Work It Out
Your guide to life towards your first legitimate resume to your first step into the working world
Written by Charmaine Sim | Photographed by Charmaine Sim & Ong Yu Jie
Ong Yu Jie’s first day of work was unlike any other - she didn’t turn up at all!
In fact, the 27-year-old Publicity Executive at Bushiroad was asleep when her manager rang. They found out she hadn’t received a confirmation of her starting date.
Difficulties are the norm, but overcoming them is what makes life-changing experiences.
It’s ok to ask for help.
Believing that her problems could be solved with a Google search, Yu Jie felt annoyed with herself when she searched for help.
Yvonne Chng, 41, a Marketing Director from United International Pictures feels that it’s part of the learning process.
It’s all about getting along with others.
“Work is still work. So, if you’re still cordial and friendly with each other, it still works out,” Yu Jie justified.
Yvonne is a Marketing Director with 19 years of work experience.
Sometimes, individual personalities clash and you cannot do anything about it.
With 19 years of work experience under her belt, Yvonne advised, “You have to decide for yourself what is the optimal working environment you want to be in because this attacks your emotional and even mental health.”
Know what are your priorities.
Yvonne was solemn as she described how she pushed away her friends and family to focus on her job. When her best friend was hospitalised, work became her excuse and escape.
However, Yvonne has no regrets.
Everyone has different prioritisations; it’s your choice to decide which is more important.
Here are some tips from the Education and Career Guidance (ECG) counsellors at NYP ECG@Central:
Create your personal brand
Personalise job applications according to the job or company. Highlight relevant qualities, experiences, accomplishments, knowledge, skills and strengths. (Don’t forget cover letters!)
Embrace the industry for what it is
You may have certain expectations but sometimes, the industry may not be all that “together”. Reach out, find a mentor and build genuine relationships. Soon, you’ll see yourself contributing and changing the world little-by-little, one day at a time.
It’s ok if you don’t have your life figured out at 21
It’s important to regularly self-examine what is important and meaningful to you. After that, take action.
