gradsingapore How to Get Hired 2026

HOW TO GET HIRED

The ultimate guide for graduate jobseekers

The best graduate jobs, internships & graduate programmes in Singapore.

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How To Use This Guide

Whether you’re fresh out of school and diving into the working world, or job-hunting armed with a few years of work experience, gradsingapore’s How to Get Hired Guide is here to provide you with the relevant tips, quick hacks and advice on how to get started!

1. Developing Your Career Game Plan

Transitioning from student to working adult may seem like a natural progression in life, yet the journey itself can be overwhelming. With so many possibilities, it’s not always easy to figure out where or how you should embark on your career. Rest assured, you’re not the only one. In this section, we help you to ask yourself the right questions when it comes to envisioning your career path. Ultimately, you possess all the answers you need.

2. Starting Your Job Search

It goes without saying that getting a job isn’t as straightforward as choosing your dinner off the menu. Different employers use different platforms and require different information for their job applications. How do you even know how to get started? This section covers the important steps in making your first job application, from managing your LinkedIn profile to cover letter writing.

3. Making a Great Impression

Congratulations, you’ve got an invitation for a job interview, so what’s next? This section is all about winning over your potential employer to get your foot through the door. From impressing in your panel interview to excelling in group exercises, this is the final step that either leads you to a job offer or a rejection.

Ultimately, the world is your oyster. There are no wrong steps or actions. Even if you decide to change your career two months into your first job, it’s a learning experience about yourself. Be professional regardless of anything that comes your way at work. As long as you’re earnest and honest in everything you do, be confident that you’re on the right track. Embrace the unknown and delve into the next stage of your life with positivity. You won’t regret it.

Develop g Your Career Game Plan

Start by figuring out what you're good at, what you struggle with and what you enjoy. Knowing all of this can help you figure out what careers could best fit your skills and passions.

HOW DO YOU START

Planning Your Career? Planning Your Career?

Before taking the leap into the workforce, think about where you envision yourself to be in both the long- and short-term.

Once you’re done with graduation, the next step usually entails looking for your first job. but with so many options, getting started can feel overwhelming.

Luckily, asking yourself a few key questions can make it easier to figure out your starting path.

1

What are you good at?

List down your skills (both soft and technical) and personality traits. Next, think about your work preferences, like if you’re looking to specialise or want to branch out as a generalist. Your temperament matters too: maybe you work best when left alone, or you thrive when collaborating with others.

Knowing and understanding yourself can help you decide what environments will fit you best as a professional, which should help narrow down your options.

2

What do you care about?

Don’t underestimate the importance of your heart. Make sure your career goals are in line with your personal morals and values; they will go a long way in ensuring success.

For example, if you care deeply about animal welfare, consider joining a non-profit organisation to do your part, or go into veterinary science.

3

What do you like to do?

Alternatively, think about your hobbies; they could be a good indicator of what you might enjoy in a career. For example, if you enjoy writing in your spare time, a job as a copywriter or journalist could be something to consider while looking through job listings. Moreover, it’s worth developing abilities and skills in the areas that can catch and hold your interest.

In some cases, you can even turn it into a full-blown career, whether that means starting your own business as a baker or freelancing as a programmer.

4

What does the world need?

Your choice of profession will, in a way, serve your community as well as the world at large, so exploring poten�al career paths is a way of unwrapping your gi�s and finding out how they can help you give back.

Despite present dreary economic prospects, think about how you can best use your skills to contribute. While you will have to think in terms of short-term economic trends and market forecasts, don’t forget to consider how you would like to grow both professionally and personally in the long term as well!

5

What type of work environments will help you grow?

Do your research on the common types of office cultures, then reflect on your personality to assess the type of work environments that will help you thrive. For example, if you prefer a more structured working style, then perhaps you should consider applying to mul�na�onal corpora�ons, rather than startups.

It’s easy to thrive and prosper if you’re in your element, so take your comfort zone into considera�on too. For instance, if you prefer interac�ng with others, you can think about pursuing a career in sales and marke�ng. On the other hand, if you like working alone, you can consider going into IT and technology.

6

What kind of impact do you want to make?

The quest for personal fulfilment o�en intertwines with the desire to make a meaningful impact at work. It’s not merely about comple�ng tasks or achieving career milestones; it’s about leaving an imprint that transcends rou�ne du�es. Consider the impact you yearn to create – is it fostering an atmosphere of collabora�on and growth? Or perhaps championing ini�a�ves that address societal challenges?

Reflec�ng on these ques�ons can help you gain clarity about your career preferences and guide you toward job roles or industries that align with your interests, strengths, and values. Addi�onally, talking to mentors, and career counsellors, or taking career assessment tests can further assist in narrowing down suitable job op�ons.

Is your salary expectation for your first job realistic?

PASSION OR PRAGMATISM: Choosing What Works For You Choosing What Works For You

When it comes to your career, should you follow your heart, or just settle for any job? In these turbulent times, it can be a difficult decision to make.

Growing up, children were often encouraged by their parents and teachers that they could do anything if they set their minds to it. From being a world-famous dancer to becoming a renowned baker, with hard work and passion, you can achieve your dreams if you put your mind to it. Or so they say.

By now, you’ve probably realised by now that things aren’t quite as simple as before. There might be times when you wonder if what you’ve been working for up till now isn’t exactly what you want after all. Worse, you might be slowly sliding into a full-blown quarter-life crisis.

Having second thoughts

Overwhelmed and having second thoughts about your career path? You’re not alone. A survey by the CFA Institute found that 45 per cent of current university students and fresh graduates were rethinking their careers. Whether it’s about choosing a job that makes them happy, or settling for a position for monetary reasons, many have to deal with the dilemma of choosing between passion and pragmatism.

But just because others choose one particular path doesn’t necessarily mean that you should follow suit – rather, give it some considerable thought first!

The

case for both sides

Regarding passion

Pick a job you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life. Sure, there’s no such thing as a perfect job, but this phrase still has some truth to it. By pursuing a job out of passion, you’re likely to feel motivated to get work done and keep going. And while the monetary rewards may be smaller, the positive, internal rewards will often make up for it.

On the other hand, while it can be a well-worth endeavour, your efforts may not always bear fruit, especially if you come to find that the industry you’re after isn’t doing as well as you hoped. Worse, the mounting stress and deadlines can sour your passion over time.

Regarding pragmatism

With that in mind, it may seem safer to take the road of pragmatism. After all, while money may not be able to buy happiness, it can certainly alleviate a lot of concerns. Indeed, this is a common path for many, who choose to put their passions on the back burner and settle for a stable job.

The flipside here is that because you’re settling for what you can, it can be difficult to find enjoyment in a career you aren’t that interested in. This can lead to job dissatisfaction, lower work performance and increased stress.

Balancing (and managing) both sides

So, which should it be? A job you love, or a job with monetary promise?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this dilemma, but it’s manageable if you weigh your op�ons and situa�on. For example, if finances are a priority or your dream industry isn’t thriving, it’s okay to set your passions aside temporarily while you focus on stability.

From passion to profit

Alterna�vely, you can, consider mone�sing your passion as a freelancing gig as a sideline. Not only does it help bolster your income, but it also provides a taste of what working in that industry could be like. If you decide to focus on it full�me, do your research on the current market environment first, as well as what challenges to an�cipate.

Whether it’s money and stability or happiness and fulfilment, be sure to look into all of the advantages and disadvantages of each path. Moreover, if you find yourself taking the pragma�c road, keep in mind that it doesn’t have to be permanent, and you’re free to switch gears whenever you feel more secure in doing so.

Addi�onally, a li�le digging and introspec�on can help you discover aspects of your current job situa�on that you find meaningful. Who knows, you might even find new passions right at your desk.

Can't turn your passion into a career? You can still find meaning in your job.

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF BEFORE Making A Career Switch Making A Career Switch

Making your next career move takes careful consideration and preparation.

It doesn’t matter whether you’ve started work only a couple of months ago, or you’re already two years into your first role – at some point, you’ll come to a crossroads in your career journey. There, you’ll have to make a choice: stay in your present role, make a job switch, or see through a complete career change. How do you know when it’s time to leave? Here are some questions for you to reflect on that may nudge you in the right direction.

Question #1: Am I fulfilled by what I’m doing now?

The job you’re in now might’ve been your dream job as a fresh graduate, or the result of want you thought you wanted careerwise. But no matter the reason why you stepped into the role, remember that the you who first accepted the job is different from the you in the present time.

There’s nothing wrong in admitting that you’re no longer fulfilled by what you’re doing everyday – whether it’s coming up with new internal company policies for the benefit of co-workers or creating a positive impact among consumers. In fact, it’ll be good for your mental health and career journey to admit that it might be time to make a change.

Question #2: What about my work brings me the most joy and satisfaction?

Job satisfaction can come from a number of places, from a job well done, to knowing that your work can leave a positive impact. More in-depth reasons may even include enjoying the adrenaline rush you get when you meet tight deadlines, or the intense motivation needed to reach a single goal.

On the other hand, if the feeling you get reminds you of hollow victories, something’s wrong. If you can no longer derive joy and satisfaction from your work, it may be a sign you need to acknowledge that work has become something mundane to pay the bills.

Question #3: What’s my present job outlook?

While layoff news continues to dominate the tech industry, other sectors, such as aviation and hospitality, are experiencing exponential growth. The state of the industry you’re in has an overall effect on your job outlook, so if the forecast isn’t good, you can think about moving into another company that may be able to continue weathering the tough times well. On the more extreme end, you may even want to consider either a complete career or an industry switch.

Question #4: Why do I want change?

There’s no right answer when you ask yourself why you want change. Some want change because they’ve mastered what they wanted to do, and are either bored or in a rut. Others need the change in order to keep up with their career aspirations and plans. On the other hand, if you simply can’t see a future for yourself in the industry, whether in terms of impact or benefits, like pay, you may need to change too.

Whatever your reason for wanting (or not wanting) change is, the general consensus is that it’s good, even if it feels a little scary – after all, you’ll have the opportunity to learn something new in a new environment.

Question #5: What do I want to learn?

Now that you’re in the early stages of your career, you likely understand that life is a learning journey that never stops. In fact, it’s the learning that makes life fun for you! But here’s the thing: there will come a time when you feel like you’ve learnt all you want to learn at your present company and role.

As you figure out what new things you want to learn, don’t forget to ask yourself how far you’re willing to go to learn something new. For example, if you feel like you’ve learnt all you can from your present role, but not the company, don’t be afraid to bring up an internal job switch to your supervisor. But take note that some positions, such as programming, may require additional certifications.

On the other hand, if you want to learn something completely unrelated to what you’re doing now, you may have to consider switching industries and roles.

Question #6: What is my “career walk away” point?

As Sun Tzu said in the Art of War, “The general who wins the battle makes many calculations in his temple before the battle is fought.”

Similarly, if you’ve decided that switching companies is the most suitable solution for you, be sure to create (and stick to) a “career walk away” point before you start sending out resumes. Walk away points can cover a myriad of topics, ranging from salary and benefits, to even job scope and days of leave afforded.

Question #7: Is this move in line with my career plan and goals?

This is one of the most important questions you should ask yourself, as you definitely don’t want to invest the time and resources needed to make a shift only to discover that your new role isn’t aligned with your career plan and long-term goals! So, to be sure, pull out the career plan you created earlier before your graduation, and use it as a guide.

All these questions don’t even cover the most important one of all – whether you’ll be happy with your career move. Because even if all your answers point to you moving on from your present company, you don’t have to if you’re not ready. All this shows is that figuring out your next career move isn’t easy, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to any of the questions asked above. But what we can tell you is that it’s definitely worth the trouble, as you continue to realise your goals and accomplish targets set out for yourself!

IS BEING A

G duate Intern For You? G duate Intern For You?

Before taking up that graduate internship, take some time to reflect on these pros and cons.

If you missed the chance to complete an internship while you were s�ll in school, or are s�ll unsure about where you should go a�er gradua�on, a graduate internship could be for you.

A�er all, comple�ng a graduate internship in the company or industry you hope to launch your career in is a valid strategy for working towards a permanent posi�on. Furthermore, it’s also an excellent chance for you to pick up new skills and realign your career goals – especially if you’re looking to enter a sector you have no experience in. But before you decide to take this step, make sure you consider these pros and cons.

Regardless of the next step in your career, you should still prioritise your professional development.

PROS

1. To get your foot in the door

An internship can be used as part of a long-term strategy to get into the company you want to work in – apply as a graduate intern and give the role your all to make an exceptional impression on your employer. If your manager likes you, you may get an offer for a full-time position at the end!

But even if it doesn’t work out, the experience will still look great on your resume, and you can use it as a stepping stone to explore opportunities with other firms in the same industry.

2. To expand your professional network

Take this golden opportunity to grow your professional network. During an internship, you’ll get to work alongside professionals in the industry you’re interested in, and you might even get the chance to make them personal friends. This can benefit you in the future! Put the best version of yourself forward during company or office events; someone you’ve introduced yourself to may be looking for a person to fill a full-time role in their department – you never know!

3. To get insider insights

If you’re still trying to figure out which roles in the industry match your personality and skills the best, a graduate internship can be very useful for gaining valuable insights. It’s also a great way to learn about the inner workings of the organisation and grasp what’s expected of the different roles there.

As an intern, you can leverage on the resources available and speak to your assigned mentor or manager to learn more about the sector and business. This can go a long way in helping you make an informed decision regarding your planned career path.

4. To bulk up your resume

If you didn’t spend enough time on extracurricular activities or gaining work experience while in school, you can make up for it post- graduation. An internship is the perfect way to develop the required skills and gain the necessary experience to make your resume attractive to recruiters.

1. The pay

It’s no secret that as an intern, you’ll be paid significantly less than your peers who hold permanent jobs. As such, if you have significant financial obligations, it may not be a good idea to pursue one. However, if you truly need the additional experience, don’t let this discourage you. After all, it’s a good investment in your future career!

2. The role

It’s unlikely for your role as an intern to be as focused and specific as that of a graduate recruit in a training programme. Instead, you’ll be given a variety of tasks that seem insignificant, and you may find it difficult to develop key industry skills. On the other hand, you can use this as an opportunity to showcase your initiative by asking for higherlevel responsibilities that’ll also help you grow professionally. More than that, it can improve your chances of being offered a permanent role at the company.

SHOULD YOU BE

Your Own Boss? Your Own Boss?

Before hanging up your corporate boots, explore the realities of starting your own business and assess whether it’s the right path for you.

Have you ever wondered if there are other career op�ons you can explore? If you’re curious about what lies beyond the 9 to 5 job and want the opportunity to plan your work schedule, entrepreneurship might be the way to go. Transi�oning to the working world can be stressful, but even as you navigate your way, remember that it’s all right to break the mould and explore other op�ons that may be�er fit you and your aspira�ons.

Knowing how to manage your challenges is a key trait of a successful entrepreneur. Do you have what it takes?

Pros of entrepreneurship Risks you should consider

Being an entrepreneur is no easy feat, but here are some reasons why you might want to consider this path.

• You’ll have the freedom and flexibility to work at your own pace

• You’ll be able to pick up and hone essential business skills, such as bookkeeping, collecting debts, marketing and filing tax returns

• You have unconventional ideas and enjoy thinking outside of the box

• You prefer working without a strict hierarchy

• You are motivated to make a change in society, or want to solve a problem that conventional organisations might not be focusing on

All entrepreneurs face the same risks with uncertain market conditions and financial struggles, especially when working within tight budgets. As such, it’s important to have a good and effective business plan and conducting thorough research before taking the plunge to be an entrepreneur.

• You’ll have to wear many hats, and be responsible for all aspects of your business. This ranges from administrative work to finding new clients on your own

• You’ll need to have the money to not just start the business, but be able to sustain it as well, which can be difficult due to market volatility and other issues

• Work-life balance can be quite precarious, especially early on in your business. Chances are, there’ll be times where you’ll need to sacrifice sleep and relationships for work

• Resilience and determination are qualities you’ll need in the face of building your business. If you don’t have the attitude to remain positive throughout, this may not be the path for you

Before jumping into this career path, it’s a good idea to understand the level of commitment needed. One way to gauge this is to get in touch with other entrepreneurs. Whether they’ve succeeded or failed themselves, their experience and advice will give you valuable insights and context into your endeavour to become a successful business owner.

WHAT SHOULD YOU CONSIDER

Before Working Abroad Before Working Abroad

The idea of working overseas might sound like a dream come true, but there’s a lot of planning involved before you can take that leap of faith.

On paper, the idea of working overseas can sound like an amazing opportunity. Not only do you get to experience life outside your home country, but it can also add value to both your professional and personal development.

However, before you can reap the benefits, you’ll need to prepare ahead of time if you intend on a

Before considering a career overseas…

1. Understand your objectives

Are you looking to gain international experience, get ahead in a specific field or just want to broaden your horizons? Being clear about your goals will make it easier for you to determine not just what to pursue, but where to pursue it, too.

2. Look into opportunities around you

Most universities allow students to pursue internships overseas, typically scheduled either mid-year or at the end of the year, depending on the curriculum. While these stints maybe short, it’s also a good opportunity for you to figure out if a career overseas is right for you. Alternatively, consider applying to overseas companies that offer remote work. You’ll still be able to experience cross-cultural collaboration, though your working hours may have to align with their time zone, depending on who you work with.

Gaining overseas experience

• Look into companies and organisations that align with your career needs

• Check out if your university has any guides on starting careers abroad

• Try completing a semester overseas, if it’s feasible

• Research online for remote work with overseas companies

The next steps

There’s more to working abroad than just the job, though; there’s more research to be done before you start applying for jobs.

What to prioritise

Visas and work permits

• These will take a lot of time and money to apply and obtain, so this should be your top research priority

• Different visas and work permits cater to different lengths of stay and work hours, so make sure you’re applying for the correct ones

Cost of living vs expected/offered salary

• Look into the industry average, and use it as a benchmark

• If given a job offer or checking listings, figure out what the offered salary covers (i.e. medical, lodging, etc.)

Healthcare and insurance

• Healthcare coverage is generally included for employees, although its range can vary depending on the company and country.

• If not included in the job’s contract, research the country’s healthcare providers so you know how much to set aside

Lodging

• While some companies may provide accommodation options (or offer lodging sponsorships), others may have you secure it by yourself

• When researching for locations, consider factors such as your commute distance, convenience and safety (especially if you choose to live alone)

• The renting process can be different for foreigners in some cases, so do keep this in mind

Chasing your career dreams and goals isn’t impossible, but they should be done systematically to help make your overseas work experience a seamless one.

TRAVELLING:

Can It Help Your Career? Can It Help Your Career?

Aside from having some time off and making memories, travelling after graduation can prepare you with the necessary skills to excel in your first job.

A�er gradua�on, what comes next? While some might jump right into looking for a job, taking a gap year is also an op�on you can consider. However, se�ng aside the monetary costs of doing so, there are valid concerns of whether this will hurt your job-hun�ng prospects in an already uncertain job market. So, is it worth it?

If you’re able to, travelling can provide more than just fun and great memories – it can count as an invaluable experience that can give you a leg up in the professional world.

Sometimes, traveling can be the answer to your mid-year slump.

Equipping yourself with international opportunities

As the world becomes more interconnected, the job market today is more diverse than ever. With that in mind, having cultural sensi�vity has become vital, especially if the job you’re gunning for offers opportunity for global interac�on.

While you don’t really need to leave the country to appreciate other cultures, by being well-travelled, it not only further heightens your cultural awareness, but also sets you up to be more emo�onally intelligent. That will help you be�er communicate with those around you, especially if they come from different backgrounds.

You might even pick up on skills such as learning other languages, which can be a valuable asset among some employers.

Growing on a personal level

As cliché as it sounds, travelling can indeed be helpful in terms of ‘finding yourself’, as well as a golden opportunity for growing as a person as well. Being in a new place, with different people, who hold different values and go about life differently strips all that familiarity away and forces you to learn how to adapt to it. And it could be that those situa�ons are where you learn the most, not just about the world around you but about yourself as well.

Leveraging it on your resume and interviews

So where should you put travel in your resume? It depends, actually. If the experiences you had while travelling are relevant to the job you’re a�er, then you can consider pu�ng them in the main body of your resume, like your work experience. On the other hand, if it isn’t as clear, you should put it in another sec�on, such as under ‘Other Ac�vi�es’.

The same applies to skills that you’ve learned too. If the language skills you’ve picked up are closely linked to the job role, such as in marke�ng or teaching, then you should definitely highlight it more in your resume. But do be honest about your fluency – exaggera�ng it can lead to some embarrassing situa�ons for you down the road.

Of course, you shouldn’t just drop everything and hop on a flight willy-nilly. If you’re intrigued by the thought of travelling but are nervous that taking �me off will hurt your chances of finding a job in the future, don’t be. Not only does it give you some well-deserved �me off, but depending on where you go and what you do, it can open the doors for professional growth and opportunity as well.

WHAT ELSE

Can You Do? Can You Do?

Not everyone wants to jump right into work post-graduation, and that’s perfectly fine. Here are a few other options worth considering.

Take a break

A gap year can be what you need to figure things out and help plan your next steps post-graduation. It’s also a good opportunity to not only pick up new skills and experiences without much pressure, which can help to bolster your resume.

Voluntary work

You can find opportunities both locally and overseas, ranging from working with local social work organisations to global entities.

But one of the biggest benefits of volunteering is the contacts you’ll make; the connections you make with fellow volunteers and supervisors may come in handy when you start job-hunting

Plus, the experience can be included in your resume, depending on the nature of the work and the skills the role you’re applying for requires.

• A gap year can give you time to reflect on your next steps or focus on your mental health

• It provides opportunities for unique experiences that can help you stand out from other candidates

• You’ll develop valuable soft skills like problem-solving, flexibility and more

If you’re thinking about traveling during this period, you can consider applying for work or travel programmes, which are offered by some organisations. This will let you gain international exposure and valuable skills, while also earning money to fund your travels.

Short courses

There’s also the option to gain new skills or brush up on existing ones. Popular choices include learning a new language or technical skills like web design and coding.

While this might only appeal to those looking to up their appeal in the job market, having a new skill under your belt will impress employers, and can also help you meet the technical requirements for a position you may be interested in.

• You may find yourself out of sync with the recruitment cycle once you resume job hunting

• You’re worried about competing with new graduates after your time out

• You lack the financial resources to do so

Consider post-graduate studies

Going right back to school when you’ve just graduated can sound a little silly, but a postgraduate qualification could help boost your career prospects, especially if the field you’re going into is competitive.

Still, this isn’t a decision to take lightly; post-graduate studies are both time-consuming and costly, so consider your options clearly and be clear about what and why you want to pursue it. A career advisor can help you work through the key considerations involved and give you advice on preparing a strong application.

The content and mode of study Funding

When picking a postgraduate course, make sure it aligns with your motivations and career goals.

For example, if you want to strengthen your undergraduate qualifications for a specific industry, check how relevant the course is to that field.

You’ll also need to decide between full-time or parttime study; the latter offers more flexibility and helps to spread costs, while the former typically provides deeper engagement and a more immersive experience. So, choose wisely!

Financing your studies can be challenging, especially for students. If your parents can support you, that’s ideal; if not, you can look into bank loans, but only if you’re willing to take on that debt.

You can also consider studying part-time while working full-time to cover your tuition fees.

Is it for me?

• The course will help add value to your undergraduate degree

• Having more qualifications under your belt is often appealing to employers

• Taking up a conversion course can qualify you to different areas of work

• You want to do it for monetary reasons. In reality, most employers don’t offer higher salaries just for extra qualifications – work experience and specialisation matter more.

• You want to figure things out. There are better (and cheaper!) ways to explore your options than using post-grad studies! NO

Start g Your Job Search

Tailor your applications, network strategically, and stay persistent. The right opportunity may be closer than you think.

WHERE

Do You Start? Do You Start?

Finding out which job portal or application route can help you kickstart your job search journey.

There are a number of paths you can explore when looking for a job as a graduate. Undoubtedly, one of the most common methods is through the Internet. Regardless, you shouldn’t confine yourself to just the jobs available online. Instead, make use of the other op�ons available and don’t place limits on your search.

Go online

There is a mul�tude of career portals online. Ensure that the ones you join and subscribe to are the most suited to what you are looking for.

For instance, gradsingapore.com curates both jobs and internships, and is thus considered a beneficial and holis�c resource for those who are in the early stages of their career or are fresh graduates.

Alterna�vely, employers may post available posi�ons and vacancies on their websites and social media pages. If there’s an employer you have your eye on, you should consider following them on social media. Not only will you be immediately informed of upcoming hiring opportuni�es and news, but these pages also offer a peek into their work culture as well.

It’s equally important to remain up-to-date on the current hiring trends around the world. They may give you an idea of a more alterna�ve job search route and prepare you for what to expect as you hunt for a job.

Do you know how to manage your job search anxiety?

Career services on campus

It might be daun�ng to approach your career centre on campus; however, these centres boast a wide range of contacts and resources you’ll be able to leverage. These resources may be more specific and targeted to your course of study, and might also connect to employers in these areas.

When speaking to your career counsellors, make your aspira�ons and career goals clear and known so they have a be�er idea of how to help you. If you’re facing any challenges concerning your job hunt, they can offer you the guidance you need. Some career service centres even offer networking sessions, virtual or otherwise, for graduates to get to know employers, as well as find a mentor.

Career fairs

Whether they are held virtually or in person, career fairs are beneficial to a graduate’s job hunt and overall experience. Turn up for such events with a strategy in mind, find out which employers are going to be attending prior to the fair itself, and prepare some questions you’d like to ask them.

Bring copies of your resume to hand out to prospective employers, as well as name cards, if you have any. As for virtual fairs, you’ll still be able to send over a softcopy of your resume, so make sure it has been prepared and updated. After the event ends, follow up with an email to your new contacts to establish your connection with them.

In the note, include any interesting points of conversation you might have had to help the recruiter remember you out of the many faces they’ve met that day.

Send your resume one more time over the email, and add the links to your online portfolio or LinkedIn profile as well.

Recruitment services

Another way to get suitable job offers is to engage in recruitment consultation services. Although you’ll have to fork out some cash, you’ll be able to meet up with them for consultations to discuss your professional goals and use their connections to potential employers. Moreover, you can use them as a source of information to prepare for prospective assessments and interviews.

Networking

Many young job seekers and graduates benefit from networks, both personal and professional, when looking for their first job. It’s not just about what you know, it’s also about who you know. Keep in touch with old contacts, make new ones, avoid burning bridges, and never turn down a chance to network, whether it’s in a professional or personal setting.

Internships

Work placements and internships can lead to full-time positions, especially if you have proven to be a good fit for the company, and you get along well with your co-workers.

Apply speculatively

Writing to prospective employers to enquire about available job opportunities — even if they aren’t advertising vacancies — is known as applying speculatively.

This potentially demonstrates your interest in a company. However, you’ll also need to impress them with your understanding of their field and why you’re exactly what they’re looking for. Although there might not be available vacancies at that moment, they may keep your file and consider you for suitable job roles in the future.

BABY STEPS TO Your Dream Job Your Dream Job

Drawing up a plan ahead of time is key to hitting the ground running when applying for jobs after graduation.

When you try to craft a dozen well-thought-out applications for prospective employers while also submitting school assignments on time, do you find yourself all over the place?

It’s not surprising if you do. But while balancing your time in school and planning ahead for your career isn’t easy, it’s not impossible to achieve.

So instead of running everywhere all at once, start with a solid plan of action –though you’ll still need to put in the effort to follow through – to better manage your time and priorities to reach your goals.

Here are some things you should put into your action plan to better prepare yourself when it comes to job applications!

Prepare an “All-About-Me” document

This is a simple, useful document that holds information about you. The concept’s more like an idea bank – a place you can revisit after crafting your resume and cover letters. Even better, there’s no need to kick up a fuss about making this document pleasing to the eye – it’s for your reference only. You can even keep it unformatted if you like!

Here are some things you should jot down on this document:

• Your skills, both technical and soft

• Your qualifications and grades

• Your experiences (both professional and extracurricular)

• Your school and/or personal projects

• Your career goals

• Any other skills and courses you’ve taken up

• Your volunteer experience, if any It’s best to review this document every few weeks to keep your details up-to-date.

How do I use it?

For a basic application template

• Add in your qualifications, grades and work experience for customised applications

• Add in experiences that are relevant to the job applied

• Emphasise the points in your document that will highlight your strengths

Update often

Never stop polishing your various forms of written applications so you won’t be left panicking when the time comes to submit them. Although many often leave applications to the last minute, if you rush through, you have a higher chance of making mistakes.

If you have 10 minutes:

• Make a priority list

• Read over your All-AboutMe document; you may have something new to add

If you have 20 minutes:

• Update your resume with your AllAbout-Me document right next to you

• Proofread and fine-tune an existing application if you have already started on one

• Start with employer research, which will not only be useful at the application stage, but will also help you later when you get called in for an interview. Take note that it is reasonable enough to start with employers who provide the most information about themselves

If you have 30 minutes:

• Draft a cover letter, but try not to copy a generic template –employers can spot these letters a mile away. Write a new one for each position, and your application will be received more positively

• Take time to read up about your chosen career sector in the news. Understanding more about the industry will help you get the hang of tailoring your applications to fit a desired position

• Use the time to thoroughly proofread your resume

If you have an hour:

• Visit your career services centre and attend a session with your advisor that can help you increase your employability

• Begin an application from scratch. If you do not have the time to finish it, save it to complete later. Avoid trying to rush through it as you’ll be more prone to making mistakes or leaving out something important

Be positive and keep applying

Remain upbeat when applying for jobs even if you have a high chance of rejection – you aren’t the only one applying! Do your best in any interview session, and remember there’s no need to feel disappointed if it isn’t followed by an offer letter. Keep in mind that at the end of the day, you’ll be able to get a job that’ll suit your personality and skill set!

Get a foot in

It can be frustrating if you don’t get an offer letter from your desired company, but if another job in the same industry comes your way –perhaps from a company or for a position you’re not particularly enthusiastic about – what do you do?

Gaining experience is definitely high on the priority list, but at the same time, nothing about the job might actually be your cup of tea. One solution to this is to take the offer that comes your way. As difficult as it may sound, it’s not so bad when you realise that you’ll be able to pick up or hone skills. For instance, if you’ve applied for a business development position but end up getting a marketing role, grab it! You’ll not only pick up tech-savvy skills such as creating online marketing brochures to sell a particular product, but you’ll also have the opportunity to build your network, something which can come in useful later in your career.

STANDING OUT With Your Resume With Your Resume

Crafting a standout resume is crucial in catching the eye of potential employers.

1) Customise your resume for each application

You need to catch recruiters’ attention from the very beginning of your resume and reel them in as it goes along. Be sincere and genuine in each tailored document sent out instead of sending the same version out over and over again. Understand what each company is looking for and think about what you have that would meet their needs and make you the best candidate.

At the top of your resume, indicate your career objectives, a key summary of your skill sets, or both. One of the best ways to customise your resume is to ensure your career objectives and summary of skill sets are set according to what the company needs so that it is more relevant and targeted.

2) Highlight your skill sets and areas of expertise

Hiring managers don’t have the time to look through what you did in your previous position in detail, but they do shortlist resumes based on specific skill sets. If you don’t have a summary of your skill sets at the top of your resume, be sure to write a few lines at the start of each work experience to summarise the core skill sets in each position.

For instance, if you’re applying for a business development position, use a line or two to highlight some key skills such as business analysis, communication and client management.

On the other hand, if you’re looking at the role of a talent acquisition specialist, then the relevant areas of expertise would be recruiting talents, conducting talent assessments and managing employee profiles.

3) Add relevant experiences

Don’t limit your experiences to just work-related matters. Any short projects you’ve worked on or beneficial courses you’ve attended can be listed down as well.

These gigs may not necessarily relate to your course of study, but they do relate to other sectors such as volunteering, poverty alleviation, communication and even crossculture fluency.

On a similar note, a part-time job in a service industry or teaching role can indicate your willingness to serve and cater to the needs of clients, including managing others’ expectations, things that are important for any young professional.

4) Show the numbers

Impacts can be measured in numbers and later elaborated on in detail. Think of any differences you’ve made in previous companies or how you’ve grown through each academic and professional experience.

If you helped expand a client pool in your previous role, be specific about the number of clients you brought in during that time.

Similarly, if you tutored students part-time, you can indicate how you helped your students grow in specific areas, such as encouraging them to read more.

This lets the employer know that you’re both a doer and a thinker, and that you’re also a selfstarter willing to come up with your own strategies.

5) Showcase your strengths and interests

Here’s where you can make yourself stand out among other candidates – what are some of your unique skills and areas of interest that can help you professionally and allow you to contribute to the company? These strengths and interests can range from your mastery of a second or third language to your interest and knowledge of a specific geographic market. When you include this information in your resume, you help your prospective employer get to know you better and draw them into thinking about how else they can further tap into your talents.

IT and technology skills are greatly valued these days, so if you have a keen interest in coding or programming, take up online courses to further your interest – and don’t forget to state the certificates which you’ve attained. Apart from highlighting your educational and extracurricular awards, achievements and leadership qualities, briefly include your personal interests at the end of your resume too. Participation in team sports is of particular interest to employers as it indicates a high measure of success in a corporate environment. The ability to play a musical instrument goes the same way; it demonstrates your focus and discipline.

6) Submit on time

Last but not least, remember that time is short. Try not to wait till the last minute to submit your job application! Not only will you need time to proofread your resume, but some companies may choose to bring forward submission deadlines due to overwhelming responses.

First impressions may not be everything, but they do make a difference. Likewise, submitting a top-notch resume will help you stand out!

CAREER OBJECTIVE

Sample Resume Sample Resume

JONATHAN WONG

Mobile: 8765 8903

E-mail: jonathan.wong@gmail.com

To develop and engineer alternative and cost-effective solutions that benefit existing company products.

SKILL SET SUMMARY

Able to work effectively under pressure, commercial awareness, interpersonal skills and problem-solving skills.

EDUCATION

Singapore University

• Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical Engineering), Honours

• Graduating GPA: 3.7

• Expected date of graduation: May 2025

RELEVANT PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Research Assistant, Fibre Optics Lab, Singapore University

Assisted with research on power fibre laser systems and their practical industrial applications.

• Set up, maintained, and catalogued equipment used in research experiments.

Aug 2021 – present

Aug – Dec 2024

• Coded programmes to filter and analyse gathered data, in order to assist with interpretation of research findings.

Future Electronics Singapore, Intern

May – July 2023

• Actively sourced for potential Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) suppliers of key components in Malaysia.

• Identified more cost-effective alternatives to key components used in company products. Theoretically reduced production costs by 5% as a result.

• Communicated directly with senior management during the sourcing process and submitted report of findings to them.

OTHER EXPERIENCE

Two Geeks, Raffles Square store, Sales Representative

May – July 2022

• Successfully promoted digital products and was awarded “Best Sales Person” within first month on the job for exceeding sales target by 15%.

• Assisted customers with relevant queries on hardware and software products.

• Reconciled cash at daily close of business.

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Chairman, Public Relations, Engineering Society

Aug 2023 – Aug 2024

Led a group of eight committee members to publicise club events, which successfully increased club membership by 20%.

• Encouraged club members to actively participate and help out in club events.

Soccer Team Captain, Singapore University

Jan 2024 – Present

• Currently playing on university team’s first division. Led team to win the inter-university Lion Cup in 2018.

• Responsible for selecting and motivating team members, and organising and conducting bi-weekly training sessions.

• Liaised with team captains at other universities to coordinate practice matches.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Proficient in Microsoft Office, Java, and C/C++ programming.

• Languages: Fluent in English and Mandarin (both spoken and written)

• Enjoys outdoor sports, particularly soccer and ultimate frisbee.

• Regularly participates in volunteer work.

REFERENCES

Dr Edwin Wong

Senior Lecturer

Faculty of Engineering, Singapore University

Tel: 9085 6721

Email: edwin.wong@su.edu.sg

Mr Thomas Kumar

Operations Manager

Future Electronics Singapore

Tel: 9983 7832

Email: thomas.kumar@future-e.com

REFINING Your Resume Further Your Resume Further

Successful job applications lie in customising your resume to suit each role you’re applying for!

Fine-tuning your resume can make a big difference in presenting your best self to employers. Tweak your resume strategically for each application so that it’s directed and relevant to the role in question, thus increasing your chances of being shortlisted for the next round of the recruitment process.

Take keywords from the job description

Job descriptions for roles tend to contain keywords that encompass desired qualities and skill sets. Your resume would need to show that you have the necessary academic qualifications, personality traits and professional experiences – whether from part-time jobs or internships – to fit the role.

As such, make use of the job description and use the relevant keywords there to hook and reel in the recruiter with your resume.

Refine your career objective

Before you begin jotting down your academic and work experience in your resume, carve one to three lines about your career objectives at the very top.

Ensure that your career goals and areas of expertise are eye-catching enough to pull the recruiters in to read on.

Moreover, recruiters and hiring managers often have to wade through thick stacks of resumes for any one position, so take the initiative to make their lives easier by making sure that the career objective is written in clear and simple language, showcasing why you’re exactly what the company needs.

3

Show off your achievements

Don’t be afraid of showing off your skills and experience in your resume; it won’t exactly come across as bragging if you’re merely sta�ng your skills and experience.

Keep in mind that employers are always keeping an eye out for talented candidates and award winners who’ve made their mark in any field.

Include all noteworthy achievements, skills and experiences so that you can get a chance to talk about them during the interview if you’re called in. Let your awards and experiences be the shining leads in your resume!

4

Maximise your experiences and transferable skills

Recruiters and hiring managers have a preference for candidates who already have training and experiences relevant to the posi�on they’ve posted. As such, take a shot at maximising your chances of ge�ng an interview by sta�ng your exposure in the areas of work you’re applying for.

For instance, if you’re a fresh graduate applying for a role in business development, make sure you include any experience you have that shows your interpersonal skills and resourcefulness in your resume. This can range from leading a sports team to achieving goals set out, securing a grant for a final-year project, or even receiving compliments from customers during a part-�me job.

5

Demonstrate your perfect fit for the role

On top of professional and academic pursuits, every new hire comes with their respec�ve passions and interests that usually influence their career performance. If you have a calling for a par�cular role or feel a connec�on to it, show it clearly in your resume; employers want to know if your personal values are aligned with the company’s mission and vision.

For example, non-profit organisa�ons will keep a lookout for candidates with voluntary experience as it speaks of their personal inclina�on to social causes.

6

Trim the fat

Finally, clean up any clu�er in your resume. Leave out any informa�on not related to the role you’re gunning for, and ensure each fact and detail men�oned is highly relevant.

How important are references on your resume?

THE BASICS OF Cover Letter W t g Cover Letter W t g

Along with your resume, your cover letter gives recruiters their first impression of you.

Acover le�er may not be strictly required for all applica�ons, but it’s s�ll a good-to-have document, especially for graduates looking for an advantage. A�er all, a well-cra�ed cover le�er shows hiring managers your sincerity, all while also informing them of your strengths and suitability for the role..

Be clear on the specific posi�on you’re applying for. Explain why it’s of interest to you and convince the hiring manager that you’re a good fit.

The brief introduc�on of yourself at this point should also contain relevant experiences and interest in the job scope adver�sed, as well as your highest educa�onal qualifica�on.

You don’t have to ramble on too much about your personality, detailed academic background and skills – these are already on your resume. Also, be sure to avoid describing yourself with words such as “passionate” or “ambi�ous”; these quali�es are be�er exuded in person during the interview.

Demonstrate your competence

Read the job descrip�on as adver�sed and treat it like the holy grail. As such, your cover le�er needs to address the selec�on criteria by highligh�ng relevant experiences. In the same vein, explain how your skills could be put to good use in the specific role.

For example, state how your keen interest in, and knowledge of, current affairs can help in a poli�cal risk advisory role where clients appreciate swi� and ac�onable insights.

Show your enthusiasm Vet your cover letter thoroughly

Spend some �me doing comprehensive research about your poten�al employer. A�er that, use the informa�on you have to men�on specific aspects of the company opera�ons and culture that appeal to you in the cover le�er.

For example, if you have a�ended networking events organised by the firm or visited its booth at a career fair, you can men�on it in your cover le�er.

If you’re in contact with someone in the company whom you met through these events, you can men�on his or her name. Showing your enthusiasm could score an advantage over other candidates.

Last but not least, take a break from your cover le�er and check it again later. You’re more likely to spot any mistakes with fresh eyes.

If this is the first �me you’re wri�ng a cover le�er, you may also want to get someone with a strong command of the English language to help you proofread it.

You can also explore the op�on of using a spellchecker to prevent grammar mistakes as errors reveal a lack of a�en�on to detail. Keep in mind that recruiters are on the lookout for effec�ve communicators.

Sample cover letter

Dear Mr Lim,

I am wri�ng to apply for the Programming Execu�ve role with the Design Museum.

My conversa�ons with current employees at your networking session in June this year have reinforced my interest in the museum and cemented my belief that I have the exper�se and skills that you are looking for.

Through my three years of study at the School of Design at Singapore University, which included a 10-week professional a�achment with Art and Design Outreach, I developed an understanding of crea�ng impac�ul programmes for art and design ins�tu�ons.

In addi�on, I underwent a 6-month internship at the Taylor Print Ins�tute where I gained valuable experience in pu�ng together a year-long public programme to a�ract different visitors through various pla�orms, including online media. I also promoted the exhibi�ons and events to the press, and ensured live events ran smoothly and drew sufficient crowd sizes.

My resume is enclosed for your considera�on. I am keen to discuss any opportunity in person and am available for an interview at any �me. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Yours sincerely,

Serene Tan

HOW SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS

Can Boost Your Job Hunt Can Boost Your Job Hunt

Recruiters and prospective employers have turned to social media platforms to suss out jobseekers, hence the increased importance of keeping it professional online.

LinkedIn might be the essential tool for professionals to discover job postings and for prospective employers to look at your work experience. However, other social media platforms such as X (formerly known as Twitter), TikTok, and even Instagram can help boost your job hunt if professionally

Professional Platforms

LinkedIn is usually the first thing that comes to mind, but there are other platforms, forums, niche sites and alternatives such as Opportunity and Xing. While these

1. Your profile

Using the right words for your profile and summary can be enough to make it stand out from the rest. Additionally, you’ll need to use common keywords as well so your profile comes up when recruiters search for prospective candidates.

Take note:

Keep your profile and career goals clean and clear with simple terms rather than something fancy or vague. For example, instead of using “tech maverick”, use “full-stack developer”.

2. Your picture

Choose a headshot that looks professional and shows your face clearly. Depending on the industry you’re applying for, your headshot doesn’t necessarily have to be formal, but it’s preferable that your background is clear and not too cluttered.

Take note:

In industries such as law, finance, and banking, keep your headshots formal. However, for other sectors like tech and media, feel free to explore more creative options.

maintained. What are some things you should take note of, and more importantly, how you can strike a balance between being personal and professional on popular platforms? Here are a few pointers to help you.

platforms can be easier to handle because they’re devoted to business and professional networking, there are still a few crucial points to take note of.

3. Connecting

If possible, get a mutual friend to introduce you to another person over the platform, and tell them who you are and how both parties would benefit from the connection. However, if you don’t have a mutual friend to pave the way, customise a message that explains how you came across their profile and why you want to reach out to them.

Take note:

Wait patiently for a response - don’t chase after or harass those you want to connect with.

4. Communicating

How you comment and respond to queries gives recruiters a peek into your personality, morals, ethics, and values, so be sure to steer away from negative comments to keep your reputation intact. Keep in mind that recruiters are also known to look through comments left on other people’s posts on top of your own.

Personal Platforms

Pla�orms such as Facebook and Instagram take precedence over LinkedIn when it comes to personal networking. However, because they are more personal, the delicate balance between personal and professional is even more precarious.

1. Your profile

While it’s alright to keep your personal profiles casual, include some common keywords regarding your career goals or aspira�ons in summaries about yourself. These will appear when employers search for poten�al employees. This will also allow them to have a glance at your professional iden�ty too.

Take note:

Give special a�en�on to your name and handle, and use your real name as much as possible to give an impression of trustworthiness and reliability. For instance, if a media personality named “Beryl Tan” uses @beryltan, it sounds more authen�c and dependable than @theBer.

2. Your photo

While your picture should take crea�ve licence when it comes to your pictures on your personal sites, remember to choose those that show your face clearly.

Moreover, to secure a good first impression, don’t post an image of yourself in a possibly embarrassing se�ng for the world and prospec�ve employers to see.

Take note:

Be wary of picture tags - either disable the op�on or untag yourself as you see fit.

Despite the struggle to balance the two, don’t priva�se your accounts or overlook them. Recruiters have been known to look out for poten�al candidates on these pla�orms, so clean these possible resources up rather than completely discoun�ng them.

3. Control your image

By customising your “friends” list, you’ll be able to control who gets to see what posts you make online but also regulate who gets to view your content. This lets you remain honest to your personal iden�ty, while also s�ll maintaining a professional appearance.

Take note:

Make sure to go through your se�ngs regularly, especially when the pla�orms are updated.

4. @tags and #hashtags

Tags and hashtags are useful in ge�ng your content to the right audience, however, be mindful not to abuse them. Use them to reach out to certain individuals, or start a discussion.

Take note:

If you plan to start a discussion, share and tag an industry update on an employer’s page. Many employers take note of these posts, so this is one way to make yourself known to them.

Do you know how to build your personal brand?

HOW TO USE

LinkedIn Strategically LinkedIn Strategically

Many social networking platforms cater to businesses and professionals, but LinkedIn remains the premium site for this target audience.

LinkedIn is a multi-use platform for many. It’s a place to showcase your resume, build your network, and search for jobs that suit your skill set among other functions. Essentially, it is a valuable resource for anyone looking to start their career.

1

Constructing your profile

Profiles on LinkedIn act like online resumes. They allow you to carve your personal brand. Choose a profile picture that adequately reflects the industry you’re already in, or looking to enter. Include a conspicuous yet explanatory headline on top of a powerful summary of your skills and career inspirations.

Depending on your sector of choice, weave links into your resume that lead to some of your best work. This is so employers can get a peek into your portfolio. You should also make sure your career moves in line with your career aspirations, starting with what recruiters would be interested in.

2 Growing your online network

Actively make connections on LinkedIn by adding friends and co-workers, and don’t forget to promote your skill sets to get endorsements. Endorsements are popular among employers, so get your connections to write recommendations for you.

Moreover, as a professional networking platform, LinkedIn keeps you updated on your contacts’ work anniversaries and promotions. Don’t hesitate to use these opportunities to keep in touch with them.

As you grow and compile your network on LinkedIn, use judgment and discernment on this site just as much as you might on Facebook and Instagram.

3 Finding the best fit

After carefully crafting your profile on LinkedIn, clicking on the “Jobs” tab will bring you to a page where a list has been shortlisted for you. The shortlisted jobs are based on your biography and are generally relevant to the skills mentioned in your profile. You’ll also be able to check out who among your contacts works with these companies, so if you decide to go for some of these positions, you can ask your connections to endorse you.

Many job application procedures might require you to upload your resume, though some postings might redirect you to a company’s site or portal. However, some posts only need you to click on the EasyApply button, making the application process much easier.

Most companies allow job seekers to import their LinkedIn profile when applying for positions on their website, cutting down on filling up applications and freeing up time to customise resumes and other relevant documents.

Raising your profile

Indicate that you’re actively looking for a job to indicate your willingness to allow recruiters to contact you on your LinkedIn profile. This will come in handy when recruiters sift through talent based on keywords as they will likely come across your profile, and reach out to you if you fit the bill.

State your career goals seriously, and work towards a perfect profile to get as many matches that are as pertinent to you as possible.

4 5 6 Applying for positions

Engaging with employers and groups

Employers extensively craft their brand on LinkedIn. Follow your dream companies there and reach out to them on occasion. Potential candidates willing to engage meaningfully with employers are highly sought after, so don’t be afraid to make your presence known.

As it is still a social networking platform, LinkedIn also offers a cache of Pages and Interest Groups overflowing with online communities of professionals, linked by sectors or markets. Based on your field of interest or study, simply use keywords to search for these groups and follow them. You don’t know what opportunities they might yield!

NETWORKING AT EVENTS:

A Beginner’s Guide A Beginner’s Guide

Networking can be pretty confusing: where to start, what to do, where to go? Here are some ideas for you to explore!

As a graduate job seeker, you’ve probably already heard your fair share of seniors, peers, and career advisors chanting: “Network, network, network if you want to succeed!”

Yet ironically, networking events can be incredibly daunting, turning even the most eloquent of us into awkward stutterers.

After all, aside from the need to obtain information from new acquaintances, you’re also pressured Here are some tips to help you boost your networking skills.

Prepare and practise

Networking is not something that comes naturally to everyone, even for extroverts. It is, in fact, a learnable skill that requires constant practice.

But you can do more than just talk to your reflection in the mirror. Most of your contacts can typically be divided into the following categories:

• Casual networks: Contacts whom you’ve met at open networking events or mixed industry events

• Knowledge networks: Contacts from professional associations that cater to the improvement and regulation of a specific industry

• Strong contact networks: Contacts from groups established exclusively for building professional relationships

• Online networks: Contacts whom you obtain from social media services

Use these categories as a guideline to help you expand your networks, but remember: you don’t necessarily need to build up on all four categories to succeed in your job search. Instead, expand the different categories according to the needs of your desired job.

The ability to make small talk, for instance, is a crucial skill that you’ll need to have when networking. You can start by practising with friends, people you meet during student club activities, or recruiters at talks and career fairs.

Focus on your V.C.P.

While it’s true that the hidden purpose of networking is for you to obtain a favour or opportunity from your contacts, the sentiment behind the relationships you form is very real.

You need to develop not just familiarity with your contacts, but also trust before you can request anything from them.

In other words, networking is a long-term investment of trust and confidence between individuals. There are three primary components to this:

• Visibility: Your contacts need to know who you are.

• Credibility: Your contact needs to know your intentions, character, and capabilities.

• Profitability: Your contact has to know that they can trust you enough that they’re willing to help you.

Recruiters don’t expect new graduates to be overachievers, but they want to be able to see your interest in them and their company, as well as the sincerity that you have in applying.

Open with an “elevator pitch”

The average person’s attention span while performing a task lasts no more than 10 to 20 seconds (actually, according to the US National Centre for Biotechnology Information, it has dropped down to 8 seconds now – even shorter than a goldfish’s).

So remember that you only have a limited time span to highlight your selling points before the other party’s focus turns elsewhere!

Come prepared with a 30-second “elevator pitch” so that when recruiters ask you the ubiquitous “So what do you do?” question, you won’t be floundering around for an answer.

Be sure to include the necessary information – who you are, what you’re studying, where your interests lie or why you’re here –and make sure to keep it concise.

Sustaining conversation with the “ED” rule

Introducing yourself is only the easy part. Once you’re done with that, you’ll be faced with Challenge #2: sustaining a conversation –which can be quite a draining experience in itself.

There are a lot of ways to go about this, but one of the chief suggestions is the “ED” rule. Rather than trying to make yourself interesting, be interested in the other party.

Remember, you’re here to learn, gain information, and build connections – so it’s always advisable to listen to other people instead of talking about yourself.

Talk beyond business

Another way to establish your reputation as a great conversationalist is also by connecting with others on a level beyond business.

Recruiters and company representatives are also people with hobbies and interests, and – like everyone else – are often happy to meet others who share the same passions.

Bond over common interests, such as food, movies, fashion, sports teams, pets, or books. Put your observation skills to use. Distinctive cufflinks, ties, keychains, and jewelleries can evoke interesting topics that leave an impression on your contacts!

It may be a good idea to stay away from touchy subjects like politics and religion too! These are topics reserved for deep discussions over a cup of coffee (or booze) between close-knit friends, not new acquaintances.

Follow up

This is one of the most important aspects of a networking session, and yet the one most often forgotten! Remember, there is really no point in attending a networking session if you’re not going to make the effort to follow up with any new contacts you’ve made.

Remember to put the business cards you’ve collected to good use – especially those from recruiters! Write a proper email thanking them for their time and insights, and sign off with a memorable detail from your conversation so that it leaves an impression on them.

This way, they’ll be less likely to forget you if you bump into them again in the future.

THE ART OF

Speculative Application Speculative Application

This proactive approach empowers individuals to reach out directly to potential employers by showcasing their skills and enthusiasm for a role even when no vacancies are publicly listed.

Did you know that nearly 70 per cent of all available openings aren’t advertised? There are a few reasons behind this, namely that recruiters are tapping into their existing networks for potential candidates first before opening the position up to the public.

This is when submitting a speculative application would put you in the lead for that job. Speculative applications give you the chance to introduce yourself to companies, even when they haven’t publicly announced a job opening. It’s all about taking the initiative, standing out, and creating opportunities where none seem to exist. Mastering this art could be the key to unlocking hidden job prospects and finding your dream role in unexpected places.

Crafting a compelling speculative application, however, involves finesse, strategy, and a keen understanding of how to capture an employer’s attention in a competitive market. Here’s how to start.

1. Draw up a shortlist of employers

When it comes to digging up more information about potential employers, good sources include:

• Their corporate website

• Online business directories

• Specialist business and trade publications

• Magazines and websites by professional associations

• Local publications that target your area of interest

• Newspapers

If you have access to your school’s careers services centre, it’s worth looking through the information they have on local employers, as well as reports from alumni. Remember, personal networks can be useful too! Friends, family members and their connections can all be good contacts to help you get your foot in the door.

2. Be prepared through research

Once you have your list of employers, you need to do your research. Suss out details about the company and get a feel for the kind of work they do. This will help you show genuine interest in the employer and make a convincing speculative application. Tailor your resume and cover letter with the keywords you find associated with the company.

3. Make contact

Finding a named contact is the golden rule of making a speculative application, and letters starting with “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To whom it may concern” have a high chance of being ignored.

It’s easy to make a quick phone call to the company to ask for the name of the person who’s responsible for recruiting, but be tactful about it. It’s unprofessional to just say “Hi, what is the name of the person who does your hiring?” to the person who answers your call.

Instead, explain clearly and politely about your reason for calling with something like “Hello, I would like to apply for a position at your company, and was wondering who I should leave my resume with...”

4. Be open-minded

Be clear about what you’re looking for when getting into contact with employers. It’s not just about selling yourself. Taking a speculative approach can be a great way to:

• Find various permanent, temporary or part-time vacancies, work experience, or work shadowing opportunities

• Arrange a time for a chat on the phone, a brief visit, or the opportunity to meet a recent graduate or employee from the organisation

• Learn which other employers in a similar industry may be hiring, even if the one you’re contacting isn’t interested in having you on board

5. Follow up

To improve your chances of success, follow up your speculative application with a phone call a few days after you send it in. Personal contact can create a good impression and make you more memorable.

Even if the company isn’t hiring at that specific moment, ask them if there are any opportunities coming up. You can also find out how the organisation typically recruits, and where and when you should look out for their advertisements.

Other reasons you should apply speculatively

• You’re trying to find work in a specialised or niche sector such as publishing, pet care, or creative media

• You’re looking to work with a small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) or a startup. Most smaller companies typically don’t allocate a lot of resources to recruitment and advertising, but may still need staff

• You missed the standard recruitment window

EMAIL WITH

Elegance Elegance

When communicating with recruiters, you should always use effective, simple and natural language.

Use an appropriate email address

If you don’t have a professionalsounding email address hosted on a credible domain, it’s time to create a new account. The new email address will need to contain your initials, either your surname or full name, and be free from references to your favourite puns, cartoons or games.

Write a clear subject line

A good subject line states the purpose of the email with the recipient in mind. An ideal subject line will be “Application for (Role) – (Your Name)”. Ensure you don’t have typos in the subject line as that’ll make a bad first impression!

Address your email to the relevant person

You can find out online who you should address the email to, instead of stating “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To whom it may concern”. Take note that the name of the hiring manager is often on the job description and hiring notice. If it’s not, you can look it up on LinkedIn or the online directory of the organisation you’re applying to.

Alternatively, you can also make a phone call to enquire about who you should be addressing the email to before sending it out.

Keep it brief and professional

Your email should be succinct and not lengthy. As excited as you might be able applying for the job, avoid using emoticons, emojis or exclamation marks in your emails. Keep the note brief, respectful and professional. Be sure to also avoid using acronyms like “btw” and “fyi”.

Check for errors

Don’t just rely on autocorrect to spot your typos. Always re-read your email draft for grammatical mistakes and read it out loud. Put yourself in the shoes of the recipient and ensure that your email makes sense. Get help from your peers or school career counsellors as well to review your email.

Manage your email attachments effectively

Don’t forget to enclose your attachments, whether they’re your cover letter, resume or other requested documents! If you find yourself needing to send large attachments, consider placing them in a zip folder, or providing links for them to be downloaded.

Follow up promptly

Besides replying to emails from prospective employers swiftly, you should send them a follow-up note if you haven’t heard from them within the stated period in which you’re expecting a reply. Similarly, you don’t want to miss out on an interview opportunity or potential job offers just because you forgot to check your inbox or spam folder!

Craft an effective signature

Lastly, your email signature should contain a link to your LinkedIn profile or portfolio, if it’s online. Additionally, don’t forget to add your mobile number, especially for your first email to any professional contact!

Job Application Email Example

SURVIVING

THE

Job Search Process Job Search Process

Take the necessary steps to ensure your job search experience is a positive one – and that includes knowing when to take a break.

While it’s not uncommon for job hunts to drag on longer than expected – especially now with the global pandemic and recovery from recession – you should also keep in mind that there’s no hard-and-fast rule about the process, and it could very well take longer than you first expected.

There’s no need to fret, though, so keep your sanity by acknowledging that it’s perfectly fine for others to have vastly different job search experiences. Attaining your ideal career can be a stressful journey, so if you see your peers miraculously scoring desired positions within a month of graduation, don’t compare yourself to them and let it demotivate you. Shake off that pressure by making your job hunt a positive and productive experience instead!

Planning your job search journey can make the process less arduous and more enjoyable.

1) Make it bite-sized

How many resumes and cover letters do you think you should send out in a day? How about in a week? Give yourself achievable daily targets and small deadlines to feel more accomplished and driven throughout the process

2) Keep tabs on your progress

Keep a journal detailing your job search. Alternatively, if you prefer lists, start a file documenting the companies and positions you’ve applied for.

Creating and maintaining your journal or list will not only keep your job hunt organised, but it’ll also drop some hints on which resumes and cover letters are working, and which ones may need a tweak or two.

3) Reward yourself

With your daily goals keeping you on track, and your journal or list recording your journey, there’s little else to do but reward yourself when you hit your targets!

It doesn’t have to be anything big or grand; you can indulge in your favourite game for a few more hours or simply set a date with some friends. This will keep you feeling motivated and ready to meet your next objective.

Pause & play

1) Pick up some activities

Doing the same thing over and over again with no respite and little results is enough to drive even the most patient person up the wall.

One solution is to leave your home for a bit – go for a short walk and take deep breaths of some much-needed fresh air. Just be sure to keep safe distancing measures in mind! The time out will help you regain some perspective. You can also take the time to run some errands, catch up with friends over a cup of coffee and just take your mind off your job search for some time.

If you feel guilty about stepping out for a while, don’t be. Taking breaks is different from slacking – it’s not about avoiding work, but about taking planned breaks to raise productivity!

2) Get moving, get sweaty

When you exercise, your body releases endorphins, which can trigger an overall positive feeling. Moving and exercising is thus a good way to limber up your body after sitting in front of a screen for hours on end, all while relieving the pressure building up in your body and between your temples.

Tailor your exercise to your level of capability – if you can’t run, take a brisk walk through the park or jump rope in your living room. If the very idea of rock climbing gives you chills, settle for an easy game of badminton with friends or do situps in your bedroom to a music playlist.

If you’re looking to rid yourself of some frustration, consider martial arts, such as Muay Thai or Taekwondo.

You can even explore the different versions of yoga available to you – which, contrary to popular belief, isn’t just about stretching.

4) Pick up some classes

While you may not see the need to dive back into classes so soon after graduation, this can help you pick up new skills that may add value to your resume – such as those in languages and coding.

On the other hand, there’s absolutely no harm in taking up leisurely classes in arts and crafts, or even music. These classes can serve as a good distraction, engaging your mind in an otherwise challenging time, and are also good opportunities to pick up skills you may have always wanted to master (but never found the time to) before you’re bound to a job.

Moreover, the remote nature of living and learning now means that there are many online courses and classes you can register for, with some even for free!

3) Do some good

Consider volunteering at organisations that align with your interests. Not only will it get you to think beyond whatever is going on in your job hunt. You can also consider organising virtual charity drives as well if that’s more up your alley.

Recruiters have also been known to keep an eye out for passionate candidates, so committing to a cause close to your heart can help you expand your talking points during job interviews.

Moreover, to make the experience count more, figure out how you can tie in your volunteering stint with your intended area of work.

For instance, non-profit organisations usually have volunteer positions for communications and IT, so aspiring media and tech professionals can gain some experience there before moving on to the corporate world.

5) Switch off

Everything. All your electronic devices. This may be the toughest thing to do, especially in this day and age, but take the time out to recharge and ignore all those Facebook and Instagram updates.

There’s also the added benefit of disregarding any negative feedback passed on through messages or emails that may put a damper on your spirits as you continue on your journey to find a job that suits you!

JOB HUNTING BURNOUT

How to Deal With It How to Deal With It

Dealing with a seemingly endless job search can be draining in more ways than one, but you don’t have to suffer through them.

How long has it been since your last application response? You’re slumped over your desk, body heavy and mind unmotivated, wondering if all this effort is even worth it. The thought of touching up your resume or even looking at another job listing makes you want to scream.

Does this sound familiar? If so, you might be slipping into job-hunting burnout. Left unchecked, it can not only affect your job search, but your health as well. So, what can you do to avoid this from happening?

How do you get burnout?

Yes, it’s important to persevere, but we all have our limits. Apart from the already high anxiety piling up due to interviews and assessments, every rejection or lack of response from recruiters comes with frustration and hurt, which can build up over time.

All of that can accumulate to you feeling burnt out, which can hurt your drive towards job-hunting.

Some signs of burnout

• Mental and/or physical fatigue

• Higher irritability and frustration

• Increased cynicism

• Unwillingness to talk about jobhunting

• Decreased social interaction

What to do about it?

1) Pace yourself

It’s one thing to keep up a routine for your job search, and yes you should stick to a routine. But you don’t have to dedicate every waking hour to do just that!

Instead, allocate time in the day where you’re most productive – about two to three hours – to focus on just job-hunting. Once time’s up, wrap it up for the day. Treat the search like a job in itself. After all, overworking will only worsen your mood over time, which can in turn affect your productivity. Your applications won’t be as sharp and you’ll be more prone to making mistakes, like forgetting to attach a cover letter with your application!

2) Be sure to take breaks

Playing the waiting game for your applications is agonising, but dwelling on it won’t make it go any faster. Take that brief downtime to take a short break instead.

Some ways you can take breaks include spending time with friends and family, indulging in hobbies, learning something new, or doing physical activities such as exercising. Not only will you give your mental health a boost, but you’ll also keep yourself physically and emotionally healthy!

3) Don’t just keep to yourself

As they say, a burden shared is a burden halved. Talk to someone who cares about you – it can be a close friend or family member (or several, if you want), so you know that there’s at least someone in your corner in this predicament. They can lend you their ears if you need to vent or accompany you on your downtime, be it going to movies or having a fun game of badminton.

You can also turn to your other connections if they can help you during the job search process. They can be a mentor on your journey, a second pair of eyes when reviewing your resume and applications, or even a fresh source of job opportunities and connections.

4) Be patient, and don’t lose heart

It can be discouraging if you don’t hear from a hiring manager or get a message saying that you weren’t picked for the position. But to keep going, you must shake off this mindset as soon as you can.

Don’t take these setbacks personally. It doesn’t mean that you’re unqualified or not good enough – it could be that you need help beating the application tracking system or writing a more effective email job application.

Remember, job-hunting burnout happens to the best of us, but there are ways to tackle it head-on. It’s fine to take a breather, regroup, and reassess your approach. Be kind to yourself and give yourself the time you need. Whether it’s seeking support from friends, trying new relaxation techniques, or adjusting your job search strategy, find what works best for you. Take small steps, celebrate your achievements, and stay positive. You’ve got this! With patience and perseverance, you’ll bounce back stronger and find the right opportunity that suits you best.

REMINDER!

Reduce negative self-talk with the following tips:

• Listen to what you’re saying about yourself objectively and challenge it – ask yourself if that’s something you would say to your loved ones

• Stay grounded – while your feelings are valid, the negative fantasy in your head probably isn’t as bad as you think it is

• Reframe your thoughts – if you can’t think positively, reword your thoughts instead

Mak g a Great Impression

Be authentic, showcase your enthusiasm, and demonstrate how your unique skills and experiences align with the company's values to make a memorable impression on your recruiters, employers and colleagues.

COUNTING DOWN TO

Your Interview Day Your Interview Day

Feeling overwhelmed about your upcoming interview? Breaking the day down into smaller, manageable steps can help calm your nerves.

Face-to-face interview + video interview

One week before

Get the dress code right

Objective: Look the part of an impressive candidate.

Whether it’s a virtual or in-person interview, it’s your chance to show that you’re a good fit for the company – and that includes your appearance. Look up the company’s website for clues on their dress code, and emulate it accordingly. If you’re unsure, err on the side of formality; it’s safer to come overdressed than under. Above all else, make sure your clothes are clean, wellfitted and pressed!

Quick grooming tips

For gentlemen:

The night before

Prepare for the big day

Objective: Have everything you’ll need to avoid scrambling or stressing out the next day.

Hang your interview outfit somewhere in clear view to avoid have to decide on your wardrobe on the day itself. If you’re going for a physical interview, consider having a handy document bag or folder to store your stuff in, like extra resumes or applications.

Once you’ve got all your things in order, get a good night’s sleep: you’ll need it!

• The clean-shaven look is always a safe bet. Get rid of stubble or wispy facial hair

• Keep your hair neat and ensure that your fringe doesn’t spill past your eyebrows

• Don’t be afraid to accessorise! Go for a solid watch or a simple pair of cufflinks to complement your outfit

• Don’t overdo the cologne and aftershave

For ladies:

• Keep your nails in neutral or natural colours – glaring colours or designs may unnecessarily distract interviewers

• Make sure to style your hair so that it stays in place and out of your face!

• Keep your accessories subtle and simple

For in-person interviews

2 hours before

Depart for your destination (for physical interviews)

Objective: Arrive at the interview venue with plenty of time to spare.

Traffic can be unpredictable at times, so don’t chance it by planning your commute earlier so that you can arrive at the interview location before your appointed time. Often, when it comes to job interviews, arriving on time is tantamount to arriving late.

30 minutes before

Get yourself comfortable and relaxed for the interview

Objective: Ease your stress levels and get your head in the game.

For in-person interviews, aim to arrive about 20-30 minutes before your interview.

If you’re attending a virtual interview, it’s a good idea to log in early – whether on Zoom or Microsoft Teams – to familiarise yourself with its features. Make sure your internet is strong and that both your camera and microphone are working. At this point, you’re likely feeling jittery about the interview. While those feelings are absolutely valid, try to keep yourself calm and collected. You can try deep breathing exercises or if the situation allows it, a short stroll around.

Crunch time

Demonstrate your skills

Objective: Use your innate skills and experience and put the know-how gained through this magazine and other sources to good effect.

Introductions are usually followed by the most time-consuming part of the interview: questions to find out whether you can do the job and, just as importantly, whether you would have the motivation to do a good job. Finally, you’ll get the chance to ask your own questions.

You may also be given a short test to complete before or after the interview. This could be to establish the level of your skills pertinent to the job, or a more general evaluation of your preferred working style. Follow all instructions carefully, work out how much time to allot to each part of the test and focus your whole attention on the task.

If you’re applying to a graduate scheme, the testing process might be more extensive and carried out separately, such as in an assessment centre (either in-person or virtually).

10 minutes before

Meet & greet the interviewers

Objective: Treat the interview as a meeting between two parties, not a one-way interrogation.

There’s usually a short explanation of how the interview will be structured. Commonly, the interviewers will begin with an overview of the company and the role you’re being interviewed for.

This preamble is the most “non-judgemental” part of the interview, so enjoy it and take the opportunity to ask some smart questions.

PERFECTING

YOUR Elevator Pitch Elevator Pitch

How do you make a good first impression in seconds?

Imagine trying to answer questions such as “What do you do?” and “What is your background?” in less than a minute – while giving an outstanding impression of yourself.

This is the premise the elevator pitch relies on. While mostly associated with entrepreneurs, elevator pitches can be used anywhere and everywhere.

Whether physical or virtual, formal events such as career fairs, networking sessions and interviews are where elevator pitches have the potential to be particularly effective, mostly because they present you as a focused person unafraid of outlining your strengths. This might just be the edge you need to stand out from the crowd.

60 seconds

A good pitch usually lasts around 60 seconds – a minute – but keep in mind that you shouldn’t just rush through and cram in as many words as possible in that time. Instead, choose your words carefully before including them in the pitch, and practise!

Summarise yourself

Before you start working on your pitch, come up with a rough idea of the kind of topic you want to talk about. For instance, if you’re interested in an engineering position, your theme should revolve around technical and numeral abilities, as well as the current trends in Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) or robotics.

Focus your topic on your modules studied in the classroom, your thesis if you had one, or even your internship and work experience, if any. Recruiters are very invested in your learning takeaways and hobbies related to the work you do. As such, about three-quarters of your pitch should be dedicated to your academic background and work and internship experience.

Remember: don’t pack all your points into a vague statement like the institution you studied in and where you completed your internship or worked! Rather, create a sentence or two about yourself and your background before elaborating on a few experiences – either personal or professional – to tell recruiters a little bit more about yourself.

Be brief but not boastful – your pitch should be like a teaser. Although the person you’re speaking to knows nothing about you, you’re not looking to tell them everything in a minute or less; you’re

looking to pique their interest in you as simply and clearly as possible. It’s also important to portray an image of a competent jobseeker, so clarify your goals and what you’re looking for in a company.

Practice makes perfect

One of the biggest factors in mastering a successful job pitch is how much practice you’re willing to put into it. Practise talking to yourself before you go to bed, or during your lunch breaks if you have the time, and hear yourself out. Are you still stammering when you talk? If the answer is yes, go through your pitch again, and refer to a script if you have to.

It’s always better to find someone willing to help you identify errors and issues with your flow, so continue practising until you sound natural and not rehearsed. You could ask a friend or volunteer if they can simulate potential situations so you can practise and improvise if the situation ever calls for it.

Some key elements of an effective elevator pitch

• Keep it brief but detailed

• Make it as clear and concise as possible

• Be natural

• Add quick anecdotes

• Rehearse and practise

• Adapt and customise your pitch according to the audience and occasion.

COMMON

Job Interviews Job Interviews

Ready to ace your job interviews? Here are four common types you might face with tips on how to handle them!

One-on-one interviews

Otherwise known as a personal or faceto-face interview, this involves your interviewer asking a series of questions to evaluate your suitability for the job. Some companies prefer using several rounds of one-on-one interviews for different department heads to meet with the potential candidate before deciding on the outcome.

Interview tips

• Show your interviewer that you’re interested in the job by asking relevant questions. Some simple ones include asking about the role’s day-to-day tasks, the work culture, or the role’s career path

Video interviews

Video interviews have become a popular way for companies to meet job candidates remotely. Rather than meeting face-to-face, you chat with your potential employer using a computer or phone camera. They’re convenient and save time, allowing you to showcase your skills from wherever you are. Video interviews can either take place “live” (e.g. through Zoom) or pre-recorded (e.g. video submissions).

Interview tips

• Practice makes perfect. Start by getting used to appearing on-screen. Switch on your computer’s webcam and record yourself as though you’re running through a practice interview

• You should also talk about how the job role matches your aspirations, career plans and relevant interests. Showing your enthusiasm is key!

• Demonstrate specific examples of the skills required for the role you’re applying for and discuss any relevant transferable skills you obtained from any school or work experience

• Body language is just as important as verbal communication. Maintain a decent level of eye contact throughout the interview, sit upright to exude confidence and remember to smile!

• Set the scene by dressing smartly and making the area where you’ll be carrying out the interview look like a professional workplace

• Make sure that your internet connection is strong so that the video conference doesn’t drop midway through the interview. If you’re not sure about how strong the signal is, try streaming a video over YouTube

• If you’re taking the call on a laptop, remember to plug it into a power source – you may be online longer than you think

Panel interviews

Panel interviews typically involve anywhere from three to eight interviewers – usually three for graduate interviews. They’ll likely consist of a mix of HR personnel, business managers and some departmental specialists.

Even if they’re held on video, don’t be lulled into a false sense of security! They tend to be more rigorous and meticulous than individual interviews as you’ll be juggling questions from multiple sources. Although this may sound intimidating, there’s no need to fret. The interviewers are out to find out the same thing as at any other interview: whether you’re a good fit for the company!

Interview tips

• Maintain direct eye contact with the interviewers. If your interview is taking place in person, answer them while making eye contact. If it’s over video, talk to the camera instead of the video feed on screen

Phone interviews

A phone interview is often a screening exercise where employers check some basic information before a face-to-face or virtual interview. It’s also used to sift through suitable candidates early in the recruitment process.

The relative anonymity of a phone interview may allow you to speak to your interviewer without the stress of travelling to an unfamiliar place in professional attire, but avoid letting your guard down!

Interview tips

• Much of the impact you make will come through your voice, so sounding attentive and enthusiastic is important

• Address the interviewers by name when speaking to them. If your interview is taking place face-to-face, one little trick is to get their name cards at the beginning of the session, and then arrange them in front of you according to the interviewers’ sitting arrangement

• Stay calm if one of the interviewers looks bored. Given their different backgrounds, not every member of the panel may be interested in your response to a question asked

• You’ll sometimes be asked the same question twice by mistake. Don’t second-guess yourself, and always keep to the same version of your story

• Take notes of the keywords of the questions asked for reference when responding to your interviewer

• Don’t be distracted by your surroundings or lose track of what you want to say next. Avoid filler words such as “umm” and “uh-huh” or constant requests to repeat the questions

• Have your resume and completed application form next to you in case you need to refer to them during the phone interview

• Choose a conducive, quiet environment for the phone appointment to prevent background noise from ruining your session.

CRACKING THE CODE BEHIND

Interview Questions Interview Questions

Sometimes, the objectives behind the interview questions aren’t as straightforward as you might think.

While job interviews can be nerve-racking for you, there’s also tremendous pressure on interviewers to get the right candidate for the job.

If you’re worried that they’re analysing your every word, remind yourself that they’re also worried that they can’t read you well enough. The secret is to know the unspoken intentions behind seemingly typical interview questions, and how to answer them accordingly.

1)

“Does the candidate have the potential to get the job done?”

Recruiting and training new staff members can be expensive and time-consuming, so the greater your pool of skills, the greater the chance that you can hit the ground running as soon as you can.

Having the relevant skills for the job is no doubt much more appealing to recruiters than the prospect of grooming you from scratch.

What your interviewer may ask you

• Could you tell me about yourself?

• Tell us about your greatest strengths and weaknesses.

How do I answer this?

When asked to describe yourself, skip the biographical information. Focus on your skill sets, recent workrelated experiences and your most important achievements – and why these make you the best candidate for the position.

When describing your strengths, relate them to the company or position you’re applying for. Promote yourself through specific examples and portfolios.

As for your weaknesses, you should show that you’ve taken steps to counter them. Alternatively, you can express willingness to take opportunities to learn and improve yourself.

2) “How interested is the candidate in this job?”

The last thing employers want is to hire someone who is unenthusiastic about the job and who may leave a few months after starting – or worse, pull out of the work arrangement right before starting work. They also don’t want to employ someone who will be unhappy in their role because the job doesn’t resonate with their passions or interests.

What your interviewer may ask you

• Why do you want this job?

• Where do you see yourself in five years?

How do I answer this?

Share your motivations for pursuing your chosen career path and how you were inspired by the industry and/or organisation. Storytelling adds a human element to your response, making it persuasive and believable.

Questions on your expectations in career progression are typically asked to find out how committed you are to the job. It’s important to research the kind of progression you could realistically expect within the industry and company.

Alternatively, you can also speak about the skills you would like to build upon if you get the job.

3) “Does the candidate have other interviews or job offers lined up?”

Recruiters aren’t just trying to meet their bosses’ expectations; they’re competing with other companies for talent as well.

Interviewers want to know whether you’re being courted by any other organisations so that they can decide how long they can take to evaluate their pool of potential candidates and possibly extend a job offer to you before someone else does.

What your interviewer may ask you

• Which other companies have you applied to?

• What other positions are you currently interviewing for?

How do I answer this?

Don’t be shy to talk about the other roles that you’ve applied for. If they’re similar to the one you’re interviewing for, it shows your genuine interest and dedication. Recruiters want to see the consistency of your career aims.

However, avoid pitting recruiters against each other just to get a better deal. Instead, admit that you’ve applied to other places as well, and give real examples that are consistent and relevant to the role on offer.

4) “How well will this candidate get along with our colleagues and clients?”

Recruiters want to avoid hiring someone whom they suspect may compromise relationships between colleagues or clients.

To that end, interviewees who come across as rude, cynical, difficult or arrogant will most likely be struck out from the list. Inversely, those with good interpersonal and communication skills will be favoured for the job.

What your interviewer may ask you

• Have you ever disagreed with a senior whose approach you felt was wrong?

• How would you manage conflicts with colleagues who may not agree with your work methods?

How do I answer this?

Instead of denying that you’ve ever been involved in any negative situation, just be as honest and authentic as possible. Conflicts and disagreements are regular workplace occurrences, and what’s important is how you go about resolving and managing such situations.

Describe the situation, the reason for the disagreement, and the outcome as diplomatically as possible. Ideally, you should describe a situation where things ended in a win-win.

However, if things didn’t end on a good note, it’s not the end of the world. Your interviewers are also interested in assessing your ability to maintain your integrity.

5)

“Does

this candidate fit the company’s culture?”

Company culture varies from organisation to organisation, and how it resonates with your own values, goals and preferences will affect how comfortable you are in your work environment.

Someone who fits with the company’s culture will likely be happier in the company, thereby producing better results at work. On the other hand, choosing the wrong candidate may lead to unwanted conflicts in the workplace.

What your interviewer may ask you

• What do you think about our company’s mission statement and values?

• What do you think are the core values an employee should have?

How do I answer this?

Needless to say, for you to respond to such questions, you need to have a good understanding of the values that the organisation stands for, along with its vision and mission. So be sure to do your research beforehand, even before applying for the role!

This is also a chance for you to ask the interviewer about the company’s work culture beyond what’s showcased on their website to determine your fit for the role.

After the interviewer has answered your questions, take the initiative to describe your interests, beliefs and motivation, and explain how they align with the company’s culture.

SMART QUESTIONS FOR

Your Interviewer Your Interviewer

Making a good first impression on your interviewer means not only giving the right answers but also asking the right questions.

Asking smart questions during your interview can make a real difference. Your questions not only show your interest but also help you learn if the job is the right fit for you. Here are some savvy questions that’ll impress your interviewer and set you apart from the crowd.

What should I ask?

Sensible questions Thoughtful questions

Clarify important details that your research couldn’t cover – it’ll help you make a more informed decision about whether or not you should accept an offer from the company. Some examples include:

• You mentioned that the job involves this task. Could you tell me a bit more about what this entails?

• What sort of training can I expect to receive?

• How do newcomers in this position generally progress? What would be a typical timeline?

Try to ask bigger-picture questions that’ll help you discover new, useful information and demonstrate your intelligence and positive attitude. While it’s alright to bring along a mental list of questions, you may also want to pick up on things that have been mentioned throughout the interview. Some good examples include:

• You mentioned that your company has just signed an agreement to work with a particular client. Is this something that I would be likely to get involved with if I do get this position?

• Will the trend towards X in this market affect the way you work? What are some of the things you’re doing to ride the wave/wait it out?

• Your competitors seem to be doing Y. Is it important for your company to be doing Z?

Questions to avoid

In a nutshell, avoid asking questions that you should already know the answer to as a pleasant, well-read and well-researched interviewee.

Don’t ask for information that is clearly stated on the organisation’s website – this makes it seem like you haven’t done your research. Likewise, don’t ask about something that you’ve just been told in the interview, simply for the sake of something to say – it’ll look as if you weren’t listening carefully.

Also, steer clear of questions that make you sound arrogant. “What’s your company able to offer me?” will give the impression that you’re difficult to work with. The same goes for good questions that aren’t tactfully worded – for instance: “What makes you so different from Company Y? Aren’t they doing the same thing?”

Lastly, steer clear of any talk concerning salaries or remuneration for your first interview unless they mention it first. Focus on finding out as much as you can about your potential jobscopes and role in the company.

TIP!

Other opportunities to ask questions

You may also have the opportunity to talk to other members of the company outside the formal interview – such as an introduction to a recent recruit to have a chat about their job, taken on a tour of the building, or joined by other team members for an informal lunch with your recruiters.

Make the most of these opportunities to ask polite questions when appropriate, and listen carefully to the answers. Good questions include the following:

• What’s your position?

• What type of products/projects/cases do you tend to work on?

• How long have you been with the company? Did you join as a graduate?

• Do you find the company a friendly place to work in?

• What do you enjoy most about working here?

• What are some of the hardest parts of your job?

Use the smart questions funnel

A good tactic is to use the funnel method of questioning. Start by using openended questions such as “How?”, “Why?” and “Who?” before working your way towards close-ended questions that can be answered with a simple “yes” or “no”. This can help the conversation seem more organic.

Since open-ended questions need more than a “yes” or “no” answer, use them if you want to get your interviewers talking. For example, you can ask something like “What is the training process like?”.

Use close-ended questions later to clarify points and show that you’ve been listening, with questions such as “Do you expect your trainees to be ready to work independently within a month?”.

Keep in mind that while you’re talking, it’s very likely that the recruitment team will be taking feedback from everyone who has spoken with you.

As such, take as much care about what you ask and how you come across in less formal activities as you do in the interview itself. Above all, great questions to ask at the interview often require you to do a bit of research in advance. It’s a big factor in being a hireable candidate.

BODY LANGUAGE

Do’s and Dont’s Do’s and Dont’s

It’s not just about what you say – how you present yourself during the interview matters too, by taking control of your body language.

As much as you prepare the right answers for your upcoming interviews, the way you carry yourself can affect the recruiter’s impression of you much more than you think. Don’t over-rehearse, but remember to be aware of how you’re possibly coming across to your interviewers.

Eyes

• Maintain a steady (but not intense) eye contact

• If there’s multiple interviewers, alternate your gaze naturally. Always focus on who you’re addressing in the moment

• Avoid winking or fluttering your eyelashes at the interviewer

• Don’t forget to blink!

Hands

• Keep your handshake firm and dry – it’ll be the last impression you leave.

• Avoid limp or overly strong handshakes.

• Use your gestures naturally.

• Avoid cracking your knuckles, as well as other bad habits like finger-tapping and nail picking

Mouth

• Smile naturally but don’t overdo or fake it

• If it’s an in-person interview, keep your breath fresh with mints beforehand

• Mind your tone – sounding bored can undercut your enthusiasm, even if your words indicate otherwise

• Avoid biting or pursing your lips, as it’ll make you look tense

Posture

• Sit up straight and avoid slouching. Square your shoulders and keep your head up.

• It’s okay to shift positions as needed, but avoid fidgeting.

• Try subtlety mirroring your interviewer’s posture (even on video)

• Lean forward slightly to show your interest

Calm those nerves!

No ma�er how ready you are, nerves can s�ll slip through during the interview. For example, you might exhibit defensive behaviour like crossing your arms or being a bit too short with your answers or worse, ramble.

Do your best to calm yourself down, relax, and focus on coming across as professional and genuine. Here’s a few methods to consider trying out if you want to keep the ji�ers down:

• Go for a walk: Ge�ng some fresh air helps, even if it’s just a quick five-minute stroll.

• Prepare early: If it’s an in-person interview, aim to arrive 20-30 minutes early.

• Do some deep breathing exercises: They’re scien�fically proven to help calm down and reduce stress.

• Prepare a reward a�erwards: You might be dreading the interview, but at least you can look forward to a

Being able to read your interviewer's body language can also clue you in on potential company red flags.

GETTING THROUGH THE Psychometric Test Psychometric Test

Many graduate employers use psychometric tests as part of the recruitment process. This is what you can expect.

Just when you think you’re finished with tests and exams, here they come again on interview and assessment days in the form of psychometric tests!

Typically used to assess your abilities, aptitudes and personality, psychometric tests may also be used alongside more subjective feedback gained through presentations. Additionally, psychometric tests offer vital level playing fields, and are seen as a fair way of comparing different candidates’ strengths regardless of their educational backgrounds.

However, as with any kind of test, you can improve your performance by knowing what to expect and through practising.

When will I have to take a psychometric test?

Psychometric tests may be used at different stages of the graduate selection process, namely:

• After you submit your online application form

• Alongside a first interview

• At a later stage of the assessment, possibly with a second interview or as part of an assessment centre. You may be re-tested at this point to confirm the results of earlier tests

Types of tests

Ability tests

What

are these?

Ability tests measure the general skills appropriate to your education and experience. Usually conducted under timed, exam-like conditions, these are often combined with aptitude tests.

Examples

• Numerical: Quizzes of this sort assess your basic arithmetic and ability to interpret data, graphs, charts, or statistics

• Verbal reasoning: These tests explore your ability to understand and evaluate written information

• Non-verbal reasoning: Assessments that are geared to reveal your spatial awareness and ability to spot patterns

• Logical reasoning: Evaluations show off your ability to make rational conclusions from basic information

• Problem-solving: These quizzes determine your ability to identify mistakes accurately

Aptitude tests

What are these?

Aptitude tests examine your potential to learn a new skill that’s needed to do the job you’ve applied for. They’re typically conducted under the same conditions as ability tests, and most of these involve multiple-choice or true/ false questions. It’s important to note that aptitude tests aren’t meant to pass or fail you, but to compare your ability levels to a “normal” expectation as chosen by the employer or test provider.

Examples

• If you’re considering a career in IT, you may be asked to complete a programming aptitude test

• In sectors such as finance, you may find that any numerical and verbal reasoning tests given tend to be focused on the kind of information you would come across in your daily work

Personality tests

What are these?

Personality tests assess your typical behaviour when presented with different situations, as well as your preferred way of handling things. They examine how likely you are to fit into your role and the broader company culture. Recruiters want to know if you have the characteristics they need for a particular job. For example, for a sales role, they may want someone who’s very forward, sociable and persuasive.

Practise, practise, practise!

The best way to approach psychometric tests is to practise until you become familiar with the typical formats they come in, and the way questions are asked. It’ll also help you to improve on speed and accuracy, and identify areas in your ability tests that need work. But don’t get over-confident! While practice tests can improve your performance to some degree, remember that each employer’s tests will probably be slightly different.

These are where you can find practice tests:

• Simply do a quick Google search along the lines of “free psychometric practice tests”

• Drop by your school’s career services and ask if they have some available. They may even have a better idea of the kinds of tests specific employers use

Tip!

Don’t try to second-guess what you think the employer wants to see! Personality questionnaires assess consistency in responses, so just be honest. If you’re right for the job and the employer’s right for you, you’ll do fine.

However, if the job and employer aren’t looking for people with your personality, think about it this way – you may have just made a lucky escape!

SURVIVING Assessment Centres Assessment Centres

Breeze through assessment centres with these tips and tricks.

You’ve been thrust into a room or virtual platform full of strangers, asked to perform specific tasks and then assessed to see whether you get put through to the next round or eliminated.

As much as that sounds like something out of a TV show, it’s not. It’s important to remember that you’re being assessed against the employers’ criteria, not each other, and a criterion for you to succeed is to show off how well you can work in a team.

What to expect

Although assessment centres are used to test for specific skills and aptitudes required for the individual role on offer, most of them typically contain similar elements and exercises.

You can expect to be involved in a combination of the following in most assessment centres:

• Group work exercises

• Presentations

• Aptitude and psychometric tests

• In-tray/e-tray exercises

• Case studies linked to the job function

Recruiters will assess you in several things, including how you demonstrate core skills and competencies such as communication, teamwork and problem-solving. The group setting also makes it much easier to assess how well you work with others, how you influence and persuade, and how others respond to you.

How to behave

Though assessment centres may seem artificial, your goal is to show what you would be like if you got a place in the company. Here are some tips on how you can be your best self on the spot!

Be professional

Arrive on time and look the part. Be friendly but polite. The assessment centre is partly a social exercise, so do participate in both formal and informal discussions during projects, lunch or tea breaks.

If you’re attending online, hop onto the platform early and get to know it. Although it’s tempting to pass your lunch or tea breaks alone in your room, make the effort to get involved in discussions happening over these times!

While you should be prepared to initiate conversations, remember that although it’s fine to make small talk with assessors, avoid being overly casual.

Get your hands dirty

Don’t stand back and turn your nose up. Group exercises are designed to see how well you work with others, so make sure you take part.

Be enthusiastic and make an effort, regardless of the task. Besides, concentrating on the task at hand will help you forget your nerves.

Don’t lose concentration

It’s going to be a long and tiring day, so try to make sure you have a good night’s sleep beforehand as you’ll need to stay alert and engaged.

On top of that, even if you’re assured that the informal food and drinks don’t play any part in the selection process, you should be careful not to over-indulge yourself –evaluators know when you’re dozing off from a full belly whether you’re physically there or not!

Be yourself

Instead of feeling the need to act a part, just be the most positive version of yourself. Try to relax and behave naturally. You might even find it possible to enjoy yourself despite the inevitable nerves, and a smile is more likely to make a good impression than a face frozen in fear!

Social etiquette

More often than not, the trickiest part of assessment centres isn’t even the exercises, but the composure that you must maintain throughout the entire day – in both formal and informal settings.

That said, how should you carry yourself during social intervals, such as lunch or tea and coffee breaks?

Many applicants have little experience socialising in a professional context, whether physically or virtually, and this can be a source of stress for them. But there’s no need to fret! Here’s how you should conduct yourself during the social bits of an assessment centre.

Introduce yourself confidently

When you want to start a conversation with a recruiter, be pleasant in the way you approach them – a polite smile and a handshake is the standard introduction practice when in-person, and smiling and speaking clearly if virtual.

You can then get the ball rolling by giving your name and some relevant background information, much like your subject of study.

Ask recruiters questions

Avoid approaching recruiters during social breaks with personal questions. Play safe instead, and ask industryrelated questions to demonstrate your earnestness and determination.

General questions about recruiters’ career backgrounds and time with the company are good conversation starters as well.

Strike a balance between eating and socialising

Don’t forgo eating just because you’re nervous or want to take the opportunity to network! You still have a long day ahead of you, and an empty stomach might jeopardise your subsequent performance, even if it might be easier to hide it virtually.

If you feel like you need some time to eat or compose yourself before the next assessment session begins, don’t be worried about having to move away when attending the event in person, but do so politely! A simple “excuse me” will usually be more than sufficient to free yourself.

If your attendance is virtual, explain that you need some time to yourself, and that you’re going to turn off your camera and mute your microphone.

How do I know if it is going well?

You know you are on track when…

• You’ve achieved a mix of taking charge and taking a back seat

• At the end of the day, you realise you’ve managed to enjoy yourself

Things are not going so well if...

• You didn’t meet anyone – fellow candidates and assessors – whose company you enjoyed

• You walk away feeling suspicious, judged and anxious

Presenting at assessment centres

Speaking in front of a mixed group of candidates and assessors is no easy feat, so give yourself the best chance by following these tips:

• Make sure you have a structure for your presentation

• Practise, practise and practise!

• Use visual aids to guide your audience

• Start only when you’re ready!

SHINING IN Group Exercises Group Exercises

Whether in-person or over a virtual platform, the group exercise is a key part of the day in an assessment centre, and helps recruiters assess how you may perform in a position.

The ice-breaker

Your assessors may have one to help you relax and warm up to your assigned group for everyone to gel. Ice-breakers typically revolve around completing a task in a set time. For example, recruiters may ask your group to solve a puzzle within a time limit. Don’t forget to watch out for the time as you work with your group mates!

Many applicants make the mistake of spending too much time discussing and planning, causing them to fall short in the execution of the idea. That’s where you can come in – do your best to keep the ball rolling!

The group case study exercise

The group will be given a set time to work together and respond to a case study – often a set of documents based on a real-life situation will be given. The group may also be asked to present their findings as part of the exercise. Assessors have been known to occasionally shake things up by giving each candidate a different briefing document or role to play, leaving the group to reach a conclusion in spite of the conflicting views each member may have.

Your goal is to show recruiters that you’re capable of working together towards a common target. Your recruiters actually aren’t looking out for the “correct” answer – they want to see the steps you’re willing to take to reach your goal.

The discussion group

You and your group will be given a topic – or multiple topics – to discuss. The nature of the topics can vary, but they usually involve issues of current importance to graduates, or were recently featured in the news.

At the end of the discussion, each candidate may be invited to comment briefly on one of the group’s conclusions, so it’s as vital to speak up as it is to listen.

You’ll have little to no preparation time for this, so it’s a good idea to build up a knowledge bank through quality newspaper and magazine articles in the weeks leading up to your day in the assessment centre. This way, you’ll be able to join in the discussion with a more complete picture of things.

The leaderless task

Each member of a group will be given a separate briefing – which may or may not be similar to others – and a �me limit to complete a task as a group.

As no one in the group has a complete set of instruc�ons and there’s no designated leader, everyone will have to work together to come to a decision acceptable to all members.

As before, there’s no “correct” answer, so be pa�ent and try to broker as many compromises as possible. Assessors are more interested in seeing if you’re able to work with people holding different views, as well as how well you can navigate poten�al conflict.

The leadership task

A complete change from the leaderless task, recruiters occasionally spring this on candidates when they’re interested in tes�ng leadership skills. In this scenario, you may be asked to act as the leader of your group or even chair a mee�ng.

Once again, there’ll be a set task – only this �me, you’ll be expected to lead your group to success. This is what your assessors will be looking for:

• Delega�on: A good leader delegates tasks. You can’t do everything alone, so you must divide up the work between the others.

• Using the strengths of others: Iden�fying the strengths of group members and using them in appropriate ways is one of the hallmarks of a good leader.

• If you know what is going on: S�cking to your guns and ignoring feedback aren’t characteris�cs of good leaders.

It’s be�er to keep an eye on what’s going on and make changes if things don’t work out.

Skills to demonstrate in group exercises

Contribute, but don’t dominate

Be asser�ve, not aggressive! If you’re a shy person who doesn’t speak up, keep reminding yourself to par�cipate.

Inversely, if you know that you some�mes talk too much, do your best to restrain yourself!

Keep an eye on the time

Stay focused on the overall objec�ve. Every now and then, try to summarise the group’s progress to make sure you don’t shoot past the �me limit given. Try to keep things on schedule as diploma�cally as possible.

Be diplomatic

If a group member seems to be overbearing, don’t shut them down. Instead, make sure everyone has the chance to share their thoughts.

Be prepared to compromise, but don’t bend over backwards –just make sure you can reasonably jus�fy any sacrifices you make.

Be confident and aware

Listen without interrup�ng. Be aware of what others in your group are contribu�ng and make it a point to invite the quieter ones to the discussion. Assessors no�ce and appreciate a�en�ve candidates.

TACKLING Case Studies Case Studies

Learn how to excel in case study interviews and impress employers by showcasing your problem-solving skills effectively.

Case study exercises can be used for both individuals and groups. During the exercise, you will usually be given some information about a workrelated scenario and asked to imagine that you’re part of a group of experts giving advice to a client or superior on the basis of the evidence.

This will probably be carried out over a period of a few hours, and you’ll likely have to make a presentation to the assessors at the end. You may also be given additional information to assess at specific intervals throughout the allocated time.

When are case studies necessary?

Case studies are particularly popular in assessment centres for graduate jobs in banking, financial services, accountancy and management consulting. However, they can also be part of assessments for other business sectors and industries.

It’s also important to note that they’re typically based on real-life business developments.

How to approach them

You need to be clear about what you’re being asked to do. Start by reading through the information pack and assessing which parts of the information are relevant.

Understand the problem, your role and your objectives inside out. Don’t be afraid to ask for more information or clarification about something from your assessors if you’re unsure.

If you’re working in a group, you can divide the tasks. For instance, you can nominate someone to assess any new information passed to the group during the course of the exercise. You’ll also need someone to manage the time taken for each task, so ensure that your group has a timekeeper.

Don’t dominate discussions, but do contribute to them – you should articulate what you’re thinking so your assessors can see how you approach problems. Remember to allocate time to prepare for your final presentation, and be realistic about how much you can fit into it.

Lastly, don’t lose sight of your objectives! Your final presentation should be relevant, clear and concise, and should also include a summary of your conclusions and recommendations.

What assessors look for in case studies

• Analytical skills

• Problem-solving skills

• Time management

• Teamwork

• Commercial awareness

• Presentation abilities

Case study example

The following example is based on a genuine case study used by a multinational investment bank. It should give you some idea of what to expect:

The scenario

A large publisher of magazines and books is looking to make a significant acquisition. It has identified a target company and approached a number of investment banks for their views on the merits of a potential deal and a target price.

Based on these presentations, the publisher will decide whether to proceed with a bid. If they do, select one bank to act as their advisor.

The task

Your team is one of the investment banks that is bidding to win the mandate. You need to analyse the figures provided to review the marketplace, your potential client – the publisher – and the target company. You must also prepare a five-minute presentation giving your recommendations.

Additional notes

You may either be provided with a wealth of raw data alongside the scenario, or you and your group may have to dig up all the necessary information by yourselves somehow. Either way, you’ll need to crystallise all this information into a workable action plan that you can present to your assessors.

Can I practise for these?

Yes, you can!

Here are some ways you can prepare for case studies:

• Find out about the kind of business decisions the company you’re applying to have to make, or has made, recently

• You’ll need a bird’s-eye view of the current economic environment. Scour the business pages of newspapers or magazines to get a feel for current business activity

• Practise your mental arithmetic, as you may have to demonstrate your quantitative abilities without a calculator

• Talk to any relevant industry contacts or mentors you have to learn more about any new developments. You can also bounce various scenarios off them to see if your recommendations are sound

DEALING WITH In-Tray Exercises In-Tray Exercises

Recruiters use in-tray exercises to test a potential candidate’s ability to juggle tasks on the job.

No matter how your in-tray exercise is done – virtual or physical – it tests your ability to deal with a typical work situation: the full inbox. This is an individual exercise to see if you can deal with a pressure situation as quickly and efficiently as possible, and how you can go about doing so.

What they look like

In-tray exercises are essentially role-play. You’ll be given a scenario, and you must work through an in-tray – or inbox – full of typical paperwork within a time limit that often ranges between 30 minutes to an hour.

Some examples of items include:

• Emails

• Phone messages

• Documents

• Reports

• Memos or loose notes

• Calendar notes

What you need to know

• Read through the information carefully

• Put it in order of priority for action

• Justify your actions to assessors

• Work within the given time limit, but stay calm through the exercise!

Application example

The scenario

You’re the marketing manager at Sangréal, a company that manufactures and sells cosmetics and female healthcare products.

Sangréal’s head office is in France, and Singapore is its APAC regional headquarters. Your boss is the marketing director, Jonathan Yong, and the managing director of the Singapore division is Christine Ang.

Note:

You’re a manager, so you can delegate responsibilities to others. However, you’re answerable to your directors, so keep that in mind when making important decisions.

The task

You have two emails – one from your company’s legal advisor, and one from your marketing staff – and a post-it note from your supervisor’s PA. You need to decide how you’re going to handle all three within a short time, and justify your actions with the assessors.

Post-it note

From: Your supervisor’s PA FYI: Aero France FR-365 delayed due to airport system blackout. International marketing director only arriving on 5/2/2026 @ 4.30pm.

How to handle it

Priority: Low

Your company’s international marketing director has just had their flight to Singapore delayed. Obviously, this isn’t a high priority, but don’t drop the ball – you still have to deal with this.

As the marketing manager, you’ll probably have some meetings with the director, so reschedule any appointments you may already have with him/her. If your planner is already packed with other appointments, you’ll have to shuffle those around as well to make the best use of your time.

From: Your team member

From: alex.yap@sangreal.com.sg

Subject: Printer overheads

Yo, boss.

Email #1

Spoke to our printer in the morning. They insist they want to mark up their prices to print all our billboard ads by 20% next year. Guess this means they won’t be within our marke�ng budget for the next year anymore.

I know we talked about exploring some new op�ons, and I’ve already found one other company willing to match the price we were previously paying. Problem is, I spoke to one of my buddies from Vivo Tech over the weekend. He has printed with them before, and he insisted these guys have some serious QC issues.

Remember that faded billboard we saw on Orchard Road? Yeah, they did that. You want me to give the green light to these new guys, or do you wanna run that budget by Jonathan again? Let me know.

Cheers, Alex Yap

Marke�ng Execu�ve Sangréal Singapore

From: The company’s legal advisor

From: vanessa.wong@sangreal.com.sg

Subject: URGENT – Impending legal ac�on by Body Food

How to handle it

Priority: Medium

This concerns day-to-day opera�ons, so a�end to this a�er you have se�led any red flags concerning the business as a whole.

The informal tone gives you a hint of Alex’s background – you’ve probably known him for some �me now. It’s safe to assume that you can trust his recommenda�ons as a long-�me staff member.

You’ll have to make a judgment call here. Will you print at a lower cost at the risk of compromising the quality of your ads? Or will you ask your supervisor to increase your marke�ng budget so you can maintain the quality of the materials? You’ll have to decide, and be able to jus�fy your response to your assessors.

Email #2

I’ve just received an email from Body Food’s legal team. They’re issuing a cease-and-desist order on your recent adver�sing campaign for our SkinWorks product line here in Singapore.

Body Food’s lawyers are alleging that we have commi�ed copyright infringement with the “What works for your skin, works for you” tagline. They’re saying you ripped that off their company’s slogan: “What works for your body, works for you.”

Body Food is giving us 30 days to retract all material related to this ad campaign or they’ll file a class-ac�on lawsuit. I need your input on this ASAP.

Thanks,

Vanessa Wong

Corporate Solicitor

Sangréal Singapore

In a nutshell…

How to handle it

Priority: High

Legal ac�on is a serious issue, so priori�se such emails in the exercise. Your supervisors need to know about it, but you should also show that you can deal with problems efficiently. Check your intray for any relevant informa�on which may help this case, and compile all the facts you need.

Remember, you’re only a marke�ng manager, so you aren’t expected to solve this on your own! A good solu�on is to reply to Vanessa seeking her legal advice and CC your superiors, Jonathan and Chris�ne. Fill them in on the facts you’ve dug up, and offer your input on how the company can resolve this issue.

The above example should give you some idea of how to deal with such exercises. Just think logically about the size and importance of the tasks alongside your posi�on within the company. As long as you include the input of others, par�cularly your superiors, it should put you on the right path!

BOUNCING Back From Rejection Back From Rejection

Rejections can be difficult to move on from, but it’s not the end of the world.

Here’s the truth: not getting that position you have pined and prepared so thoroughly for doesn’t make you a failure.

You put in 100 per cent for your grades, somehow made time for an internship or two and even ensured that you did everything perfectly right up to the interview.

But that rejection email made you stop right there in your tracks and question everything – your efforts, capabilities and your future.

Don’t let the words “We regret to inform you” define you as a person. Get through the different stages of rejection and watch as it strengthens your character and enhances your approach to the application process.

Firstly, allow yourself to go through the grief, briefly. Then, with a little positivity, turn your disappointment into motivation, and use it to develop your personality and resilience to find your dream job!

With experience, you’ll understand that job-hunting is unlike the passes and fails that have defined your academic career so far; there’s no clear-cut way of determining the real reason behind your results, and the only person keeping count of the number of rejections is you.

Be patient, humble and trudge on – in time, you’ll get matched with the right job and find yourself safely established in a career you enjoy.

1

Deal with the rejection

The most important rule about dealing with rejection is to not take it personally. Respond professionally and prevent yourself from overthinking the reason behind your unsuccessful application.

Understand that sometimes the odds are just not in your favour – there may have been an overwhelming number of equally excellent candidates applying for the same position. Ultimately, stay confident in your abilities and know that you have plenty to offer.

Ask for feedback

When in doubt, ask. If you went through several rounds of interviews and various assessment tests and s�ll come out short, ask the interviewer for feedback and decide how best to tweak your next applica�on.

Was there a be�er-qualified candidate? Did they think you weren’t the best fit for their company culture? Look for opportuni�es to gain relevant work experience.

The informa�on you receive may seem vague at �mes – “we decided to go in another direc�on” – but ask anyway. You never know if you’ll get something construc�ve!

However, don’t be overly persistent if recruiters take a while to respond or don’t get back to you at all.

Trust the system

The job-hun�ng process isn’t as straigh�orward as you might think, so dwelling on something that isn’t within your control will only do you more harm than good. Instead, count every rejec�on as a learning experience and let it hone your hun�ng skills.

Remember to respect the recruiter’s decision – it’s possible that you simply weren’t a good match for the role on offer. Don’t forget that paper qualifica�ons and excellent interviewing skills aren’t enough to secure a posi�on with an organisa�on; it’s also up to the recruiter’s discre�on to ascertain if you’re the best possible fit for the company.

Be humble and take this as an opportunity to do some realis�c self-analysis on the type of role and work environment you’re most suitable for. Once you’ve gained some perspec�ve on the recruitment process and some self-awareness on what you can offer, you’ll be able to be�er market yourself to recruiters at your next interview.

With a bit of pa�ence, you may end up with the right role for your skill sets and personality.

What are the possible reasons you didn't get the job?

4

Once you’ve fully come to terms with your first rejec�on, work on ge�ng back into the game. At this point, you should be armed with a stronger resume, be more adept at handling interviews, and have a more realis�c expecta�on of the process.

Don’t give up on other applica�ons. Resilience throughout the job-hun�ng process is necessary as it’s common for an applicant to receive several rejec�ons before securing a job offer.

There’s no fixed rate of success or shortcut, so you might get accepted for a posi�on a�er the first few tries, or find yourself sending out dozens of applica�ons before finally ge�ng a foot in the door. Have faith that your tenacity will pay off in the long run.

Also, keep in mind that it’s more than likely your friends are going through the same experience –sharing your feelings may help diffuse your frustra�ons.

Don’t be discouraged if your peers get job offers before you do. Focus your energy on improving your situa�on instead. If you require guidance, don’t shy away from seeking the counsel of your school’s career advisors. Their pool of resources and exper�se may help you move in the right direc�on.

JOB OFFERS

Q&A Q&A

There’s proper etiquette to handling job offers, regardless of whether you’re accepting or rejecting them.

Question: I’ve been offered Job A, but I’m also still waiting to hear about Job B. What should I do?

Answer

It’s best to be honest about your predicament. Contact Employer A and explain that while you’re happy about the offer, you’re still waiting to hear from other companies (which don’t need to be named). As long as you’re polite about this and offer a reasonable extension period, most companies are generally willing to entertain your request.

Note

Remember that you could be held in breach of contract if you accept a job in writing but then decide to turn it down. Under no circumstances should you sign the contract with Employer A just as a “safety net”!

Question: Help! I’ve been put “on hold”! What do I do now?

Answer

This is common for employers with many promising candidates as they try to decide on the best one for the job. Being placed on hold often means that recruiters may need more time to make a decision, or may need to get their bosses’ input on the matter.

If you find yourself put “on hold”:

• Keep in regular touch with the recruiter to let them know you’re still interested in the job.

• Don’t assume that you’re guaranteed the job – instead, keep job-hunting on the side.

Question: Should I negotiate for a better starting salary?

Answer

While it’s possible, doing so on a graduate level can be difficult, and will require not just strong credentials to back yourself up, but also diplomacy.

For starters, do your research –whether that’s searching online or talking to your network – about the average starting pay for the job, then propose a reasonable range rather than a fixed number.

Just be sure the lower end of that range is still acceptable to you, as that’s often where you’ll land.

Note

Remuneration often means more than just a paycheque. It often includes other benefits like yearly bonuses, flexible hours or company insurance. So, consider the whole package before making any decisions.

Question: I’ve gotten an offer, but I don’t really want it anymore. What now?

Answer

First, don’t feel bad about it – sometimes priorities change, and you’re allowed to reject an offer for any reason. However, you’ll want to be graceful about your rejection – you might run into them as a potential client, a professional contact or even a future employer.

Let the recruiter know as soon as possible. You don’t have to get into it; just give a brief reason for your decision. Afterwards, just give your thanks, wellwishes, and offers to keep in contact.

Question: What should I look out for before accepting a job offer?

Answer

Even if you’re told verbally that you’ve been offered the job, you should also expect to receive the offer in writing. This will typically be in the form of an offer letter, followed by a formal employment contract.

Before you sign on the dotted line, though, do proper checks to make sure you’re happy and that everything is as you expect. Keep an eye out for:

• The job’s title and responsibilities

• Salary and benefits

• Working hours

• Start date and probation period

• Notice period

If everything’s good to go and you’re sure you want the job, then go ahead and put your acceptance down in writing!

What do I do if I spot some errors?

If something doesn’t seem right, let the employer know ASAP. Any further changes in your contract should be reflected on the latest offer they send to you.

NEGOTIATING A BETTER PACKAGE For Your New Job For Your New Job

It takes a lot of courage to negotiate money matters with your recruiters, but with enough research and practice, you should be able to engage in an informed discussion to settle on your financial worth.

Just thinking about talking to graduate applicants about nego�a�ng salary, benefits and remunera�on packages may lead you to think along the terrified lines of “What if they decide not to hire me because I asked for more?”

Naviga�ng these nego�a�ons can be pre�y tricky, especially when you’re a fresh grad applying for a job for the first �me. First of all, most are not sure when, how, or how much to push for. Secondly, if done wrong, it can result in an unfavourable posi�on.

In order to nego�ate effec�vely, you’ll have to do some homework and inves�ga�on if you want to convince your recruiter to agree with your appeal. Sprou�ng something like, “Because I’m worth the price” isn’t going to cut it!

What is your price?

It might say ‘salary nego�able’ on the lis�ng, but asking for an unrealis�c number can backfire. Instead, do your research on the current market and the employer, and figure out the average star�ng pay for the job you’re a�er and make adjustments accordingly. For example, some companies or jobs may not be as open to nego�a�ons as compared to others.

Be tactful about the subject

It’s considered poor taste to bring up salary during your first interview. Rather, it’s safer to bring it up only a�er you’ve go�en a formal offer.

Research the employer and the market

During the negotiations, most recruiters usually start off on the lower end of your range, so it is up to you to persuade them to agree to a higher amount. A good trick to use is to quote a figure towards the higher end because it’ll give you some space to negotiate. If recruiters ask you how you arrived at your range, promote your available skill sets and how you can help develop the company better than the other applicants.

Conversely, there are also some recruiters who advertise the salary as a “negotiable” matter, which usually means that you’ll have to propose a number. The

Other things to take note

Be sure to weigh your remuneration package against your long-term career objectives, the experience that you want to gain and the company culture that you will be working in. Mull over some compensations that you may be offered in return for what could be a lower salary offered. This could include things like private health coverage, the provision of a car, the quality of your technology assistance, or even bonuses. Discuss these in detail, such as about the basis on which the bonuses are paid. If you’re not sure how to go about this, ask experienced family and friends about what to look out for before you go for your interview!

If you’re going to explore the boundaries, however, be prepared to do thorough research on the company’s

negotiations will then be done based on those numbers instead. Don’t attempt to jack your price up just because you’re given the opportunity to get the ball rolling!

Some avenues where you can begin your research include:

• Online advertisements and job listings

• Family and friends

• Contacts in the industry

• Careers services

• Professional unions

Steps to figure out your worth

• Familiarise yourself with the company, industry, and regular salary range and compensation packages normally offered or requested

• Figure out the salary range that complements your skills and experiences

• Justify your price

needs and objectives. Draw up a basic outline of how you intend to achieve the criteria you set for yourself to help the company realise its goals too. Come prepared with your outline as it indicates preparation on your part. If the recruiters agree to your proposition, then you’ll have to make sure that the information is clearly reflected in your contract of employment.

Also, take note of some common mistakes you should avoid:

• Not finding out the range you can negotiate for

• Bluffing and creating fictional job offers

• Being too eager or coming off as insincere

FYI!

• Some recruiters use salary expectations as an early screening criterion

• Discuss salary as late as possible

• Consider other benefits and incentives offered as well

• If you can’t get the salary you want at the start, negotiate the possibility of a pay raise after your probation period

ADULTING: Beginning a New Chapter Beginning a New Chapter

Transitioning from school life to adulthood may not be easy, but you don’t need to be a nervous wreck about it.

As you take your first steps into the working world as a young professional fresh out of school, keep this in mind

– you’re entering a new phase in your life. Working life is more than just surviving the day-to-day hustle. There’s no better time than now to take life by the reins and adopt the best

life routines to get the hang of adulting in the working world as quickly as possible.

How do you start? Well, here’s a quick guide on how you can set the foundation to excel in your next stage in life!

Start your career like a boss

1. Prepare your wardrobe

It doesn’t matter whether your first day is going to be physically in the office or over a virtual platform – dress well for work, but do keep in mind that it’s function over form. Depending on the nature of your work, look after your grooming and dressing to ensure it fits your needs and the image you should portray at work, be it in the office, on a virtual platform, or when you’re facing external associates. Think about what your recruiters or future colleagues were wearing during the recruitment process and plan your outfits accordingly. As a general rule, it’s always best to err on the side of formality on your first day.

2. Make a good first impression

Plan your commute to work with the morning rush in mind. Take the time to also get to know what it takes for you to be alert and functioning in the morning, whether it’s a caffeine fix or a power breakfast.

More than that, remain humble and show enthusiasm and commitment to your role and every given task – even if that means compiling documents to be kept in the right folders or manning the photocopier for a while.

Thrive!

3. Respect everyone

Be friendly and approachable to everyone, whether they’re the managing director or janitor. Treat them with respect and kindness even as you get to know them through observation and interaction.

4. Never stop learning

On-the-job training is commonplace, so keep an open mind and be fearless when it comes to picking up new skills and taking on new projects. In this era, job scopes frequently change and employees are expected to be agile in thinking to deliver results.

It’s never too early to consider ongoing professional development. Make it a point to understand what resources are available at your disposal for further training and improvement – who knows, you may even find new professional areas of interest!

Even if you’re working from home, there are ample opportunities to start your career on the right foot. Know what’s expected of you in your new role and ensure you are fulfilling expectations as required, whether it’s for meeting deadlines or working well with your team.

Take care of your finances like an adult

1. Figure out your new budget

Calculate your monthly expenditure and set aside some funds to cover these. That doesn’t mean that the remainder of your finances goes into your next shopping bonanza!

Instead, start building your savings in case a rainy day comes by. You’ll be glad for it once it does.

Thrive!

2. Consider taking up insurance

Look through your current health insurance plan if you have one, and ask yourself if you need a more comprehensive one. If you do, conduct thorough research into which plan suits you best, and take steps to buy your new plan. Alternatively, you can consider long-term investments.

3. Live within your means

Although the struggle is real, especially with common flash sales on shopping platforms, strive to not spend more than you earn! If you don’t build your discipline now, it may be harder to control your spending habits in the future.

As long as you continue to stick to your budget and build your emergency funds while maintaining relevant insurance plans, chances are that you’re on track to being a successful, responsible adult. At the end of the day, the goal is to make the most of your salary so you don’t need to depend on your parents or anyone else financially.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle

1. Find a diet that works for you

If you’re working from home, instead of getting food delivered every other day, consider cooking. If you’re back in the office, you can bring homecooked food instead. A side benefit is that it tends to be easier on the wallet too!

Thrive!

2. Stay active

This is especially important if your role is deskbound. Find a way to stay active and exercise regularly. If you dislike the very thought of jogging with a mask on, settle for a brisk walk. If you don’t want to go out, you can work out in the comfort of your living room instead with some Zumba classes over Zoom.

3. Keep your friends and family close

As you undergo this life-changing transition, you’ll need your loved ones’ support and encouragement. Make the effort to spend time with them. If they have more experience than you in the area of adulting, don’t be afraid to ask them for advice as well.

Being a working adult doesn’t end at the workplace. If you’re not taking care of your health, finances and mental well-being, it’ll be harder for you to be an excellent employee. Take some time to plan your schedule so you can fit in a fulfilling life outside of your 9-to-5, so once it’s time for work, you feel energised and happy to give your all. That’s when you know you’ve cracked the adulting code!

Industry Sectors

Explore industries that align with your passion and interests to find a job that not only utilises your skills but also fuels your enthusiasm and engagement.

Accounting and Financial Management Accounting and Financial Management

Acareer in accountancy is often rich in opportunity, financially rewarding and globally mobile. Accountancy professionals can be found in many industries and sectors around the world.

Graduates typically start as trainees and work their way towards obtaining the required certifications – a process that takes about three years at a minimum.

Aspiring Chartered Accountants who want to practise in Singapore will also have to complete the Singapore CA Qualification (formerly known as the Singapore Qualification Programme), while all practising accountants must be registered with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority of Singapore (ACRA).

Attributes needed

• A team player

• Ability to work under pressure

• An interest in business

• Good communication skills

• Numeracy skills

• Problem-solving skills

Types of jobs

• Consultant

• Corporate finance

• Financial accountant

• Internal auditing

• Management accountant

• Tax accountant

Job-hunting tips

• Most employers utilise online application forms and competencybased interviews

• Certifying institutes typically have lists of members and/or recruiting organisations available on their websites

Work experience

Hopefuls can consider internship programmes with the Big Four or some smaller firms. Otherwise, successful applicants can expect to be mentored and trained on the job.

Deadlines

Applications to the top firms, such as the Big Four, typically have deadlines ranging from August to September.

On the other hand, large corporations and financial services groups have deadlines that can run up to October or November. Mid-tier firms and SMEs often accept applications all year round.

Did you know?

With Singapore facing a decline in accounting students in the past five years, the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) has launched a $1 million programme to inspire renewed interest in the field. Since then, membership has crossed the 40,000 mark, with ISCA aiming to reach 43,600 members by end-2025

Most popular employers

Deloitte

Baker Tilly

KPMG

Ministry of Finance (MOF)

Forvis Mazars

SeaGroup

Grant Thornton Source: Singapore Graduate Barometer 2025 edition

Arts and Design Arts and Design

Working in arts and design is becoming an increasingly popular choice for graduates in Singapore despite the perceived insecurity of a career in this sector.

This sector encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including visual art, design, crafts and performing arts. Artists can also apply their skills to the education and healthcare sectors as teachers or art therapists. On the other hand, designers can work in sectors such as fashion, advertising and marketing

A less publicised – but just as vital – area of work is arts management. Individuals who prefer a technical and conventional role in this sector may choose to pursue this line of work.

Attributes needed

• Ability to work independently

• Business acumen

• Creativity

• Persistence

• Problem-solving skills

Types of jobs

• Visual arts: Artist, painter, sculptor, designer, craft worker, photographer

• Performing arts: Actor, musician, dancer, choreographer, conductor, composer

• Design: Graphic designer, interior designer, multimedia artist and animator, fashion designer

• Arts management: Curator, talent management, fundraiser, museum/ gallery/theatre administrator

• Technical: Make-up artist, lighting engineer, sound engineer, cameraperson, production designer

• Writing: Novelist, poet, scriptwriter, arts writer/critic

• Community: Art therapist, art teacher/ lecturer, community arts facilitator

Job-hunting tips

• Networking is key as opportunities here are typically found via word-ofmouth. You can consider freelancing, especially since newcomers can make use of the support and resources from organisations such as the National Arts Council

• For those seeking commercial success, a combination of creativity and professionalism is crucial. Aspiring artists must be able to market and brand themselves effectively to interested parties or paymasters. More enterprising individuals may even consider launching a start-up to monetise their work

Work experience

Certain arts organisations do offer internships or work placement programmes. For developing artists or craftspeople, the traditional practice of being apprenticed to a master or experienced artist is still encouraged, although such an arrangement may be slightly more difficult to negotiate here in the Lion City.

Nowadays, however, more artists prefer to let their own works speak for themselves. As such, hopefuls should get involved with arts-related societies or student clubs while still on campus, and work towards building, publishing and publicising their portfolio.

Did you know?

The University of the Arts (UAS) is Singapore’s first university to focus on the arts, aiming to drive transformative efforts in the country’s arts sector. In August 2024, it has taken in its inaugural batch of students, and has since partnered with Arts House Limited to help them gain real-world experience in the industry.

Aviation, Transport and Supply Chain Aviation, Transport and Supply Chain

Supply chains handle the fast, safe and efficient movement of goods, materials and services while transport planning and management oversee the designing of systems that move people and cargo through land, air and sea.

Singapore’s Industry Transport Map (ITM) for the logistics sector aims to strengthen productivity and innovation through the use of technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and collaborative robotics. Moreover, the emergence of new delivery capabilities, such as autonomous vehicles and 3D printing, is likely to impact logistics and the design of supply chains.

You’ll need...

• A team player

• Analytical skills

• Good negotiation skills

• Interpersonal skills

• Numerical skills

• Problem-solving skills

• Project management skills

• Strategic thinking

Types of employers

• Civil engineering firms

• Courier services

• Logistics and distribution companies

• Retail and consumer goods chains

• Specialist consultancies

• Transport planning companies

• Transport providers

Types of jobs

• Analyst

• Consultant

• Inventory manager

• Logistics engineer

• Purchasing manager

• Supply-chain manager

• Support functions

Job-hunting tips

• Positions are open to applicants from all degree backgrounds for supply chain and logistics roles, though some employers may favour business or supply chain-related degrees. Organisations involved in transport planning may also require a related degree

• Application procedures typically involve online applications and a round of psychometric tests. It may even include a video interview and a day in an assessment centre, so be prepared!

Work experience

There aren’t many formal internships in this sector, so those who wish to enter can look to building experience in other ways, such as getting a part-time, manual job at a warehouse.

Did you know?

With the internet continuously expanding across the globe, the number of online shoppers is still on the rise. An estimate even predicts that by 2040, 95 per cent of all purchases made will be facilitated by e-commerce!

Most popular employers

Scoot Tigerair Pte Ltd

DHL Supply Chain

Cargill

Source: Singapore Graduate Barometer, 2025 edition

Banking and Financial Services Banking and Financial Services

Singapore has established a flourishing financial hub that serves both its domestic economy as well as the wider Asia Pacific region. But with more and more financial institutions now under increased scrutiny by governments in the wake of the global credit crisis, the role of compliance and risk has taken on a more significant role in this sector.

Insurers and banks alike are now on the lookout for talent with experience in operational and business risk.

Required attributes:

• A team player

• Analytical skills

• Client-focused

• Commercial awareness

• Problem-solving skills

Types of employers

• Building societies and credit unions

• Corporate and commercial banks

• Insurance companies

• Investment banks and stockbrokers

• Retail banks

Types of jobs

• Actuaries

• Broking

• Business functions (e.g. IT, marketing, HR)

• Client relationship management

• Corporate banking

• Retail banking

• Risk and compliance

• Trading, equity analysis

Job-hunting tips

• Graduate recruitment programmes within financial services generally use multi-stage recruitment processes that include online applications, psychometric testing, assessment centres and interviews

• Conversely, companies without a structured graduate programme generally rely on interviews for their selection

Work experience

Summer internships and work experience placements are available at larger financial institutions.

Deadlines

Deadlines for formal graduate programmes tend to be from August to September. However, employers recruit for fund accounting and general financial services roles throughout the year.

Did you know?

Banks in Singapore are increasingly leveraging on artificial intelligence and machine learning in order to streamline routine tasks, analyse customer behaviour and improve risk management.

Overseas Bank (UOB)

Singapore Graduate Barometer 2025 edition

Charities and Social Services Charities and Social Services

This sector includes charities and other organisations that run on a not-for-profit basis, ranging from very small and locally-based bodies to large national and international entities.

Singapore is currently home to around 140 international not-forprofit organisations. These include intergovernmental organisations (IGOs), non-governmental organisations (NGOs) with a social, humanitarian or environmental focus, philanthropic foundations, think tanks and corporate sustainability-related organisations.

On a smaller scale, there are also numerous local voluntary welfare organisations in Singapore championing everything from support for AIDS patients to education grants and animal rights.

Social services, on the other hand, tend to take place in the public sector – hospitals, special education schools and welfare centres – although the role of private and voluntary organisations are just as important.

Required attributes:

• Communication skills

• Good interpersonal skills

• High empathy

• Passion

• Perseverance

• Technical skills (dependent on role)

Types of jobs

Depending on the area and type of work involved, specialist skills in areas such as healthcare, education and construction may be needed. In more general roles, strong administrative and practical skills are required. International travel may be an option in some instances.

Some main employment categories include:

• Administration

• Fundraising

• Policy, research and strategies

• Service delivery

Job-hunting tips

• Entry requirements vary depending on the type of work involved. However, graduates must always demonstrate that they are committed to the organisation and can help its cause to grow

• A speculative approach may be fruitful in this sector. Identify organisations of interest and contact them directly even if they do not appear to have job openings

Work experience

While paid work experience can be hard to find, it’s very easy to get voluntary experience.

Students can also consider looking overseas for such opportunities, if there’s a willingness to travel at this point in time. Alternatively, formal research work on social causes and their related areas of interest while still in school can be taken up.

Deadlines

Application deadlines vary widely across this sector. Organisations sending volunteers or workers abroad will have clear deadlines to meet, while general fundraising and administrative positions tend to be available all year round.

Did you know?

Five of the world’s top conservation NGOs – Worldwide Fund for Nature, Conservation International, Wildlife Conservation Society, Birdlife International and Fauna & Flora International – have their regional headquarters in Singapore.

Construction Construction

Although the construction sector experienced delays in projects throughout 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic, it’s expected to recover and improve through to 2025.

Demand from the public sector, such as the building of new MRT lines, BTO housing and health infrastructure, is set to prop up the industry, as well. Singapore’s continuous drive towards environmentally sustainable land development has also made the green economy into a driving factor. For instance, a significant contribution to this sector has come in the shape of green bonds on select public infrastructure projects, like Tuas Nexus, due for completion in 2025.

Renewable energy, energy efficiency consultancy, waste management, recovery, recycling and water and wastewater management are some of the many sub-areas within the construction industry projected to grow by leaps and bounds as well.

Required attributes:

• A team player

• An independent worker

• An eye for detail

• Organisational skills

• Sound technical knowledge

Types of employers

• Construction firms

• Engineering consultancy firms

• Government development boards

• Multi-disciplinary construction groups

• Property developers

Types of jobs

• Architect

• Civil engineer

• Consulting engineer

• Contracts manager

• Quantity surveyor

Job-hunting tips

• Sustainable development or “green construction” knowledge is in high demand among construction-related employers. Be sure to highlight such knowledge, skills or qualifications if they’re possessed, or consider picking them up

• As construction companies tend to be more low-key about hiring graduates, hopefuls should take proactive steps to network with employers, or get involved with relevant professional bodies which may be able to set them in the right direction

Work experience

Some construction companies prefer summer internships while others have more flexible internship programmes. Check in with campus career services centres.

Deadlines

Certain large companies have structured graduate recruitment programmes, with deadlines either from January to February, or August to September. However, most construction companies recruit all year round whenever vacancies arise.

Did you know?

As the global economy gradually recovers, construction demand in the private sector is set to hit $11 billion to $14 billion every year between 2022 and 2025.

Consultants go into an organisation and assess ways to improve the company’s profit-making ability, efficiency, or position in the market. They’ll then implement a plan to help the client achieve its goals.

A popular choice among graduates, consulting is a coveted career path because of the very attractive salaries offered. More than that, there’s also a wide variety of job roles as graduates get to work on several different projects, and perhaps even get the opportunity to travel.

However, working in high-pressure environments is to be expected, and often against very tight deadlines. Consultancy firms also often specialise in a particular sector such as IT or finance.

Required attributes:

• Analytical skills

• Commercial awareness

• Creativity

• Good interpersonal skills

• Problem-solving skills

Types of employers

• Financial advisory consultancy

• Human resource consultancy

• IT consultancy

• Management/strategic consultancy

• Public relations consultancy

Consulting Consulting

Career path

Newcomers generally start out as analysts and remain there for about three years. The company may then encourage the pursuit of a postgraduate degree at this point before allowing a graduate to become a consultant, where another two to three years will be spent.

The next step is to become a lead consultant or manager, before becoming a partner in the firm or an industry specialist. Seasoned professionals can even break off and form their own consultancy firms.

Job-hunting tips

• Practise case studies before applying; they tend to make or break applications

• Read business pages for commercial awareness. Keep an eye on successful or innovative advertising and branding campaigns, and figure out what makes them work

• Keep abreast of the latest trends in management, finance, operations, HR and IT

Work experience

Many consultancy firms in Singapore offer summer internships. Keep an eye out for them and apply as early as possible to keep from missing out.

Deadlines

Application deadlines for full-time positions and graduate programmes close around September and October.

Did you know?

No two days are rarely alike for management consultants. The broad range of work means creating solutions on a case-bycase basis tailored to each client, so professionals usually end up with a very wide scope of tasks.

Most popular employers

1. McKinsey & Company

2. Boston Consulting Group

3. Bain & Company

4. Accenture

5. EY

6. Deloitte

7. Arup

8. KPMG

9. PwC Singapore

10. AECOM

Source: Singapore Graduate Barometer, 2025 edition

Education Education

People considering a career in education usually aim to become a primary, secondary, or junior college teacher.

However, there are other roles such as special educational needs teachers, Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) teachers, career guides and educational psychologists, as well.

The teaching industry in Singapore is primarily run by the Ministry of Education (MOE), with only a small proportion of teachers employed by private education institutes such as preschool centres, and local and private tertiary institutions.

Required attributes:

• Communication skills

• Interpersonal skills

• Organisational skills

• Passion

• Time management skills

Types of employers

• Adult education centres

• Junior colleges

• Primary schools

• Secondary schools

• Universities, polytechnics or technical institutes

Types of jobs

• Career counsellor

• Educational psychologist

• Junior college lecturer/teacher

• Nursery school teacher

• Primary school teacher

• Secondary school teacher

• TEFL

• University/polytechnic lecturer/ facilitator

Job-hunting tips

• The MOE typically allocates teaching subjects based on the needs of the school and the teacher’s academic qualifications

• Applicants looking to specialise in a certain subject have to undergo an Entrance Proficiency Test administered by the MOE

• Private education providers tend to use more specialised, low-key recruitment efforts. Check with campus career centres or take more proactive steps to hunt for openings

Work experience

Though it’s possible to get work experience by doing volunteer teaching before graduation, prior experience may not be necessary for a teaching role.

Deadlines

Recruitment drives take place at least twice a year. Candidates are shortlisted, selected and trained before being fielded to schools at the start of the academic year.

Did you know?

MOE teachers are entitled to about 100 hours of professional development per year. They’re also appraised annually with multiple measures such as contribution to academic and character development of their students, collaborations with parents and community groups and contributions to their colleagues and the school.

Engineering, Design and Manufacturing Engineering, Design and Manufacturing

Engineering is a thriving sector in Singapore, with companies benefitting from a strong local supplier base and vast connectivity to the region, along with formidable research and development (R&D) infrastructure.

Key growth areas include electronics manufacturing, biomedical and chemicalrelated industries, medical technology, aerospace, precision engineering and marine engineering.

The “green economy” is also growing as a potential source of employment through areas such as renewable energy sources. Other significant areas for jobs include the engineering solutions/control and automation sector, as well as research into nano- and biotechnology; fields the government is actively promoting.

Required attributes:

• Communication skills

• Problem-solving skills

• Project management skills

• Strong technical ability

• To be a team player

Types of employers

• Aviation industry

• Business consultants

• Manufacturers (food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, etc.)

• Medical device industry

• Research and development organisations

Types of jobs

• Biomedical engineering

• Chemical and process engineering

• Civil and structural engineering

• Environmental engineering

• Mechanical engineering

• Quality assurance

Job-hunting tips

• Large companies in need of engineers typically recruit directly through careers services centres. Though they do also advertise for job openings online, those typically tend to be for more experienced positions

• Smaller companies normally recruit on an “as needed” basis, advertising through websites and newspapers. Keep an eye peeled for any that may pop up!

Work experience

For engineering students, the real takeaway of work experience is that it’ll let them see theory applied in real-world situations, and will give examples of how skills can be used – something which can be discussed at job interviews. Many employers in this sector also like to use work placements as a way of screening potential employees.

Deadlines

Most employers in this sector fill vacancies through continuous recruitment.

Did you know?

The demand for engineers in Singapore is on the rise, thanks to investments in the public sector, focus on renewable energy as well as innovation in the private sector.

Most popular employers

1. Micron

2. Defence Science & Technology Agency (DSTA)

3. Airbus

4. Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) 5. DSO National Laboratories

Dyson

3M

8. Land Transport Authority (LTA) 9. Rolls-Royce

Intel

Source: Singapore Graduate Barometer, 2025 edition

Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG)

Fast-moving consumer goods, or FMCG, is a sector that encompasses products with a quick shelf turnover, such as toiletries, cosmetics, processed food, detergents and plastic goods.

Many graduates are attracted to careers in this sector because there’s constant growth in the consumer market, and therefore plenty of room for progression.

FMCG companies require graduates from many disciplines due to the wide selection of roles available within the industry.

Required attributes:

• A team player

• Commercial awareness

• Communication skills

• Good interpersonal skills

• Problem-solving skills

Types of employers

Large companies that manufacture FMCG products, such as:

• Cosmetic companies

• Detergent manufacturers

• Food and drinks companies

• Pharmaceutical companies

Types of jobs

• Food technology (developing and improving existing food products)

• Human resources

• Marketing

• Research and development

• Sales

• Supply chain management

Job-hunting tips

• Once graduates have identified the companies that they plan to apply with, they should research their individual brands

• Pay special attention to advertising campaigns, and make sure to have a good understanding of all the company’s products in mind before turning in the application forms

Work experience

Some companies offer three-month summer internships, while others offer year-long placements. Check out individual company websites to see what’s on offer.

Deadlines

Like most other companies, FMCG employers launch recruitment drives around the months of August and September. However, many companies also accept applications all year round.

Did you know?

In recent years, FMCG trends in Asia included increased price sensitivity, higher digital engagement and a redefinition of brand purpose in companies.

Most popular employers

Procter & Gamble

Unilever

Nestlé

Dyson 8. Mondelēz International 9. POKKA Corporation (Singapore) Pte Ltd

10. British American Tobacco

Source: Singapore Graduate Barometer, 2025 edition

Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Healthcare and Pharmaceutical

One of Singapore’s hallmarks is its comprehensive healthcare system. At present, there are three regional healthcare provision systems spread out island-wide to facilitate integrated healthcare delivery.

Research-wise, more than 50 companies carry out biomedical R&D here, including 30 of the world’s leading biomedical sciences corporations.

Several leading international private healthcare providers have also established operations here in Singapore to advance into the Asia Pacific region.

Required attributes:

• A team player

• Communication skills

• Good technical knowledge

• Organisational skills

• Resilience

Types of employers

• Care agencies/homes

• Community-based healthcare centres

• Dental surgeries

• Pharmaceutical companies

• Private and government hospitals/ clinics

• Private surgeries

Types of jobs

• Clinical psychologist

• Dental surgeon/orthodontist

• Nurse

• Nutritionist/dietician

• Optician

• Radiographer

Job-hunting tips

• For most specialist medical posts, a particular undergraduate or conversion postgraduate qualification and accreditation by the Specialists Accreditation Board (SAB) is needed, as well as a Singapore Medical Council (SMC) registration

• Pharmacists must be registered with the Singapore Pharmacy Council (SPC) before they can practise. This includes undergoing pre-registration training and passing a competency assessment

Work experience

Most medical degree programmes incorporate clinical placements, which ensure that students gain relevant experience in a supervised environment.

Did you know?

At the height of the fight against the global pandemic in Singapore, an additional 3,000 staff were deployed in healthcare operations alongside 18,000 beds – all at short notice. Singaporean researchers also published 42 papers in the New England Journal of Medicine and Lancet at this time, compared to 10 in 2019!

Most popular employers

1. Ministry of Health (MOH)

2. National University Health System (NUHS)

3. National Healthcare Group

4. Abbott

5. Pfizer

6. Alexandra Health

7. GSK

8. Singapore Health Services (SingHealth)

9. Johnson & Johnson

10. Novartis

Source: Singapore Graduate Barometer, 2025 edition

Hospitality, Leisure and Tourism Hospitality, Leisure and Tourism

The industry is currently offering lots of graduate-level opportunities post-pandemic. These can range from managing hotels and positioning them for future growth opportunities, to reinventing business models and “support” functions in IT, marketing and HR.

The industry places much emphasis on professional development – whether training or a postgraduate qualification –but experience is also key to a successful career.

As such, it’s common to spend time on the “frontline” as part of a training scheme to gain a well-rounded perspective, though career progression can be rapid.

Required attributes:

• A team player

• Communication skills

• Customer-oriented

• Organisational skills

• Problem-solving skills

Types of employers

• Event management companies

• Hotels and accommodation providers

• National and regional tourism organisations

• Restaurants, pubs and entertainment venues

• Travel agents and tour operators

Types of jobs

• Events coordinator

• Hotel/restaurant/catering manager/ chef

• Leisure centre manager

• Tourism development officer

• Tourism officer or manager

• Travel agent manager

Job-hunting tips

• Get as much work experience as possible. Alternatively, contact a local hospitality or tourism organisation and ask to work shadow a professional

• When looking for a permanent position, find out whether there are formal graduate training schemes available

• If there aren’t any formal graduate training schemes available, send a speculative application detailing interest in the industry/employer and highlight any relevant work experience

Work experience

Recruiters see work experience, regardless of past jobs, as evidence of commitment and skill. Even temporary work in support functions, such as in finance or HR, can help provide new insights into the industry. This can enhance a candidate’s resume if they can demonstrate what they’ve learned.

Deadlines

Some larger organisations run formal training schemes, with their deadlines typically being between August and October. On the other hand, others may recruit on an as-needed basis.

Did you know?

Changi Airport isn’t just the world’s best airport: it’s considered a leisure destination on its own too! Thanks to attractions like the Jewel complex (which features the world’s tallest indoor waterfall), it has recorded a record footfall of over 80 million visitors in 2024, the highest since its opening in 2019.

Most popular employers

1. Mandai Wildlife Group

2. Changi Airport Group

3. Singapore Tourism Board (STB)

4. Singapore Airlines

5. Resorts World Sentosa

6. Ritz-Carlton Millenia

7. Park Hotel Group

8. Intercontinental Hotels Group (IHG)

9. Scoot Tigerair Pte Ltd

Source: Singapore Graduate Barometer, 2025 edition

Investment Banking and Investment Management Investment Banking and Investment Management

Investment management involves safeguarding and maximising investments on behalf of institutions, corporations or individuals. Graduates usually work in investment divisions of investment banks or for fund management firms, also known as asset management companies.

Investment banking activities occur on three levels – front office (financing, sales, trading, research), middle office (risk management, strategy, compliance), and back office (operations and technology). Fresh graduates can apply for positions in all three offices of an investment bank or try for smaller boutique or brokerage firms.

Required attributes:

• Good interpersonal skills

• High motivation

• Highly adaptable

• Numeracy skills

Types of employers

• Fund administrators

• Fund managers

• Fund promoters

• Investment banks

Types of jobs

• Accountants

• Client relationship/client services managers

• Fund administrators

• Portfolio managers

• Research analysts

• Support functions

Job-hunting tips

• Investment banks typically conduct on-campus recruitment once or twice a year, so keep your eyes peeled!

• Contrary to popular belief, you don’t necessarily need a business or finance degree to work in investment management. What matters most are your relevant transferable skills and interest in the markets

• Most graduates start their career in this sector as financial analysts, so conduct some research on that role beforehand to figure out how you can meet employers’ needs

Work experience

Investment banks and funds industry organisations often use formal internships as part of their recruitment process, which can put you in a stronger position to be recruited by that employer. There are also some who only hire through internship conversion.

Deadlines

Application deadlines tend to fall in the second half of the year. Check employers’ websites for specific details.

Investment banks and institutions also value graduates with backgrounds in engineering and computer science. This dynamic sector hires graduates from a variety of fields.

IT and Technology IT and Technology

Singapore’s position as a global IT hub is evident in the many leading technology companies that have made the city-state a key node in their global network and contributed to the nation’s vibrant cloud computing ecosystem.

It’s not just tech companies that need IT graduates, though – the latest trends in IT and technology have ensured that financial technology, cybersecurity and cognitive technology, among others, permeate other career sectors. Now, virtually every organisation uses IT, from government departments to international investment banks. In addition, remote operations in the new normal have accelerated technology adoption in companies as they begin to settle into hybrid work models.

The great range of tasks now present in the industry has also ensured that, with some years of experience, graduates have the opportunity to branch out as contractors or consultants.

Required attributes:

• Adaptable

• Commercial awareness

• Communication skills

• Problem-solving skills

• Technical skills

Types of employers

• Multinational software and hardware companies

• Retail and investment banks

• Software companies

• State and semi-state bodies and organisations

• Technical and business consultancies

• Telecommunications services providers

Types of jobs

• Network engineer

• Programmer/software developer

• Security consultant

• Software engineer

• Technical sales

• Technical support

• Web developer

Job-hunting tips

• IT employers often stick to more conventional recruitment means – campus events, job postings and recruitment fairs – to attract graduate applications

• Online application forms are common in this sector, so be sure to prepare digital copies of all necessary materials before applying

Work experience

Employers in this sector tend to be more discreet about advertising their work experience opportunities. Check in with campus career services centres, or touch base with employers directly if they happen to be at an event.

Deadlines

Larger IT companies typically stick to deadlines in August and September, while others have continuous recruitment. However, if an IT job in another industry is preferred, much like banking, make sure to check the deadlines for their recruitment cycles.

Did you know?

Estimations have shown that by 2025, there’ll be 149 million new technology-oriented jobs around the world, spanning areas such as privacy and trust, all the way to data analytics, cybersecurity and software and cloud development.

Most popular employers

Law Law

Law is an exciting but competitive career, and the rewards are good if you enjoy challenges and thrive on hard work. Specialisation is also becoming increasingly important for medium to larger firms of solicitors, particularly in areas such as insolvency, litigation and employment law.

In this sector, experience in corporate or commercial law, renewable energy and commercial contracts procurement is likely to help career progression.

However, to practise law in Singapore, candidates must be either a Singaporean or Singapore permanent resident, have a second-class honours law degree or higher and be admitted to the Singapore Bar.

Required attributes:

• Ability to work under pressure

• Analytical skills

• Communication skills

• Highly committed

• Solid networking skills

Types of employers

• In-house corporate solicitors’ departments

• Private practice

• Public sector

Job-hunting tips

To be admitted to the Singapore Bar, graduates must first serve a practice training period under a qualified lawyer –unless an exemption is procured.

Obtaining practise trainee positions with the more renowned law firms is a highly competitive scramble in Singapore, so networking and strengthening relationships with contacts is a must.

Work experience

• Consider taking up paralegal jobs as a student to meet contacts and form networks within the legal sphere

• Hopefuls can also get involved in areas where legal knowledge is always welcome, such as an internship with a political campaign, or joining an NGO or social work organisation

Deadlines

Certain firms hire all year round, while others have fixed recruitment dates. Check their websites for specific details.

Did you know?

Solicitors, or “associates”, are general practitioners of the law. They provide a broad service to individuals and organisations, dispensing legal advice and information, as well as implementing legal procedures and transactions. The work is generally very varied.

Media and Advertising Media and Advertising

This is an area that offers many career choices. Within the print media, opportunities – from reporters to photographers – are available for people from a range of academic backgrounds. Public relations (PR) and advertising are also lucrative industries in Singapore.

Graduate roles in publishing include those of editorial assistant, journalist, proofreader, copy-editor or designer.

However, these roles can be quite demanding, especially when deadlines approach. Advertising, in particular, has a reputation for being very competitive.

You’ll need...

• A self-starter

• Communication skills

• Creativity

• Good interpersonal skills

• Organisational skills

Types of employers

• Advertising agencies

• Broadcasters

• Newspapers, magazines and web publishers

• Political parties and government agencies

• PR firms

• Publishing houses and specialist publishers

Types of jobs

• Copywriter

• Editor

• Editorial assistant

• Graphic designer

• Junior reporter/journalist

• PR officer

Job-hunting tips

• Portfolios are key in this industry, so hopefuls should publish their work. Get involved in PR roles for school events on campus

• School publications, blogs, campus radio and involvement in clubs and societies can also boost experience and develop skills

Deadlines

Media companies typically recruit as and when vacancies arise, though certain large companies may offer graduate schemes. Check individual company websites for deadlines.

Did you know?

Foreign news organisations, such as Reuters and Dow Jones maintain bases in Singapore. In addition, the Asian editions of the Wall Street Journal Asia (WSJA), Newsweek, The Economist and TIME are printed in, and distributed, here.

Most popular employers

1. Mediacorp 2. The Walt Disney Company

NBC Universal

Infocomm and Media Development Authority (IMDA) 5. Ogilvy

6. Singapore Press Holdings (SPH) 7. Bloomberg

8. Leo Burnett Singapore

9. HBO Asia

10. Thomson Reuters

Source: Singapore Graduate Barometer, 2025 edition

Property and Real Estate Property and Real Estate

Acareer in property involves a range of work from sales and lettings to property management and consultancy services. Graduates will work with clients interested in investing in residential, commercial and industrial property, as well as land to be developed.

This field has opportunities for graduates of any discipline, but those in business, economics, law, construction and engineering are particularly helpful. However, some areas of work – like property surveying – will require more specific degrees or qualifications as stipulated by the government. For example, property surveyors and real estate agents must be registered with the Land Surveyors Board (LSB) and the Council for Estate Agencies (CEA) respectively.

The real estate sector in Singapore contracted in the first half of 2020 due to the pandemic, before suddenly jumping in the later half. Accordingly, surveys in 2021 show that the number of respondents looking to buy a home this year is greater than that of the year before. Private condominium resale volume hit a 10-year high this year. Unfortunately, the spiking costs of construction have also brought about fears of a real estate price bubble as well.

Required attributes:

• An eye for detail

• Commercial awareness

• Communication skill

• Good interpersonal skills

• Problem-solving skills

Types of employers

• Asset management and investment consultancies

• Estate agents

• Financial services providers

• Large corporations and retail chains

• Property construction and development companies

• Public sector

• Valuation consultancies

Types of jobs

• Auctioneers

• Consultants

• Property managers

• Sales, lettings and acquisitions

• Valuers

Job-hunting tips

• The graduate recruitment process varies between employers. Larger companies may look for potential candidates at recruitment talks and careers fairs, while smaller companies hire as needed

• As job opportunities aren’t widely advertised, it’s generally recommended to send in speculative applications

• Communication and marketing skills are key, so hopefuls should make sure that their application highlights them to the company requirements

• Business awareness needs to be shown, so keep up-to-date with property trends and the trade press

Work experience

Most large property development companies have internship programmes lasting two to six months. As there’s high demand for these positions, graduates should apply early in order to secure placements.

Did you know?

A common misconception about real estate agents is that they earn a lot. Real estate agents actually don’t have a set benchmark for their salaries as they earn via commission, thus making their wages highly unpredictable.

Most popular employers

1. CapitaLand

Mapletree

JTC Corporation

Ascendas 5. Far East Organization

6. Jones Lang LaSalle 7. Housing & Development Board (HDB)

8. City Developments Limited

9. Mott MacDonald

10. Knight Frank

Source: Singapore Graduate Barometer, 2025 edition

The public sector is Singapore’s largest employer, employing an estimated 153,000 officers across 16 ministries and more than 50 statutory boards.

As this sector is all about influencing and helping people – and not just profit margins – most people find a career in public service very fulfilling. There’s usually a great deal of training offered, work practices tend to be flexible and job security is typically less of a concern.

The roles and responsibilities of the public sector are wide, but as its name implies, the core focus of the public sector is to provide services to the general public, such as education and welfare. They are also responsible for defending the country, whether through physical force (navy, land and air forces, etc.) or other means like cybersecurity. To put it simply, the public sector works for the sake of the people.

Required attributes:

• Communication skills

• Good interpersonal skills

• High empathy

• Organisational skills

• To be a team player

Types of employers

• Civil service and government agencies

• Higher education institutes

Public Sector Public Sector

Types of jobs

Work in the public sector can vary, and includes:

• Accounting, administration and management

• Community care and welfare

• Healthcare

• Media and communications

• Research

• Specialist roles (e.g. architecture, surveying, engineering, IT, among others)

Job-hunting tips

• The public sector offers a diverse range of jobs, with good opportunities to transfer to a preferred area of work. As such, applicants should conduct some research beforehand so they can talk about their ideal career progression at the interview

• Be prepared for psychometric tests and multiple rounds of interviews

Work experience

Prior work experience isn’t particularly important as most ministries will provide on-the-job training

Deadlines

The public sector recruits all year round. Check individual ministry and statutory board websites for details.

Did you know?

Singapore’s parliamentary government system is based on the Westminster model, a series of conventions and procedures used in the Palace of Westminster, the location of Parliament in the United Kingdom (U.K.).

Most popular employers

1. Ministry of Education (MOE)

2. Ministry of Defence (MINDEF)

3. Ministry of Health (MOH)

4. Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF)

5. Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)

6. Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA)

7. Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)

8. Ministry of Communication and Information (MCI)

9. Ministry of Finance (MOF)

10. Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS)

Source: Singapore Graduate Barometer, 2025 edition

Acareer in sales involves business development, promoting a business, obtaining orders and maintaining customer relationships. Marketing, on the other hand, involves the maximising of profits through developing strategies and promoting products, services and ideas that cater to the demands of the market.

Sales encompasses two possible areas of work: retail sales and corporate sales. A career in retail sales, though less “glamourous”, tends to give early responsibility and fast career progression, thanks to its rapid expansion.

On the other hand, corporate sales require a greater amount of strategy and an integration of multiple soft skills.

While salespeople are mainly involved in promoting business growth, marketing professionals will need to work closely with colleagues across several departments to successfully expand the organisation’s reach.

This may include the sales team, market research team and production and distribution staff. With the rise of social media marketing, graduates should also be digitally-savvy and have a strong awareness of market trends.

Required attributes:

• Commercial awareness

• Communication skills

• Problem-solving skills

• Resilience

• To be a team player

Types of employers

• Accounting, administration and management

• Consumer banks

• Corporate firms

• Insurance companies

• Manufacturers

• Product vendors/distributors

Sales and Marketing Sales and Marketing

Types of jobs

• Brand management

• Business development

• Market research

• Marketing executive

• Merchandising

• Sales

• Social media specialist

• Store management

Job-hunting tips

• Research employers and their products thoroughly before applying –candidates are often given case studies and role plays within interviews. This also applies to marketing roles

• During job interviews for a marketing role, an ability to market oneself is a reflection of an applicant’s capability to market a product. Show confidence and demonstrate a capacity to think out of the box with concrete examples from past experiences

• Experience regarding dealing with customers is extremely important. It will make interviews easier if candidates can draw on their own previous working experiences

Work experience

For retail sales, part-time or summer jobs in stores over school holidays are excellent opportunities to gain experience. Internships in corporate sales are less common, so hopefuls may want to dig for roles where they will be exposed to dealing with customers or clients. Relevant internship work experience is useful if a marketing role is sought. Experience in marketing activities and experience gained through on-campus events or clubs and societies can also be beneficial for the job hunt.

Deadlines

Companies usually recruit salespeople and marketers all year round, as and when needed.

Did you know?

Customer service, as well as sales and marketing expertise, are still in demand despite technological advancements. For instance, sales and marketing professionals with experience in the fields of big data, e-commerce and digital transformation are highly valued.

Scientific Research and Development Scientific Research and Development

Over the past few decades, Singapore has become one of the world’s most R&D-intensive countries, and the government has committed to investing a substantial amount over the coming years.

The environment and renewable energy are hot topics even in the present pandemic and subsequent economic downturn, and science graduates can easily find diverse opportunities.

Many of the world’s top medical device and pharmaceutical companies have bases in Singapore as well, and the biotechnology sector is also growing.

Required attributes:

• Business acumen

• Communication skills

• Passion

• Sound technical ability

• To be a team player

Types of employers

• Biotechnology industry

• Energy and oil industry

• Food and beverage industry

• Industrial chemicals industry

• Medical devices industry

• Pharmaceutical industry

• Public sector

• Renewables industry

Types of jobs

• Business and management

• Environmental control

• Health and safety officer

• Laboratory technician

• Product development

• Production and operations

• Quality assurance and control

• Research and development

• Sales and marketing

Job-hunting tips

• Many large science-related employers have graduate training programmes – find out about their application procedures in greater detail

• Stay updated about recent developments and investments in science-related industries, both locally and around the world

Deadlines

Some companies in this sector run biannual recruitment drives, while others fill vacancies through continuous employment. Refer to their websites for specific details.

Did you know?

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) is presently collaborating with local universities to enhance efforts to create a future-ready transport system.

Most popular employers

1. Mandai Wildlife Group

2. DSO National Laboratories

3. National Environment Agency (NEA)

4. Abbott

5. Pfizer

6. Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)

7. Singapore Food Agency (SFA)

8. Singapore Health Services (SingHealth)

9. Procter & Gamble

10. Applied Materials

Source: Singapore Graduate Barometer, 2025 edition

Uniformed Services Uniformed Services

The uniformed services can provide graduates with a rewarding career that gives them the satisfaction of serving their community and country. The defence forces welcome people of all academic disciplines to develop a career in a variety of areas.

Although this career sector is dominated by MHA, which oversees the police, immigration and public safety and rescue services; and MINDEF, that oversees the Singapore army and all its affiliated divisions, there is also the option of working for private security contractors. The Singapore government has also invested heavily in them.

Required attributes:

• A team player

• Communication skills

• Discipline

• Resilience

• Tenacity

Types of employers

• Ambulance services

• Fire and rescue services

• Immigration

• Private security contractors

• The Air Force

• The Army

• The Navy

• The Police Service

Types of jobs

• Combat

• Emergency medical technician

• Engineering

• Finance and logistics

• Fire officer

• Fleet management

• Human resources

• IT and telecommunications

• Paramedic

Job-hunting tips

• With a few exceptions, the defence forces require all candidates to undertake rigorous physical assessments

• The police force’s selection process also tests physical and mental stamina, and there is a protracted training period

• To enter the ambulance service, candidates need either a degree geared towards paramedic health services, or they will need to train as an emergency medical technician (EMT) and work their way up to become a paramedic

• Graduate engineers, surveyors, and architects are often recruited as fire prevention officers, whose role is to ensure adherence to fire and safety regulations

Work experience

Work experience isn’t necessary for a career in this sector. However, MHA does offer several rotating internship positions for interested students.

Deadlines

Uniformed services typically recruit all year round.

Did you know?

Hokkien used to be a common language of instruction for trainees within the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). The dialect was banned as a language of instruction in October 1978, and all instructions have been given in English, Malay, or Mandarin since.

Employer List gs

Contact

LTC Building B, 12 Arumugam Road #02-06, Singapore 409958

Tel: (+65) 8022 8688

Web: www.airesatech.com

Email: contact@airesatech.com

Loca�on(s)

Singapore

Social media @airesappliedquantum @airesappliedquantumtechnology

Number of employees

Less than 100 employees

More about us

Aires Applied Quantum Technology is a research and development firm launched in 2021 ini�ated to build the latest innova�ve technologies and Applica�ons in Quantum for the Community.

We aim to create Accessible Quantum Safe Applica�ons and Solu�ons for the People and Community, to Promote Quantum Awareness, to Educate and provide the necessary Cer�fica�ons for Quantum Literacy-competence, to create a thriving ecosystem and pla�orms for the development of Quantum Technology.

At Aires, we foster a collabora�ve and innova�ve environment that inspires crea�vity, shared learning, and forwardthinking ideas. We believe that true progress in quantum technology stems from a shared vision for the future. Join us to shape a world ready for the quantum era.

Sector(s)

• IT and Technology

Accepted degree disciplines

• Accoun�ng

• Business Administra�on

• Finance

• IT and Computer Sciences

Jobs available Internships Graduate jobs

Minimum requirement Diploma Degree

Contact

1 Upper Pickering Street, Singapore 058288

Tel: (+65) 6908 9000 Web: www.careers.hrp.gov.sg www.agc.gov.sg

Loca�on(s)

Singapore Social media

@A�orney-General’s Chambers, Singapore

@agcsingapore

@agcsingapore

Number of employees

500 – 1,000 employees

Serving Singapore’s interests and upholding the rule of law through sound advice, effective representation, fair and independent prosecution and accessible legislation.

More about us

The A�orney-General’s Chambers (AGC) is the Government’s legal adviser, the Public Prosecutor, the Dra�er of Laws and Singapore’s legal representa�ve.

Our four legal divisions – Civil, Crime, Interna�onal Affairs and Legisla�on, with the support of the Corporate Services Division, AGC-Legal Service Academy and Legal Opera�ons Group, play a pivotal role in upholding the rule of law and integrity of Singapore’s legal system.

At the AGC, our team of passionate and dedicated officers are commi�ed to making a difference to Singapore and our people through our legal work, as guardians of the public interest.

Our officers are our greatest asset and we strive to help them reach their fullest poten�al by inves�ng in and suppor�ng their career aspira�ons. Our sponsored training programmes are aimed at helping our officers upgrade and upskill themselves to deliver quality work and be future-ready.

An organisa�on that strives to navigate present challenges and strengthen our capabili�es for the journey ahead, the AGC focuses on developing and caring for our people. We understand that no two officers’ needs are iden�cal and have in place a suite of wellness ini�a�ves aimed at crea�ng a culture of care.

Sector(s)

• Legal Services

• Public Sector

Jobs available

Graduate jobs

Applica�on procedure

Internships

Apply online at Careers@Gov. For appointments as a Legal Service Officer, visit www.lsc.gov.sg

Applica�on periods

Graduate jobs: All year-round

Internships: September to March

Selec�on process

Step 1: Online applica�on

Step 2: Wri�en assignment

Step 3: First interview

Step 4: Personality test

Step 5: Second interview

Step 6: Offer (if applicable)

Selec�on process may differ for each role. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

A DAY IN THE LIFE

8:30 AM

Muhammad Izwan Wong

DESIGNATION

Assistant Manager (Civil Cluster Legal Opera�ons)

EMPLOYER

A�orney-General’s Chambers (AGC)

Izwan received his Diploma in Legal Execu�ve Studies from Temasek Polytechnic in 2018.

While the ever-changing digital landscape was quite daunting initially, the sense of empowerment and trust placed in me to lead initiatives and oversee various projects have been both motivating and rewarding.

My day begins with a quick stop at a nearby coffee joint for my usual kopi peng siu dai. This has been part of my morning rou�ne since 2013, when I joined AGC’s Interna�onal Affairs Division as a fresh Management Support Officer a�er comple�ng my Na�onal Service.

I have been given opportuni�es at AGC to explore various roles covering a wide range of responsibili�es – Senior Execu�ve in the Interna�onal Legal Coopera�on Team, Allied Legal Associate, and now a Legal Execu�ve in the Legal Opera�ons Group. Exposure to these roles has enabled me to grow professionally by strengthening my administra�ve and li�ga�on support skills. Whilst the work can be challenging, it has con�nually pushed me to step out of my comfort zone and make meaningful contribu�ons.

Energised by my morning kopi, I turn to the day’s priori�es – which involves managing files and cases, conduc�ng legal research on interna�onal law ma�ers, going through archived records and providing vital support to the legal officers I work with. These are areas of work in which I’ve since built my exper�se through in-house and external training.

AGC’s strong emphasis on con�nuous learning has also benefited me beyond my daily work. The organisa�on ac�vely promotes professional development, which has enabled me to balance work while pursuing my part-�me Diploma course concurrently. With encouragement and support from my supervisors, who granted me study and examina�on leave when needed, I was able to complete my studies.

1:00 PM

A�er a busy and fulfilling morning, lunch beckons! On some days, I step out to explore eateries around the Funan office and catch up with teammates or friends from other departments, whilst on others, I have the chance to whip up tasty meals in my own kitchen - AGC’s hybrid work arrangement is something for which I’ve been very grateful. Whether I’m star�ng the day by feeding my cat or cha�ng with colleagues over lunch, this flexibility allows me to stay produc�ve while maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life.

2:00 PM

An exciting opportunity that I’ve been given is to serve as Head of the Interna�onal Affairs Division’s Digital Workspace Team. The team represents the division in the development of AGC’s enterprise systems, exploring how ar�ficial intelligence and automa�on can transform workflows and enhance produc�vity. While the ever-changing digital landscape was quite daun�ng ini�ally, the sense of empowerment and trust placed in me to lead ini�a�ves and oversee various projects have been both mo�va�ng and rewarding. It has also allowed me to develop my leadership and project management competencies.

6:00 PM and beyond

As I wrap up my day and head home, the familiar crawl of evening traffic gives me a chance to unwind and mentally organise tomorrow’s priori�es. I usually have dinner with family or friends, which provides the perfect transi�on from work to personal �me. I then round off the evening by staying updated with current events or catching up on social media.

Contact

63 Market St, #22-00 Bank of Singapore Centre, Singapore 048942

Tel: (+65) 6559 8000

Web: www.bankofsingapore.com/earlycareers

Email: careers@bankofsingapore.com

Loca�on(s)

Singapore

Interna�onal – Hong Kong, Dubai, Malaysia, the Philippines and the United Kingdom

Social media

@thebankofsingapore @bankofsg

@Bank of Singapore, Asia’s Global Private Bank @bankofSG @bankofsg

Number of employees

1,000 – 10,000 employees

More about us

Bank of Singapore is the dedicated private banking subsidiary of OCBC. We serve high net worth individuals and wealthy families in its key markets of Asia, Greater China, the Indian subcon�nent and beyond.

Our open-architecture product pla�orm is backed by strong research capabili�es that provide clients with first-class private banking and bespoke wealth planning solu�ons. We also leverage OCBC’s capabili�es to extend our clients a broad array of services across OCBC’s regional and interna�onal network. Headquartered in Singapore, we have offices in key financial hubs including Hong Kong, Dubai, London and Malaysia. Our strong performance has won us numerous industry recogni�ons, including Best Chief Investment Office in Private Banking in Asia by PWM and The Banker in 2024 and Best Private Bank in Asia for use of Technology by PWM in 2025.

At Bank of Singapore, we believe in inves�ng in people. Our early careers programmes are designed to help the next genera�on of leaders to thrive in a dynamic, fastpaced environment. Interns gain hands-on experience and exposure to the banking sector, while our Corporate Analyst and Wealth Management programmes offer structured learning, mentorship, and career development.

With a strong emphasis on con�nuous learning and professional growth, our programmes ensure that graduates are wellprepared to meet the challenges of the future and be posi�oned to excel in their careers.

Sector(s)

• Banking and Financial Services

• Investment Banking and Investment Management

Accepted degree disciplines

Open to all disciplines

Jobs available

Graduate jobs

Internships

Minimum requirement Degree

Applica�on procedure

Kindly visit our careers page at www. bankofsingapore.com/earlycareers to apply for and learn more about our internship or graduate programmes.

Applica�on period(s)

Graduate jobs:

Corporate Analyst Programme (through intern conversions only)

Wealth Management Programme (Sept - Dec)

Semester Internship (6 months): Aug – Oct (for Jan intake)

Mar – May (for Jul intake)

Work Experience Programme (10 weeks): Dec – Jan (Jun intake)

Selec�on process

Step 1: Online applica�on

Step 2: Online assessment

Step 3: Interview (Individual interviews and/ or Assessment Centre)

Contact

600 North Bridge Road, #23-01 Parkview Square, Singapore 188778

Tel: (+65) 6828 9118

Web: https://www.bdo.com.sg/en-gb/careers

Email: career@bdo.com.sg

Loca�on(s)

Singapore

Interna�onal - BDO’s global organisa�on extends across 166 countries and territories, with 115,661 people working out of 1,776 offices

Social media

@BDOSingapore @bdosg @bdo-singapore

@BDO_Singapore

Number of employees

500 – 1,000 employees

More about us

BDO Singapore is a full-service professional services firm deeply rooted in serving small and medium-sized enterprises, large privately held businesses, and mul�na�onals across diverse industries in Singapore. Our clientele spans various sectors: consumer and retail, financial services, educa�on, F&B, manufacturing, real estate and construc�on, logis�cs, healthcare, public sector, professional services, transport, technology, media, and telecommunica�ons.

BDO Singapore is an independent member firm of BDO Interna�onal. Established in 1972, we have evolved into one of Singapore’s leading and highly respected accoun�ng and business advisory firms, with over 650 employees. We offer an extensive and comprehensive suite of professional services encompassing audit, business advisory, tax and business services outsourcing.

As a forward-thinking, digital-focused firm that sees digital as a cornerstone of excellence, we are proud of our partners and directors who consistently earn the trust of our clients and the market by delivering ideas that create value. We take pride in our dedicated team’s pivotal role in helping our clients grow, flourish, and transform. We cul�vate a culture that transcends office boundaries, fostering collabora�on and community engagement within and beyond our workplace.

Sector(s)

• Accountancy and Financial Management

• Consul�ng

Accepted degree disciplines

• Accoun�ng

• Business Administra�on

• Finance

Jobs available

Graduate jobs

Internships

Minimum requirement

Diploma Degree

Applica�on procedure

If you believe you have the right values and a�tude in wan�ng to be part of our BDO family, send in your detailed resume and a recent photograph to career@bdo.com.sg

Selec�on process

Step 1: Online applica�on

Step 2: Shortlis�ng of candidate applica�ons

Step 3: Interview

Step 4: Presen�ng of employment offer

A DAY IN THE LIFE

8:00 AM

Monica Hong Si Wen

DESIGNATION

Senior II

EMPLOYER

BDO Singapore

Monica received her Bachelor of Accountancy from the Singapore Ins�tute of Technology in 2023.

Client interactions are especially treated with priority, as they often involve critical issues. My responsiveness and structured approach to meetings demonstrate my reliability and collaborative spirit.

I begin my day at 8:00 AM with a consistent morning rou�ne that sets the tone for produc�vity. A�er waking up, I head straight to the washroom to freshen up and get dressed for work. As I pack her bag and prepare to leave the house, my morning ritual reflects my disciplined approach to balancing personal care with professional readiness.

11:00 AM

Upon arriving at the office, the first thing I do is check Microso� Teams and Outlook. I review and responds to important messages and emails, ensuring that communica�on is clear and �mely. If my schedule allows it, I also take a moment to make coffee and prepare a light breakfast in the pantry. Then, I se�le into her work with a priori�sed task list, focusing on the engagements I’ve booked. My ability to organise and tackle tasks efficiently reflects her commitment to delivering quality work.

1:00 PM

Lunch is a �me for connec�on and recharge. I usually eat with my team members, choosing convenient and flavorful spots like Bali Lane for Indonesian cuisine or occasionally Thai food at Bugis Junc�on or City Gate. These shared meals foster camaraderie and provide a refreshing break from the day’s demands.

3:00 PM

I handle mee�ngs with professionalism and clarity. Scheduled mee�ngs are set up with clear agendas, whether they’re with my manager for status updates or to clarify work-related ques�ons. I’m also quick to respond to ad-hoc mee�ngs, especially when urgent discussions or client calls arise. Client interactions are especially treated with priority, as they o�en involve cri�cal issues. My responsiveness and structured approach to mee�ngs demonstrate my reliability and collabora�ve spirit.

6:00 PM

A�er a full day, I return home to unwind. Some down�me follows dinner—usually spent scrolling through social media or watching dramas. This evening rou�ne helps me recharge, maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life.

Contact

168 Robinson Road, #30-01 Capital Tower, Singapore 068912

Web: capitaland.com/careers

Email: earlycareers@capitaland.com

Loca�on(s)

Singapore Interna�onal

Social media @capitaland @capitaland @capitaland @capitaland @capitaland

Number of employees

10,000 – 50,000 employees

More about us

CapitaLand Group (CapitaLand) is one of Asia’s largest diversified real estate groups. Headquartered in Singapore, CapitaLand’s por�olio focuses on real asset management and real estate development, spanning across 270 ci�es in 45 countries.

In 2025, CapitaLand celebrates 25 years of excellence in real estate and con�nues to innovate and shape the industry. Within its ecosystem, CapitaLand has developed an integrated suite of real asset management, real estate development, and opera�ng capabili�es that supports its businesses in building core competencies across the value chain. With this full range of capabili�es, CapitaLand can op�mise the strategies of its listed real asset management business CapitaLand Investment, and its privately held property development arm CapitaLand Development; to drive compe��ve advantage for its businesses.

CapitaLand places sustainability at the core of what it does. As a responsible real estate company, CapitaLand contributes to the environmental and social well-being of the communi�es where it operates, as it delivers long-term economic value to its stakeholders.

Sector(s)

• Investment Banking and Investment Management

• Property and Real Estate

Accepted degree disciplines

Open to all disciplines

Jobs available

Internships Graduate jobs

Minimum requirement

Diploma Degree

Applica�on procedure

Apply online via capitaland.com/careers. Only shortlisted candidates will be no�fied.

A DAY IN THE LIFE

7:00 AM

My mornings start at 7:00 AM. I like taking my �me to get ready while enjoying a cup of coffee before leaving home. On the way to work, I usually grab a simple breakfast from a bakery at Tanjong Pagar MRT before reaching the office.

Caroline Vionyta

DESIGNATION

Analyst, Investments

EMPLOYER

CapitaLand Investment Limited

Caroline received her Bachelor’s Degree with Honours in Business Administra�on from the Na�onal University of Singapore in 2025.

Once I’m se�led in, I start my day reviewing my emails and Teams messages to catch up on anything I might have missed, and then write down a to-do list to plan the rest of my day.

11:00 AM

In the first half of the day, I focus on ini�a�ng tasks and advancing ongoing work. A large part of my role involves running financial models for poten�al transac�ons, such as acquisi�ons or divestments for the Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT). I also look at how different funding structures, such as debt financing or equity issuance, may affect the REIT’s distribu�ons to unitholders and its gearing (leverage) level. This o�en involves running mul�ple scenarios to determine the most effec�ve deal structure, balancing the interest of both the manager and unitholders.

12:30 PM

I usually have lunch around 12:30 PM, o�en with colleagues or friends who work nearby. Most days, we s�ck to places near the office, but when �me allows, we venture a li�le further to explore eateries around Tanjong Pagar, Telok Ayer or Maxwell. A�er lunch, I grab my second coffee fix of the day from one of the nearby coffee chains before heading back to the office by 2:00PM to con�nue with work.

3:00 PM

On some a�ernoons, I have internal mee�ngs with the team, especially when there are poten�al deals in the pipeline or urgent ma�ers to address. Between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM, I focus on wrapping up the day’s work, finalising models, sending out important emails, and checking in with colleagues for feedback where needed. I try to clear as much as possible before the end of the day to ensure a smooth start the following morning.

6:00 PM

I usually leave the office around 6:15-6:30PM, once I have completed my to-do list for the day. A�er work, I might head out for dinner with my friends, go to the gym for a workout, or just simply head home to rest a�er a long day.

No two days are ever quite the same, and that’s what keeps my role exci�ng. I have learnt a lot in a short �me, and each day gives me the chance to sharpen my skills, work closely with my team, and see how my work contributes to the REIT’s growth and the broader goals of the organisa�on. No two days are ever quite the same, and that’s what keeps my role exciting.

Contact

238A Thomson Road, Novena Square, Singapore 307684

Web: www.cpf.gov.sg/careers

Email: earlycareers@cpf.gov.sg

Loca�on(s)

Singapore Social media

@CPF Board

@cpf_board

@CPF Board

@cp�oard

@CPF Board

Number of employees

1,000 – 10,000 employees

To enable Singaporeans to have a secure retirement, through lifelong income, healthcare financing, and home financing.

More about us

Discover Your Purpose with TeamCPF!

At CPF Board, we believe in developing individuals who are inspired to do their life’s best work, through 3Ps: Purposeful Work, Professional Growth, People & Culture.

Join us on a journey where passion meets purpose to enrich the lives of 4 million members. Whether you are a digital ninja, a natural wordsmith or a people person, you can put your talents to good use at CPFB.

As an employer, we foster a culture of respect, diversity, and inclusivity, where every voice is heard, and contribu�ons are recognised and celebrated.

As an employer, we foster a culture of respect, diversity, and inclusivity, where every voice is heard, and contribu�ons are recognised and celebrated. Find your perfect fit in the following domains:

• CPF Schemes Delivery

• Policy and Corporate Development

• Infocomm Technology

• Customer Service

• Agency Services

• Enforcement

Sector(s)

• Public Sector

Accepted degree disciplines

Open to all disciplines

Find out more at

Jobs available

Graduate jobs

Internships

Minimum requirement

Diploma Degree

Applica�on procedure

Explore job opportuni�es and submit your applica�on through our careers page: www. cpf.gov.sg/careers.

Applica�on periods

Management Associate Programme: Q3 2026

NextGen Programme (Technology Track): Q3 2026

Internships Opportuni�es:

At CPF Board, we have 3 different internship cycles:

H1 Term-�me (Jan – May)

Summer (May – Aug)

H2 Term-�me (Aug – Dec)

Scan the QR code to follow us on LinkedIn for the latest updates!

Selec�on process

Find out more through our careers page at www.cpf.gov.sg/careers! Shortlisted applicants will be no�fied.

A DAY IN THE LIFE

8:30 AM

DESIGNATION

Senior Consultant, Re�rement Savings Department

EMPLOYER

CPF Board

QUALIFICATIONS

Xiao Rong received her Bachelor of Science in Informa�on Systems (Smart-City Management and Technology) from the Singapore Management University in 2021.

This balance of work and growth helps me return every day with a fresh perspective, ready to use technology to make meaningful impact, step by step.

I kick off my day with a light breakfast on the go, using the commute to clear my thoughts and ease into the day. Se�ling at my desk, I check for any overnight alerts or project updates and chart out the day’s priori�es. I work closely with my team on PLAN with CPF, a one-stop financial guidance pla�orm we’re building on the CPF website, making sure we stay on track and ship cri�cal features promptly. My background in robo�c process automa�on (RPA) from my first role s�ll shapes how I approach work: transla�ng member needs into simple and scalable solu�ons, streamlining workflows, and building with clarity and reusability. Our daily agile stand-ups, and the occasional show-and-tells or retrospec�ves, are perfect for celebra�ng small wins, troubleshoo�ng roadblocks, and keeping our momentum strong.

10:00 AM

Late mornings are reserved for focused technical work to build product features through design, development, or debugging. My experience in the investment systems team taught me to think holistically: always considering backend dependencies and coordina�ng cross-system changes. If a �me-cri�cal incident arises, especially those involving agent banks or external partners, I pivot quickly to resolve issues with calm and precision. That has honed my ability to manage critical systems behind the scenes, ensuring uninterrupted service for our members.

12:30 PM

Lunch is often shared with my teammates, a time for laughs, stories, and spontaneous brainstorming sessions. A�er lunch, as things quieten down, I shi� my focus to product enhancements and innova�on. Working on the CPF website has made me appreciate how every feature shapes the user’s experience in CPF’s digital shopfront. PLAN with CPF is always evolving, and the feedback we receive from members pushes us to refine flows and improve usability in ways that ma�er.

3:00 PM

Afternoons are all about collaboration. I facilitate project discussions and technical syncs, o�en ac�ng as the bridge between IT and business teams. My role places me at the heart of turning user needs and policy intent into ac�onable system design, which is a skill honed through leading system changes for na�onal schemes. This means balancing business objec�ves with technical constraints, and coordina�ng closely with developers, designers, and business users from idea�on to implementa�on.

6:00 PM

As the work day closes, I take a moment to review the day’s progress, jot down pending tasks, and plan next steps for tomorrow. I reserve my evenings for recharging, whether it’s hi�ng the gym, enjoying good food with loved ones, or unwinding with a film. I also stay curious by a�ending industry talks or exploring emerging tech trends.

Each chapter of my journey has shaped how I work – designing with empathy from my RPA days, developing resilience and system thinking in the investment team, and now applying a user-first mindset in building member-facing solu�ons. This balance of work and growth helps me return every day with a fresh perspec�ve, ready to use technology to make meaningful impact, step by step.

Contact

60 Airport Boulevard, Changi Airport Terminal 2, #04-08, Singapore 819643 Web: careers.changiairport.com

Loca�on(s)

Singapore

Social media

@changiairport

@changiairport

@Changi Airport Group

@changiairport

@changiairport

Number of employees

1,000 – 10,000 employees

More about us

Changi Airport Group is first and foremost a service company. We operate Singapore Changi Airport, the world’s most awarded airport, and help develop and manage airports worldwide. Our mission is to be a global leading airport company, anchored in the heart of Asia, pioneering safe, secure, sustainable and vibrant air hubs, ready for our future.

Our people are our most important asset. We aspire to build a company where ordinary people achieve extraordinary results. Our people have a passion for service and are commi�ed to teamwork, integrity and excellence. Working together with our colleagues and partners to achieve the best outcome, we deliver innova�ve services and create a world-class experience for our customers.

Changi Airport Group offers a unique work environment in a global, vibrant and exci�ng airport community. We make magic happen in every aspect of our business, turning different airport touchpoints into seamless experiences with innova�on and technology. With a set-up of mul�ple businesses, you will embark on a mul�-faceted career of diverse business func�ons in the dynamic and fast-growing avia�on industry.

Sector(s)

• Avia�on, Transport and Supply Chain

• Hospitality, Leisure and Tourism

Accepted degree disciplines

Open to all disciplines

Jobs available

Graduate jobs

Minimum

Internships

requirement

Diploma Degree

Applica�on procedure

Apply online at careers.changiairport.com

Applica�on period(s)

Graduate jobs: All year-round

Internships: All year-round

Selec�on process

Step 1: Online applica�on

Step 2: Selec�on test(s)

Step 3: Interview(s)

Selec�on process may differ for each role. Only shortlisted candidates will be no�fied.

Come make MAGIC with us.

Discover what it’s like working at Changi Airport Group, where we make magic happen in every aspect of our business – turning different airport touchpoints into seamless experiences with innovation and technology.

Contact

12 Marina Boulevard, Marina Bay Financial Centre, Singapore 018982

Tel: (+65) 6776 2255

Web: h�ps://www.dbs.com/careers

Email: dbscareers@dbs.com

Loca�on(s)

Singapore

Interna�onal – China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, India, Indonesia

Social media

@dbs.sg @dbsbank @DBS Bank @dbssg @dbsbank @DBS

Number of employees

10,000 – 50,000 employees

More about us

DBS is a leading financial services group in Asia with a presence in 19 markets. Headquartered and listed in Singapore, DBS is in the three key Asian axes of growth: Greater China, Southeast Asia and South Asia. The bank’s “AA-” and “Aa1” credit ra�ngs are among the highest in the world.

Recognised for its global leadership, DBS has been named “World’s Best Bank” by Global Finance, “World’s Best Bank” by Euromoney and “Global Bank of the Year” by The Banker. The bank is at the forefront of leveraging digital technology to shape the future of banking, having been named “World’s Best Digital Bank” by Euromoney and the world’s “Most Innova�ve in Digital Banking” by The Banker. In addi�on, DBS has been accorded the “Safest Bank in Asia“ award by Global Finance for 16 consecu�ve years from 2009 to 2024.

DBS provides a full range of services in consumer, SME and corporate banking. As a bank born and bred in Asia, DBS understands the intricacies of doing business in the region’s most dynamic markets and is commi�ed to building las�ng rela�onships with customers. With its extensive network of opera�ons in Asia and emphasis on engaging and empowering its staff, DBS presents exci�ng career opportuni�es.

Sector(s)

• Banking and Financial Services

Accepted degree disciplines

Open to all disciplines

Jobs available

Graduate jobs

Internships

Minimum requirement

Diploma Degree

Applica�on procedure

Apply online via our AI recruiter (JIM) from December 2025 to February 2026

Applica�on period(s)

Internships:

December 2025 to February 2026

Graduate jobs:

September to October 2026

Selec�on process

Step 1: Online applica�on

Step 2: Online assessments

Step 3: Assessment centre

Step 4: Interview

Step 5: Outcome of applica�on

Contact

Web: www.hrnetgroup.com

Email: hrcorp@hrnetgroup.com

Loca�on(s)

Singapore

Interna�onal - Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, South Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, China, Vietnam, Japan

Social media @HRnetGroup

Number of employees

500 – 1,000 employees

Growing People Powering Businesses.

More about us

HRnetGroup is a Singapore-headquartered talent solu�ons provider with opera�ons across major Asian ci�es. Established in 1992, the Group delivers a full suite of services including execu�ve search, permanent placement, flexible staffing, HR outsourcing, and workforce technology solu�ons. With 20 brand units across 18 Asian ci�es, HRnetGroup operates through well-recognised banners such as HRnetOne, PeopleSearch, RecruitFirst, CREW, and Octomate. Together, these business units support organisa�ons across public agencies, healthcare, technology, logis�cs, consumer industries, and more. The organisa�on fosters a performance-driven yet collabora�ve culture, emphasising professional development, mentorship, and structured training. HRnetGroup is commi�ed to developing the next genera�on of talent and works closely with educa�on ins�tu�ons to provide students with meaningful exposure to HR, recruitment, technology, and people opera�ons.

Sector(s)

• Consul�ng

Accepted degree disciplines

Open to all disciplines

Jobs available

Internships Graduate jobs

Minimum requirement Diploma Degree

Applica�on procedure

Please send your CV to hrcorp@hrnetgroup.com

Applica�on periods

All year-round

Selec�on process

Step 1: Online Applica�on

Step 2: Screening Call

Step 3: Ap�tude Tes�ng

Step 4: Interview with HR

Step 5: Case Study

Step 5: Interview with Hiring Manager & Supervisor

Contact

80 Jurong East St 21, #04-02, #05-02 Devan Nair Ins�tute, Singapore 609607

Tel: (+65) 6990 0402

Web: h�ps://www.mci.com.sg/join-us/

Email: recruitment@mci.com.sg

Loca�on(s)

Singapore

Interna�onal - Malaysia

Social media

@MCIGroupofCompanies @weareMCIsg @weareMCIsg

Number of employees

500 – 1,000 employees

More about us

MCI Group of Companies is a trusted HR recruitment and workforce solu�ons provider, connec�ng businesses with the talent they need to thrive in today’s fastmoving market. Established with the vision of driving workforce growth and opera�onal excellence, MCI has grown into a trusted partner for clients across a wide range of industries, from hospitality and retail to logis�cs, government services, events, and corporate opera�ons.

With a strong presence across Singapore, our group specialises in recruitment, staffing, Business Process Outsourcing (BPO), training, and integrated business services. We dis�nguish ourselves through a people-centric approach, aligning talent with opportuni�es that fit their strengths and future ambi�ons.

At MCI, our work culture is dynamic, collabora�ve, and grounded in con�nuous learning. We take pride in nurturing a suppor�ve environment where both new and experienced talent can thrive. Fresh graduates joining us can expect hands-on exposure, mentorship, and the chance to contribute meaningfully from day one.

As we con�nue to expand, we remain dedicated to shaping the future of work: empowering businesses, developing talent, and building pathways that help individuals grow their careers with confidence.

Sector(s)

• Consul�ng

Accepted degree disciplines

Open to all disciplines

Jobs available

Internships Graduate jobs

Minimum requirement

Diploma Degree

Applica�on procedure

Email recruitment@mci.com.sg or text +65 6990 0402 and indicate the role you wish to apply for.

Applica�on periods

December - February

Selec�on process

Internships

Step 1: Submit Your Applica�on

Step 2: Screening Call

Step 3: Ini�al Interview

Step 4: Hiring Manager Interview

Step 5: Offer & Acceptance

Step 6: Onboarding

Full-Time Roles

Step 1: Submit Your Applica�on

Step 2: Screening Call

Step 3: First Interview

Step 4: Final Interview

Step 5: Offer, Acceptance and Onboarding

Contact

• 1 North Coast Drive, Singapore 757432

• 1 Woodlands Industrial Park D Street 1, Singapore 738799

• 990 Bendemeer Road, Singapore 339942

Web: www.micron.com/careers

Email: sgjobs@micron.com

Loca�on(s) Singapore

Interna�onal - America, China, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, France, Germany, Italy

Social media

@MicronSingapore @we_are_micron @micron-technology-singapore @MicronTech @MicronTechnology

Number of employees

10,000 – 50,000 employees

Be a global leader in memory and storage solutions.

More about us

Micron Technology is a global leader in memory and storage solu�ons, transforming how the world uses informa�on to enrich life. As the only company manufacturing DRAM, NAND, and NOR technologies, Micron powers innova�ons in AI, 5G, automo�ve, and consumer electronics.

Singapore is Micron’s largest manufacturing hub outside the U.S., hos�ng four wafer fabrica�on plants and an assembly and test facility. As Micron’s designated NAND Center of Excellence, the site leads in 3D NAND technology, enabling future transi�ons that will drive new device experiences and infrastructure innova�on across data centers and the intelligent edge. In 2025, Micron broke ground on a new High Bandwidth Memory (HBM) advanced packaging facility in Woodlands—Singapore’s first of its kind to support AI-driven demand.

Micron Singapore is ranked 1st in the 2025 Great Place to Work awards, reflec�ng its commitment to employee wellbeing, diversity, and innova�on. Monthly WLI (Wellbeing, Learning, Innova�on) ini�a�ves, six employee resource groups, and extensive site enhancements foster a vibrant and inclusive culture. With over 9,000 team members, Micron con�nues to be a catalyst for talent development and sustainability in Singapore’s semiconductor ecosystem.

Sector(s)

• Engineering, Design and Manufacturing

• IT and Technology

Accepted degree disciplines

• Engineering

• IT and Computer Sciences

• Sciences

Jobs available

Graduate jobs

Applica�on procedure

Internships

Candidates may apply via our career portal at www.micron. com/careers or school portals (for internships)

Applica�on periods

Graduate jobs: All year-round Internships:

• Poly Internship: March to August/ September to February

• University Summer internship: May to August

• University Semester internship: August to December, January to May

Selec�on process

Step 1: Online applica�on

Step 2: Screening

Step 3: Job-related online test/presenta�on (based on posi�on)

Step 4: Interview

Step 5: Outcome of applica�on via email

Contact

Web: www.mindef.gov.sg/dxo

Email: dxo_enquiries@mindef.gov.sg

Loca�on(s)

Singapore

Social media

@Ministry of Defence, Singapore (MINDEF)

@mindefsg

@Ministry of Defence of Singapore

@mindefsg

@Ministry of Defence Singapore

Number of employees

1,000 – 10,000 employees

More about us

The mission of MINDEF and the Singapore Armed Forces is to enhance Singapore’s peace and security through deterrence and diplomacy, and should these fail, to secure a swi� and decisive victory over the aggressor.

Integral to MINDEF, the Defence Execu�ve Officer (DXO) scheme enables you to contribute towards Singapore’s security as a non-uniformed defence professional.

You can contribute in a wide range of roles cri�cal to defence, such as defence policy, strategic communica�ons, cybersecurity, psychology, data analy�cs, human resource, finance, logis�cs and more.

Join us in a rewarding career that enables you to defend our na�on.

Sector(s)

• Public Sector

Accepted degree disciplines

• Accoun�ng

• Business Administra�on

• Economics

• Engineering

• Finance

• Humani�es, Art and Social Sciences

• IT and Computer Sciences

• Law

• Maths

• Medical Sciences and Healthcare

• Sciences

• Social Work

• Teaching and Educa�on

Jobs available

Graduate jobs

Internships

Minimum requirement Diploma Degree

Applica�on procedure

Send in your applica�ons for the posi�on that you are keen on via:

1. Website at www.mindef.gov.sg/dxo

2. MINDEF Careers@Gov

3. MINDEF LinkedIn

Applica�on periods

Graduate jobs: All year-round

Internships: Mid-February (for May to Jul internship intakes)

Selec�on process

Step 1: Online applica�on

Step 2: Interview

Step 3: Unit preview

Step 4: Outcome of applica�on

A DAY IN THE LIFE

8:30 AM

The day begins with a fresh cup of coffee and a quick scan of our collec�on dashboards. Using advanced systems that aggregate intelligence from the web, I dive into the first collec�on session of the day. This involves monitoring open source channels for early indicators of threats targe�ng MINDEF/SAF. Every piece of data has the poten�al to become a lead. Piecing together this informa�on feels like solving a live puzzle, where every connec�on ma�ers.

12:00 PM

Sim Yi Jian

DESIGNATION

Analyst (Threat Collec�on) (Defence Execu�ve Officer)

EMPLOYER

Digital and Intelligence Service

QUALIFICATIONS

Yi Jian received his Bachelor of Engineering in Informa�on Technology (Informa�on Security) from the Singapore Ins�tute of Technology in 2024.

The work is intense, filled with curious discoveries and high-pressure situations, but the satisfaction of turning fragmented clues into actionable intelligence is unparalleled.

Lunch is a lively affair with my colleagues! Conversa�ons o�en revolve around cybersecurity experiences, the latest tools, and emerging techniques. They’re always intellectually s�mula�ng. The camaraderie here is amazing. Everyone speaks the same digital language and shares the same mission of defending our MINDEF/SAF data and people.

1:00 PM

The intelligence I gathered in the morning is now transformed into ac�onable insights. I dra� early warning and data loss preven�on reports. These reports can mean the difference between preemp�ng a breach and reac�ng to one. Once the reports are sent out, I shi� my focus to mentoring junior analysts, guiding them through the nuances of cyber threat collec�on tradecra�. Witnessing their growth and those “lightbulb moments” when they spot genuine threats buried amidst the noise is deeply rewarding.

3:00 PM

Threat landscapes evolve rapidly, and what seemed irrelevant in the morning could become a major lead by a�ernoon. I return to forums and marketplace lis�ngs to track targets (or topics) of interests and any cha�er men�oning our organisa�on. I break complex pa�erns into manageable parts, analyse the data methodically, and collaborate closely with my team to verify every lead and explore every angle. The work is intense, filled with curious discoveries, and high-pressure situa�ons, but the sa�sfac�on of turning fragmented clues into ac�onable intelligence is unparalleled.

6:00 PM

As the day winds down, I log off knowing that our proac�ve work has likely thwarted unseen threats. I reconnect with the real world, having dinner with family or catching up with friends. Later in the evening, I o�en find myself diving into training materials or preparing for the next cer�fica�on. Con�nuous learning isn’t just a buzzword in MINDEF/SAF; it’s something that’s ac�vely supported with a clear training roadmap to grow our technical competencies. When I first joined, I was enrolled in the SANS Cyber Threat Intelligence course, which gave me a solid founda�on for understanding threat actor behaviours and building intelligence products. Since then, I’ve had access to various courses and cer�fica�ons. Beyond structured learning, we’re encouraged to a�end local and overseas conferences, which help us stay updated on the latest tradecra� and threat trends. There’s genuine excitement in knowing that every new skill I acquire directly enhances how we defend against tomorrow’s threats. Cyber threats never sleep, but con�nuous learning ensures I am ready for whatever emerges from the digital shadows.

Being a cyber threat intelligence analyst is more than a job; it’s a mission. Every day is a mix of inves�ga�on, innova�on, and impact. If you’re curious, analy�cal, and driven by the challenge of outsmar�ng adversaries to safeguard Singapore, join the Digital and Intelligence Service and be part of the team that makes a difference.

Contact

1 North Buona Vista Drive

Singapore 138675

Tel: (+65) 6872 2220

Web: moe.gov.sg/careers

Email: contact@moe.gov.sg

Loca�on(s)

Singapore

Social media

@Ministry of Educa�on, Singapore

@moesingapore

@Ministry of Educa�on, Singapore

@MOEsg

@MOE Singapore

Number of employees

10,000 – 50,000 employees

More about us

Ministry of Educa�on (MOE)

Shaping Singapore’s future through educa�on. Join our diverse team to:

• Influence the na�on’s educa�onal landscape

• Contribute to a world-class educa�on system

• Develop professionally and personally Be part of moulding the people who will determine our future.

The following job roles are open for applica�on:

Educa�on Officer / Teacher

Be the one who inspires and nurtures young lives. Join MOE as a teacher and embark on a journey of guiding students to reach their fullest poten�al. Mo�vate our students and equip them with the skills they need as they grow into lifelong learners and responsible ci�zens of tomorrow.

Every teacher at MOE is important to us. You will be supported with resources and professional development opportuni�es to develop and progress in your career. MOE offers the following three career tracks: the Teaching Track, Leadership Track and Senior Specialist Track.

Management Execu�ve

We are seeking versa�le, forward-thinking individuals from different disciplines for roles in MOE headquarters (HQ) and schools. You will gain invaluable experience in areas such as:

• Policy formula�on and implementa�on

• Technology and AI integra�on

• Research and informa�on management

Find out more at

• Organisa�onal excellence, administra�on and opera�ons and more…

Sector(s)

• Public Sector

Accepted degree disciplines

Open to all disciplines

Applica�on procedure

Please visit www.go.gov.sg/moe-applica�on to view available career opportuni�es and applica�on �melines.

Selec�on process

For teaching posi�ons

Step 1: Apply via Careers@Gov

Step 2: Interview (for shortlisted candidates)

Step 3: Entrance proficiency test(s), if required; Applicants interested to teach Physical Educa�on (PE) are encouraged to take the Physical Proficiency Test (PPT) while wai�ng for shortlis�ng outcome. Learn more at www. go.gov.sg/pe-applica�on-info.

For other posi�ons

Please apply via Careers@Gov. Shortlisted applicants will be updated with more details.

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A DAY IN THE LIFE

8:30 AM

As a Product Manager, my team develops several applica�ons to make our teachers’ lives be�er, like School Cockpit Mobile, All Ears, and Flexilist. While I am now based in MOE HQ, my background as a teacher enables me to bring insight and context to understanding what will help my colleagues in schools.

DESIGNATION

Product Manager (Educa�on Officer), Experimental Systems and Technology Laboratory (ESTL), Digital Products and Excellence Division (DXD)

EMPLOYER

Ministry of Educa�on

QUALIFICATIONS

Jemuel received his Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Electrical Engineering from the Na�onal University of Singapore in 2010, and his Postgraduate Diploma in Educa�on (Primary) from the Na�onal Ins�tute of Educa�on in 2013.

While I am now based in MOE HQ, my background as a teacher enables me to bring insight and context to understanding what will help my colleagues in schools.

We follow the Scrum framework and start the day off with a crisp 10-minute standup to update one another on our progress towards the current sprint’s goal. A�er that, I dive into my emails, a�end to queries from users and other HQ branches, and review the product metrics for various applica�ons. With the recent launch of a new feature allowing parents to no�fy teachers of absences digitally via the Parents Gateway mobile app, I am par�cularly interested in feedback from parents to see if the feature has been a delight to use.

10:00 AM

A crucial part of Scrum is the fortnightly Sprint Review, where the development team shares with our stakeholders the work that has been done for the recent release and seeks feedback to shape our plans. I share insights from the recent feature releases and feedback given by users. While the team and stakeholders celebrate the overwhelmingly posi�ve feedback from users, there are always opportuni�es to improve and deliver even greater value to our users.

12:00 PM

The Bales�er-Novena area offers many eateries, from malls to coffee shops, and we are spoilt for choice. We catch up with other teams in ESTL over lunch

1:30 PM

A�er lunch, the team gathers for our Sprint Retro, where we shi� our focus from how the product is doing to how we work as a team. We discuss how to work be�er as a team and commit to enac�ng these changes for the next sprint.

3:00 PM

I meet with one of my fellow product managers for our weekly 1-on-1 session to discuss the product strategy for the next version of All Ears, review the product metrics as well as business requests from other HQ branches. We are super excited about the new design and capabili�es that we are introducing within the year. During our session, we also invest �me in professional development through cross-sharing and mentoring.

4:30 PM

Wearing my Agile coach hat, I head over to MOE HQ at Buona Vista to meet colleagues from another branch to collaborate on a problem space they have been exploring. Working alongside like-minded colleagues across MOE HQ branches, I experience the same sense of shared purpose I remember from school – where different departments come together to make a meaningful impact on teachers and students. They have visited schools over the past few weeks to observe and interview teachers and have iden�fied an opportunity to improve an administra�ve process.

6:00 PM

I find a quiet space in HQ to wind down for the day and summarise notes from my mee�ngs for sharing. It’s been a very busy day, but the work that I do is meaningful and impac�ul in improving the lives of teachers, making the work they do in schools more pleasant and enabling them to have more �me to focus on their students’ development.

Contact

More about us

1 Sherwood Road, Singapore 248163

Tel: (+65) 63798000

Web: www.mfa.gov.sg/career

Email: mfa_career@mfa.gov.sg

Loca�on(s)

Singapore Social media

@SingaporeMFA

@mfa_sg

@Ministry of Foreign Affairs Singapore @MFAsg

@MFASingapore

Number of employees

1,000 – 10,000 employees

Be on the frontline and represent Singapore on the world stage.

A Foreign Service career is more than just a job. To be effec�ve, Foreign Service Officers (FSOs) need to have a good grasp of world affairs and a firm understanding of Singapore’s posi�on. You will be involved in the formula�on, review and implementa�on of policies related to your assigned por�olio. You must be versa�le and have the ability to analyse issues cri�cally, strategise and achieve outcomes. You need to be able to persuade, assert yourself and cul�vate good rela�onships, while defending Singapore’s interests.

With over 50 Overseas Missions around the world, a career with MFA offers unique opportuni�es and rewards. Throughout your career as an FSO, you will alternate between serving in Singapore (HQ) and our Overseas Missions.

Depending on your competencies and inclina�on, you can develop your career either in the Func�onal and Corporate track, or the Poli�cal and Economic track. As you progress within the Ministry, a series of varied enriching assignments and milestone programmes will groom you for future leadership roles.

An exci�ng career of unparalleled opportuni�es on the frontline of global development awaits. If you are up for the challenge, come join us at MFA.

Sector(s)

• Public Sector

Accepted degree disciplines

Open to all disciplines

Jobs available

Internships Graduate jobs

Minimum requirement

Diploma Degree

Applica�on procedure

Apply via Careers@Gov.

Applica�on periods

Graduate jobs: All year-round

Internships: Applica�ons are open on Careers@Gov. Visit our website for more details.

Selec�on process

Varies for each opportunity. Visit our website for more details.

A DAY IN THE LIFE

8:00 AM

Anand

Raj

DESIGNATION

Third Secretary (Administra�on and Technical), Singapore High Commission in Pretoria

EMPLOYER Ministry of Foreign Affairs

QUALIFICATIONS

Anand received his Diploma in Chemical Engineering from Temasek Polytechnic in 2017.

I learned that even with careful planning, on-site adjustments are often necessary to address practical issues as they arise.

I usually start my day early, waking up at 5:00am to complete my morning rou�ne. This role allows me the flexibility to achieve personal goals early.

I then begin work by reviewing e-mails and respond to any urgent ma�ers. I then prepare a to-do list to organise the day’s priori�es. As I oversee the High Commission’s financial opera�ons, I meet with my Finance Execu�ve to review payments and discuss ongoing issues.

With this founda�on set, I focus on working through the day’s priori�es, ensuring that by the end of the day, the High Commission’s work con�nues to move forward smoothly.

10:30 AM

I a�end a morning mee�ng with the High Commissioner and my colleagues to review ongoing ma�ers, provide updates, and seek guidance on upcoming priori�es.

My main focus today is on the construc�on and maintenance projects, and the prepara�ons for visits by Singapore’s Poli�cal Office Holders a�ending the G20 mee�ngs in South Africa in a few weeks. The renova�on projects require close coordina�on with contractors to ensure that progress remains on schedule and within budget.

On the G20 front, I have been coordina�ng several ministerial mee�ngs under South Africa’s chairmanship of the G20, involving detailed logis�cal planning for smooth and successful par�cipa�on in each engagement.

12:30 PM

A�er the mee�ng, I meet the renova�on contractors to review progress on outstanding works. These discussions are important for maintaining quality and ensuring that all works meet the High Commission’s standards. I also update HQ on the renova�on developments and seek guidance where necessary.

I learned that even with careful planning, on-site adjustments are o�en necessary to address prac�cal issues as they arise. While I am not professionally trained in construc�on, I find that each day brings new insights - lessons that o�en prove valuable when resolving future issues.

2:30 PM

I was informed that an underground power line supplying the High Commission had failed, disrup�ng electricity to the premises. I contacted the municipal electricity provider and engaged a contractor to diagnose and replace the faulty line. This was �me-consuming and required extensive coordina�on between stakeholders.

5:00 PM

I return to my task list to close out completed items and record any follow-ups. This prac�ce helps maintain con�nuity across ongoing ma�ers and ensures that nothing is overlooked, even on the busiest days.

7:00 PM

At the end of the day, I head home, prepare dinner and set my checklist for the next day. The High Commission’s work can be demanding and unpredictable, but it is fulfilling to see how each task contributes to its smooth running. While my responsibili�es don’t directly shape policy, they form the founda�on that keeps the High Commission opera�ng at its best, enabling Singapore’s diplomacy and objec�ves to be pursued effec�vely.

A DAY IN THE LIFE

8:00 AM

I start the day with breakfast and emails, so I can plan my day during my commute.

9:00 AM

Alison Koh Yuen Wan

DESIGNATION

Assistant Director (Indonesia), Southeast Asia (I) Directorate

EMPLOYER

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

QUALIFICATIONS

Alison received her Bachelor of the Arts (Honours, Highest Dis�nc�on) from the Na�onal University of Singapore in 2017.

Even as we begin to wrap up for the year, we consider our plans for the next cycle in the leadup to major milestones, such as the 60th Anniversary of Singapore-Indonesia relations in 2027.

I’m off-site this morning to a�end Singapore Interna�onal Energy Week (SIEW) at the Marina Bay Sands Expo and Conference Centre. It’s important for us to keep abreast of broader developments to contextualise our coopera�on with Indonesia. I have the renewable energy por�olio, among others, which is quite an exci�ng space as we signed new agreements at the 2025 Singapore-Indonesia Leaders’ Retreat.

9:30 AM

I arrive at SIEW and make some rounds. The Indonesian Ambassador is here, with his team from the Indonesian Embassy (KBRI). My counterpart and I swap notes on some upcoming visits and mee�ngs over free cold brews from a sponsor’s booth.

I listen to the morning’s sessions, including remarks by Minister in charge of Energy, Science and Technology Dr Tan See Leng, as well as the keynote address by the US Energy Secretary Chris Wright. Minister sets out Singapore’s strategy for regional interconnec�vity, including the ASEAN power grid. This helps me situate our coopera�on with Indonesia.

I check out some of the sponsors’ booths a�er and watch robots in ac�on. I briefly consider whether I would be able to outrun them, should things come to a head.

12:00 PM

Time for lunch. Catering is excellent.

2:00 PM

I return to MFA for some mee�ngs and (more) emails. Even as we begin to wrap up for the year, we consider our plans for the next cycle in the leadup to major milestones, such as the 60th Anniversary of Singapore-Indonesia rela�ons in 2027.

4:00 PM

I have a quick snack break. Our colleagues travel o�en to mee�ngs and are conscien�ous providers.

6:00 PM

I pack up and leave for dinner. This night I am mee�ng a Jakarta-based renewable energy consultant, to compare notes on SIEW and get the inside track on poli�cal developments.

8:30 PM

Dinner ends and I begin my commute home. Today felt more like a day on post than in HQ, and I am grateful.

Contact

1 Mandalay Road, Singapore 308205

Tel: (+65) 6496 6000

Web: h�ps://for.sg/nhghmap2026

Email: nhggroup.healthcaremap@ nhghealth.com.sg

Loca�on(s)

Singapore

Social media @NHGHMAP @NHG Health

Number of employees

10,000 – 50,000 employees

More about us

NHG Health:

NHG Health is a leading public healthcare provider in Singapore recognised for its quality clinical care and its commitment in enabling healthier lives through preven�ve health, innova�ve solu�ons and personcentred programmes tailored to every life stage. At NHG Health, we add years of healthy life through life-changing careers where passion meets purpose.

Healthcare Management Associate Programme:

The Healthcare Management Associate Programme (HMAP) is a 2-year programme aimed at grooming graduates with outstanding leadership quali�es for a challenging and fulfilling career in NHG Health.

Your HMAP Journey starts with an orienta�on programme that builds founda�onal healthcare knowledge and networks across the NHG Health cluster

MAs can experience NHG Health’s healthcare func�on in the following areas:

• Pa�ent Opera�ons

• Support Opera�ons & Services

• Corporate & Strategic Planning

• And more!

Upon comple�ng HMAP, you’ll build your healthcare career in a department within your home ins�tu�on, with con�nued leadership development opportuni�es!

Sector(s)

• Healthcare and Pharmaceu�cal

Accepted degree disciplines

Open to all disciplines

Jobs available

Graduate jobs

Minimum requirement

Degree

Applica�on procedure

Visit h�ps://for.sg/nhghmap2026 to apply for HMAP today!

Applica�on periods

December - March

Selec�on process

Step 1: Apply via QR Code or link (Dec’25 – 6 Mar’26)

Step 2: Assessment Centre (Feb’26 – Mar’26)

Step 3: Interview (Mar’26 – May’26)

Step 4: HMAP Offer (Apr’26 – Jun’26)

Applica�ons are reviewed on a rolling basis. Apply for HMAP now!

Contact

7 Straits View, Marina One, Singapore 018936

Tel: (+65) 6236 3388

Web: h�ps://www.pwc.com/sg/en/careers/ students.html

Email: sg_graduate_recruitment@pwc.com

Loca�on(s)

Singapore

Interna�onal

Social media

@PwC Singapore

@pwc_singapore

@PwC Singapore

@pwc_singapore

@pwc_singapore

@PwCSingapore1

Number of employees

1,000 – 10,000 employees

To build trust in society and solve important problems.

More about us

PwC is a tech-forward, people-empowered network.

With deep exper�se and advanced capabili�es, PwC helps clients harness technology, make smart investments, and prepare for the future. Across audit and assurance, tax and legal, deals, and consul�ng, PwC brings together the teams, resources, and alliances necessary to act boldly and achieve real results. PwC supports clients in mee�ng the demands of an ever-changing world with consistent quality and objec�ve advice.

PwC recognizes that it is at its best when it brings together different perspec�ves, experiences, and skills. The network-wide Inclusion First strategy focuses on fostering a culture where everyone is included, everyone belongs, and everyone can thrive—reflec�ng PwC’s belief that inclusion is about each individual.

This approach means PwC embraces differences, develops the skills needed to work and lead inclusively, and cul�vates a breadth of abili�es that deliver unexpected insights and solve complex challenges facing both business and society.

Joining PwC offers individuals the chance to grow their poten�al, collaborate with leading professionals, and drive meaningful change. With innova�on, impact, and bold ac�on, PwC shapes the future.

Sector(s)

• Accountancy and Financial Management

• Banking and Financial Services

• Consul�ng

• Insurance and Risk Management

Accepted degree disciplines

• Accoun�ng

• Business Administra�on

• Economics

• Engineering

• Finance

• Humani�es, Art and Social Sciences

• IT and Computer Sciences

• Law

• Maths

• Sciences

Jobs available

Graduate jobs

Internships

Minimum requirement Diploma Degree

Applica�on procedure

Interested applicants may apply via PwC Singapore’s career page.

Applica�on periods

All year round

Selec�on process

Step 1: Online applica�on

Step 2: Applica�on Review and Shortlis�ng

Step 3: Interview and Assessment (where applicable)

Step 4: Employment Offer

Contact

1 Paya Lebar Link, #12-01/04, Paya Lebar Quarter, PLQ, #1, Singapore 408533

Tel: (+65) 6238 5971

Web: h�ps://www.propertygurugroup. com/joinus

Loca�on(s)

Singapore

Interna�onal - Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam

Social media

@propertyguru

@PropertyGuru Group

Number of employees

1,000 – 10,000 employees

More about us

PropertyGuru is Southeast Asia’s leading PropTech company, and the preferred des�na�on for over 32 million property seekers monthly to connect with over 50,000 agents monthly to find their dream home. PropertyGuru empowers property seekers with more than 2.1 million real estate lis�ngs, in-depth insights, and solu�ons that enable them to make confident property decisions across Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam.

Sector(s)

• IT and Technology

• Property and Real Estate

Accepted degree disciplines

• Accoun�ng

• Business Administra�on

• Economics

• Engineering

• Finance

• Humani�es, Art and Social Sciences

We power communities to live, work & thrive in tomorrow’s cities.

PropertyGuru.com.sg was launched in Singapore in 2007 and since then, PropertyGuru Group has made the property journey a transparent one for property seekers in Southeast Asia. In the last 18 years, PropertyGuru has grown into a high-growth PropTech company with a robust por�olio including leading property marketplaces and awardwinning mobile apps across its markets in Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand as well as the region’s biggest and most respected industry recogni�on pla�orm – PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards, events and publica�ons across Asia.

Proudly Top Employers Cer�fied, PropertyGuru con�nues to build an inclusive culture where our Gurus can excel, grow, and thrive.

• IT and Computer Sciences Jobs available

Internships Graduate jobs

Minimum requirement Degree

Applica�on procedure

PG career site to apply: h�ps://www.propertygurugroup.com/joinus

Applica�on periods

December – April

Selec�on process

Step 1: Online applica�on

Step 2: Ap�tude tes�ng

Step 3: Interview

Contact

52 Jurong Gateway Road, JEM Office Tower, #14-01, Singapore 608550

Tel: (+65) 6805 2871

Web: h�ps://www.sfa.gov.sg/about-us/careers

Loca�on(s)

Singapore Social media

@SGFoodAgency

@SGFoodAgency @sgfoodagency

@SGFoodAgency

@SGFoodAgency

Number of employees

500 – 1,000 employees

More about us

Get to Know Us

The mission of the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) is to ensure and secure a supply of safe food. To safeguard Singapore’s food security, SFA adopts a mul�-pronged approach which includes diversifying food import sources and increasing local food produc�on. To ensure that food in Singapore is safe for consump�on, SFA has in place an integrated farm-to-fork food safety system which adopts a risk-based approach guided by science and aligned with interna�onal standards. As food safety and security is a joint responsibility, SFA provides an enabling environment that supports all stakeholders to play their part. For more informa�on on SFA, visit www.sfa.gov. sg.

Join our Team

To ensure and secure a supply of safe food.

At the Singapore Food Agency, we are passionate in ensuring and securing a supply of safe food for Singapore. We are the true foodies who leverage science and technology to feed our na�on safely. We are looking for like-minded individuals to join us and shape Singapore’s food future together.

To find out more on career and scholarship opportuni�es, visit www.sfa.gov.sg/aboutus/careers!

Sector(s)

• Public Sector

• Scien�fic Research and Development

Accepted degree disciplines

• Sciences

Jobs available

Internships Graduate jobs

Applica�on

procedure

To view the current vacancies available at SFA, visit Careers@Gov. You will be able to submit an applica�on via Careers@Gov.

Applica�on periods

Graduate jobs: Jan - Dec

Internships: Jan - Dec

A DAY IN THE LIFE

7:00 AM

Joanna Yeo

DESIGNATION Manager

EMPLOYER

Singapore Food Agency

QUALIFICATIONS

Joanna received her Bachelor of Science (Life Sciences) from the Na�onal University of Singapore in 2012.

These real-world conversions – watching awareness turn into actual purchases –remind me of the impact of my work, and demonstrate how we’re successfully shifting consumer mindsets and connecting them with local farms.

My day starts with the commute to the office, where I catch up on industry news, the latest market trends and respond to text messages from stakeholders or follow up with vendors for project updates.

My work focuses on showcasing local produce and farms through collabora�ve partnerships with retailers, F&B establishments, industry associa�ons, schools and community partners to drive greater awareness and demand for homegrown produce. Thus, it’s important for me to keep up with what’s trending and what consumers want, so our marke�ng efforts stay ‘fresh’ and resonate with our target audience.

8:30 AM

At the office, I begin the workday by scanning through my calendar, emails, and to-do list to map out my priori�es for the day and week ahead. Much of my morning is dedicated to managing our ongoing collabora�ons with partners and our marke�ng agency, all focused on encouraging consumers to support local produce. This involves providing feedback on crea�ve concepts and campaign strategies, as well as reviewing and approving content dra�s and campaign execu�ons.

12:00 PM

Lunch is o�en the highlight of my day, as I get to catch up with my team or colleagues from other departments. I value these moments as we get to know each other be�er, build rapport, and develop genuine friendships beyond just being colleagues.

If there’s spare �me a�er lunch, I will pop by the supermarket nearby to check how our collabora�on with retailers to promote local produce is progressing, and gather insights for improvements when needed.

It’s rewarding to see customers stop to read our promo�onal materials and then reach out to grab some local produce. These real-world conversions – watching awareness turn into actual purchases – remind me of the impact of my work, and demonstrate how we’re successfully shi�ing consumer mindsets and connec�ng them with local farms.

2:30 PM

I prefer scheduling mee�ngs and any on-site visits right a�er lunch, as engaging in discussions with stakeholders and colleagues help maintain my energy and focus during the a�ernoon. I par�cularly enjoy crea�ve brainstorming sessions where we bounce ideas off each other and co-develop new ways to encourage support of local produce.

Beyond the planning stages, I also oversee the execu�on of our marke�ng efforts – from coordina�ng launch events and supervising the filming of TV adver�sements, to managing livestreaming sessions with local celebrity DJs, F&B partners and farmers. This hands-on involvement ensures our campaigns translate effec�vely from concept to reality, while allowing me to build rapport with the produc�on crew and talents. By sharing insights about local produce during these collabora�ons, I help them create content that is both authen�c and informa�ve.

6:00 PM

Thanks to our flexi-work arrangements, I will be working from home tomorrow. This means I will have extra �me to recharge and experiment with some new recipes using local produce!

JOIN US IN

SHAPING SINGAPORE’S FOOD FUTURE

At the Singapore Food Agency, we are passionate in ensuring and securing a supply of safe food for Singapore. We are the true foodies who leverage science and technology to feed our nation safely. Join us to shape Singapore’s food future together.

Toh Xin Ying

Contact

UOB Plaza, 80 Raffles Place, Singapore 048624

Tel: (+65) 8022 8688

Web: h�ps://www.uobgroup.com/careers/ early-careers/index.page

Loca�on(s)

Singapore

Social media @UOB @uobgroup @UOB @uob

Number of employees

10,000 – 50,000 employees

More about us

United Overseas Bank Limited (UOB) is a leading bank in Asia with a global network of more than 500 branches and offices in 19 countries and territories in Asia Pacific, Europe and North America.

In Asia, we operate through our head office in Singapore and banking subsidiaries in China, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand,as well as branches and offices. Our history spans more than 80 years.

Over this �me, we have been guided by our values – Honorable, Enterprising, United and Commi�ed. This means we always strive to do what is right, build for the future, work as one team and pursue long-term success. It is how we work, consistently,be it towards the company, our colleagues or our customers.

Sector(s)

• Banking and Financial Services

Accepted degree disciplines

Open to all disciplines

Jobs available

Graduate jobs

Internships

Minimum requirement

Diploma Degree

Applica�on procedure

Apply directly via UOB Career Portal > AON Culture Fit Assessment > HR screening call > Interviews > Offers

Selec�on process

Step 1: Online Applica�on

Step 2: AON Culture Fit Assessment

Step 3: HR Screening

Step 4: Interview

Our commitment: Our commitments make us who we are. Guided by our time-tested values of honour, enterprise, unity and commitment, we are focused on building the future of ASEAN.

Step 5: Offer

Flicking From The Back

GTI Asia Pte Ltd

(Company number: 200301978M)

3023 Ubi Road 3 #02-08/09 UbiPlex 1

Singapore 408663

T + (65) 6294 6505

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GTI Media is the world’s largest careers and graduate recruitment publisher. Founded in the UK in 1988, GTI publishes and distributes more than 100 careers and recruitment products around the globe.

GTI Media Singapore would like to thank everyone who has contributed to the 2026 issue of gradsingapore’s How to Get Hired Guide!

Editorial

Dawn Yip

Design & Production

Sahirah Zayyanah, A’liah Abdul Rahim, Clarisa James

Advertising

Ron Ong, The GTI Media Sales team

Client Relations

Eileen Ang, Rochelle Ngoi

Marketing & Distribution

Bestina Tan, Amelia Woo

Publisher

Isaac Hee

Printer

VisualTell Printing Pte Ltd

3015A Ubi Road 1, #02-11, #04-12

Singapore 408705

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the publishers cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies, or for consequential loss arising from such inaccuracies, or for any loss, direct or consequential, arising in connection with information in this publication.