10 jobseeking tips to withstand any economic storm

10 jobseeking tips to withstand any economic storm

Singapore's economic outlook is looking bleaker than expected, according to experts. The Monetary Authority of Singapore has downgraded its growth forecasts from 2.1 per cent to 1.8 per cent, partly due to a slowdown in finance and insurance.

It's fair to say that the picture is mixed - with manufacturing now expected to show modest growth instead of stagnating. Many people still see Singapore as a place to go for work, with careers sought in everything from CFD (Contracts for Difference) trading to telecommunication industries.

Yet, if the dark clouds are gathering then you need to ensure you do all that you can to make yourself stand out from the crowd and bag a job that will be able to withstand any economic storm.

Improving your own jobseeking skills are vital in this climate. With that in mind, here are ten top tips on how to do that:

1. Value yourself

Photo: AFP

Finding a new position or starting a different career can be nerve wracking, but you must always value your skills and never dumb yourself down. There's plenty of competition, so be proud of your achievements and make the most of your abilities.

2. Create a stand-out CV

Photo: Pixabay

First impressions count, so make sure you have a suitable CV to send out to employers on the lookout for new staff. There are many ways to improve your resume, but one of the first things you should do is update your contact details and ensure all relevant experience is included.

3. Contact a recruitment agency

Photo: Reuters

Why go it alone, when you can contact one of the best job recruitment agencies in Singapore to make your life easier? Agencies are skilled at connecting job hunters with employers and are in the know about any vacancies available, which will help reduce your research time.

4. Set up a LinkedIn profile

Photo: AFP

Believe it or not social media is not just for posting selfies and talking with friends. Creating a detailed personal profile on LinkedIn, for example, gives you the best chance of being headhunted and will also keep you in the loop as to who's hiring.

5. Create a Twitter and Facebook account

Photo: Reuters

Speaking of social media, it's also a good idea to set up a Twitter and Facebook account as this will allow you to follow and like professional companies that pique your interest. Many businesses have social media managers these days who will post job ads online, so this is a good way to hear about potential opportunities.

6. Socialise and network

Photo: Berita Harian

Whether you're a native Singaporean looking for work, or an expat hoping to make new contacts, it's a good idea to socialise at events such as Techinnovation - an annual function designed to explore technology and business collaborations. Doing so could open up a host of significant leads and help put you in touch with like-minded people.

7. Hand out business cards

Photo: Reuters

When at industry-specific events, try to hand out business cards to those you have a conversation with, as it's the first step to forming a new professional bond. Before doing so, however, introduce yourself so that the recipient knows who you are and what you do/want to do as they'll be more likely to remember you down the line.

8. Be confident during interviews

Photo: Berita Harian

Interviews are notoriously daunting. Speaking in front of a panel is never easy, but the best thing to do is to be honest and confident. Speak clearly, concisely and don't be afraid to ask questions as this will show you're inquisitive with a general interest about the job at hand.

9. Dress professionally

Photo: Pixabay

The last thing prospective employers want to see is underdressed candidates, so always turn up to the interview wearing suitable attire. Usually, companies will require you to wear a suit (with or without jacket depending on the weather), but as a rule, remember that to be overdressed is more appropriate that being underdressed.

10. Ask for feedback

Photo: Pixabay

If at first you don't succeed, try, try and try again - but in order to know where you went wrong, ask for interview feedback when possible. That way, you'll know exactly where you stand and can try to make improvement next time. Finding your dream job has a lot to do with attitude; the more positive you are, the more you'll come across as an eager and enthusiastic individual, so try your best to remain upbeat.

Freelance writer Sophie Davidson is passionate about providing engaging content and has featured in a number of online publications. In her spare time, Sophie is a keen runner across all distances and enjoys cooking.

This website is best viewed using the latest versions of web browsers.