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Useful Employment Support Guides (that you probably didn’t know) on LifeSG App

The coronavirus pandemic has upended the lives of many families and caused a loss of jobs. To help retrenched workers and jobseekers, GovTech collaborated with Workforce Singapore (‘WSG’), e2i, TADM, TAFEP and SkillsFuture Singapore (‘SSG’) to develop new modules on the LifeSG App (rebranded from Moments of Life). These employment support modules take a user-centric approach to show relevant information in a bite-sized manner that is easy to understand for the everyday man on the street. It informs target audience on the assistance and job opportunities available to them. Simply look for these modules under “Discover your next career steps and find support” section under the home page of your LifeSG App.

Here’s a summary of each employment support module that you will find on LifeSG App and how they can be of help.

1. Know Your Retrenchment Benefits and Measures

Workers who have been retrenched or are at-risk of retrenchment may not be aware of the resources available to help them during this difficult period. They may also be unaware of the benefits due to them when faced with an impending retrenchment. Some of the benefits that retrenched workers may be eligible are the following:

a notice period,
retrenchment benefits,
alternatives to retrenchment, and
help in finding a new job

As employees, it is critical for us to understand our rights so that we know what precautions to take and what to do if there is a dispute.

2. Support for Your Job Search

The “Support for your job search” module helps retrenched individuals and job seekers to:

Find opportunities for new jobs via career fairs, access government support schemes and convert existing skills to make a mid-career switch. These enable the job search process to be more efficient, as well as increase the number of job opportunities that they can access.
Access customised advice and forge career plans from career coaches at WSG, e2i etc. These professionals will help you to understand your personality, area of interests as well as strengths and weaknesses. All these are useful to guide you to better understand your career objective in life
Explore courses to upskill/reskill to ensure that you are always ready for your next role in this fast-changing world. Armed with the relevant professional certifications, you will be one step closer to landing the job that helps you achieve your career goal.

Do not underestimate the toll that every unsuccessful job application takes on a job seeker’s morale. Therefore, having a well-thought-out strategy advised by the professionals and executing it is half the battle won in your job search.

3. Financial Support for Workers and the Self-Employed

Ever since COVID-19 struck, the Singapore government has been quick to dole out relief measures to provide financial support in an unprecedented manner to ensure that no one is left behind. This specific module is handy in allowing individuals across the different employment categories to browse the various listings of government agency schemes and COVID-19 relief measures:

Unemployed (including retrenched) individuals
Lower-income individuals
Individuals with reduced income
Self-employed persons

Here is a case study of how an unemployed individual can tap on the various government agency schemes and COVID-19 relief measures to tide him through this difficult period. Mr Tan is a 40-year-old Singaporean who works in the travel industry. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, he has been placed on involuntary No-Pay leave by his company. He can apply for the COVID-19 Support Grant and receive up to $800 per month for 3 months which would be credited directly into his bank account. In addition, he can receive Job and Training Support by Workforce Singapore (WSG) or The Employment and Employability Institute (e2i) to help him upskill and reskill. This allows him the option of convert existing skills to make a mid-career switch should he decide to. Understanding the various schemes and grants available to him, he can conveniently apply for them online via the mobile app.

With information organised in a succinct manner, it is easier for them to know what financial schemes they are eligible for, as well as information on the application process. This ensures that those who need financial aid gets them in the shortest possible time so that the disruption to their daily lives is mitigated.

https://articles.life.gov.sg/financial-support-workers-self-employed/

Scan the QR code for more articles on the type of support available for Singaporeans affected by COVID-19.

Download the LifeSG App Today

Government has set aside plenty of help so that Singaporeans can tide through this pandemic and emerge stronger. Download the LifeSG App today to get a firm grasp of this helpful information. Also keep a look out for more features related to providing employment support that will be rolled out in subsequent phases.

https://go.life.gov.sg/XwD9

Discover your next career steps and find support with the Employment Support modules on LifeSG App!

How to deal with a micromanager professionally

Micromanagement is such a pain in the arse. At a point in our careers, we might have been faced with a micromanager some time, somewhere. But many out there may not even know that they are being micromanaged.

So what are the common signs of micromanagement? Here are eight common ones from such bosses:

Little or no work delegation
Always asking you for updates
Show a reluctance in mentoring
Finding fault in everything you do
Famous for one-way conversations
Sole decision-maker even for the littlest of tasks
Like to focus on the small details but miss out on the big picture
Delay project deadlines because everything requires their “yes”

If you suspect that you’re whirled up in such a situation and it’s taking a toll on you, act on it before you explode.

Here are some ways to deal with a micromanager (or colleague) tactfully. Fictitious names included!

#1: Have an honest heart-to-heart talk

Image Credits: unsplash.com

As a micromanaging superior, Peter might not be very welcoming of criticisms. Be sensitive when dealing with this. When we say to have an honest heart-to-heart talk, we mean a candid but specific conversation.

Bill Gardner, founder and managing partner of Noetic Outcomes Consulting, suggests this with over 40 years of experience coaching executives. You want to describe your feelings when Peter’s behaviours directed at you make you feel X, Y, and Z. Then, go ahead and list some specific actions you hope to see going forward.

Now, some of you must be thinking this is impossible. As Asians, we may not like to confront head-on. But grow some guts, and you never know positive outcomes could snowball out of your truthfulness.

#2: Be direct with your requests

young-businessman-and-businesswoman-sitting-outdoors

Image Credits: Freepik

During your conversation with a micromanaging boss, you want to be direct with your requests. Ask Sally what you can do better to address her needs. Even if she responds with a “but you’re already doing well”, don’t stop there.

Share with Sally your intention of improving collaboration with her. If you’re the sort that requires time and space to prove your work capabilities, let Sally know.

Instead of her chasing you for updates as and when she pleases, take the initiative by scheduling weekly check-ins. This can become your silent way of saying, “Please stop checking in for information outside of our scheduled meetings.”

#3: Ask questions to understand their point of view

an asian woman asking questions at a business meeting

Image Credits: londonimageinstitute.files.wordpress.com

When you’re pulled into a project meeting, don’t just let John do the talking and then complain about him during lunch hours. To attempt to make your life a little better, you want to understand your manager’s perspective.

To do so, ask questions.

Katharina Schmidt from the Forbes Coaches Council shares that these questions might guide you towards a better working relationship:

What are your deal breakers?
What are your success hypotheses?
What are your key objectives for this initiative?
How, and how often, do you want to be informed?

#4: Focus on behaviour and impact

two-business-people-wearing-face-masks-while-discussing

Image Credits: Freepik

When having any conversations with Zelia, you want to avoid the “m” word – that is, “micromanaging”. What you can do is to focus on the behaviour and impact it has on you.

For example, Zelia’s need for constant updates on your progress is one such behaviour that has impacted you. Let her know that these updates are taking extra time off your productivity and attention on your urgent projects at hand.

See if both of you can negotiate an alternative solution to that. Maybe setting a fixed time for updates can help you better manage your working hours?

Don’t be afraid to offer new ideas.

#5: Identify your superior’s end goal

Two young businessmen discussing new project

Image Credits: Freepik

Conflicts often arise when two people are not on the same page. To stand on the same ground as Raju, you want to align with his end goal. April Armstrong, CEO of AHA Insight, notes the power of the “then what” question.

Ponder over these:

After I complete this assignment, what happens next?
If this were to be a big success, what would the ideal outcome be?

When your destinations are in line, Raju may see you in a different light. It can also prompt him to release his grip on his control over you and your teammates.

#6: Keep your eye on the curveballs and overdeliver

asian woman drinking coffee while working in a cafe

Image Credits: Freepik

For folks currently facing your first micromanager in your job, the whole experience can be daunting. But don’t waddle in the toxicity and put yourself at risk of being sour over it.

Understand that micromanagement is often a result of these two reasons:

The fear of being disconnected leads Carrie to find out as much as she can through countless updates like reports, meetings, and one-on-one conversations.
Carrie finds it difficult to transit from a position of doing to a trusting and coaching managerial position.

Jill Hauwiller, the founder, principal consultant, and lead executive coach at Leadership Refinery urges us to find out what our manager values and wants. Anticipate the unexpected and overdeliver on your promises.

This is because even if you can’t change their micromanaging behaviour at the end of the day, you have your great results to back you up. Your successful work output is something no one can take away from you.

Put on a little smile

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Remember our recent article on “Strategies on how to cope with someone you dislike at work”? When working with people you find difficult working with, communicating your points across calmy without being defensive is essential.

Jeff Altman, a career coach from The Big Game Hunter, said that smiles and laughter often go a long way toward making a point with people. So put on that big, friendly smile before you enter into any discussion with a micromanager.

Career and people skills take time and deliberate effort to develop. Don’t quit your job on impulse.

Powerful messages from ‘The White Tiger’ we can apply in real life

Honestly speaking, while ‘The White Tiger’ has ranked its way on top 10 of Netflix’s film list… I’m not a fervent fan of it. But that’s just my personal opinion.

On one side, we’re happy that Balram broke free from his master and saw the light at the end of his tunnel. But on the other hand, we can’t seem to condone his behaviour and the choices he made.

With that said, though we’re sitting on the fence on this 2021 film that’s currently showing on Netflix, there are powerful messages to learn and apply in real life from ‘The White Tiger’.

Here’s our take on it.

#1: Poverty should not be a hindrance to one’s success

Just a few minutes into the opening, ‘The White Tiger’ opens with a weighty message. That is, “Any poor boy in any forgotten village can grow up to become the prime minister of India.” Yes, poverty sucks big time, but not being rich should not be a barrier to one’s hope and dream for success.

#2: Tap onto every opportunity to listen and learn

Balram shared that he had learned to use his time wisely to eavesdrop on customers, hoping to gain an opportunity. While eavesdropping isn’t that polite, it doesn’t hurt to tap on opportunities to listen from your neighbours and gain some insights. You never know when an opportunity will present itself.

#3: Upskill for better prospects

Balram could have settled contentedly with his brother in the poor village. But instead, his target for better prospects led him to the desire for upskilling. Instead of saying, “I can’t drive so this job is not for me,” he asked his granny for 300 rupees (S$5.47) to go for driving lessons with aims to secure a better paying job.

#4: Eat or be eaten up

Isn’t this just so true about life in general? Whether it’s in relationships or the economy, there are only two destinies. You either eat to your fill and prosper to greater heights or get eaten up by your co-workers who step on you to rise to the top. You hold the power to write your fate!

#5: Know your competition

When we say know your competition, we mean to be well aware of it. Especially to those thinking of starting their own business or entrepreneurs who are at an early stage running their start-up, this is some wise advice you ought to take. Being up to date with what’s happening within your industry can steer your business strategy towards success.

#6: Women should speak up for themselves

We know it’s the 21st century, but women still face discrimination in certain countries and cultures. Ladies, if a man ever tells you that you belong at home and have no place in a man’s discussion, speak up. There is no way you should let a person belittle you like that.

#7: Don’t underestimate the weight of kind words

Do you remember the first time or a situation where you were desperate for some kind words? “You’ll figure it out. Don’t worry,” was what Ashok told Balram in ‘The White Tiger’. This was after Mukesh slapped Balram on the head after he missed the exit. Don’t underestimate these simple words to a friend or colleague. You might touch them in unexpected ways beyond your imagination.

#8: You don’t always need a start-up business plan

It’s common for start-ups to come up with a business plan. Well, it helps to have a clear vision for the way forward and a written document to follow if there are hurdles along the way. But do you know that it’s not always necessary? Instead of wasting time on a start-up business plan, you want to do these five things instead.

#9: Spend some time in reflection

Reflections are not only for the end of the year. It doesn’t harm anyone to do a review at any point in their lives. Asking yourself questions such as “What is it that I want to do?” can direct you to a decision you might not have thought about it before. Is it a business idea you’ve been putting on hold for some time? Or a new field you’re looking to enter? Take actionable steps to achieve it in 2021.

#10: Stop searching for the key when the door is open

Balram thought he heard Pinky said to him, “You were looking for the key for years, but the door was always open.” Putting this in life’s context, do you find yourself searching for the key to open a particular door? While being stuck in this tiresome rat race, maybe you already hold the ability to unlock new opportunities. The question is, are you allowing yourself to?

#11: The early bird catches the worm

We bet all Chinese-educated peeps have heard of the phrase, “早起的鸟儿有虫吃”. When translated to English, it simply refers to how the early bird catches the worm for food. To put it in another way, it benefits one to be early in grabbing onto a chance when others are still deep in their slumber. So are you the former or the latter?

#12: Beware of yielding to temptation

When temptation knocks at the door, learn to walk away. A little moment of interest in that “red bag” will grow into an idea, and that action of folly will lead to possible regrets down the road. You will start justifying your actions as right and look for ways to continue indulging in that little secret you want to hide from the world.

Final Thoughts

We think young people should watch ‘The White Tiger’ with discernment. Robbing someone to break away from poverty and gaining monetary freedom is not morally right.

We shan’t spoil it any further for those who’ve yet to watch the film but have read up till this point. Let us know your thoughts on the ending after you’re done with your two hours?

Strategies on how to cope with someone you dislike at work

There’s always an Anson, Betty, or Christopher in the workplace. We’re sorry if those are your names, but we have no ill intentions. They are just some named references we will be using for the sake of this article.

Now, back to the topic.

It’s Tuesday, and you’re dragging your feet to work after barely getting over Monday blues. As the elevator door closes, you secretly wish that you won’t meet Delia on the way up to the 13th floor. But… we’re all aware that life’s a bitch and things don’t go our way when we expect it to.

“Oh, hi, Eric!” Delia shrieked. It was only 8.25am.

Delia went on and on about her last evening date with her boyfriend, gossips, and eavesdrops from the passengers she saw on the bus. “Another day with her,” you thought. It’s only the start of the day, but you already hate her so much, and everything just gets on your nerves.

We’ve all met that one colleague at a point in our careers, right? Have you found a way to work around it? If no, see if these tips can help you change your perspective in working with someone you can’t stand at the workplace.

#1: Admit that it’s your problem

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Never thought we would hit a home run by pointing fingers at you right from the start? This is not an attack, peeps.

Carlos Valdes-Dapena, author of Virtual Teams: Holding the Center When You Can’t Meet Face-to-Face, shares this with us. The reason why you’re finding Delia distasteful in some way is due to the judgments and reactions you possess.

Yeah, sounds about right. Feelings of a slight irritation can quickly escalate if not kept in check. He also highlights the need to differentiate between dislike and distrust. “You can work with anybody as long as they aren’t crossing boundaries or violating workplace rules,” says Valdes-Dapena.

#2: Rethink your detestation

woman sitting on a couch thinking about something

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Once you assume responsibility that your emotions are what led you to loathe Anson, then it’s time to rethink your detestation. Maybe it’s a specific behaviour that triggered your dislike? Or the way they treat others? It could also be that he is an excessive bootlicker.

Whatever the reason might be, you want to dig deep into your feelings of disgust. Valdes-Dapena reveals that he used to have a colleague he didn’t like and he later discovered it was because of how the lady tended to boast.

“Once I got underneath it, I realized that part of my feelings (was) jealousy because she had done some pretty impressive stuff,” he commented.

The person you disfavour is likely to be someone who’s on the extreme opposite end if placed on a character spectrum. Polar opposites, some like to call it. But you must learn how to separate your personal feelings from the workplace. If Anson does his work well, then you’ve got to give him the credit where credit’s due.

#3: Craft a purpose statement

Image Credits: unsplash.com

So you just got out of a department meeting, and your team leader has assigned you and Betty a project. What? Working with someone you like the least is not an easy task. That’s why Valdes-Dapena notes that this is where a purpose statement comes useful.

“A purpose statement helps you build an alliance around a shared purpose. It doesn’t mean you have to be friends. It helps you get back to the purpose of the collaboration so you can focus on doing the work.”

Very well said, indeed. Instead of focusing on those negative feelings, having a goal will help put you back on the work treadmill. Here’s your chance to show that you can function as a team player and won’t let personal emotions sabotage your workplace professionalism.

#4: Draw up a plan

Image Credits: unsplash.com

So at this point, can we safely assume that you will craft a purpose statement? If yes, we’re genuinely glad for you! But don’t exit this article just yet. As a small incident can spark negative feelings fairly quickly, you want to draw up a plan to fall back on when it happens.

“Sit down and have (a) conversation,” says Valdes-Dapena. It’s going to be a duo project with Christopher, and you want to make sure that your targets are aligned. It may also help to share your shortcomings and present an invitation for Christopher to share his. The discourse can humanise Christopher and encourage you to refashion any prejudices against him.

If it helps, share your purpose statement and plan with a trusted coworker or your team leader to have accountability for your actions. Every single time you feel the dislike arising, refer to your goals. It also won’t hurt to set aside time for self-reflection if you need space to process your feelings.

It’s a tough challenge but pull through it, and you might surprise yourself with an achievable productive work relationship!

#5: Communicate calmly

Image Credits: unsplash.com

More often than not, unhappiness accelerates due to our communication styles. Putting work relationships aside, this is true in any social situation. Even at home, your parents shouting at you or each another can instantly put you in a bad mood.

What you want to do is to communicate calmly when a conflict presents itself. Instead of saying “Can you stop doing that? It’s irritating!” try using “I” in your confrontations. For example, “I feel annoyed when you do this, so could you please do this instead.” Being specific is also a chance for you to evaluate the underlying reason for your irritation at the other party.

According to psychologist Dr Susan Krauss, it could be wise to have a third-party function as a mediator in such discussions. That’s because as an “outsider”, they can bring some objectivity to your case.

Take a chance

The bottom line is that you don’t have to be friends to work with someone. What you need is a way to communicate your points across without being defensive.

Working with people you find difficult is not easy for sure. But if you manage to leap over the hurdle, you would be oh-so-proud of yourself! Take it as a step to graceful maturity regardless of your age.

Malaysia’s floods are bumping up fish, seafood, and vegetable prices in Singapore’s wet markets

Fish, seafood, and vegetable prices rise in Singapore’s wet markets, with some vegetables costing around two times as much as they were a few weeks back.

Sellers share that the poor weather conditions have created a shortfall in Malaysia as fields are flooded, contributing to low crop yield. Transport is also an issue considering the closure of roads due to severe flooding.

Vendors share their concerns

Mr Alex Zhou, 35, a vegetable stall owner in the wet market along Pasir Ris Drive, said: “The constant rain in Malaysia has made it hard to transport goods, and we’ve lost a lot of supply due to the poor weather. The green leafy vegetables like spinach are more badly affected because they spoil easily in water.”

Madam Rashidah, another vegetable stallholder at Geylang Serai Market, added that she had to import vegetables from Thailand and Vietnam. “This method is more expensive, causing my prices to go up as well,” the 45-year-old lady shared.

Image Credits: The Straits Times

Over the last few weeks, heavy flooding in Malaysia has resulted in significant numbers displaced from their residences. On Jan 8, nearly 50,000 people across six states took shelter in 400 relief centres.

Tomatoes and spinach among those badly affected

The cost of tomatoes has nearly doubled at the Pasir Ris and Ghim Moh Market & Food Centre, from $2/kg to $3/kg.

At the Tekka Centre, a market merchant said that his tomato prices have multiplied from $12 per 10 kg to $28. A vendor in Pasir Ris also commented that his vegetable supplies are now priced at $32 per 10 kg, increasing from $10.

Mr Jerry Tan, the vice-secretary of the Singapore Fruits & Vegetables Importers & Exporters Association, observed that owing to the rainy season, prices continued to creep higher towards the end of the year. But this year was unusual.

“Usually, some areas in Cameron Highlands that still get some sun will be able to supply tomatoes. But this year, the entire area has been raining for the past few weeks. When this happens, the tomatoes cannot ripen and the supply will be affected,” he noted.

The price of Malaysian tomatoes has soared by up to 150% relative to the previous week.

Image Credits: almanac.com

“We’ve never seen such a drastic increase in such a short time before. But suppliers are trying to get their stocks from Thailand and Vietnam, so prices should start to drop and will stabilise soon,” Mr Tan added.

As spinach is highly perishable and thus challenging to get from further away countries, such as Thailand, distribution has also been seriously hit.

Fish and prawn prices are trending up

Mr Goh Thiam Chwee, chairman of the General Association of Singapore Fish Merchants, commented that Chinese pomfret and red snapper prices have risen by around 20 per cent. It could grow to 30 per cent with Chinese New Year around the corner.

“Every year, the prices will increase towards the monsoon season because of the fluctuating sea conditions. But seafood is not so badly affected because we also get our supply from other countries, and if needed, we can replace with frozen fish in the interim,” he said.

The Chinese pomfret and white pomfret were priced about 20 per cent more at Ghim Moh Market & Food Centre and Tekka Centre.

“The Chinese pomfret and white pomfret are the two most popular types of fishes during the Chinese New Year season. Due to the monsoon season, the supply of them (is) very low and that caused the price to escalate,” said Mrs Niam Leng Hwa, a fishmonger at Ghim Moh Road Market & Food Centre.

a fishmonger at Ghim Moh Market & Food Centre

Image Credits: The Straits Times

But some buyers like Madam Liu Shao Ai reacted calmly to the price increases.

The 44-year-old office worker who usually does her marketing at Chinatown Wet Market said she’s not particularly shocked or surprised. “After all, the monsoon season cannot be helped. I wouldn’t buy less, but I would try to buy more of other cheaper alternatives,” she remarked.