, most SMU students information sessions and networking events that would enable
embark on a quality internship opportunity through the centre’s you to get connected with recruiters from myriad industries. We
efforts, completing a mandatory graduation requirement. will also provide assistance to foreign students who intend to
To our freshmen, welcome to SMU. To the Class of 2019, seek career opportunities back in their home countries.
best wishes for your career adventures. Enjoy the ride. The team will support and facilitate your job search but
we will need you to take the lead. Your awareness of the skills
required as well as your proactive stance to address any skills
gap would improve your odds of securing the role. We look
forward to working closely with you and we will continue to
support you up to one year after graduation. All the best and
we wish you success in your chosen career path.
www.smu.edu.sg THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2019 | 3
KICKSTART YOUR JOB SEARCH ON CAMPUS
CAREER SERVICES AT SMU
T
he SMU Dato’ Kho Hui Meng Career Centre (DKHMCC)
has been serving the student community and partnering
with leading business organisations for hiring success
since SMU’s inception in 2000. We are proud of our programmes
and activities which ensure that our students progress seamlessly
to the working world.
Our services
The centre is an ideal place where both corporate partners and
students can exchange valuable ideas and first-hand experience
in pursuit of a professional life with each other.
Career coaching
On-campus recruitment talks, industry
All students are assigned to a Career Coach upon matriculation
to support them in their career planning through the four- talks, and company visits
year journey at SMU. Our Career Coaches come from diverse DKHMCC organises recruitment/industry talks and company
backgrounds with rich industry experience and maintain strong visits every year. These include on-campus recruitment and
ties with corporate partners to stay informed of the industry and industry talks by recruitment teams from global and regional
the hiring landscape. banks, multinational corporations, government ministries,
Keeping a watch on industry developments and changes in agencies, statutory boards, and small and medium enterprises
the recruitment landscape helps Career Coaches provide insights from a variety of industries and geographic regions.
into current industry trends and organisations’ hiring practice Through these sessions, graduating students will have
during career coaching. Career Coaches are available to critique the opportunity for direct interaction with representatives
cover letters and resumes, facilitate job search strategies, from members of the top echelon, middle management, and
and hone interview skills through one-to-one mock interview line managers.
sessions. All information exchanged between a student and a
Career Coach is confidential.
Career coaching is also provided by student-peer advisors Networking events
enriched with valuable internship experience. Career Champions The career centre hosts several networking events every year,
are trained and equipped with essential skills to work alongside bringing prospective recruiters and graduating students together
DKHMCC as paraprofessionals to serve the undergraduate under one roof.
community. On average, about 120 companies participate in each
Students can make individual appointments with their Career networking event. Recruiters will gain direct exposure to
Coach or Champions via OnTRAC II. graduating students who are pursuing either a single or double
degree in Accountancy, Business Management, Economics,
OnTRAC II Information Systems, Law, or the Social Sciences.
Students should bring along fine-tuned copies of their
OnTRAC II is SMU’s one-stop portal for career services, resumes (to which they can also add a QR code using their
where students register for events, view job postings, OnTRAC II > Documents > Portfolio) to these networking events.
submit applications, monitor their progress, and accept
job offers.
Students only need a single log-in account to update and view
their LinkedIn profile from OnTRAC II. Students may integrate
their LinkedIn profile to their resumes on OnTRAC II by using the
Resume Builder function in OnTRAC II to import their LinkedIn
details into their resume in an instant.
4 | THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2019 www.smu.edu.sg
KICKSTART YOUR JOB SEARCH ON CAMPUS
Career profiling tools
All Career Coaches at DKHMCC are certified in career
development facilitation and able to administer at least one
personality or career profiling tool. These tools help students
better understand their own personalities, career profiles, core
business competencies, and motivating factors of career success.
Personality and career profiling tools include:
• Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI®)
• DiSC Personality System
• Strong Interest Inventory
Career resources library and “Suited for
Success” wardrobe
UNDERGRADUATE CAREER DKHMCC maintains a specialised library which houses career
preparation and management literature, including the series of
SERVICES Career Insider Guides from Vault College Publications.
The “Suited for Success” walk-in wardrobe is a business
wear loan service, offered to students who are attending career
Finishing Touch programme and events and workshops. Accessible to all students, the wardrobe
enrichment workshops is stocked with men’s and women’s suits, shoes, ties, and belts
for students to borrow.
As students progress to their junior and senior years, elective
workshops will be offered at the crucial job application stage in
their final years. These optional workshops are topic-specific to
help penultimate-year and graduating students gain experience
and understanding of the selection process in job applications.
Additionally, DKHMCC holds a series of complementary
enrichment workshops to equip students with the critical skills
and competencies needed to gain an edge in areas of career
development and employability.
The Finishing Touch programme is one of SMU’s distinguishing
factors and is well recognised by employers and students in
preparing our graduates for a seamless transition to the working
world.
For more information, please log in to: OASIS >
Career Devt & Comm Svcs > The Finishing Touch.
Internship programmes
All SMU students are required to complete an internship before
they graduate, and DKHMCC oversees the administrative work
for this programme. Internships allow students to apply their
classroom knowledge to a real-world setting, hone their soft skills
and co-operative abilities, and build their credentials before
starting their journey into the working world.
Students can find a plethora of internship opportunities by
logging in to OnTRAC II.
www.smu.edu.sg THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2019 | 5
KICKSTART YOUR JOB SEARCH ON CAMPUS
Career publications POSTGRADUATE CAREER
DKHMCC produces a range of publications to cater to each SERVICES
phase of the students’ time at SMU. One such publication is
the Majors and Careers Pathway Guide available for download Postgraduate networking event
via OASIS. The guide serves to provide a career's perspective
for students when deciding on majors. The annual postgraduate networking event features a large
As students go through their educational and career journeys number of employers across different industries, offering
at SMU, they can also share their success stories by submitting various roles and opportunities for the postgraduates.
stories and photos to placement@smu.edu.sg. This is the perfect platform for postgraduates to connect
face-to-face with hiring managers and HR representatives from
employer partners.
Graduate Employment Survey
The Graduate Employment Survey is an important survey that The Pathways series
SMU alumni are encouraged to take. The survey is conducted
annually by autonomous universities to ascertain the employment The Pathways series is an initiative launched by the Postgraduate
outcomes of graduates. Career Services team where experienced finance industry
The survey typically takes place about six months after senior- practitioners meet up with and give SMU postgraduates insights
year students’ final examinations. into their respective job functions. These include technology
The results of this survey are an important indicator of and operations, wealth management, treasury, risk management,
the performance of SMU graduates in the job market. More asset management, and corporate finance.
importantly, the survey results affirm the value of SMU as an This series aims to enable students to make a more informed
educational institution and the worth of an SMU degree. The decision about their career pathways, thereby leading to a
information provided will also inform policy-making at the sustainable and rewarding career.
national level for Institutes of Higher Learning. Anecdotal feedback on the series has been positive, and many
students felt that they have gained a deeper understanding of
the roles and attributes necessary to do well in their respective
line of expertise.
The “In Conversation With” series
Launched by the Postgraduate Career Services team in June
2014, the "In Conversation With" series is a monthly lunchtime
event held for postgraduates to interact with and learn from
successful professionals at different stages of their careers.
Guests come from diverse industries, such as information
technology, consulting, logistics, wealth management, finance,
and fast-moving consumer goods.
6 | THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2019 www.smu.edu.sg
KICKSTART YOUR JOB SEARCH ON CAMPUS
MEET YOUR CAREER COACHES
The Undergraduate Career Services Team
Standing (left to right): Aaron Chong, Veronica Tan, Margaret Koh, Tan Poon Kian, Angela Hoo, Magdalene Lee,
Prasanthi Guda, Sim Cher Young, Joanne Teo, Jacelyn Tay, Neo Shi Ling, Jasima Aminsah, Wong Soo Mei and Victor Go
Seated (left to right): Wendy How, Rupert Chan, Catherine Tan and Sam Yeo
Career Coaches MARGARET KOH
Assistant Director
margaretkoh@smu.edu.sg Administration
SIM CHER YOUNG Tel: [+65] 6828 0332
Director, Dato’ Kho Hui Meng Career Centre LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/margaretbtkoh JACELYN TAY
cysim@smu.edu.sg Senior Manager
Tel: [+65] 6808 5271 JASIMA AMINSAH Systems Administrator
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/simcheryoung Senior Manager chtay@smu.edu.sg
jasimaa@smu.edu.sg Tel: [+65] 6828 9553
JOANNE TEO Tel: [+65] 6828 1954
Senior Assistant Director LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jasimaaminsah CATHERINE TAN
joanneteo@smu.edu.sg Senior Manager
Tel: [+65] 6828 0679 PRASANTHI GUDA ASEAN Programme Operations
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/teojoanne Deputy Director catherinetan@smu.edu.sg
prasanthig@smu.edu.sg Tel: [+65] 6828 0056
WENDY HOW Tel: [+65] 6808 5272
Senior Manager LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/prasanthiguda NEO SHI LING
wendyhow@smu.edu.sg Manager
Tel: [+65] 6808 5410 SAM YEO Employability Skills Training Programme
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/wendyhow Senior Manager slneo@smu.edu.sg
samyeo@smu.edu.sg Tel: [+65] 6828 0322
MAGDALENE LEE Tel: [+65] 6808 5385
Senior Manager LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/samyeo RUPERT CHAN
magdalenelee@smu.edu.sg Assistant Manager
Tel: [+65] 6828 0695 VERONICA TAN Events and Third-Party Relations
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lee-magdalene Senior Manager rupertchan@smu.edu.sg
veronicatan@smu.edu.sg Tel: [+65] 6828 0940
AARON CHONG Tel: [+65] 6828 0336
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/veronicatanhl ANGELA HOO
Associate Director
aaronchong@smu.edu.sg Assistant Manager
Tel: [+65] 6828 0149 VICTOR GO
Internship Administrator
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/aarontcchong Assistant Director angelahoo@smu.edu.sg
victorgo@smu.edu.sg Tel: [+65] 6808 5218
TAN POON KIAN Tel: [+65] 6828 0316
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/govictor
Senior Manager
pktan@smu.edu.sg
Tel: [+65] 6828 0084 WONG SOO MEI
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/poonkian Senior Manager
smwong@smu.edu.sg
Tel: [+65] 6808 5136
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/soomeiwong
8 | THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2019 www.smu.edu.sgKICKSTART YOUR JOB SEARCH ON CAMPUS
The Postgraduate Career Services Team
Standing (from left to right): Lilian Lee, Tan Yock Lan, Lynette Goh, Tara He, Kueh Sze Yian, Jeanie Leong, Eunice Loke,
Roopa S, Veronica Yeow and Joanna Tan
Seated (from left to right): Eric Yee, Soo Chai Chew, Henry Yeo, Andy Chang and Patrick Han
International Career
Career Coaches Development
HENRY YEO DAWN TAN KUEH SZE YIAN
Head, Postgraduate Career Services Senior Manager Assistant Director
henryyeo@smu.edu.sg dawntan@smu.edu.sg sykueh@smu.edu.sg
Tel: [+65] 6828 0693 Tel: [+65] 6828 0779 Tel: [+65] 6828 0334
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/henryyeo LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tandawn LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kuehszeyian
SOO CHAI CHEW ERIC YEE LYNETTE GOH
Senior Assistant Director Senior Manager Senior Manager
ccsoo@smu.edu.sg ericyee@smu.edu.sg lynettegoh@smu.edu.sg
Tel: [+65] 6808 7989 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/eric-yee Tel: [+65] 6828 9626
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chaichewsoo LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lynette-goh
JEANIE LEONG
VERONICA YEOW TARA HE LINYI
Senior Manager
Senior Assistant Director jeanieleong@smu.edu.sg Senior Manager
veronicayeow@smu.edu.sg Tel: [+65] 6808 5359 tarahe@smu.edu.sg
Tel: [+65] 6828 1978 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jeanieleong Tel: [+65] 6828 9622
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/veronicayeow LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tarahelinyi
LILIAN LEE
EUNICE LOKE JOANNA TAN
Senior Manager
Assistant Director lilianlee@smu.edu.sg Manager
euniceloke@smu.edu.sg Tel: [+65] 6808 5165 joannatan@smu.edu.sg
Tel: [+65] 6808 5249 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lilian-lee Tel: [+65] 6828 9623
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/euniceloke LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/joannatanby
PATRICK HAN
ANDY CHANG Senior Manager Administration & IT
Senior Manager patrickhan@smu.edu.sg
andychang@smu.edu.sg Tel: [+65] 6808 5166
ROOPA SANKARARAMAN
Tel: [+65] 6808 5295 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/patrickhan88
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/andychangsk Senior Manager
roopas@smu.edu.sg
Tel: [+65] 6808 7909
TAN YOCK LAN
Manager
https://www.smu.edu.sg/postgraduate/career-services yltan@smu.edu.sg
Tel: [+65] 6828 1927
www.smu.edu.sg THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2019 | 9ADAPTING TO A CHANGING WORLD
CAREER RESILIENCE FOR
MILLENNIALS
Why is career resilience important for a millennial entering the workforce? Here is a guide on
how to nurture and develop into a resilient professional in an ever changing world of work.
What is career Do you have career 2. Build Relationships
resilience? resilience? Maintaining a good network helps
Y
Check yourself! How many of these you to get industry insights and
ou need both hard and soft skills support from those who appreciate
to navigate the professional boxes do you tick?
your work, personality and ethics.
world, as well as strength and While trends can move and shake the
I am not afraid of failure and I see
resilience to cope with unpredictable industry, having valuable professional
it as a learning opportunity.
changes and switches to different relationships often means that
career paths along the way. Maintaining I embrace challenges and keep a
someone can lend you a hand in a
a positive mindset, identifying how positive attitude when I am faced
time of need.
you can contribute to the industry and with one.
organisation, and being ever hungry to I am resourceful. 3. Commit to Personal Growth
learn new things are all part of developing
career resilience. I am inquisitive about how things
Take charge of your own professional
work and enjoy learning about new
development by looking out for new
perspectives.
courses to take, and be thirsty for new
Why is career resilience I am flexible with changes and knowledge to gain. Other than asking
important for millennials? adapt accordingly. your employer to offer you training,
I have good relationships with spend your after-work hours wisely to
Although young professionals usually contacts in my industry. keep abreast with industry news and
have new skills to offer to the market even insights.
in a changing economic environment,
there is no guarantee that your career 4. Embrace Change and Seize
journey will always be smooth-sailing. Cultivating career Opportunities
Furthermore, transiting from school to resilience
the industry involves a big leap, calling Changes which crop up in the
for adaptability and self-awareness. 1. Be Adaptable professional realm are often
unpredictable, as with other changes
Keeping up with change, be it macro- in life. Do you view changes as crises
economic shifts or new events and or opportunities to be tapped on?
manpower movements in your workplace, Remember that change is where
is key for any professional who wishes to opportunity lives and new possibilities
remain flexible and positive. Change can are there for you to grab hold of or to
be unsettling, but knowing that change is create.
the only constant helps you to adjust your
expectations whenever new situations
arise, reminding yourself to stay afloat
and fit in.
10 | THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2019 www.smu.edu.sgADAPTING TO A CHANGING WORLD
5. Maintain a Positive Outlook 7. Reflect Often
In the face of failure, your ability to Taking a step back from your emotions
bounce back is crucial. In good times, and impulse to pause and reflect
set and crush your goals. Count your could help you to rejuvenate and make
blessings and make sure your workload is wiser choices. Reflexivity is a mark of
manageable. Ask for help when you need mental agility, processing your stress,
it and remember to take care of yourself. and encouraging you to flex your brain
When things go awry, take it one step at a muscles to think about what matters in
time and stick to your guiding principles. your career output. Maintain an internal
rhythm to reflect often so that you keep
things in perspective constantly, in the
6. Have a Sense of Purpose face of changes and even when things
are status quo.
Working for a company whose mission
aligns with your personal sense of
purpose can be empowering. While the 8. Develop a Sense of Foresight
correlation between the working world
and your personal goals might not be Do not rely on just one plan for the
obvious at times, understand the value unpredictable future. Cultivating a sense
which you are delivering to others through of vision and foresight to scan for future
your daily work. Your career is a form of prospects, and forming a positive outlook
service and knowing the impact which are all part of how you can prepare
you are making leads to higher levels of yourself for the road ahead.
job satisfaction.
Chart your own path and maintain your own plan to adapt and succeed.
You should understand emerging trends and be on the lookout for new
knowledge to gain. Identify your advantages and risks in each possible
scenario. If you have an idea of what could possibly happen, you can
develop responses and action plans more swiftly.
www.smu.edu.sg THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2019 | 11ADAPTING TO A CHANGING WORLD
THOUGHT LEADERSHIP:
DEVELOPING CAREER RESILIENCE
Resilience is an utmost essential quality for graduates stepping into the changing world of
work. In this section, we speak to some industry leaders in their respective fields of work to
learn about how you can navigate changes in your professional journey, set and meet goals,
and overcome setbacks.
1987-1988 1988-1991 1991-2015
Audit/Tax Accountant, Accountant (Payroll & Various Finance & Accounting
Arthur Young Systems), SATS Executive roles, Shell Eastern
Petroleum, Mediacorp, Mondelez
2015 onwards
Associate Director (Accounting),
Clearsource Pte Ltd
"Continually network, keep abreast of current and
new developments, and go for continuous training to
Angeline Tan garner knowledge."
Associate Director (Accounting)
How I navigated this change Advice to graduates
Clearsource Pte Ltd
I had the blessing of wonderful support Young graduates must be hungry to
of my parents who tirelessly dedicated compete with fellow graduates locally
themselves to looking after the well- and overseas. Before starting a family,
being of our young children, physically, strive hard to excel in your careers. If they
The biggest change in my career
emotionally and socially. At the work front, decide on starting a family, ensure that
The biggest change in my career was my organisation was supportive in terms of there is a good support system.
starting and managing a family in my offering flexible working hours, of course Continually network, keep abreast of
late 20s and early 30s, and having to ensuring that work is always dutifully current and new developments, especially
keep up with constant changes and completed. I even managed to complete in areas that affect your professional work,
demands in an ever evolving organisation, my part-time MBA course during the early and go for continuous training to garner
which transformed from being locally years of my children’s lives. Generally, it knowledge.
based to being regional and global. It meant not doing a job that demanded 24
involved having to continually strive to hours of my time each day, but having a
manage changes professionally, as well as career that was professionally rewarding
overcoming the challenges of a working so that non-working hours could be
mother. dedicated to the family.
12 | THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2019 www.smu.edu.sgADAPTING TO A CHANGING WORLD
1993 1994 1995 1996-2000
Bank Officer, Broadcast Journalist, Marketing Officer, Marketing Manager,
Citigroup Business Desk, UOB Asset CMG First State
MediaCorp Management Investments
2015 onwards 2010-2014 2006-2009 2000-2006
Executive Director, Executive Director, Market Vice President,
Head of Business Director, Business Sales Management, Investment Director,
Management, Management, Merrill UBS AG Citigroup
UOB Private Bank Lynch International
Management/Bank
Julius Baer
Angela Tan
Executive Director, "Work on adding value and seeking to gain
Head of Business Management knowledge, experience and expand your skill sets.
UOB Private Bank Along the way, build your character. "
The biggest change in my career How I navigated this change Advice to graduates
A significant part of my professional I learnt that we need to embrace failure For career resilience, you need to have
career was very much focused on financial as part of our career journey and learn an “inner game” and an “outer game”.
product sales and advisory in the asset how to move forward positively. As Alibaba The “inner game” refers to resilience or
management and wealth management founder Jack Ma once said, “If you don’t grit; the ability to rebound from setbacks,
sector. However, the Global Financial give up, you still have a chance. Giving up perseverance, humility and the willingness
Crisis (GFC) of 2007 to 2008 was a is the greatest failure.” to learn. The “outer game” refers to
turning point in more ways than one. After I was retrenched, I took a one- technical competencies, and skills and
Before the GFC, I had already year sabbatical to spend more time with passion for performance.
experienced two crises – the 1997 Asian my family, during which I connected Regardless of which career path you
financial crisis and the dot-com bubble with my friends and financial industry take, you need generic strengths such
of 2000 – as well as three corporate contacts, and kept up with trends. The as a data mindset and understanding
acquisitions. A strong work ethic and time away re-invigorated me. predictive analysis (you need to know your
performance-focused attitude served me The opportunity to train new financial numbers!), problem-solving, decision-
well in those challenging times. I survived advisers at another global financial making, interpersonal skills, creative
the crises and takeovers, strengthening institution surfaced and this role thinking, sense-making and digital literacy
my ability to withstand uncertainty. In expanded into a marketing manager role. (in this aspect, millennials have a head
fact, after the dot-com crisis, my financial I had bosses who recognised my strengths start). These are critical employability and
career was on an upward trajectory when and gave me development opportunities. transferable skills.
I was specially recruited to make an It was a transformational change in terms In each job that you undertake, you
internal transition to the private bank of my career focus, albeit still within should not focus primarily on the financial
business in a global financial institution. private banking. rewards; instead work on adding value and
I was less fortunate in weathering the In my current role, the level of seeking to gain knowledge, experience
GFC storm. As a sales manager at one of responsibility, autonomy and complexity and expand your skill sets. Along the way,
the global banks at the epicentre of the is high, as I am required to provide build your character.
crisis, the collapse of Lehman Brothers leadership to achieve results, manage Think of the traditional Indonesian
was a seminal event. I was redeployed resources, set milestones, drive projects kueh lapis – a rich, multi-layered cake –
to head Learning & Development for and ensure business governance. I am and similarly, build your skill sets layer
Products (Non-Markets). In that role, I currently also a member of the Private upon layer. It is through new experiences
had to re-adjust my focus beyond product Banking Industry Working Group with and a focus on long-term goals and lifelong
sales to project management and training. the Institute of Banking & Finance learning – coupled with an indomitable
Job losses during the GFC were par for the (IBF), providing guidance in the area spirit and strength of character – that you
course and I was not spared. That was of competency development in private can achieve career resilience.
nearly 10 years ago. My career path also banking.
changed as a result.
www.smu.edu.sg THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2019 | 13ADAPTING TO A CHANGING WORLD
2005-2008 2008-2012 2012-2014
Head (Entrepreneurial Senior Lecturer, Economics, Director, Institute for
Development) & Academic Singapore Polytechnic Financial Literacy, Singapore
Staff, Republic Polytechnic Polytechnic
2016 onwards 2014-2016 2014
Deputy Director (Strategy Director, Advocacy & Senior Manager, Advanced
& Planning) & Master Research, National Council Analytics, Ernst & Young
Consultant (Future Jobs, of Social Service Advisory Pte Ltd
Skills & Training), National
Trades Union Congress
Dr Alex Lum "We are always stronger than we think we are."
Deputy Director (Strategy &
Planning) and Master Consultant I am constantly reminded that the The most important attribute is not the
(Future Jobs, Skills & Training) findings and recommendations, from the degree which you have, but your attitude.
research that I am overseeing, must be It's not the degree that will help you get
National Trades Union Congress
able to translate into actionable steps, to a promotion.
develop programmes to help workers. It's your attitude – work hard and
learn fast. Put in the effort to understand
The biggest change in my career How I navigated this change the tasks and what needs to be done.
The biggest change in my career was I had to ask myself, “Do I want my work Don't slack; don't give up. Don't be
shifting from a position of imparting to be only an intellectual exercise or do I arrogant and think that the tasks or the
knowledge to actively co-creating really want to make a difference?” duties are beneath you. Oftentimes, the
solutions with clients and people that Since it was the latter, I had to take accomplishment of minor tasks indicates
would use and benefit from my work. concerted steps to listen more, to take to the bosses how responsible you are and
While lecturing did require refining time to understand more deeply. I sought whether you can be trusted with more.
course materials with up-to-date feedback – which inevitably would result Constantly upskill and double-skill.
case studies, once the materials were in very direct and blunt comments – and For example, one of my colleagues who
prepared, the main work was more in the tried my best not to take the criticisms is trained in marketing recently took up
delivery and explanations. personally. I have been blessed with good a course in data analytics and now does
However, after I left the lecturing teams and colleagues, so taking the effort all the visualisation and insightful charts
profession, there was far more to work within a team always helps to when he presents at internal and external
engagement I had to undergo with lighten the load. events.
stakeholders, taking in inputs from all Most importantly, I had to appreciate We are always stronger than we think
relevant parties. For example, to design that my career is a journey and there is we are.
financial literacy materials, there was always room to learn, adapt and improve.
constant interaction with families to
better understand how the materials were Advice to graduates
applicable to their lives, and then I had
My former students frequently ask me
to refine the examples and practical tips
which course or degree they should
accordingly.
pursue in university with the purpose of
increasing their chances of promotion in
their career.
14 | THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2019 www.smu.edu.sgADAPTING TO A CHANGING WORLD
1994 1994-1998 1998-1999 1999-2000
Called to the Broadcast Journalist, Singapore Interactive Master of
Singapore Bar as an Broadcasting Corporation (later Producer, E-News, Science in
Advocate and Solicitor incorporated as Television MediaCorp News Journalism,
Corporation of Singapore) Columbia
University
2004-2005 2001-2004 2000-2001 Graduate School
Senior Producer, Producer, English Deputy Chief Editor, of Journalism,
English News Output, Current Affairs, E-News, MediaCorp News under MediaCorp
MediaCorp News MediaCorp News Fellowship
2005-2008 2008-2009 2009-2016 2016 onwards
Editor, International Editor, Assignments Lecturer & Assistant Media Industry
Lau Joon-Nie News Desk, Desk, MediaCorp Director, Newsplex Asia, Consultant,
MediaCorp News News Nanyang Technological Self-employed
Media Industry Consultant University
Self-employed
"Follow your passion, find your calling (it may take
The biggest change in my career many attempts but don’t give up) and make that
I turned down an offer in 2016 to head
difference!"
the communications programme in a
tertiary institution. I felt that after seven How I navigated this change Advice to graduates
years of teaching and administration, it With the rise of the gig economy, there A legal education is a terrific asset to have,
was time to return to work in the media has never been a better time to be self- even if one does not intend to practise law.
industry and take stock of the seismic employed. Much of our work these days I started out covering courts and scooping
changes caused by digital disruption. A does not have to be done from an office. rival publications on stories about legal
lot of my work at the university centred We time-shift, work across time zones developments and then went on to cover
around preparing students for these as we travel for business or leisure and the rise of the internet and how the law
changes: “I am here to teach you skills collaborate with overseas partners on was changing to plug the loopholes.
for jobs which have not been invented conference calls. Covering technology news taught me
yet,” I would tell my students. In the last two years, I have worked to be nimble and to keep an open mind.
As someone caught in the cross on a variety of interesting projects. These The journalist in me is always curious
hairs of “newsroom convergence” in the include clinching a huge TV assignment and wanting to learn more. So, grow
early 2000s, I witnessed from a unique that required building a production team your network of contacts, keep asking
vantage point and gained many valuable of 80 people spanning seven countries, questions and stay on top of trends to
lessons as media bosses struggled with and researching and producing a reality seize new opportunities. Technology has
restructuring to best accommodate the documentary for an Australian broadcaster made it so easy to find and interact with
new demands of digital production amid across three countries. Additionally, I ran interest groups of your choice.
the then-still-profitable and popular media relations for a large tech start-up But don’t just wait for events – be
traditional channels of print, television event at Google, and worked with over a an organiser. Contribute as well as learn
and radio. Nearly 10 years on, the subject dozen of the world’s biggest media and from others. By getting involved, you will
of digital transformation continues to tech companies to organise four industry find mentors and role models beyond the
fascinate me and forms the backbone conferences in three countries. workplace and perhaps discover a new
of much of my current work as an I also edited my first book and talent or a new job when you least expect
independent media industry consultant produced my first two issues of an it. Follow your passion, find your calling
and educator. industry magazine. Working across the (it may take many attempts but don’t give
print to digital spectrum, I continue to up) and make that difference!
teach and advise at local universities and
polytechnics as a guest instructor and
external examiner.
www.smu.edu.sg THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2019 | 15ADAPTING TO A CHANGING WORLD
2006-2010 2010-2012 2012-2013
Social Worker, Methodist Senior Social Worker, MCYC Assistant Manager, MCYC
Children and Youth Centre Community Services Society Community Services Society
(MCYC) (formerly Methodist Children
and Youth Centre)
2017 onwards 2013-2017
Assistant Director (Operations Manager, MCYC Community
& Admin), Epworth Community Services Society
Services (formerly MCYC
Community Services Society
Mary Ng "Be creative when thinking of solutions to your
Assistant Director challenges and problems. Also, be unafraid to roll up
(Operations & Admin) your sleeves and work hard."
Epworth Community Services
strategic and forward-thinking. I need to Advice to graduates
gather information, and analyse trends
I believe everyone needs to recognise the
and data before proposing and making
The biggest change in my career power of our thinking and the power we
decisions that affect the organisation’s
have to choose the decisions we make.
When people used to ask me in university operations. In the process, I need to
It is important to have the right mindset
why I chose to major in Social Work, I consider the budget, financial statements
when facing transitions and challenges.
would jokingly reply, “Because I only and statistics. In other words, I need to
Choose to face the challenges squarely
want to work with people, not numbers!” work with numbers.
and choose not to give up. Be creative
Although meant as a light-hearted
How I navigated this change when thinking of solutions to your
reply, there was a grain of truth in it.
challenges and problems.
I did not like working with numbers. I must admit it was not an easy transition, Also, be unafraid to roll up your sleeves
Calculations, formulae, equations – but it was an enriching one. Although I and work hard. Put in the effort necessary
please count me out (no pun intended). had become more comfortable working for you to obtain the results you desire.
Personally, I prefer to cultivate with numbers over the years, there were There is a common saying, “Work smarter,
relationships with people and learn the still skills I had to pick up so that I can not harder”. Personally, I’m more inclined
soft skills necessary to engage and help be effective in my role. towards “Work smarter and harder”.
them effectively. Entering the social work I believe what helped was my conscious It probably would not surprise you that
field as a fresh graduate, I quickly learned decision to become comfortable working based on experience, this way of working
that I still needed to work with numbers with numbers, and then I took action. yields even better and more sustainable
(e.g. developing programme budgets and I read books and articles. I pored over outcomes.
helping clients with financial assistance), financial statements and budgets, trying
but only to an extent that I could manage. to make sense of the figures. I spent time
My job scope has significantly changed with colleagues who graciously helped me
since graduation. My role as an Assistant in my understanding of unfamiliar terms
Director now requires me to be more and concepts. Have my efforts paid off?
There are certainly more skills to learn,
but my mind is far from blank when I look
at financial statements now!
16 | THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2019 www.smu.edu.sgADAPTING TO A CHANGING WORLD
1992 1996 1999 2002
Analyst, Great Associate, Financial Vice President, Co-Head, Equities,
American Insurance Services, Booz Allen & Goldman Sachs McLagan Partners
Company Hamilton
2016 2013 2004
Adjunct Professor, Founder, Head of Broker Relations,
Singapore Management TRQ Advisors Marshall Wace NA
University
"Your network is your most valuable resource in times
Matt Dearth of change, so help your “future-self” by developing
Founder your network today."
TRQ Advisors
Secondly, and most importantly, I Let me give you another example.
made finding a new job my new job. I When my family and I moved to Singapore
made sure my CV was the best it could in 2015, a friend from home connected
The biggest change in my career be. In the age before LinkedIn, I made me to her college classmate who worked
It was late March in 2002, and I was fired lists of contacts and reached out when I at GIC Private Limited. I arranged an
as part of a downsizing round at Goldman was ready (but not before). I introduced introductory meeting over coffee, which
Sachs. At that point, New York City was myself to the major executive recruiters led to a meeting with a Professor at SMU.
still traumatised by 9/11, and layoffs in my industry. He invited me to give a guest lecture to
were a fact of life around Wall Street. Nine months later, one of those his MBA class, and when he went back to
But of course I’d never expected to be recruiters helped me find a new job in the industry, I was given the opportunity
downsized myself! consulting, and two years later, a referral to become an Adjunct Professor which I
from one of my clients led me to the best still enjoy today — all from networking!
How I navigated this change opportunity of my career.
Firstly, I tried to put this into perspective. Advice to graduates
I walked through Battery Park where they
had installed some of the wreckage from Your network is your most valuable
the World Trade Center and remembered resource in times of change, so help your
that I had only lost my job, not my life! “future-self” by developing your network
I called family and friends who gave me today. Yes, LinkedIn will help you manage
much-needed support. your connections, but I find that building
personal relationships wherever possible
is much more powerful.
www.smu.edu.sg THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2019 | 17ADAPTING TO A CHANGING WORLD
2001-2006 2007-2008 2008-2015
HR & Corporate Relations Head of HR, BAT Group Regional HR Director, AME
Director, Danone/Dumex Service Delivery, British Fonterra Brands
American Tobacco
2015 onwards
Vice President, Corporate
Human Resources, Zuellig
Pharma Holdings Pte Ltd
"If you love what you are doing, the challenge will
only make you stronger."
Mohd Fauzi Wahab
Vice President, Human Resources
was also a lot of excitement. This role I also relied heavily on one of
Zuellig Pharma was part of the leadership team at the my strengths which is in building
headquarters, which means I get to shape relationships. It was important that I
the people and leadership agenda for the created a safe and open environment for
entire organisation and participate in people to give and receive feedback. It
The biggest change in my career
conversations and projects that would was natural for me to gain trust although
I would have to say that one of the biggest have a significant impact to the company. I also had to learn to be more selective
changes was when I moved to Singapore when building my circle of trust given the
to take on this role with Zuellig Pharma How I navigated this change nature of my work.
after my previous company, Fonterra, had I have to say that being closely aligned
moved me and my family to Dubai just a My advice to graduates on career
with the company’s purpose of ‘Making
year before. Healthcare More Accessible’ really helps
resilience
At the time, the CEO of Zuellig to motivate my efforts and drives our My three suggestions are:
Pharma, John Davison, asked me if I was collective intention. Having lost both my 1. Join a company and role that is
keen to join him. He was about to lead the parents to acute health issues and now consistent with your values and
company through a major transformation, supporting my daughters as they study purpose. If you love what you are
which would require building an entire to become healthcare practitioners, the doing, the challenge will only make
organisation behind a new strategy to purpose resonates with me very strongly. you stronger.
improve access to healthcare. In the first 90 days, I took the time
It was difficult decision. Firstly, 2. Learn to diversify your experience.
to understand the organisation, its people
taking a role in Dubai was already a big Embrace change. Have courage in
and saw for myself the challenges in how
change personally and professionally. seeking new frontiers. Diversification
we were working together. The concept
Many people were depending on me to of knowledge, skills, and working
of “Forming, Storming, Norming and
establish the People agenda there and I environments will make you stronger
Performing” proved useful here. It was
felt like I would be disappointing many and wiser.
important for me to unlearn my past,
people whose relationships I treasure. while I dealt with my new realities. I was 3. Build sustainable relationships with
Secondly, moving to Zuellig Pharma curious about how things worked and took the people around you. Learn how to
also means getting out of my comfort an inclusive and unassuming approach to deliver results through others. Good
zone and starting all over again, with a just about everything. relationships will help steer away
new business model, strategy, challenges, That said, it also meant that I had to stress and boost your physical and
people, system, structure and culture to put in the time to get things right, but mental health.
adapt to. I think the investment was worth every
The transformation agenda, while minute. The real challenge was to stay
exciting, was very challenging too, balanced between acting too soon versus
and I was very clear about that. It listening for too long.
18 | THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2019 www.smu.edu.sgADAPTING TO A CHANGING WORLD
SECTORS ON THE RISE
Discover the different career sectors available in the job market and explore the various
opportunities out there.
Accountancy and Financial Analytics
Management
A
Data analytics, the sector dealing with the collection and
ccountancy and financial management analysis of huge amounts of data, is very much an engine
qualifications open doors to career opportunities of growth for the future economy. As Singapore continues to
in a range of organisations, from the ‘Big Four’ to prioritise digital transformation in its Smart Nation initiative,
smaller accountancy firms, as well as in corporations and delivering high-value information technology services is of
the public sector. top-notch importance.
In recent years, businesses have embraced cloud Data analytics is significant for rising industry trends
accounting softwares and applications to increase efficiency such as e-commerce, artificial intelligence and the Internet
for accounting and financial management. Accounting of Things. The Infocomm Media 2025 masterplan, the
professionals are encouraged to upskill constantly to pick government’s road map for the information communications
up data analysis and be well-versed in digital accounting. and technology (ICT) sector for the next decade, considers
Accounting firms offer a diversity of services, such as big data as a key strategic thrust of growth.
consulting, assurance, risk assessment, corporate recovery, The demand for data analytics roles is ever growing.
tax, and forensic accounting, aside from the customary Data analytics is widely used commercially, as well as in
accounting and auditing services. public policy and non-profit organisations, for safeguarding
Employers are constantly on the lookout for candidates cybersecurity, tracking user behaviour to maximise earnings,
with good analytical skills, attention to detail, and an ability or using data to further social causes.
to convey financial data clearly. Graduate accountants often The work in data analytics is mainly of inference,
join firms as trainees and will be required to take professional experiments and visualisation to achieve goals for
qualifications to enhance themselves. It is mandatory to go stakeholders, with data that has already been mined. Career
through the Singapore Qualification Programme (Singapore pathways in data analytics can be grouped according to
QP) in order to practise as a chartered accountant here. management and specialisation, depending on the skill sets
which individuals bring to the table.
www.smu.edu.sg THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2019 | 19ADAPTING TO A CHANGING WORLD
Banking and Finance Consulting and HR Education
Some possible areas of work in Graduates looking to embark on
Teaching is a noble profession given
banking and finance include a career in consulting can choose
its long hours and multifaceted
asset management, hedge funds, from different areas of expertise
demands, entailing the heavy
private banking and equity, risk such as HR, integrated solutions,
responsibility of nurturing the
management, venture capital, and management, and strategy
future generation. A career in
corporate restructuring. advisory work. They are also able
education is highly rewarding as
While the banking and finance to specialise in consulting work for
it gives you the satisfaction of
sector may be a volatile one affected a particular sector such as HR, IT,
helping others to achieve their
by fluctuations in the economy, it or finance.
aspirations.
continues to be a popular career Many employers offer graduate
Major employers include the
choice in the financial hub of specialist programmes, where you
Ministry of Education, public and
Singapore, causing stiff competition will be assigned to work in teams
private institutions, and tuition
for graduate hires. with a mentor. You will also be
centres. Besides becoming a
A good way to increase your involved in projects and experience
teacher, you may also consider
value as a jobseeker is by seeking the day-to-day business to help you
roles such as a career counsellor,
out internships during your pick up skills on the job. There are
an educational psychologist, or
university days to gain relevant numerous perks to working in this
corporate and administrative roles
work experience. It is also a good industry, such as a variety in job
in the ministry.
idea to actively participate in co- roles and travelling opportunities,
Upon graduating with at least
curricular activities and to join the but be prepared to work in a high
a bachelor’s degree, aspiring
relevant societies to develop the pressure environment.
teachers will need to obtain a
necessary skills required in the Client interaction is a key
postgraduate diploma in education
sector. For instance, employers component of a consultant’s
at the National Institute of
value candidates with problem- day-to-day work, hence good
Education. Graduates from all
solving ability and have excellent communication skills are essential.
disciplines are welcome to apply.
communication, organisational and Strong organisational, teamwork
Good organisational, time
teamwork skills. and problem-solving strengths are
management, interpersonal, and
You should also read the also most crucial, as well as the
effective communication skills are
financial business news regularly ability to work well under immense
crucial for this sector.
to update yourself of any changes deadline pressures.
in the sector. While numerical and You may also need professional
business degrees are preferred by certifications and licences to
employers, it is not a necessary practise in certain fields, so do
requirement. your research and consult the
relevant parties to help you plan
your career pathway.
20 | THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2019 www.smu.edu.sgADAPTING TO A CHANGING WORLD
Healthcare Hospitality and Innovation and
Tourism Technology
Other than for medical careers, Home to two integrated resorts Singapore, home to some of
non-medical graduates can join – Marina Bay Sands and Resorts the best IT infrastructure in the
the healthcare industry as well. World Sentosa – as well as world- world, also acts as an IT hub in
While most medical careers will renowned attractions such as the Asia-Pacific region. Given the
require specialist knowledge and the Singapore Flyer and the pervasiveness of technology today,
training, applicants from other Singapore Zoo, the hospitality and the expertise of IT professionals is
degree backgrounds can also tourism industry in Singapore has not needed only in the tech sector,
explore a number of career options experienced steady growth, even in but in the non-IT industries as well
such as healthcare operations/ the midst of economic downturns. (e.g. finance, health, media, and
management, medical and Career opportunities are legal services).
pharmaceutical sales/marketing, ample in the hospitality and Among some of the more
medical product management, tourism sector, ranging from hotel popular roles that graduate
and healthcare informatics. management, catering, leisure, candidates can consider include
Long hours and heavy and events management. Support technology consulting, systems
workloads are commonplace in roles for this growing sector such analysis, network engineering,
the healthcare sector. However, as IT, marketing, and HR, need to software testing, and technical
those working in administrative be filled as well. sales.
or research roles typically have Work in this industry can While numerate and IT-
regular and stable hours. A also be trying, demanding a lot related degrees are preferred by
passion for serving and helping of patience, energy, diplomacy, employers in this sector, it is not
those in need is imperative, as and EQ control. You should also mandatory – graduates seeking
well as being meticulous and expect work hours to go beyond to enter this industry can take
patient, especially if you are in the usual 9 to 5 during seasonal up technical modules in school
a services role in the healthcare peak periods. or go for professional technical
sector. Traits that hospitality and qualifications part-time as they
Graduates keen on a career in tourism employers look out for in work.
this sector can consider applying their candidates include excellent A common way in is through
to public/private healthcare communication and interpersonal graduate programmes, especially
providers, biomedical firms, skills as many roles are client- if you are applying to major
research consortia, or local facing in nature. organisations, although many
healthcare start-ups that focus on Also, most graduate employees smaller employers prefer to
specialised products (e.g. hospital start out from the bottom or hire directly. Employers greatly
management software, medical through graduate programmes, appreciate candidates with
robotics). obtaining training and professional good problem-solving and time
qualifications on the job. management abilities as these
are vital to helping them meet
project deadlines, as well as good
interpersonal and communication
skills due to the team-based nature
of this sector.
www.smu.edu.sg THE SMU CAREER GUIDE 2019 | 21You can also read
