Engineering and IT Jobs

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

sgCarMart - The Only Place for Smart Car Buyers

A lot of .com ideas are a combination of Information Technology and passion. Vincent Tan, founder and Business Development Manager of sgCarMart.com did just that.

“The idea for a car website was first conceived while I was still studying for my Mechanical Engineering degree at University.”

He shares that going into the IT and setting up what is now the largest Automotive website was not easy.

“Car dealers were used to the traditional way of advertising (newspapers) and many were reluctant to adopt this new approach of advertising online, so we had to educate them on the convenience and cost advantages of using our website as opposed to print classifieds.”

To read more on the interview, click here.

Thursday, December 11, 2008

SPRING Launches $4.5 Million Fund to Help Nurture Young Entrepreneurs in Schools

The Standards Productivity and Innovation Board of Singapore or SPRING is providing $4.5 Million Dollars for entrepreneurship programmes in various schools, universities and polytechnics.

"The Young Entrepreneurs Scheme for Schools or YES! taps on the $25 million Entrepreneurial Talent Development Fund (ETDF). ETDF, which was first launched in July 2004, provides seed money to students with sound business plans. To-date, 117 students and alumni from nine polytechnics and universities have tapped on the fund for 46 business ventures."

for the full article click here

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Impress Your Interview Now! - December 6, 2008




Footage of recently held workshop on Job Interviews by Steven Chong at the Level 5 Possibility Room.

Thursday, December 4, 2008

How to Start a New Career

It is fast nearing 2009 and there's a credit crunch underway. People seem to cope by taking jobs that get them by. Band aid solutions. Also, minus the credit crunch, people changing careers to gain diverse experiences is growing more common. We even see people juggling two or three careers at the same time. There are writers/businessmen. Call center agents/photographers and so on.

Global Productivity expert Neen James shares some step by step advice on how to start a new career.

James says, "Get out . Become involved in local networks and community events. Investigate groups that meet regularly in your area and get involved. This is a great way to meet new people, make new contacts and find out about jobs that are available close to home. "

Read more about it in How to Start a New Career

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Singapore Airlines

An airlines career has always been hot & glamorous. See Gwyneth Paltrow in the movie A View from the Top. Pilots and cabin crew get to travel all around the world and represent their country and company with grace and hospitality.

We got a chance to talk to Irene Mou, a cabin crew for Singapore Airlines. She shares,

“After a comprehensive almost four-month training course, Singapore Airlines’ cabin crew start by operating on board as Flight Stewardess/ Steward. Their promotion to higher ranks would be dependant on various factors, including good performance and dedication to work. Flight Stewardess/Steward will be promoted to Leading Stewardess/Steward, followed by the rank of Chief Stewardess/Steward and then, In-flight Supervisor.”

Check out our site for the full interview on a Singapore Airlines Career.

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Got a sweet tooth? Then how about being a Pastry chef

A JobsDB Special Report on Pastry Chefs

The Singapore Workforce Development Agency (WDA) has recently been emphasizing on the need for workers to upgrade their skills. The importance of skills upgrading is because –
Employers are looking for workers with the right skills. Many job opportunities are skills based.Skills advancement is important to stay employable. Learning a new skill can help to advance one’s career.

One such WSQ certified training provider in the dynamic Food & Beverage industry is Baking Industry Training Centre (BITC), Singapore - Asia’s premier baking academy. We chat with Mr Fabian Doh, principal of BITC, about the job prospects for a pastry chef.

"For those who are willing to work hard and are passionate about being a pastry chef, there are abundant opportunities to succeed. In fact, I believe in the 3 Ds – Dedication, Determination and Discipline. The hospitality industry is always steady and growing each year, and so is the demand for pastry chefs.
One can choose to work in hotels, cafes, resorts, cruise ships – all really exciting and pleasant working environments. Furthermore, being a pastry chef is a skill that enables you to work anywhere in the world. For those who wish to set up their own business, being a pastry chef provides the perfect platform to do so."
- Fabian

Read more about being a Pastry Chef here when you click.
Try your hand in the kitchen with these Food Recipes

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Good Advice from the Advisor

In these current hard economic times, a new breed of job is in hot demand - the corporate advisor.

What’s the job all about? Well, apparently corporate advisors help companies to restructure debts, organise private equity fundraising and a whole slew of other lifesaving activities for businesses in the red or who need to ‘trim the fat’ and become more ‘lean and mean’.

According to a report by Esther Fung in today’s edition of Today newspaper, even auditors and law firms are expecting an increase in clients, who will need their expertise to handle creditors and also operate more effeciently in the economic slowdown.

Accountants and lawyers… what a lifesaving tag team.

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Inspiring Careers- Audrey Quek, Beauty Queen Mum

It’s no mean feat running your own business, juggling a full-time career, taking care of a young daughter, and looking great all at the same time. But Audrey Quek, founder of Audrey Quek Image Consultancy, and winner of Junction 8’s Most Beautiful Mum contest 2007, does it with consummate style and elegant ease.

At only 33 years old, Audrey has built up a well established image consultancy, won a bevy of beauty queen titles, worked as a property manager, been a model, and has a Bachelors Degree in Real Estate with Honours from the National University of Singapore.

Read the full article here -
http://www.jobsdb.com.sg/Singapore/campus/inspiringcareers_Audrey_Quek.htm

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Always Call People With a Smile

With the Singapore Tourism Industry on a roll, it's no surprise that events and parties spring here and there. More than that, these happenings are a must if a company or group wants to promote its services and its culture.

Behind these are professionals who are often envied as they work the hottest events and marcomm jobs around. Rightly so, they should be envied as they get to work and play at the same time. They get to move from place to place and meet new people.

This can be strenuous of course, but the secret to this, as Singapore Parties' Lazio shares, is to always interact with and call people with a smile.

Reads more the full article on the Events Industry "Always Call People With a Smile"

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

The Power of Positive Paradigm

Career Events Seminar at National Library on 25 October 2008.

The Seminar -

The ability to harness the power of emotions to motivate self can enhance an individual's performance. Everyone can rise above the dampening and challenging circumstances and bloom if one can manage one's mindset and transform it to become positively powerful.

It is not fun, and of no value to be in the dumps. It is about time, one should stand up and take charge and press forward confidently.

The Facilitator -

Chiang Wen-Wei is a certified Life Skills Coach and certified Results Coach. He holds a Masters of Business Administration and BSc (Hons) from the UK.

He is a US Certified Behavioural Consultant for DISC profiling and is also certified for the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) Personality Profile Analysis and the BarOn Emotional Quotient Inventory (EQ-i) for Emotional Intelligence profiling and coaching.

He has more than 10 years experience in training and development, consulting and coaching.


Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Questions for Jobseekers to Use in Job Interviews

We see a lot of job interviews in the office since JobsDB also has placement services. Some interviewees were okay and some obviously did their homework. Apart from answering questions on how the company can benefit from you, how the company’s nature of business interests you, there are also more in depth questions that a job seeker can ask on the exact nature of work expected from him or her. Interviewing is after all a two way process

To help you prepare and even rehearse your upcoming job interview, here is an article by Neen James, Global Productivity Expert on the possible questions you can ask. Some of them include:

• Will I be reporting to you in this role?
• Who will I be reporting to when I join your team?
• Who will I be working with?
• How many people are in the team I will be part of?
• Are we required to work on public holidays?
• How long is the induction program?

Read up on Questions for Jobseekers to Use in Job Interviews for more.

Monday, October 20, 2008

Singapore Career Expo 2009




Friday, October 17, 2008

Sanden-Keeping Cars Cool

We'd like to focus on various industries to keep fresh graduates in the know of what's ahead of themin their careers. For those planning on becoming engineers, JobsDB.com Singapore's Industry Focus speaks with Raymond Cheow, an automobile engineer at Sandend International Singapore.

Sanden started developing compressors, heat exchangers and airconditioning in 1971 in Japan.It now owns 25% of the global market share for car ac's.

Raymond, who worked in the company fresh out of university believes on the employee's side, it takes:
  • a passion for cars
  • an understanding of fuel and energy management
  • keeping abreast with the latest technology.

He also believes that as a company Sanden has succeeded due to its precise and scientific R & D.He also believes that success is also dependent on employee satisfaction. At Sanden for example,an employee is allowed flexi time as long as they log in 44 hours a week to be able to spend time with the family.

Read more in Sanden-Keeping Cars Cool.

Monday, October 13, 2008

Prioritising Your Day to Accomplish More

This article is perfect for figuring out if you work too much or spend too much time relaxing. Read about work habits that are just right & healthy for you & your work.


Prioritising Your Day To Accomplish More
by Carol Halsey

Prioritising is a very important function of being organised. It is another method that puts you in control of your work responsibilities. In order to effectively prioritise, learn to recognise the difference between the important, the urgent and the unnecessary. It may seem that everything is urgent, and must be acted on first. This is not necessarily so. With good planning and prioritising, urgent situations will become less and less frequent.

Your first step to prioritising is to select those tasks you need to take action on tomorrow. These will come from your master list, along with new tasks generated during the day, which most likely are a result of phone calls, new assignments and mail. This list will be your daily "to do" list.

"Take 15 minutes at the end of each day to prepare a "to do" list for the next
day"

I suggest taking 15 minutes at the end of each day to prepare a "to do" list for the next day. There is no better time to be aware of what to accomplish tomorrow. Evaluate each item on your list as to its importance and urgency, and eliminate the unnecessary.

Next, prioritise your daily "to do" list. Select the top three most important tasks which must be completed, no matter what else happens that day. Number them 1, 2 and 3. It is essential to identify them in order of importance. During the day, an unexpected crises may erupt, or any number of things can happen that you did not plan on that will take time you hadn't counted on. But you will know that those top three tasks must be taken care of no matter what!

"Select your top 3 most important tasks which must be completed"

After identifying the top three, select, in order of importance, the second three most important tasks and number them 4, 5, and 6. However, these three may not be acted on until the top three are completed. This is because you have already determined they are not as high a priority. Following this process puts you in control of your "to do" list.

Keep your "to do list" small - no more than eight items. After all, it is a daily "to do" list. As you tick off completed tasks, you will have the feeling of accomplishment.
Accept the fact that you cannot do everything in one day. What may not be on the top of today's priority list, may very well be #1 on tomorrow's list. If you accomplish five or six items on your "to do" list each day, consider it a very productive day.

This, I have found to be a pretty comfortable standard, because so many other events take place each day that cannot be planned for, but take time. And remember, 5 or 6 a day adds up to 25 to 30 tasks completed each week.

By prioritising, you will know, every day, the top three most important tasks to be tackled before hitting your desk in the morning.

"You cannot do everything in one day"

Being organised requires commitment - your commitment - to try something new and to break old bad habits. The methods and techniques I offer are simple, easy to learn, and I guarantee they will work and your job will be a whole lot easier. You will also notice that you are less stressed.

©2001 Carol Halsey

Carol Halsey is Founder and President of Business Organizing Solutions. She is a professional organiser, consultant, speaker, and author of "93 Organizing Tips to Simplify Your Business Life." You can get this booklet and articles, ideas and a free Idea Kit, filled with simple tips for saving time, simply by visiting her web site: http://www.PilesToFiles.com.

Monday, October 6, 2008

Riding The Tourism Boom

Whatever field you come from, as long as you enjoy meeting new people and promoting what your country has to offer, this article will pique your interest in the tourism industry.

Riding the Tourism Boom

Kenneth Ng works at Universal Studios Singapore, which is one of the upcoming tourist attractions at Resorts World at Sentosa

Kenneth, what do you do at Resorts World at Sentosa?

I am part of the Universal Studios Singapore projects team that plans and coordinates everything from design, construction and the completion of Southeast Asia's first and only Universal Studios theme park.

I am also involved in the master-planning of our six zones in the theme park, which includes –
¡ Jurassic Park
¡ Super Hero City
¡ New York
¡ Hollywood

Universal Studios Singapore will be one of our two anchor attractions here at Resorts World at Sentosa. The other project is our Marine Life Park, which is the largest oceanarium in the world.

Your job sounds really exciting. Can you tell me more about it?

We are in the business of fun, and it's a great feeling to be creating joy for our customers when we open in 2010.

I work with our designers in the Universal Studios office in Los Angeles to create one of the best theme parks in the world. We pick the most exciting rides to be featured here – which is a feat, because all their rides are so exciting, and we have finite space.

Being spoilt for choice, we have to carefully scrutinize the designs of our attractions, and then decide what would be most attractive to theme park goers in this region. We then tweak it a little to make it either more relevant to our audiences here, or give it a fresh new twist so that even the most jaded theme park patron will find Universal Studios Singapore refreshing.

We are going to create 20 new attractions and two new zones which will be the first of its kind in the world. The privilege of being involved in this process is indeed very exciting. Of course, another key highlight would be the fact that I’ll be one of the first to ride on our dueling roller coasters in two year’s time, signifying the fruition of all our efforts!

Resorts World at Sentosa looks set to revolutionize the tourism sector with these fantastic attractions. How influential will they be in terms of promoting Singapore as a tourist destination?

The region has never seen such an integrated project that will change the tourism landscape of Southeast Asia forever.

Resorts World at Sentosa is slated to be one of the world’s most exciting family destinations, with a myriad of fun-filled offerings for the entire family.

With twin mega attractions, six hotels, a galore of entertainment and retail options, our S$6 billion mega- resort will be something Singaporeans will be very proud of.
Ultimately, we are looking to change the face of family holidays.

Do you find your job challenging at times?

This is probably the fastest rate that a mega theme park has been built, and with that, decisions have to be made very quickly.

But when it comes to the design of theme park rides, it's never easy as they are rather subjective. For example, some would prefer the rides to be steeper, or scarier. Some prefer more scenic rides. It's all about striking a balance, and ensuring that the entire experience has something for everyone.

Having said that, we are well on track to create one of the best tourist attractions in the region. So my long hours are well worth it at the end of the day.

What do you think are the prospects for the tourism/hospitality industry?

I believe that Resorts World at Sentosa will change the tourism and hospitality blueprint of Singapore and the region. With 12,000 direct job opportunities and 35,000 indirect hires, we are almost instantly creating some 47,000 jobs.

Singapore can also expect a surge in tourist arrivals, with the daily number set to jump by some 55 per cent when the two Integrated Resorts (IR) open in 2010, as highlighted by Minister for Trade and Industry, Mr Lim Hng Kiang, during our ground breaking ceremony in April 2007.

Besides a complete overhaul of the tourism and hospitality industries in Singapore, many sectors within the economy – from banking and finance, to transportation, infrastructure, engineering, education and even real estate, will enjoy the extra buzz with the spillover effects from both IRs. Did you like this story? We'd like to hear from you. Write to us at marketinginfo@jobsdb.com.sg

Monday, September 29, 2008

Remaining Relevant in The Workplace

Want to keep up to date and growing in your workplace? Read up for tips.

Remaining Relevant in The Workplace
by Kelly Services

Are your talents being recognized? Are you in a job that is allowing your career to develop? If not, then now is the time to assess your employability, perhaps consider moving jobs and making that all-important move up the career ladder. But knowing how to get the ball rolling for yourself, so that you can develop your own career plan, requires some serious thinking and careful planning and that's where leading recruitment organizations like Kelly Services can help.

Know yourself
If you are to win at work then you need to understand yourself. Have a clear picture of your own strengths and weaknesses, identify what makes you successful and what doesn't and try to make sure that your job is one that plays to your strengths. We all have weaknesses and if you have something which you feel might hold you back then stop worrying about it and take some action. There are very few difficulties that can't be overcome one way or another.

Set your goalsEveryone needs to have both professional and personal goals in life. If you want to achieve them you need to set some measurements for yourself on a weekly, monthly or yearly basis. If you don't know what you want then you'll know when you've got it.

Update your skills
Make sure you are getting the right training at work to enable you to do your job effectively. If you aren't then make your Human Resource Manager aware of why you need certain training and be enthusiastic about wanting it. If the training is not offered in-house then find out who runs the course you want, where you can do it, when and how much it will cost. Outside of your workplace you can enhance your interpersonal skills with activities such as competitive sport which is brilliant for team building or perhaps acting which is a big confidence booster for many people.

Commitment
Everyone talks about commitment these days but it is absolutely crucial that you believe in the organization you work for and respect the senior management who are leading it. You have to be in tune with the company philosophy, understand the company strategy, its direction - know where it is that the company is going and make sure that you are on the same train going in the same direction. Without this sense of commitment you lose something in terms of motivation and enthusiasm for the job.

Make your voice heard
There is a real difference between making your voice heard, i.e. bring assertive, and being aggressive. Don't be too pushy and alienate yourself from other people particularly your peer group because their support and respect for you is vital if you want to get on. Develop the art of timing, of presenting your ideas and views logically, of making sure that they will work and of being receptive of other people's ideas.

Take Responsibility
Being able to take responsibility and to take the consequences of that responsibility is absolutely crucial. Taking responsibility is about taking ownership. As companies move towards a flat management structure it has two main consequences. First, more junior jobs are becoming more responsible and more interesting but this greater level of empowerment for individuals also mean that you have to be able to cope with more pressure both physical and mental. It may be that suddenly you find yourself reporting to a Board Director with no-one in between which can be difficult. It may require some changes in the way you operate but it's not impossible.

Flexibility
As you become more senior in your career and career becomes more global as business increasingly shift to be 24/7, it is likely that you will not be working a 9-5 routine, and that you may have to travel, stay away from home and plan your own schedule. Companies need to see that you are prepared to be flexible to do the job that needs doing wherever it needs doing. A critical factor here is having a partner who is empathetic to the requirements of your job, who understands how important it is for you to be able to develop your career and who gives you support at home.

Networking
The importance of networking both within your own organization and outside cannot be underestimated. Internally it is important that you are respected and seen as being helpful in your peer group and it also helps if you are liked. Try to be the sort of people that other people like to bounce ideas off or ask advice from - be prepared to put yourself out for others. Outside the office you should be developing contacts with other like minded people so that you can provide mutual help to one another. If you want to get on in your career then getting to know the right people can help you get ahead.

Mentoring
The value of having a mentor at work provides an ideal environment for positive career development. Ideally at a more senior level, your mentor should be someone you respect, who doesn't have any direct line responsibility for you and who represents good working practices. It is with your mentor that you can discuss difficulties about your job, the people you work with etc. without any fear of repercussion. Your mentor will also be able to give you an objective view of situations and provide helpful advice. While you may be looking for a mentor it is also worth remembering that you could perhaps fulfill that role for someone else.

Career Coaches
Career coaches are an alternative to your mentor, manager and human resource staff. In the 21st century, individuals who wish to get ahead in their career or make transitions in some aspect of their career, by engaging a career coach will have an invaluable strategic alliance partner. Career coaches are effectively personal career consultants to individuals. They help their clients to look critically and objectively at their career and give unbiased guidance and feedback to enable reflective thinking and analysis for career success. They also assist with facilitating career risk analysis and career 'politics'.

Taking Risks
Taking risks is never easy but at some point in your career you will have to do so. It may be taking on a new job in a different area, it may be putting yourself forward for a more senior position or it may even be giving up your job and studying for qualifications that you believe will open new doors. Whatever it is, weigh up seriously all the pros and cons before you make your decision so that when you do take risks they are calculated ones and you are aware of the consequences. But at the end of the day, particularly where work is concerned, there is often an element of 'nothing ventured - nothing gained'.

Office Politics
There are office politics in all organizations, but it is probably true the larger the company the more chances there is that office politics assume a greater importance. There are two factors here that are really important. First you need to have someone at the head of the company that does not take part in office politics and basically who disregards them. Secondly, you need to develop a fairly thick skin so that you won't take every rumor and bit of gossip personally. Try and avoid office politics, it is a dangerous game which takes people's focus from the job they are doing and often creates a whole host of problems for them.

Work Smarter
Don't fall into the trap of trying to be the person who works the longest hours. Concentrate on delivering results and making sure those results are the best you can achieve. Be confident in your own success and other people will have confidence in you.

Being a winner
So what does being a winner take? Certainly commitment, enthusiasm and determination to make things happen; it also requires ambition motivation and a real drive for responsibility. It takes all of that, plus the right attitude and being in the right place at the right time with the right skills, abilities and a desire to succeed and thrive. Even if you are not looking to move now, you need to be monitoring what is happening in the employment market place. You need to be managing your own career getting yourself ready for the next move rather than waiting to see what might or might not happen. Career management must become part of your lifestyle. Just as you engage in health management by exercising regularly and eating a healthy diet and wealth management by thriftily saving, diversifying your investment and prudently investing; you need to ensure career wellness through effective career strategy and ensuring diligent implementation of your strategy for career success.

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Culturally Competent Resumes for the Global Market

To make in this age of globalization and international commerce, arm yourself with a resume and credentials that will get you a job anywhere.

Culturally Competent Resumes for the Global Market

Different cultures have different rules, customs, values, priorities, protocol, and religious or societal influences on business practices. For the culturally incompetent, the global job market provides a wealth of opportunity . . . to be misconstrued, misunderstood and misinterpreted.

You must prepare your resume with an international perspective. By presenting your personal information in a culturally sensitive manner, you will enhance your chances of success in the global job market. Follow some simple steps to avoid the pitfalls of cultural faux pas and prevent potentially embarrassing and costly miscues.

THE CURRICULUM VITAE
First, familiarise yourself with the international style resume -- the curriculum vitae (CV). Very few of the rules of writing a resume in the United States apply to overseas employment.

American employers generally favor shorter resumes. The standard CV is a far more detailed document, typically between four and eight pages long. It is essential to include details on the first page necessary to generate enough interest to encourage further reading.

Your CV is your passport and your personal marketing tool when seeking international employment. It tells an employer who you are, where you have come from and whether you are qualified. It is critical that you consider how you want to present yourself. While your CV should always be honest and accurate, you must avoid any cultural or lingual nuances that may reflect negatively upon you.

LANGUAGE AND MANNER
George Bernard Shaw once observed: "America and Britain are two nations divided by a common language." Subtle communication breakdowns can distort your message to international employers. Write clearly and concisely. Be polite and formal and do not try to be humorous. Informality and casualness can make a bad first impression with many international employers.

Never demonstrate poor communication skills and lack of attention to detail. As always, use correct grammar and spelling. Spelling mistakes stick out like the proverbial sore thumb. You will tend to see what you expect to see, so always have your CV proofread.

DESIGN
While there is no ideal layout for a CV, it should obviously be neatly typed and presentable. Strike a balance between creative design and content. Most international employers prefer candidates who are professional and businesslike rather than "cool."

Avoid unusual fonts, and keep margins within standard parameters so that materials can be easily read. Use fine resolution if you must send a CV by fax. Do not try to stand out by using fancy colored paper or ink. Good quality plain white or off-white paper and black ink are photocopier and fax-friendly.

CONTENT
Identify content that the employer is expecting to receive. Provide relevant and appropriate information. While there is no fixed format for content, there are certain expectations, some important things to include, and some to avoid. If you want to provide a culturally competent CV and be successful in your quest for international employment, you should include the following:


  • Name, address, contact telephone number and e-mail address.


  • Personal data.


  • A summary of your work history, roles, experiences, and achievements.


  • Summary of your professional qualifications and memberships.


  • Summary of your educational history.


PERSONAL DATA
Information such as marital status, age, sex, and nationality are rarely included on resumes in the United States, but are expected in many countries. International employers are under different legal constraints regarding the information they request from potential job candidates.

Many people, especially in the United States, consider age, sex, nationality, or marital status to be irrelevant. In the global job market, it is the potential employer who ultimately decides what is relevant. If you do not provide the required information, you run the risk of being eliminated from the pool of applicants.

You should include on your CV any and all information that is likely to influence the decision to further your application. For example, nationality often has a direct impact on whether the candidate will be allowed to work overseas. For better or worse, most employers use a profile of their ideal employee as a basis for arranging candidate interviews.

WORK HISTORY
The work history section is the central aspect of every CV. Include geographical locations to demonstrate your ability to adjust to new environments. Employers want to judge the breadth of your experience by evaluating where and when it was gained.

Traditionally, you should summarize each job in reverse chronological order, giving employer name, job title, start/end dates and a description of duties. Focus on the most recent five years -- anything prior to that can be dealt with briefly individually or summarized into a couple of paragraphs.

EDUCATIONAL HISTORY
With the exception of recent graduates whose academic qualifications are their primary asset, general education information should be summarized toward the end of the CV.

However, relevant professional education should be mentioned prominently on the first page. Similarly, if you attended an internationally recognizable university, you should highlight it sooner rather than later. Prioritize and assess the value of content in your document.

When forwarding a CV to a potential employer, include copies of all diplomas, certificates, and transcripts.

OTHER INFORMATION
Include all other relevant information such as visa status, language proficiency, cross-cultural training, or international experience.

International employers often refer to references as "referees" and cover letters as "covering letters." Cover letters should include an objective statement -- a concise statement of what the candidate has to offer and what he or she is looking for. From this information, the employer can easily decide whether to consider the attached CV. Avoid long and rambling cover letters. The cover letter is also a good place to address salary requirements (if requested by the employer).

CONCLUSION
We have examined the general expectations of an international resume, but must also concede that we are all individuals. You probably share many traits in common with other American citizens, but differ in other ways. What all international employers will respond well to are preparation, planning, knowledge, experience and competence. Good luck!

About the Author
Sarah Histed-Shergill was born and raised in England and studied law and business at Brockenhurst College. She has lived in Denmark and Australia and studied international relations in Florence, Italy, before earning her degrees from the University of Wisconsin at Madison.
Sarah is currently a recruiter in the Management Advisory Services division of Wegners LLP in Madison, Wisconsin. Her past experience in human resources and diversity education and training includes serving as director of administration in a large Dane County non-profit organization. Article Source: http://www.quintcareers.com/

    Singapore Taxation - An Overview

    A workshop on the basics of Singapore Taxation Laws and Procedures by CPA Mr Lim Lian Soon.

    Fee: S$428 (subject to 7% GST)
    Date:Thursday, September 25, 2008
    Time:9:00am - 5:00pm
    Location:Le Meridien Orchard

    Understanding Deferred Tax

    Cecilia Handel, chartered accountant & Manager at PricewaterhouseCoopers, Singapore lectures on deferred tax and the computation skills for it.

    Date: 2 Oct 2008
    Time:9:00am – 5:00pm
    Fee:S$538 (subject to 7% GST)
    (Lunch and Refreshments will be provided)
    Venue:Le Meridien Hotel Orchard
    Enquiries:For more information, please call Lynn at 68611000 or email us at learning@jobsdb.com.sg

    Monday, September 15, 2008

    Preparation for Interviews

    Preparing for Interviews
    presented by Kelly Services


    This is an important process that job seekers may overlook. It is not a process that requires a lot of time but it does require some discipline. Often, the toughest part of getting any job is likely to be the interview - that moment when you come face to face with a prospective employer and just when you need all the confidence you can muster it seems to completely disappear. Getting through interviews and making them work effectively for you is something everyone can do - it just takes careful planning. If you want to make a good impression, preparation is necessary.

    Homework

    If an interview has been set, you will know the name of the employer (company name). Do your homework, find out more about the employer. Find out as much as you can about the job, analyse the job description, try and work out what sort of person is required and match that to your own strengths and skills. This information can be found using many sources. Business directories and listings and company websites are useful sources and full of information. Company profiles can also be found in their annual reports. You could also speak to friends, relatives and acquaintances that are working to find out what they know about a certain company or job. If you are confident enough, you may also wish to call up the company and speak to their corporate communication or human resource department. Staff in corporate communication and human resource are generally willing to assist by giving out non-sensitve information on their company provided you explain your purpose. Larger companies and foreign companies tend to be more open to giving information. Some questions you can ask - nature of business, where they are based or where are their headquarters, what are their main products. This type of information is non-threatening and most companies use it in their publicity material.

    If you are through an organisation such as Kelly Services then your consultant will be able to give you a detailed job description and make sure you know all about the position before you get there.

    Time and Place of Interview
    Take mental note of this information. Often people forget or get flustered over last minute details. If necessary, check a street directory on the exact location of the building and the location of the stopping points of the public transporation system nearest to the place of interview.

    Attire
    Plan what you are going to wear the day before the intervierw. Ensure your clothes are clean, fresh and well pressed. Take cues from others you know in that profession or sector. It is better and safer to be slightly conservative. Some men wear suits for interviews. It is not really necessary unless it is a senior appointment. A conservative simple tie, a well pressed long sleeve shirt and dar trousers is adequate for men. Fpr women, a dark jacket with a plain or light pastel shade blouse always gives a professional appearance. Skirts should be of appropriate length. Jewellary and accessories must not be distracting to the interviewer. Avoid clothing that is ill-fitting, revealing, casual or unprofessional.

    Ensure your hair is properly combed or brushed. If you wear aftershave or perfume, choose something with a light fragrance; avoid anything that is 'overpowering'. For ladies, light make-up is permitted. Ensure you appear fresh and relaxed.

    Documents
    Be sure to place the important documents, references and information in a presentable well-organised folder. A folder with clear plastic sheets is handy and you can display all your certificates nicely without having to take them in and out of an envelope. Some applicants bring their documents and references rolled up or all crumpled and folded - this creates an impression of a disorganised person. Make it easy for you display all your documents easily to your prospective employer. Carry the folder in a presentable briefcase that makes you look professional. Avoid shopping and travel bags.

    Friday, September 12, 2008

    JobsDB Grand Prix Racing


    The world's first Formula 1 Night Race hits Singapore streets from 26-28 September.

    If you're not a driver and you can't get enough of the speed, race your own car in the JobsDB.com Grand Prix Racing Game at http://www.jobsdb.com.sg/.

    Rev up and get a chance to win gizmos from Informatics Global Campus.


    Wednesday, September 10, 2008

    5 Quick Steps to a New Job

    Job hunting? Here's a quick and effective guide especially for new job seekers and fresh graduates.


    5 Quick Steps to a New Job
    by Atul Mathur


    On the face of it, getting a new job appears to be a straightforward affair: Just look for job opportunities in the newspapers or on the Internet, prepare resumes, send applications, appear at interviews and accept job offers. The process is indeed simple; it’s not rocket science. Yet, as you probably know, job search can sometimes extend to painfully long periods of time, going up to months or even years. And when a new job doesn’t come along after repeated attempts, it’s common for job seekers to point fingers in various directions.

    Some people blame their qualifications. Some see the general scarcity of jobs as the main problem. To those who have many years of experience, the age appears to be the main barrier. There is no doubt that economy, market demand, qualification, experience, age and luck—all play a part in making it easier or difficult for you in the job market. But unfortunately, what most people don’t realise is that a set of completely different factors is more responsible for their long, inconclusive job search. To understand these factors, you have to first understand the hiring process.

    Getting a job is like surviving a multi-round game of elimination, which begins with spotting job opportunities and ends at interviews. Some people don’t use the right job search methods and thereby fail to even spot job opportunities. They get eliminated even before the real game begins. Some do see the job opportunities, but their weak and unacceptable resumes fail to open doors for interviews. Out of those who survive up to the interview stage, many bow out of the race because they fail to project their own value to the employers. Finally, the winner is someone who survives all through and proves to be the best among fellow survivors.

    If you have been looking for a new job for quite some time and are in the mode of blaming lack of opportunities, education, experience, luck, age, etc. for your current situation, it’s time you shifted focus to the way you are playing the game. Specifically, pay attention to the following five steps.

    Play by the rules
    It was Albert Einstein who said: “You have to learn the rules of the game. And then you have to play better than anyone else.” Play by the following rules:

    ● Rule of least effort: At every stage of your job search, ensure that employers spend least effort (and time) while dealing with you.

    ● Rule of Needs and Means: Your success lies in understanding employer’s needs and then showing that you’ve the means (experience, education, skills) to satisfy those needs.

    ● Rule of seeds: If you want something to happen, plant more seeds—make more attempts and be prepared that many of these attempts will not bring the desired results.

    ● Rule of obsession: When you chase jobs that you are obsessed about, you are bound to succeed. Your obsession is your trump card.

    ● Rule of perceived value: What matters is not what you think about yourself, but how much value employers see in you.
    Conduct smart job search
    If you ask 500 different persons how they got their jobs, you might see two interesting insights emerging from the replies. First, there are not just two or three methods of searching for a job. There are at least 10 different ways of finding a job. Second, not all methods are equally effective. For example, seeking help from your colleagues and friends can be one of the most productive ways of getting a job.

    The smart job search is about knowing all the different methods of spotting job opportunities and then focusing on the ones that promise quicker results.

    Prepare compelling resume
    Once you spot a job opportunity, it boils down to how compelling is your resume. In the job market, your resume is like a brochure about your capabilities. And employers treat it the same way you treat the brochures you come across in your daily life. If your resume is neat, relevant, simple, solid, sharp, short, solid and without mistakes, it can open doors for interviews and vice-versa.

    Send impressive cover letters
    An impressive cover letter accompanying a well-written resume can make a significant difference to your job prospects.

    The purpose of a cover letter is to connect personally with a specific person on the other side and also to show how well positioned you are to meet and even exceed employer’s needs. Cover letter is a critical document as it makes the first impression.

    Be a success at interviews
    If everything goes well, you will reach the final stage—interview. How you conduct yourself, not just during the interview, but also before and after it, decides your ultimate fate. If you prepare well, avoid well-known pitfalls and follow proven strategies, you will come out a winner.

    Scores of highly capable, sincere and hardworking people stay stuck in their jobs or suffer unemployment just because they lack the skills to survive and play the hiring game. You need not be among them. If you learn the above five steps, you might find it is after all not that difficult to get a new job.

    Thursday, September 4, 2008

    JobsDB 10th Anniversary Gala Dinner

    Tuesday, August 26, 2008

    JobsDB.com Singapore Press Release


    Read up on the latest press from JobsDB Singapore in HRM Singapore Magazine.

    Thursday, August 21, 2008

    Resume Checklist

    For those applying for a job, here are some things to note when writing a power resume.

    Resume Checklist
    presented by Kelly Services


    DO
    ü Include a recent and presentable passport-sized photo

    ü Keep it short and precise

    ü Use action and achievement words

    ü Attach a cover letter

    ü Make it easy

    ü Start with your current or most recent job

    ü Personalise your resume to suit the application

    Do not
    Send more than one application for the same job in hope that it will be noticed. It will be noticed but negatively.

    X Use fancy, perfumed or coloured paper

    X Exclude name of employer (company name).

    X Use 'Whitener','White Tape', 'Tipex' to blank off information on the resume

    X Send out poor or unclear photocopies

    X Exceed 2 pages for your resumes.

    The article is extracted from a publication by Kelly Services' called "Best Foot Forward". It is a 52 page guide for job seekers on job search tips. To obtain your very own copy of "Best Foot Forward", please send an email to marcom@kellyservices.com.sg.
    Kelly Services is a Fortune 500 company offering human resources solutions that include temporary services, staff leasing, outsourcing, vendor on-site and full time placement. With more than 2500 company owned and operated offices in 26 countries, Kelly provides nearly 800,000 employees annually.

    Tuesday, August 12, 2008

    Time to give up on print recruitment ads?

    Read on the debate on Paperless Internet Classified Ads vs. Job Ads in Print Media and newspapers from an article in humanresourcesonline.net


    Time to give up on print recruitment ads?

    Singapore – Despite the rise of companies investing more in online recruitment ads to entice the internet-savvy jobseekers, print recruitment ads are here to stay. Or maybe not.

    With the evolution of the internet and its interactive features, Samuel Sung, founder and chairman of JobsDB Inc, believes a recruitment print ad is no longer the right hiring channel for companies. Pointing out the disadvantages of newspapers ads, Sung says, “The newspaper is not interactive. It does not push the information to the reader. It is very passive.”

    Furthermore, there is a slower response rate for newspapers recruitment ads, which is highly unlikely to happen for the more proactive internet, states Sung. “Internet generates quicker responses, instant posting and people who want to post jobs can do it within 24 hours. For newspapers, you have to wait for some days, [which is] the usual.”

    Read more in http://www.humanresourcesonline.net/news/8082

    Wednesday, August 6, 2008

    Designed for Success

    Aspiring young graphic designers and illustrators can check out this article on how to make it in the industry.

    Designed for Success

    Thihan Kyaw is from Myanmar and he recently graduated with a Diploma in Publication and Illustration from the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA).He shares his dreams for the future with Mark Lim, JobsDB Campus editor.

    My graduate showcase is a children’s story book called Pollyanna and the Prince of Happy Land, which I wrote and illustrated.

    It’s about a girl called Pollyanna who meets a Prince in her dreams. I was inspired to write the book after teaching Art part time on weekends to children who are between 10 -12 years old.

    While teaching them how to draw and colour, they shared with me that Art was a great outlet for them to express themselves and it enabled them to find freedom from the stress and routine of school work.

    Therefore I believe that it is important for us to always believe in the power of imagination and never give up on our dreams. I have really enjoyed my studies at NAFA and feel really confident to enter the working world as a graphic designer.

    My teachers are really professional and helpful and have instilled in me a passion and appreciation for the fine details of good design and helped to give me a strong aesthetics foundation. As part of my diploma program, I also undertook a 3 month industry attachment at Marshall Cavendish International Singapore, where I got to do hands-on graphic design and book publishing work on the My Pals Are Here! Primary Science textbooks, in addition to other projects.

    It was an eye-opening experience and I’ve been very fortunate to have worked with some truly professional designers and editors during my 3 months there.

    The graphic design industry in Singapore is very vibrant and there are a lot of opportunities out there for hardworking young people, so I can’t wait to get started on my first job. Plus, there are so many great job listings on JobsDB.com, so hopefully one of them is meant for me!

    Tuesday, August 5, 2008

    Singapore Career Fair 2008



    Monday, August 4, 2008

    StreetDirectory gets new features after merge with JobsDB.com

    Singapore—StreetDirectory.com is now back online and improved with integrations by JobsDB.com.

    StreetDirectory has recently been acquired from Virtual Map via a merger by JobsDB.com, Asia’s largest online recruitment network. As a result, Street Directory has the additional feature of finding jobs available within a 5km radius and panning from one neighborhood to the next. Streetdirectory has also retained its location search via postal code.

    To avoid further legal issues, JobsDB.com chairman Sam Sung said StreetDirectory opted to start all over with its own cartographers and land surveyors to build the maps.

    Mr. Firdhaus Akber, former managing director of Virtual Map and now managing editor for StreetDirectory, is joined by more than 10 senior executives in the new entity. Akber expressed hope that its customer base of 100 companies will continue their patronage.

    See Also ZDNet Asia Article

    Friday, August 1, 2008

    Is There Employment After 50?

    There is quite some difficulty in terms of job searching and the new graduates and people aged 50 years and above find it more daunting.

    The article below discusses tips on discovering the job market for people over 50 or who are returning from retirement, or are in the middle of career transitions.

    IS THERE EMPLOYMENT AFTER 50?
    By Susan Dunn

    I'm the "Ask the Expert" for some websites, and lately I've been getting questions about employment after 50. Since many of my clients are in midlife career transitions, I can tell you firsthand - yes, there is life after 50.

    However, I sought more external validation. Since these workers assumed no one wants them over 50, I set out to find employers who preferred people over 50. I found 6 people who said what we all know - generalities don't apply in every case - but on average they would look first at the candidate over 50, and their reasons varied. Some employers don't consider age at all, and all have their preferences, but they vary, so don't assume the opposite!

    So what should you do if you're downsized, retiring, or simply ready to be revitalized?
    First of all, consider the experience you've gained in your own field. Now consider that transition coaches know this much about what they do, and hire a coach. It's a good time to have someone with expertise and experience in your corner! Some career coaches work with companies to see what the culture and climate is like before they refer you!
    Work on your attitude. If you aren't excited, happy and positive, you should be, because this could be your chance to finally do what you really want to do.

    Flexibility, an EQ competency, will come in handy. The more flexible you can be in your thinking, the more options you'll have. One retired military officer I knew, started volunteering at a homeless shelter, and then when the job of director came up, they already knew and trusted him, and he was hired.
    Use your networks. Talk to the people you know. One of my clients who's moving said he was going to call the his fellow alumni in the new town. "One person knows one person…" he said. If you're a networker, the hunt will go faster.

    Assess your strengths. I recommend the StrengthsFinder™ profile with interpretation from an experienced coach. This assessment taps your innate talents, which may have been jostled, shunted aside, considered a weakness, or be no longer recognizable. This is a chance to get to the core you, and maybe for the first time get the job you were meant to do. I've seen it happen!
    If you choose to work for someone else, remember your age will be more of an issue if you agree! I've always had friends of all ages, and I've seen people of all ages make contributions to the places where I've worked.

    Share the knowledge you've gained from experience, mentoring folks who are younger, just because it feels good and helps the workplace.

    Some people chose this time to jump ship and go into business on their own, or become consultants.

    Both of these involve marketing ability, which may be new to you, and the mindset of the entrepreneur so, again, I'd recommend a coach. It can save you a lot of time and "learning experiences."

    Thursday, July 31, 2008

    A Flair for Hair

    Here's an article from JobsDB Singapore Campus on Hair Stylist Apprenticeships.
    A Flair for Hair gives us a look into a fabulous and dare I say cutting edge industry.

    A Flair For Hair

    Von Ang is a hairstylist at Clover Salon, and he has been helping clients to look their best for the last 8 years.

    Even in his early teens, Von knew that his passion and calling was to be a hairstylist as he enjoyed cutting and styling his friends’ hair. JobsDB Campus editor, Mark Lim, chats with Von to find out more about his chosen profession.

    Von, how did you become a hairstylist?
    After saving some money, I enrolled in a 3 month intensive hairstyling course, where I learned about the detailed and finer aspects of shampooing, blow drying, colouring and cutting. I also studied about hair, so that I could better understand the different types of hair that clients have, and what type of hairstyles will best suit their face shapes.
    The course was very useful and has definitely given me greater confidence as a hairstylist as I am now able to clearly communicate with my clients when they ask me for advice about their hair.


    “Every day is a learning day.”
    - Von Ang, Hairstylist


    What's it like being a hairstylist?
    First of all, I really enjoy my job as it’s my passion and I definitely believe that everyone should be able to work in a job that they are passionate about, as it definitely makes their working life much more meaningful and enriching.

    As a hairstylist, every day is a learning day as we are always working hard to master new hairstyling techniques, trying and recommending new hairstyling products to our clients, so that they will able to look and feel good.

    Our clients come from all walks of life – doctors, lawyers, accountants and even students. It’s definitely a very empowering experience when people trust you with something as important as their hair, which is a crucial part of their self-image. Furthermore, it’s also about building a good relationship with our clients so that they will feel comfortable and satisfied with our service, and in the process, recommend their friends to us.What do you like best about being a hairstylist?
    I feel a deep sense of satisfaction whenever a client tells me that people really like the hairstyle that I’ve done for them. To me, that is just as important as getting a good salary, which for that matter is pretty decent too, as experienced and talented hairstylists can earn a good income these days.

    There is always a shortage of good hairstylists everywhere in the world, and famous local hairstylists like David Gan and Addy Lee are just two examples who have made it big in Singapore and also overseas.Is it challenging being a hairstylist?
    I’m sure that every profession has its challenges, and hairstyling is no different. When I first started out as a hairstylist, I had to work hard to learn everything about a hair salon, and even now after eight years, I still constantly keep abreast of the latest trends and updates in the hairstyling world, so that I’m able to stay ahead of the competition and ensure that my clients are satisfied and continue to engage my hairstyling service.What are your goals and dreams for the future?

    Currently, I’m very happy working at Clover Salon as it’s a fantastic place and I’ve got great colleagues, so it’s great coming to work everyday.
    As for the future, I hope to have my own salon someday.

    Clover Hair Salon is located at 14 Scotts Road, Far East Plaza, #03-12. You can call them at 6836 2748 to make an appointment today.