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6 Ways To Write Emails With Stylish Confidence

Many of us spend a good chunk of our mornings to sending and reading emails. Surely, email-related tasks are permanently part of our to-do lists. However, do you do it with confidence and proper etiquette?

#1: REMEMBER THAT EVERYTHING IS DOCUMENTED

As writing emails become second nature to us, we sometimes forget that our work email is not always private. Remember that your work email technically belongs to the company. It can be fully monitored. In the age of fast-paced social media, an unpleasant email can easily spread out in a matter of seconds. You will not be able to retract a statement that fast! So, be professional at all times when you are using your work email.

Work emails are part of your company’s formal written records. Sometimes, these records can be used as admissible documents in the court. Those emails can be shared as a part of any legal proceedings and can be used directly against you. Thus, you must be careful in writing emails that contain sensitive information or commentary about other employees or clients.

#2: SET A REALISTIC TIMELINE FOR DEADLINES

We all have different work habits and some people do not have a sense of urgency when it comes to completing deadlines. Instead of writing “The deadline is tomorrow at 10:00 am!”, you may write something similar to this: “When can you get this done?” You may also write how much you will appreciate it if he or she can finish the draft today because you will have enough time to discuss necessary changes before the tomorrow’s deadline.

Help your co-worker see that you cannot extend or push deadlines because of him or her. We all exhaust our resources to meet the deadlines. It is only fair for others to do the same. Asking about the person’s timeline can instill responsibility because he or she knows that there is someone waiting for his or her output.

#3: HEAD STRAIGHT TO THE POINT

When giving out suggestions, you may write: “I think maybe we can…” This statement does not exude confidence and assertiveness. Instead, you may write: “It will be best if we can…” The second statement gets straight to the point too.

Everyone is busy, including you! It is best to get your point across as early as possible. Start the email with a quick and friendly greeting to address the person. Then, follow it up with the request or issue that needs to be addressed. “Input needed for project X by Tuesday (December 1), at 3pm”, writes Employee A. This message will alert the reader right away. Do add supporting details in bullet points or separate paragraphs so that no part of the request or issue is left out.

#4: STOP APOLOGIZING IN EMAILS

Refrain from starting a message with “sorry to bother you…” The act of sending an email entails a small intrusion on the reader’s time. If you really need to communicate via email, keep it short and concise. You do not need to apologize for sending out important matters. Moreover, apologizing throughout the email takes away the main idea of your message and diminishes confidence in you as the sender.

#5: DO NOT SPAM YOUR CO-WORKERS

As said above, everyone is busy. Please do not spam your co-workers with multiple emails every time you have a new idea. Keep a running list of the things you need to discuss or to ask to your co-workers. Then, send the list once a day. Saying that “it can be easier to discuss this in person” is better than re-writing an email for an hour with multiple threads.

Spare your energy to productive matters. Have a quick chat with the primary person over a cup of coffee. This way, you will be able to get your point across efficiently and you will be able to receive feedback at a faster rate.

#6: FORWARD NECESSARY EMAILS

Save your reader’s time and energy by using the “forward” button exactly where you are in the conversation. By doing so, your reader will immediately spot the message that you want him or her to see. Your reader will avoid shuffling through a pile of previous messages too! Furthermore, you can write: “let me know if you have questions” upon sending.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Sources: 1 & 2

6 Skills With High Demand In Today’s Workforce

It comes as no surprise that today’s workforce is constantly changing and adapting with the needs of our environment. Technology-driven careers are becoming more and more in-demand these days. No matter which field you choose to take part in, having certain skills can increase your likelihood of success.

Consider sharpening these coveted skills:

#1: CLOUD COMPUTING SKILLS

Who does not know the Cloud? Almost all our data are stored in the Cloud. Cloud computing allows access to data storage, software applications, and other services powered by the Internet. Skills in Cloud computing are sought after due to the increasing number of companies that switched its business functions to the remote servers.

Cloud computing requires technical skills to ensure data security, to perform migrations, to negotiate terms with Cloud service providers, and to implement the best practices throughout the process.

#2: ANALYTICAL REASONING

Analytical reasoning is the ability to make sense of the data gathered and to uncover insights that can help business decisions. You already utilize analytical reasoning in your day-to-day lives. Detecting patterns, observing people, brainstorming, interpreting data, making decisions based on several factors, and integrating new information are all required in shaping one’s analytical reasoning.

People who have strong analytical reasoning skills are assets to the company as they investigate the problem and find solutions in an efficient manner. They understand the situation first before making decisions and taking necessary actions to help achieve the company’s goals.

#3: MOBILE APP DEVELOPMENT SKILLS

As smartphones and other mobile devices become the center of our communication an job processes, the industry for mobile application development continues to thrive. More and more businesses have converted their consumer experiences and internal processes digitally. Thus, people with experience and knowledge in app development are in-demand.

Mobile app development is a set of procedures involving programming and creating applications or designing software for fast-operating mobile devices. Because apps are so common, you can find plenty of tutorials and classes for app creation. Check out coding boot camps to kickstart your app development career.

#4: PEOPLE MANAGEMENT SKILLS

Despite the technological advancements and the social distancing restrictions posed around the world, people management skills help strengthen the business. Strong people management skills involve building relationships, keeping the team on track, increasing the team’s morale, and helping others achieve their goals.

People management includes the use of both soft and hard skills. We need people who can help us deal with work stress and empathize with us, especially during this challenging times.

#5: UX DESIGN SKILLS

User experience design is essential in making the digital world work for us. UX design is important because it aims to fulfill the people’s needs. Moreover, providing positive experiences to the clients can increase the likelihood of them coming back to the website itself. You can find an increasing number of opportunities in this field. If you want to gain advantage in this field, you can enroll in an online degree program led by UX experts.

#6: SEO/SEM MARKETING SKILLS

Digital marketing (SEO/SEM marketing) help increase the visibility or the web presence of companies and start-ups. People who are experts on the field can help blossoming online retailers to get noticed. Being noticed and having more site traffic leads to increased customers and revenue. Many companies are realizing the importance of digital marketing and are regularly looing for people with strong SEO/SEM marketing skills.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Try exploring the digital marketing courses available at Google Digital Garage. Most of them are free!

Sources: 1 & 2

5 Attractive Work-From-Hotel Offers In Singapore

Although the Ministry of Manpower has updated its guidelines to allow more employees to return to the workplace, working from home remains to be the default job set-up as it adheres to the social distancing guidelines.

Despite this, not everyone is blessed with a peaceful space at home. Employees have to strike a balance between their personal and professional lives without being distracted with other factors. Concentrating on one’s tasks takes a whole lot of patience and discipline.

If you are looking for a suitable place for a rewarding workcation or a work-from-hotel option to escape the distractions inside your home, look no further than the places found on this list.

1. MANDARIN ORCHARD SINGAPORE

Introduce a new environment to your partner to refresh your minds. Book a Deluxe Room or a Suite at Mandarin Orchard Singapore if you want to work in a space with unlimited high-speed WiFi, refreshments, and 50% off the in-room dining options. Rates start from S$88++.

Mandarin Orchard Singapore offers packages for two through their Deluxe rooms and Suites. The former includes refreshments. While, the Suites include the award-winning restaurant Chatterbox’s signature Mandarin Chicken Rice set for two. Book a room from 7am to 7pm or 9am to 6pm. These packages are available from Monday to Friday (T&Cs apply).

2. MARRIOTT TANG PLAZA HOTEL

Enjoy a rewarding workday by hitting up the Orchard Road for some retail therapy (or Yuletide shopping) and staying in the Marriot Tang Plaza Hotel. It is conveniently located along the Orchard Road shopping belt.

You will be able to work inside a spacious room between 7am to 7pm. The deal includes complimentary parking, in-room beverage-making facilities, access to the hotel’s gym and pool facilities (i.e., by appointment only), and 30% off its dining options. Rates start at S$120++ (T&Cs apply).

3. FURAMA RIVERFRONT

Furama RiverFront indulges its guests with visually-pleasing spaces and comfortable lounges. If you do not want to book a room and prefer working outside of your home, you may consider working at the Furama RiverFront’s common lounge area.

You can get a day pass for S$28 and a monthly pass for S$450. Here are some of the inclusions of the daily pass according to its website (T&Cs apply):

a. $15 dining credits are applicable for all restaurants and food counters within the hotel
b. Free flow of coffee, tea, juices and soft drinks for the Pass Holder and one guest
c. 10% off total bill at any restaurants in the hotel
d. 12% off delivery and takeaways via Furama RiverFront or Furama City Centre’s online menu (food.furama.com) with a minimum order of S$80
e. Free weekday admission voucher to Waka Waka for 1 child
f. 1 Parking coupon for the Pass Holder (i.e., issued upon request)
g. S$10 off Style Theory’s Apparel Starter Plan
h. High-speed WiFi access

4. FAIRMONT SINGAPORE

Whether you are eager to book a room at Fairmont Singapore for work or play, you can enjoy its “Ultimate Daycation” package. For about S$145, you can use the Fairmont Room for two adults and two children. This package is available from Monday to Thursday at 8am to 7pm (T&Cs apply).

Inclusions are unlimited high-speed WiFi for multiple device, beverages, S$75 dining credits. These dining credits can be used at Skai, Mikuni, Prego, Anti:Dote, Clove or for in-room dining options. Guests will also have access to the hotel facilities such as the pool and spa (i.e., advance booking required). This offer is valid until December 30, 2020.

5. FULLERTON HOTEL SINGAPORE

It is not everyday that you can work in a neoclassical building with rich history that dates back to the 20s! The Fullerton Hotel Singapore’s Work From Fullerton package offers 12 hours use of its rooms with access to the hotel’s facilities.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Inclusions are high-speed WiFi, in-room coffee and tea selection, access to the pool and gym, parking, and a dining credit of S$50. The maximum capacity for a room is three adults or two adults and two children. Inquire now as this package is available until November 30, 2020 only (T&Cs apply).

Sources: 1 & 2

An experienced executive recruiter shares ways on how to cope with rejection from job search

We get it. You’ve been sending out resumes and going for interviews but to no avail. Coupled with the pandemic with no clear end in sight, it’s tough to cope. In fact, more job cuts are expected amid COVID-19 according to Singapore’s tripartite advisory. The competition for job openings is definitely intense out there.

Furthermore, it’s probably common to be faced with more rejections in recent months. We understand it’s not easy to deal with them… especially if you’re constantly worried about your monthly expenditures and how to keep up with your daily spendings. Thankfully, an experienced executive recruiter shares with us some ways to cope with rejection.

#1: Everyone is in this together

While it’s possible to step out of an interview feeling like you’ve aced it, don’t beat yourself up if you don’t get a reply from the interviewer. Take some comfort in knowing that everyone else is in the same situation together. You’re not the only person having feelings of fear, stress, or situational depression from rejection.

#2: It’s just not meant to be

Overthinking might be the worst thing to do after being ghosted or rejected. If you’re trying to find some closure, maybe telling yourself that ‘it’s just not meant to be’ will work. As cliche as it sounds, the right time (and position) will come when it’s due. Not getting selected for a position doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re not good enough.

#3: Look within yourself

Image Credits: Depositphotos

You may be highly competent for a job on paper and experience-wise but sometimes it’s good to look within yourself. By that, we mean an analysis of your approach. How do you think you carry yourself during an interview? When asked why you left your previous position, do you start to unload by putting the blame on your ex-colleagues? Or do you exude positive attitudes instead?

#4: Ask for an opinion and adapt

If you think the constant rejections you’ve received have to do with the way you speak or approach an interview, ask for an opinion. Gather a few friends you can trust or mentors you look up to and share your interview style. Listen to their honest feedback and make the change if necessary. Then, keep practising till you’re confident of your pitch.

#5: Adjust your definition of success

Here, we’re talking about managing your expectations. Your pre-pandemic job goals might make sense in a strong job market. But we all know that’s not the case as the world battles the virus and its effects on our lives. Even if your present circumstances might seem far from your original dream job, celebrate the small victories along the way.

#6: Be well aware of your outstanding qualities

Image Credits: Freepik

Constant rejection can zap away your confidence and make you doubt the good qualities you have. It’s important to be well aware of your outstanding qualities and triumphant achievements in the past no matter the job interview result. To help counter a negative thought, mentally recall a moment in time where you managed to prevail over adversity.

#7: Keep a list of positive affirmations

You will be surprised to know the marvellous effects of positive affirmations on a tired and defeated mind.

“This is merely a minor setback; I will find a new job!”

“Just because I was rejected for the job does not diminish my self-worth and value.”

“I am smart, talented, and have a lot to offer.”

“I won’t give up and will make it through this tough time!”

#8: Take good care of yourself

You’re the only person in full control of your mind, body, and spirit. To cope with rejection the healthy way, it’s essential to take good care of yourself. Eat well, exercise, and keep up with that positive social interaction. It also helps to expose yourself to stories of successful people who’ve gone through the fire pit and risen up stronger. The right time will come for you. Take heart!

Jobs: M1, Shopee, and Wildlife Reserves Singapore are hiring

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) said today (Oct 1) that companies in the professional services sector have offered about 9,000 opportunities since April this year. About 80 per cent of which are for professionals, managers, executives, and technicians (PMETs) roles.

If you haven’t found yours, don’t be disheartened. Take a look at some vacancies M1, Shopee, and Wildlife Reserves Singapore have for you this week.

#1: M1 – Senior/Executive, Customer Experience Management

Image Credits: The Straits Times

M1 has a history that dates back to August 1994. They are one of the four major telecommunications company operating in Singapore. It is also the first operator in Singapore to offer 24-hour customer service in 1997.

The Customer Experience Management professional works closely with the big data team, solution vendors, and internal IT teams to develop survey and customer profile insights. This is to guide cross-functional teams towards customer experience improvement strategies, ensure the business is focused on the right goals to deliver delightful customer experience, and to react appropriately to market changes.

Job Qualifications

Candidate should possess a Degree or tertiary education
Major in Computer Science and LEAN application would be an added advantage
Analytical mind to be able to combine and draw correlations from different data sets
Commercial awareness with good influencing skills to get buy-in from stakeholders
Self-starter with a passion for driving and supporting change
Ability to work in a fast pace and multi-tasking environment
Proficient in Excel and Data Analysis applications
Strategic thinking, planning, as well as forward-looking

Key Responsibilities

Using survey tools and dashboards to formulate and provide an on-going view of Customer Experience related metrics across multiple touchpoints (assisted/non-assisted) and identify actionable segments to drive improvements.
Design and formulate survey strategies to solicit useful feedbacks and identify categories of Failure Demands to be presented to the management on a regular basis.
Plan, scope, and execute studies from insights to provide an ongoing view of how the brand is performing on key measures (NPS, Customer Effect Score, FCR, etc.).
Identify customer pain points, as well as to support new delivery of survey questionnaires.
Work cross-functionally to embed insights with relevant stakeholders, facilitate ideation or action planning sessions, as well as track the progress and impact of initiatives.
The scope includes but not exhaustively, research and methodology, evaluating and managing external vendors, designing questionnaires, data crunching, preparing reports, identifying actions to be taken, and project managing cross-functional stakeholders to track progress and impact of actions.

How to apply?

Apply and view the job post in full here.

#2: Shopee – Business Development, Fashion Special Projects (Singapore)

Image Credits: Campaign Asia

Shopee is the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan. Launched in 2015, it is a platform tailored for the region, providing customers with an easy, secure, and fast online shopping experience through strong payment and fulfilment support.

The company believes that online shopping should be accessible, easy, and enjoyable. This is the vision Shopee aspires to deliver on the platform every single day.

The team comprises over 8,000 employees from across the region and they are constantly on the lookout for potential young talents who have the passion and drive to become part of a fast-moving and dynamic group.

Job Qualifications

A Bachelor’s Degree from a reputable local or overseas university
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, able to break down problems, draw insights from data, and design practical solutions
Demonstrated ability to manage and follow through project executions
Detail-oriented, meticulous, independent and have a strong drive to get things done
Comfortable communicating with multiple stakeholders across departments and teams
Experience in eCommerce industry or content marketing will be a plus
Proficiency in Excel, knowledge in SQL will be a plus

Key Responsibilities

Develop KPIs, monitor performance, and drive continuous improvement of ongoing initiatives
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure timely project execution
Execute initiatives to improve fashion users’ experience such as to clean counterfeit items, to standardize the item description, to facilitate with users’ return and refund etc.
Manage whole fashion item nominations to be featured on campaigns, build an SKU library in a logical and structured manner
Creative thinking on live-stream content, initiate ideas on how to help sellers attract customers, and monitor live stream performance
Conduct marketing research on fashion buyers and understand the fashion trend, to acquire new buyers to fashion as well as increase the conversion rate

How to apply?

Apply and view the job post in full here.

#3: Wildlife Reserves Singapore (WRS) – Producer/Show Host

Image Credits: WRS

Mandai Park Holdings (MPH) is driving the rejuvenation of Mandai Precinct into an integrated nature and wildlife destination, through its development arm, Mandai Park Development (MPD). As champions for Wildlife, the brand leads actions to protect, inspire a love for wildlife, and spark a sense of wonder in everyone, regardless of roles.

Come 2024, they will add a new Bird Park, a Rainforest Park, nature-themed indoor attraction and Eco-resort as part of the Mandai rejuvenation plan. If you are self-driven, looking for growth, and new challenges, WRS wants you to be part of their team.

The incumbent will research, plan, produce, and host world-class and innovative experiences, shows and programming with minimal supervision across a range of formats to deliver unique and cut-through content for the My Animal Buddy programme that targets families with kids. The end goal is to transform their engagement with families globally in and beyond the wildlife parks, to fulfil their Planet, People, and Performance goals.

Job Qualifications

Degree in Mass Communications, Theatre, or equivalent
Ability to speak fluently in more than one language
Minimum 3 years of experience in the media industry with experience in original content conceptualisation and scriptwriting, especially for the kids’ segment
Comfortable in front of the camera with excellent hosting and acting experience
Excellent interpersonal, presentation, and written communication skills
Experience in creating and hosting your own channel on various social platforms
Knowledge in editing experience and graphic design skills are an asset
Self-motivated, team player, and a positive attitude
Thrives in a fast-paced environment, loves pushing the boundaries with a love for speed and agility
Love wildlife and the earth, with a desire to champion conservation and sustainability

Key Responsibilities

The Producer

A creative contributor who will ideate, conceptualise, and coordinate all aspects of in the park virtual shows and programmes.
Scripting, directing, and editing shows and programmes in alignment with programme vision and goals. To help children acquire essential life skills while deepening connection and care for animals.
Leverage deep understanding of consumer preferences and trends, coupled with a strong understanding of the edutainment and media landscape.
Conceptualise captivating experiences, create and test unique programming concepts, and scale promising concepts both in park and out-of-park to achieve desired business goals of growth in subscription, engagement, retention, and customer lifetime value.

The Show Host

Responsible for hosting shows and programmes, interacting with guests and audience in real-time.
Co-create the design of a distinctive persona/personality as the face of the My Animal programme.
Deliver memorable and outstanding experiences that will captivate audiences worldwide.
Keep the programme running on schedule, with the agility and wits to respond positively and quickly to unexpected issues, and the ability to improvise as needed on the go.
Create well-loved experiences and shows with strong appeal to drive repeat viewership and participation.

How to apply?

Apply and view the job post in full here.