#2
“How can I go about
getting employed?”
If you’re accompanying your spouse or
partner on a posting, one of the biggest
decisions you will make is whether or not
to work here.
You might decide to further your present
career or perhaps to explore something
new. English teachers, for example, are in
perennial demand, and a short course in
Teaching English as a Foreign Language
(TEFL) can start you on that path. Conversely,
recent changes in employment laws with an
emphasis on hiring local Singaporeans might
mean that your skills are in less demand than
they were at home.
Search firms, online sources, classifieds
and expat associations can all be helpful
when it comes to finding work, although
many jobs are found through networking.
The American Association’s Career
Resource Center for Expatriates (CRCE)
is particularly useful, offering advice on
resumes, workshops and career counselling.
Steps for Getting a Job
- Make sure your resume is up to date,
and tailor your references to suit the job
you’re going for; these should reassure
the hiring manager that you’re truly the
right person for the role. It also helps to
put together a portfolio showcasing your
relevant skills and experience. This can
be hard copy, digital or on a website. - Have all your official documents including
birth certificates, personal identification
and university transcripts at the ready.
Singapore-based employers will likely ask
for these and you may need to provide
original copies. They may also ask for a
photograph with your resume. - Discover which recruiters are specialists
in your field and go straight to them.
See which company is posting jobs
you’re interested in and call them. You’ll
have a much better chance of breaking
through the noise if they’ve met you
and identified you as suitable talent. - Spend time searching for a job every day
(this can be a full-time job in itself!). Stay
determined and active. Networking can
help; many expats find jobs through their
networks rather than applying for jobs
blindly. Also, be realistic about your salary- remember that Singapore’s low tax rate
will often offset a lower base salary.
- remember that Singapore’s low tax rate
- Attend interviews, even if you’re not 100
percent sure you want the position. Many
companies can create roles for the right
person, but they have to meet you first. - Don’t be surprised if you’re asked
personal questions, including your
religion and whether you have children,
at interviews.
SINGAPORE HACKSCITY GUIDE 2018 39