How keeping a poker face can help you succeed at work

poker face with poker cards

You’ve probably heard the saying, “Keep your poker face on.” But what does that mean, exactly? And more importantly, why should you do it?

Well, as it turns out, there are a few good reasons why you should keep your emotions hidden at work. For one, if you’re always getting upset or angry about little things, your coworkers will start to see you as a liability. And two, it’s just good etiquette. No one wants to see their boss break down in tears every other day, right?

Here’s how keeping your emotions in check can help you succeed at work.

You don’t want to show weakness

Imagine this scenario: You’re in a meeting with your boss, and you’re presenting your idea. You’ve worked hard on it, and you’re proud of it. But as you start to speak, you can feel the nerves creeping in. You start to fidget, you’ve lost your train of thought, and before you know it, your eyes start getting teary. What just happened?

The truth is, when it comes to workplace mannerisms, keeping a straight face can go a long way. This means stowing your emotions under control and not giving away anything that could be seen as a sign of weakness. It’s not always easy to do—in fact, it’s downright hard at times. But if you can master the art of keeping a straight face, it will help you thrive better in the workplace.

You don’t want to give away too much
coworkers in a discussion

Image Credits: unsplash.com

You don’t want to give away too much when you’re at work. In fact, it’s better to keep your feelings concealed. Why? Because if your boss or co-workers see that you’re bitter all the time, they might think that you can’t handle the pressure or that you’re not cut out for the job. And no one wants to be seen as vulnerable or incompetent.

But that’s not the only reason to keep a poker face at work. You also don’t want to give away your strategy. If your opponents can read your emotions, they will be one step ahead of you in the game.

So how can you keep your sentiments in check? By practicing mindfulness. When you’re aware of what’s going on inside of you, it’s a lot harder for your impulsiveness to rule. So take a deep breath, stay calm, and keep that straight face up!

You never know who you’re going to meet

So you’re at work, and you’re having a bad day. You’re feeling angsty, so you let your emotions show on your face. Then you run into one of the key stakeholders in the hallway of your company.

Do you think that’s going to make a good first impression? Probably not. On the contrary, it’s more likely to have the opposite effect. You never know who you’re going to meet, so it’s always wise to put your best foot forward. Keeping a poker face at work can be viewed as a symbol of professionalism and self-control. You may not be able to manipulate the way you feel, but you can handle the way you act. And that’s what counts in the office.

All in all, a poker face is essentially a face that shows no emotions. This can be helpful at work because it means that you’re not giving away any hints about how you feel. This can be advantageous in negotiations, when you’re trying to close a deal, or when you’re trying to get a promotion. Think about it – if your boss knows that you’re resentful about being passed up for a promotion, or if your manager knows that you’re uncomfortable with the new project they’ve given you, they may use that against you. But if you keep a poker face, most won’t know what’s going on in your head and will be less likely to have an edge on you.

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How to ensure a lasting impression at your next job interview

shaking hands during a job interview

You’ve scheduled an interview for your dream job? Congratulations!

Now, it’s time to focus on making a remarkable impression.

But what if you’re not sure what’s appropriate and what is not? Allow us to share some tips on how to make a lasting impression at your next job interview.

Make sure you are well-rested

The night before your job interview, make sure you get a good night’s sleep. Being well-rested will help you look and feel your best, and you will be less likely to feel stressed. Before leaving for the interview, take a few deep breaths and remind yourself that you are prepared and you have nothing to worry about.

Arrive early and dress for success

One of the most significant things you can do to make a pleasing impression at your job interview is to arrive early. Not only will this show that you value punctuality, but it also gives you a chance to calm your nerves and get settled in before the interview starts.

Other than arriving early, another key factor in making a great first impression is dressing the part. It’s necessary to wear something that makes you feel confident and professional. For men, this might mean a shirt and tie, while women may want to choose a skirt or formal slacks with a classic blouse.

Be prepared to answer common questions
a lady having a job interview

Image Credits: jobstreet.com.ph

Are you prepared to answer the most common questions and beyond? Here are a few suggestions:

  • Prepare and practice your answers to common questions.
  • Do your research. Familiarize yourself with the company’s history, values, and products.
  • Be yourself! Most interviewers want to get to know you better and see if you would be a good fit for the company.
Have questions of your own for the interviewer

One of the fundamental methods to make a lasting impression during a job interview is to ask questions of your own. This shows the interviewer that you’re interested in the role and that you’ve done your necessary prep. It also helps to build a rapport and makes you appear more engaged in the conversation.

Some smart questions to ask include:

  • What are the long-term goals for this role?
  • How would you describe the company’s culture?
  • What are the biggest challenges faced by this department?
  • What are the most prominent projects this team is working on right now?
Never ever forget to follow up after the interview

Just landing the job interview of your dreams is not enough. Now’s the time to seal the deal! One of the most crucial things you can do to make a distinguished impression is to follow up after the meeting.

Thank the interviewer for their time, reiterate your interest in the job, and mention anything you may have forgotten to mention during the interview. This will leave a positive final impression and show that you’re serious about the position.

As we close, don’t underestimate the importance of making a fabulous first impression. As mentioned earlier, be sure to arrive on time because being punctual is not only respectful but also reveals your time management skills. And even if the company has a more casual dress code, it’s always best to err on the side of professionalism. Also, do your due research on the company and come up with questions to ask your interviewer. Once you’ve done all that, all that’s left to do is be genuine and let your personality shine!

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Latest WFH internships posted from 25 to 29 July 2022

working from home

During an internship, an individual can figure out how to work while honing their industry abilities.

Most internships also aid students or fresh graduates in developing practical soft skills in communication, professionalism, and the ability to work under pressure in addition to industry-specific knowledge. These are essential qualities for success that employers actively seek.

If you’re keen to gain some experience, here are the latest WFH internships posted from 25 to 29 July 2022.

#1: Winning Conversation – Business Development Intern

Winning Conversation

Website: https://www.winningconversation.com.sg/

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,500 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Intellectual curiosity
  • Strong interpersonal skills
  • Good written and verbal communication skills
Key Responsibilities
  • Develop new businesses
  • Able to liaise with client organizations
  • Perform client and prospect research
  • Report relevant findings to consultants
  • Support the creation, development, and implementation of solutions
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Meena via this link.

#2: Craft Communications – Public Relations & Social Media Assistant

Craft Communications

Website: https://craftc.com/

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Marketing, Business, Communications, Arts & Social Sciences students are preferred, but applicants from other disciplines possessing strong communications skills will also be considered
  • Good command of English is key to this role
  • Proficient in Microsoft applications; Photoshop & Premiere Pro a huge plus
  • Good team player with strong coordination and administrative skills
  • Good communications and interpersonal skills
  • Able to start at the earliest possible
Key Responsibilities
  • Assist the team in providing public relations, marketing, and social media support
  • Understand clients and be involved in helping to create and execute strategies that are designed to achieve client’s objectives
  • Additional support will also be required of the intern in the following areas: managing databases, events, media clippings, and reports, media pitching, managing marketing promotions, Powerpoint presentations, prospecting and business development, and more.
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Dennis via this link.

#3: Zeno Communications Pte Ltd – HR Intern

Zeno Communications

Website: https://www.zenogroup.com/

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Diploma or Degree holder in Human Resources or business administration.
  • At least 6 months to a year experience of working in HR and/or admin internship or roles.
  • Able to work in a fast-paced environment and manage time and priorities well.
  • Able to quickly learn HRIS software and other systems or platforms.
  • Good in MS Excel, Word and Powerpoint.
  • Well-versed knowledge of HR-related legislation such as the Employment Act and Work Passes.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Meticulous, resourceful, well-organized, and able to work independently to meet deadlines.
  • Proactive team player with a strong sense of integrity to manage confidentiality and sensitive HR information.
Key Responsibilities
  • Support the entire employee lifecycle from end to end – onboarding and offboarding processes.
  • Track completion of mandatory training, probation, recruitment, and other HR activities.
  • Generate HR documents such as offer letters, employment contracts, probation letters, adjustments, compensation and benefits-related letters, and communication.
  • Generate weekly or monthly reports, document processes, update HR policies and maintain records on HRIS systems – Peoplesoft and Sage EPE.
  • Support Senior HR Manager on HR projects such as employee engagement surveys, recognition programs, employer branding, policies review, etc.
  • Support recruitment and selection activities including internship programs, job postings, calling candidates for interview scheduling and reference checks, etc.
  • Support employee engagement initiatives, and organize and plan for activities.
  • Maintain all HR documentation and filing in an accurate and timely fashion.
  • Collaborate with IT team to manage IT asset list and prepare any hardware required for new hires, replacements, or handover of assets from leavers.
  • Manage all software, tools, local transport, and media subscriptions.
  • Manage daily office supplies and expenses; create purchase orders for office and pantry supplies.
  • Support office facilities management and administrative duties such as liaison with office management/maintenance vendors, office safety management, and other office supplies vendors.
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Tristan via this link.

#4: Smartcademy Pte. Ltd. – Growth Marketing Intern

Smartcademy

Website: https://smartcademy.sg/

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Excellent analytical and numerical skills
  • Passionate about creating consumer-centric content
  • Driven and motivated individuals who are willing to learn
  • Knowledge of basic creative editing and/or well-versed in Canva
  • Attuned with the latest social trends and social media: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok & Twitter
Key Responsibilities
  • Assist with the curation of alumni and marketing workshops: logistical arrangements, sourcing, and liaison with potential speakers
  • Manage social media channels on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok & LinkedIn
  • Assist with the development of creative assets on social media
  • Keep track of campaign performance through social listening, market analysis, and competitors’ research
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and send in your application via this link.

#5: *SCAPE Co Ltd – Intern, Strategic Planning

*SCAPE

Website: https://www.scape.sg/

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 850 monthly

Job Qualifications

Not stated.

Key Responsibilities
  • Research on the youth landscape
  • Working with the team to research and apply possible tools and frameworks
  • Collation of materials for upcoming projects e.g. work plan, retreat
  • General support in strategic projects and meetings
  • Any other ad-hoc duties assigned by Supervisor or HOD
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and send in your application to [email protected].

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How to handle a boss who criticizes everything you do

an angry boss criticizing his employee

No one enjoys being criticized, but it can be especially tough when it comes from your boss.

If your boss is constantly finding fault with everything you do, it can be hard to maintain your confidence and keep your job.

But don’t worry, you’re not alone. Plenty of people have struggled with a boss who regularly bashes them. The good news is that there are things you can do to handle the fuss and improve your relationship with your boss.

Continue reading if you want some tips for dealing with a boss who criticizes everything you do.

It’s not personal

When your boss is continually criticizing everything you do, it can be tough not to take it personally. But remember, it’s not always about you—it’s about them.

Critical bosses are often under a lot of pressure and while their comments may seem harsh, they’re just a way of venting. The key is to stay calm and don’t get defensive with them. Just listen politely and thank them for their feedback.

Talk to your boss
talking to the boss

Image Credits: dailyamazingthings.com

One of the most reasonable ways to deal with a boss who charges at everything you do is to talk to them. Schedule a meeting with your boss and express your concerns.

Be clear and concise when you talk to them. Let them know that their objections are making it difficult for you to do your job, and ask for their help in fixing the problem. Critical bosses can be tough to work with, but with a little communication, you can hopefully resolve the issue.

Use it as motivation

Your boss’s unchanging criticisms can be demotivating, but try to see it as an opportunity to enhance your skillsets. After all, if your boss is always pointing out your mistakes, it means that he or she expects you to do better.

Instead of getting frustrated, use the criticism as motivation to work harder and prove your boss wrong. Show them that you’re capable of meeting their high standards and that you’re not going to let them bring you down. Eventually, your boss may start seeing your potential and may even begin complimenting your work.

Find the root of the problem
colleagues conversing

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Yes, we know it’s getting on your nerves. What can you do to make the situation better? The first step is to try to find the root of the problem.

Why is your boss always finding fault in your work? Is it a lack of understanding of your job duties? Inadequate communication? Misunderstanding of the project goals? Once you know what’s causing the problem, you can start to address it.

If it’s a lack of understanding of your job duties, take the time to sit down with your boss and go over what’s expected of you. If it’s poor communication, make sure to ask questions and clarify expectations before starting a project.

If it’s a misunderstanding of the project goals, try to be as clear as possible when explaining your plans. By addressing the root of the problem, you will be able to work more effectively and bypass getting slammed by your boss.

Use the criticism to improve

When your boss belittles everything you do, it can be frustrating. It may feel like they’re never satisfied with anything you do, and that you’re always under scrutiny. But remember, criticism is an opportunity for growth. Use it to identify your weaknesses and work on improving them.

Try not to take criticisms personally. Remember, your boss is just trying to help you become a more promising worker in your field. Stay positive, focused, and motivated, and use the feedback to make changes that will benefit both you and your boss.

As we close, we would like to remind you that we understand how demoralizing it can be when your boss criticizes everything you do. However, there are ways to handle this situation so that you can maintain your work productivity. Take time to reflect on what your boss is saying and see if there are any truths to it. If you are still clueless, talk to your boss about the criticism and try to get more clarity on what they are looking for. Should all else fail, perhaps it’s time to hand in that resignation letter.

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Latest WFH internships posted from 18 to 22 July 2022

a female student woking on her laptop in bed

In the modern world, obtaining that crucial job opportunity no longer depends just on having a decent degree.

Nowadays, developing a successful career depends just as much on the relevant job experience as it does on your educational background and major examination scores. As a consequence, internships have emerged as a crucial tool for individuals looking to differentiate themselves.

If you’re searching for one, here are the latest WFH internships posted from 18 to 22 July 2022.

#1: Hill+Knowlton Strategies – People + Culture Intern

Hill+Knowlton Strategies

 

Website: https://www.hkstrategies.com/en/

Allowance / Remuneration: $1,000 – 1,650 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Fresh graduates who have completed an education in Human Resources, Business Management, or equivalent.
  • Able to commit at least 4 to 6 months for an internship, with the possibility of conversion to Perm based on business requirements and individual performance.
  • Interest in the Marketing/ Advertising/ Communications industry.
  • Excellent written + verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Solid computer literacy skills, including practical knowledge in Microsoft Outlook, Excel, Word, Sharepoint, and PowerPoint.
  • A basic understanding and knowledge of Singapore’s employment regulations, industry trends, current practices, new developments, and employment law is a strong plus.
  • Meticulous and detail-oriented in handling sensitive employee information and administrative work.
  • Highly organized and able to work in an agile environment.
  • Great with problem-solving, creatively driven, and able to bring fresh perspectives to the table.
  • Most importantly, you are driven, and enthusiastic and thrive best in a highly collaborative and fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities
  • Operational HR admin support relating to the employee lifecycle – including recruitment, new hire onboarding/ offboarding, payroll administration support, employee welfare benefits, training and development, performance, and talent management.
  • Support talent acquisition efforts, including sourcing (direct, referrals, job boards, active search), screening, scheduling, and coordinating interviews with the hiring managers.
  • Support and execute new hire onboarding/induction and consistently deliver a positive candidate experience with timely follow-up and updates.
  • Support School Outreach programs by engaging with target polytechnics/ universities, student societies, and career centers.
  • Maintain internal employee database in an accurate and timely manner.
  • Partner with the Head of People + Culture to execute people initiatives that support the overall objectives of the Agency.
  • Organize internal training, meetings, and cultural events for the Agency.
  • Any other ad-hoc HR duties as assigned.
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Noon Ling via this link.

#2: Beezelo Pte Ltd – Marketing & PR Intern

Beezelo Pte Ltd

Website: https://beezelo.com/

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,100 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Someone keen to hone their skills in PR & marketing
  • Good at doing research and PowerPoint presentations – so creative thinking and basic design skills will be useful.
Key Responsibilities
  • Creating written content for website, marketing materials, and social media accounts
  • Ideation marketing & PR campaign concept and proposal submissions to clients
  • Design simple social media assets: video, gifs, and banners using Canva
  • Event planning and execution
  • Support supervisor/ manager in implementing clients’ marketing communications strategy.
  • Creating engaging content for media releases, social media platforms, and newsletters.
  • Updating and maintaining social media pages
  • Building relationships with clients and potential clients, suppliers, and the media.
  • Review campaign performance metrics and key performance indicatDevelop and design sponsorship proposals
  • Researching marketing initiatives of clients’ competitors
  • Monitoring of media coverage on events and media releases that were issued and creating press clippings.
  • Any other ad-hoc design/administrative duties
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Florence via this link.

#3: Cove Singapore – Field Sales Intern (Property)

Cove Singapore

Website: https://cove.sg/

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,500 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Completed or pursuing an undergraduate degree in any field (business related is a bonus, but if you’ve got what it takes, they’d love to have you!)
  • Strong academic track record
  • Experience in a sales/marketing/customer service role
  • Strong sense of empathy, responsibility, humor + energy
  • Independent – as your time to some extent can also be scheduled by yourself for a semi-flexible work day. Some days are heavier, and some are very light!
Key Responsibilities
  • Liaise with potential tenants to understand their requirements, share property information, arrange viewings, and onboard them to COVE
  • Leverage on sales best practices to convert leads during viewings and post-viewing stage
  • Collaborate closely with the customer support team for lead insights
  • Collate leads or tenant feedback to drive continuous improvement for the sales and marketing team
  • Help to continuously improve the tenant experience
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and send your application to [email protected].

#4: Upmesh (Questdev Pte Ltd – B2B Demand Generation Intern

Upmesh

Website: https://upmesh.io/sg

Allowance / Remuneration: $500 – 1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Currently in an undergrad or postgrad course
  • Have a proven track record of entrepreneurialism
  • Naturally organized and data-driven
  • Hungry and curious
Key Responsibilities
  • Sit with merchants to understand their workflows to identify the ideal point of entry and value creation
  • Develop and personally test demand generation strategies for new products
  • Write the demand generation playbook for new products
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and send your application to [email protected].

#5: Isentia – Management Intern

Isentia

Website: https://www.isentia.com/

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,500 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Tertiary qualifications are preferred but not essential (ideally in Marketing, PR, Communications, or Business).
  • Strong client service focus. Self-motivated and results-driven. Team player.
  • Digital/Social media savvy. Keen interest in news and current affairs.
  • Ability to work to deadlines and under pressure.
  • Proficient in MS Office applications such as Word, Powerpoint, and Excel. GSuite knowledge is desirable. Able to adapt quickly to new technology. 
  • Excellent command of English. The ability to speak in the local language and other dialects will be an added advantage.
Key Responsibilities
  • Assist in retention of accounts – client relationships, retention, and satisfaction.
  • Relevant and timely delivery of products and services.
  • Contributes to commercial AMT KPIs and retention targets.
  • Data collection and reporting. Ensure compliance with Isentia policies and standards, and ensures compliance with all local statutory requirements.
How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Lih Jiun via this link.

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