CAREER CONNECT NEWSLETTER
4 Q 3 2 0 2 | 1 1 e u s Is
Director’s Note DR AARON TAN Director, Learner Advisory & Career Centre Singapore Institute of Management
Hello everyone!
Hello everyone!
Very quickly we have come to the last issue of our Quarterly Newsletter specially put together by the team from Career Connect for you! We hope you have been enjoying the past issues as much as we enjoyed putting it together!
Very quickly we have come to the last issue of our Quarterly Newsletter specially put together by the team from Career Connect for you! We hope you have been enjoying the past issues as much as we enjoyed putting it together!
With the holiday season upon us, we have decided for this issue to work with the theme of tourism and its impact on Singapore’s economy and employment market. With so many people around the world on ‘travel revenge’, the tourism industry, and its related industries (e.g. airlines, hotels, etc.), in many countries have seen a boom in the past year, and the momentum is likely to carry on through next year. What are the in-demand jobs available out there? Would this industry be right for you? We hope this issue will help shed some light on this. Many of you may have noticed the refreshed appearance of the Career Connect office façade at Block B Level 1. This is part of our re-branding exercise to bring about greater awareness of the services that all students can make use of. Whether you are a beginner Explorer, a cool Adventurer, or a confident Ranger in your career journey, we’ve got something for you! Not sure what your persona is? Find out more inside!
With the holiday season upon us, we have decided for this issue to work with the theme of tourism and its impact on Singapore’s economy and employment market. With so many people around the world on ‘travel revenge’, the tourism industry, and its related industries (e.g. airlines, hotels, etc.),Finally, in many countries have seen a boom in the past year, and the momentum is likely to as we wrap up the year with this last issue, I would like to take this opportunity to wish one and all a Blessed Christmas and a Wonderful New Year. carry on through next year. What are the in-demand jobs available out there? Would this Cheers! industry be right for you? We hope this issue will help shed some light on this.
We have also lined up a number of interesting recaps of events that happened in the past couple of months which I’ll leave you to read and enjoy for yourself. If you missed any of these events, don’t worry, we have even more exciting events being planned for you in 2024! So do look out for our announcements via our Career Sense app (please download from App Store or Google Play), social media channels and digital signboards around campus. Here I would like to give a shout out to the DREAMS Career & Internship Fair coming real soon on 23 February! Mark your calendars and look out for all the exciting events and workshops leading up to the Fair to help you better prepare for that job or internship you have been dreaming about.
Many of you may have noticed the refreshed appearance of the Career Connect office façade at Block B Level 1. This is part of our re-branding exercise to bring about greater awareness of the services that all students can make use of. Whether you are a beginner Explorer, a cool Adventurer, or a confident Ranger in your career journey, we’ve got something for you! Not sure what your persona is? Find out more inside! We have also lined up a number of interesting recaps of events that happened in the past couple of months which I’ll leave you to read and enjoy for yourself. If you missed any of these events, don’t worry, we have even more exciting events being planned for you in 2024! So do look out for our announcements via our CareerSense app (please download from App Store or Google Play), social media channels and digital signboards around campus. Here I would like to give a shout out to the DREAMS Career & Internship Fair coming real soon on 23 February! Mark your calendars and look out for all the exciting events and workshops leading up to the Fair to help you better prepare for that job or internship you have been dreaming about. Finally, as we wrap up the year with this last issue, I would like to take this opportunity to wish one and all a Blessed Christmas and a Wonderful New Year. Cheers!
MEET THE TEAM ADVISOR
Carissa Yeo
University of London Bachelor of Science (Accounting and Finance)
EDITORS
Mirrah Nadira
RMIT University Bachelor of Communication (Professional Communications)
Samhita D Mitta
University of London Bachelor of Science (Management and Digital Innovation)
WRITERs
Priscilla Low
Senthilkumar Gokul
Lee Wen Le
University of London Bachelor of Science (Banking and Finance)
University of Wollongong Bachelor of Computer Science (Digital Systems Security and Cybersecurity)
University of Birmingham Bachelor of Science (Business with Communications)
Qamelia Hisham
Cheryl Santoso
Kumar Dhanoosh Narayan
University at Buffalo Bachelor of Arts (Psychology)
RMIT University Bachelor of Business (Management)
Singapore Institute of Management Diploma in IT
Wen Le & Nadira
Career Connect Rebranding
In line with our recent rebranding initiatives, we're thrilled to introduce two exciting new projects that students should keep an eye on! We released a series titled “Slice of Life, Career Connect’s Archive” on our Instagram. Through short videos including vlogs, podcasts and street interviews, we showcased what we accomplish at Career Connect with a more entertaining approach. In these videos, students’ concerns were addressed and ways we can assist them in their career journey have also been brought forth by our Talent Development Programme interns. Additionally, we have introduced three new personas to guide students in their career progression- Explorer, Adventurer and Ranger.Through our personality profiling, discover your career interests, values as well as personality and skills to identify where you are on your current career journey and how you can step into the right direction of your career roadmap.
IDENTIFY YOUR PERSONA! Explorer Every adventure starts with a first step. Come talk to us about where to begin
adventurer Discover your Career Values, Interests, Personality and Skills. Time to level up your career readiness!
ranger Time to gain a competitive edge, fill those skill gaps, and ace the job-search process. Let us empower you, ranger!
Discover your career pathway through careerconnect now!
Qamelia & DHANOOSH
career connect
roadshow
2023
On 20 & 21 September, Career Connect's Roadshow energised Block B Level 1 with engaging activities, complimentary snacks, and a memorable photo booth. As part of our rebranding, three personas (Adventurer, Explorer, and Ranger) were introduced, providing students with a fresh perspective on their professional potential.
resume clinic One of the highlights of the 2-day event was the Resume Clinic. Expert career coaches provided invaluable insights, proving to be a game-changer for attendees seeking to stand out with polished resumes.
Amidst the excitement, Career Connect proudly showcased the CareerSense app, an innovative tool designed to navigate the complexities of career planning and development. Participants also had a sneak peak of the upcoming IGNITE career fair.
Mark your calendars for our upcoming
ROADSHOW 2024 on February 14-15
Nadira
CAREER WORKSHOPS WOrkshop Till You drop Wondering what career workshops to go for? You can look out for some of Career Connect’s career workshops through these channels- Career Connect’s Instagram and Telegram, and the CareerSense app. Additionally, these workshops are usually free! They help you grow as an individual, which will in turn help you in your career journey. A new reel series titled ‘Workshop Till You Drop’ (WTYD) on Instagram provides students with more information regarding upcoming workshops. The series interviews both students on their experience attending these workshops, and trainers on how students can benefit from their workshops. From these videos, students can gain a deeper insight into the workshops Career Connect offers and hopefully encourage more to attend these curated workshops. As our WTYD hosts like to say, “What are you waiting for? Here at Career Connect, your adventure awaits!”
Here are some of the workshops we conduct!
Psychology of Flourishing Learn how to improve different aspects of your life to maximise growth Personal Presence and Confidence Learn how to leave an impression on others especially your employers!
! S L E E R R U O T U O K C CHE
Art and Science of the Deal: Negotiation Learn how to be a better negotiator especially when it comes to employment benefits
CHERYL & Dhanoosh
Company TALKS Our partners from Maybank Singapore and Malaysia visited us on 19th September 2023 and unveiled their ‘Mbassador Programme’ to our students. Teaming up with LinkedIn associates, they provided invaluable insights on optimising and building attractive LinkedIn profiles. The Maybank team shared about career prospects within their organisation and what sets them apart from other banks in Southeast Asia. As part of this collaboration, up to five suited students will be selected as Maybank's Ambassadors at SIM. They will lead projects to showcase their potential and elevate Maybank's presence among peers. Ambassadors, as a mark of their commitment, will receive exclusive benefits, including priority consideration for full-time job applications and a guaranteed internship opportunity.
Maybank Mbassador Programme
Participant Testimonial
‘The Maybank Talk provided a refreshing experience with its engaging information session. It offered a comprehensive overview of their core values and culture, encapsulated in the TIGER Value. The insightful presentation left me with a clear understanding of Maybank's commitment to excellence and innovation in the financial industry.’ Pearl Lim Yiting, Year3, 3, UOW UOW Computer Science (Cyber (Cyber Security) Security) Pearl Lim, Year Computer Science
On October 10, 2023, Uniqlo’s recruitment talk started with the friendly speakers sharing their work experiences with Uniqlo, particularly as a Uniqlo Manager Candidate (UMC). They elaborated on their intensive training program designed for UMCs, focusing on acquiring the necessary skills and experience relating to customer service, leadership abilities, and business operations. Targeting recent university graduates aiming to gain exposure and experience, the UMC program lit up the possibilities for a young SIM graduate past being a store manager. The session concluded with a delightful pairing of donuts and coffee, and the students took the opportunity to network and interact with the staff members to ask their burning questions and gain more insights into the job’s requirements and day-to-day experience.
Participant Testimonial
‘The Uniqlo talk featured a SIM graduate sharing his success story of joining the company through their program. Another employee highlighted promotions up to CEO levels. The talk emphasized global opportunities, including store management in Paris and Japan. The session ended with students networking, employees sharing insights into Uniqlo's innovative app features, and engaging quizzes with chances to win prizes like KAWS shirts.’ Lee Wen Le, Year 3, UB Business Management with Communications
UNIQLO Recruitment Talk
CHERYL & Dhanoosh
Company TALKS Elevate Your Pitch: Business Proposal Workshop by Ruder Finn Asia A 3-hour workshop, “Elevate Your Pitch: Business Proposal Workshop”, in the office of a leading PR agency, Ruder Finn Asia, was an eye-opening, hands-on experience for students who crafted a business proposal to satisfy a client brief. The students first listened to a sharing on the background of the company and the impressive clients they worked with. Moving on to the workshop itself, PR professionals from the company then guided the process of writing a proposal and helped answer any questions the students had regarding the actual projects the company must complete. Lastly, they provided feedback on the final presentations, and gave further insights into how to improve not just the pitch, but the students’ skillsets, such as writing and public speaking skills, to better meet the needs of the workforce as a PR professional. Participant Testimonial
‘During the company visit, I had the opportunity to have a short tour around the office, learn more about the company and interact with the staff, including the regional head of Ruder Finn. It was such an insightful experience that it encouraged me to apply for their internship position!’ Mirrah Nadira, Year 2, RMIT Professional Communication
Young NTUC Career Starter Lab Talk The Young NTUC Career Starter Lab talk was a blast on September 20th and 21st at the Career Connect Office. The speaker discussed the Career Starter Lab (CSL), a joint initiative developed by the National Trade Union Congress (NTUC) and the Singapore National Employers Federation (SNEF). The talk covered what CSL is and how it benefits students if they join the NTUC CSL. The speaker also shared the requirements that students must meet and the resources provided for them once they join CSL, such as a resume builder, mentorship handbook, and mentorship platform. The NTUC Career Starter Lab offers a 3-month career trial period and a monthly training allowance based on average starting salaries. The ultimate goal is to provide students with practical experience, essential skills, and confidence in the professional world through structured training. The talk concluded with participants networking with the team and receiving assistance in addressing their questions. Many students attended both days and were highly satisfied with the event.
SAMHITA
YOUNG GRADUATE CAREER FORUM
On 14th October 2023, over 58 participants attended the Young Graduate Career Forum, whereby our panel of SIM alumni shared their impactful tips on building their presence in the working world. Speakers representing various industries provided insights on how to gain the trust of supervisors during internships and manage studies concurrently. They also shared valuable tips for transitioning from internships to full-time opportunities. Students were given the opportunity to pose questions for the panel to address. After the panel discussion, students had the chance to engage in networking with the panel, allowing them to delve deeper into their career aspirations and seek advice.
We express our gratitude to our esteemed alumni and moderator, Ratna, for dedicating their time, and we appreciate the students for their attendance! Stay tuned for updates to join the upcoming YGCF - EDGE Award Edition on 6 April 2024 (Sat)! Keep an eye out for our announcements to be part of the session. Participant Testimonial
‘The returning graduates who shared their experiences imparted invaluable insights. Ashley's advice to "work hard and work smart" resonated deeply, offering the perfect recipe for success as a student. May Yee's words about finding the right career path and striking a balance between work and life struck a chord, emphasizing the importance of pursuing happiness and passion in the professional world. Dominic and Chancellor shared their career aspirations, igniting inspiration in all of us and proving that the impossible can become possible. Ratna shared her advice to explore the myriad opportunities in the next 5 years hit home, "You never know until you try," she wisely said. I want to express my gratitude to SIM Career Connect and all the interns who contributed to making this event amazing. You all are truly exceptional. Overall, this forum was an enriching experience, even though it was my third session.’
Brent Tan, Year 3, UOS BA in Events Management
SAMHITA
International Students CAREER FORUM
On 24th October 2023, over 65 participants took part in the virtual International Student Career Forum, whereby our notable SIM alumni revealed their strategical moves for career advancement. The panelists advised us on secrets to conducting a successful job search, networking techniques, as well as insights on how to approach interviews. This event consisted of four esteemed panelists from different industries. A sincere gratitude to Ms Vishaka Raj from KPMG, Ms Dea Gloria from Bibit.id, Mr Toan Huynh from GIC Singapore, and Mr Jacob Tao from Kyvision Yonder for providing our SIM students with their valuable perspectives. We are thankful to have Ms Goh Ai Yat, a visual thinking strategist from Infiniskills Pte Ltd for moderating the discussion and bringing out insightful comments from the panelists.
! s y a w a take Aim high by dedicating to studies and participating in CCAs. Practice extensively for interviews and undertake personal projects. Expand your knowledge and connect with fellow professionals in your field. Tailor maintain your resume to align with the positions you’re pursuing Show up, be present and professional at networking events with employers.
Participant Testimonial
‘The career forum with the alumni speakers has benefited me with invaluable industry insights and practical tips. Their personal journey of job hunting and work transition shed some light on our future paths after graduation. I’m now more equipped to navigate my career path with confidence.’ Phoebe Lei, Year 3, UOL Data Science and Business Analytics
Qamelia
Season 17!
T C E J O PR é g é t o r P On October 11 2023, Project Protégé kicked off Season 17 of its Mentorship Programme. The event featured a dynamic speed networking session, connecting over 50 eager university students with SIM alumni mentors from diverse industries and experiences.
The four-month mentorship programme, running from October 2023 to February 2024, aims to create a robust platform for mentors to share their invaluable experiences and advice with mentees.
Participant Testimonial
‘Enrolling into the Project Protege is one of the best decisions I have made in SIM! Although cyber security is one of the fields with expansive domains, choosing one as a career can be challenging. My mentor Stanley's guidance is not just about professional growth but also a journey of selfdiscovery. His advice and support has empowered me to navigate challenges confidently and I' m excited about the remaining months of the mentorship and the growth that's yet to come!’ Shanmugam Pooja, Year 2, UOW Cybersecurity
Missed this season? Not to worry! Do join us for Project Protégé Season 18. Our applications open in Jan 2024!
Through one-on-one mentorship sessions, students have the opportunity to gain insights that extend beyond the classroom, contributing to their personal and professional growth. Learning such relevant skills and competences enhance mentee’s employability.
CHERYL & Dhanoosh
Why You should consider a career in the tourism industry BUSTLING WITH CULTURE, SHOPPING, AND SCENERY, SINGAPORE'S TOURISM SCENE ENCHANTS VISITORS AND FUELS THE CITY'S GLOBAL APPEAL. FROM ICONIC LANDMARKS LIKE MARINA BAY SANDS TO DAZZLING SENTOSA ISLAND, IT PLAYS A VITAL ROLE, CONTRIBUTING 4% TO THE COUNTRY'S GDP AND ATTRACTING INVESTMENT, BUSINESSES, AND TALENT.
Get opportunities to work in a global environment. Interact with people from different countries and regions, learn about diverse traditions, and promote understanding between communities. Based on Singapore Tourism Statistics for 2022, tourists from Indonesia, India, Malaysia, Australia, and the Philippines took the top five spots and formed the bulk of visitors for that year.
Shape unforgettable memories for visitors and yourselves and bridge the gap between cultures. Share the rich tapestry of heritage, weave understanding through immersive experiences, champion sustainability and inspire eco-conscious practices that bloom into a greener future. With the industry’s constant evolution, companies invest heavily in your growth, ensuring that your skills and passions flourish alongside Singapore’s dynamic tourism story.
Career opportunities available in the tourism industry: Marketing Executive, Product Development, Research Analyst, Business Analyst, Customer Service Manager, Events Manager, Operations Executive, and Sustainability Executive. Explore a vibrant tourism tapestry: Arts, Cruises, Dining, Events, Sports, and more! Something for everyone in this dynamic industry. Diverse roles: Spanning hospitality, wellness, sustainability, and digitalization.
Insights into the Tourism Industry Education: To pursue a career in this industry, a diploma or certificate in tourism, hospitality, or related fields would be beneficial for entrylevel positions. For career advancement, a bachelor's or master's degree is preferred.
Skills needed: Soft Skills: Customer Service, Networking Skills, Communication Skills, Empathy, and Emotional Intelligence Teamwork
SIM offers the following programs awarded by La Trobe University, Australia:
Bachelor of Business (Tourism and Hospitality) (Top-up) Bachelor of Business (Event Management) (Top-up)
Hard Skills: Computer Skills, Language Skills, Budgeting, and Geographic Knowledge Salary range: Approximately $2000 to $10000 monthly [Source: MyCareersFuture.gov.sg]
CATCH A GLIMPSE OF
WEN LE & GOKUL
TOURISM INDUSTRY FOR ASPIRING PROFESSIONALS THROUGH THE LENS OF INDUSTRY EXPERTS
One of Singapore’s leading responsible tourism company, which blends heritage and modernity features contemporary interior design and state of the art technology.
Mr Kevin Phun Founder and Director
Founded in 2018, the Hotel advocates sustainable tourism through workshops, courses and consultancy work.
Ms Sanja Milicevic Director of Training and Quality
Insights into the current trends and challenges within the tourism industry that might impact a young graduate joining the field?
KP: Modern tourism graduates must be well-versed in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their connection to the 17 goals, an area often overlooked in undergraduate programs. Regenerative tourism is seen as a successor to sustainable tourism comparatively. In Singapore, graduates must obtain sustainability certification, initially in accommodation, events, and MICE sectors, with potential expansion to other industries. Familiarity with artificial intelligence in tourism is becoming essential. Post-COVID, the industry has evolved, with regenerative travel gaining prominence, notably Regenerative travel in Bali and Singapore focusing on wellness tourism. SJ: Changes in the work landscape within the hospitality industry has lead to manpower shortages leading to increased workload. This can affect the perception of potential young graduates and magnifies the difficulties in talent acquisition and retention. Furthermore, post-pandemic period has shifted guests priorities emphasising importance in personalisation. There is no one-size-fits-all approach. It’s about individualizing and personalizing the guest experience. Meeting these expectations involves continuous efforts to create unique and exceptional moments tailored to each traveler, demanding energy, dedication, and service that young graduates may find exhausting, leading to potential concerns about work-life balance.
WEN LE & GOKUL
Are there specific skills or qualifications that you consider particularly valuable for someone starting their career in tourism?
KP: Distinguishing itself from other sectors, the tourism industry often requires hands-on experience in addition to formal degree certification. On a global scale, the industry is placing a growing emphasis on sustainability, bringing forth new tasks and skills that were not as prominent two or three decades ago. Meeting the evolving requirements, specialized diplomas and certificates like MICE or sustainable events cater to these emerging needs. SJ: Some essential skills for a successful hospitality career include customer service, communication, problem-solving, team work, attention to detail, flexibility, and digital literacy. Developing further these skills comes with a lot of practice through on-job training, self-reflection and discipline.“
Describe the typical career progression for young professionals interested in the tourism industry?
KP: Starting as a management trainee is a viable path for graduates, setting the stage for future managerial roles. This trajectory typically spans around 3 years, with potential to become a middle manager within 7 or 8 years in the industry. Those with opportunities for secondment to overseas or regional offices, especially while still single, should consider seizing such chances, especially if it aligns with long-term career growth. SJ: The hospitality industry provides diverse career paths, spanning management, operations, and support roles, with ample opportunities for advancement and professional growth. With the ongoing increase in tourist numbers, career prospects in tourism are thriving. A hospitality degree is crucial for graduates aspiring to a career in travel and tourism, where skills play a vital role in enhancing the customer experience. This encompasses various sectors such as hotels, airlines, and cruise ships, offering a broad spectrum of career paths, from guest-facing roles to back-end positions in sales, marketing, revenue, human resources, and finance.
CAREER PROGRESSION Hotel Management
Front Office
Director of Rooms
Executive Assistant Manager
General Manager
Food & Beverage
Food & Beverage Captain
Outlet Manager
Director of Food & Beverage
General Manager
WEN LE & GOKUL
In light of the evolving tourism landscape, are there any good tips to excel in the tourism industry?
KP: Success in the industry doesn't come with specific tips, but it's crucial to avoid unrealistic expectations. Working with people remains essential, dealing with cultural nuances is a unique experience, despite advancements in technology. Given Singapore's limited tourism industry, gaining broader exposure often involves seeking overseas opportunities after a few years. SJ: Prioritizing the significance of emerging trends in the tourism sector is essential. Dedication to technological progress, utilizing it to improve the guest experience, and preserving the essential human touch are crucial in hospitality. Fortunately, technology can help mitigate the negative effects of labor shortages. Strive to maintain high standards, be environmentally conscious, and optimize sustainable efficiencies whenever feasible.
What are some most up-and-coming job roles to look out for in the tourism industry?
Sustainability Manager
Becoming prominent in shaping organizational practices, implementing sustainability initiatives, driving change, and conducting research and deepen customer experience Example: Sustainability Manager, ESG Manager, Sustainability auditors & Consultants, Food waste specialist, Sustainable MICE Personnel
Information Technology department
Innovate new ways to improve the delivery of their services, data security, system implementation and to maximise competitiveness
Online Travel Agent
Offering and more bespoke and tailored services to fulfil modern traveller needs online
As a sustainable and responsible tourism specialist, can you share with us why sustainability concerns and employability skills are so important for the tourism sector?
KP: The tourism industry is entering a new era distinct from the past 50 years, which relied heavily on the intensive use of natural resources, cultural exploitation, and often unethical practices involving human and wildlife abuses. Growing awareness in the 1990s prompted the industry to address its destructive impact. Nowadays, every employee bears the responsibility to contribute to a more ethical and responsible tourism industry through their daily work.
Priscilla
On 29th of September, over 780 students participated in Career Connect’s annual IGNITE Career & Internship Fair. With over 50 participating companies, participants had the opportunity to network with employers from various industries. Some participating companies include Deloitte, HDB, Uniqlo, GetGo, Cognizant and many more. Career Connect has developed workshops to ensure that students are thoroughly prepared to meet with prospective employers.
Participants took the opportunity to gain insights and knowledge into different industries, as well as better understand what employers look out for in potential candidates.
Participant Testimonial
‘IGNITE 2023 was a valuable opportunity to meet with employers from the tech field and learn more about the various companies. Through the event, I had the chance to market myself employers and was eventually accepted into an internship with TÜV SÜD PSB. I urge all job and internship seekers to take advantage of the opportunity to secure their dream job!’ Hau Bin Hui, Year 2, UOW Computer Science
Participant Testimonial
‘I attended IGNITE and got to meet diverse range of employers present. The networking opportunities were invaluable, allowing me to connect with professionals in my field. The insightful conversations and advice I received was incredibly beneficial and has provided me with valuable insights into the industry. Overall, it was a good experience that all the students should take advantage of. The exposure to diverse industries and the chance to interact with potential employers will greatly benefits the students.’ Abdul Majeed, Year 2, UOW Computer Science
MISSED IGNITE'23? You can still apply for jobs and internships offered on CareerSense job portal by 31st December under ‘IGNITE Career & Internship Fair 2023’. The job portal also offers resume builder and career guidance with career advisors, which helps to enhance your resume and develop skills.
We look forward to seeing you AT THE DREAMS Career Fair HELD on 23 February 2024! Sign up now on careersense!
Priscilla
Quiz Time Guess The Flag: Which country does the following flags belong to?
Simply complete the quiz and email the completed quiz to careerconnect@sim.edu.sg and stand a chance to be one of the 20 winners to win Grab vouchers worth $10!
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