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How to Save Money with Your Partner

After an amazing 12 years together, my husband and I finally tied the knot last year. Before embarking on this new chapter in our lives, we made sure we were financially prepared. Are you financially prepared?

When couples get married or move in together, they naturally take on shared responsibility for each other and their finances. Nonetheless, money-related misunderstandings can arise, which is why it’s essential to address them.

To help iron out these common money problems, let’s explore some practical financial tips for couples. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all rule, so these tips are here to guide you and your partner in achieving your financial goals together.

BE OPEN

Right from the start of your relationship, it’s essential to be open and honest about where you both stand financially. If one of you is dealing with debt or has specific financial goals, discuss it openly. Take time to understand each other’s money habits, like spending tendencies and risk tolerance. You don’t have to have identical attitudes towards money, but finding a middle ground through compromise can be beneficial. Addressing these issues early on will prevent misunderstandings and arguments down the road.

CATEGORIZE YOUR EXPENSES

Not all expenses need to be shared. While bills, groceries, and travel costs are typically shared, individual expenses like personal shopping or sending money to family back home remain separate. By clearly identifying your expenses, you can streamline money management and reduce complexity.

PRIORITIZE AND SOLVE ISSUES

Discuss what financial goals are achievable for both of you in the long term and identify problems that can be resolved immediately. For example, if different earning capacities are a concern, consider starting a small business together or exploring additional income streams. Whenever possible, prioritize reducing debt, as this will save you money on interest in the long run.

MAKE A BUDGET PLAN

A budget plan can be a lifesaver when it comes to managing your expenses. Decide on a reasonable amount to spend on everyday items, take-outs, entertainment, and personal expenses. Also, include bills, debt payments, irregular expenses, and contributions to your emergency fund in the budget plan. This step is especially valuable for young couples looking to stay on top of their expenses.

TAKE ACTION

After discussing, analyzing, and crunching the numbers, it’s time to create an action plan. Determine who will handle the primary bookkeeping responsibilities to ensure that all bills are paid on time and accounts stay in good standing. However, it’s essential to keep the non-bookkeeping partner informed about your financial progress.

Once you have identified and addressed your pain points and financial objectives, develop a comprehensive action plan with a clear timeline. This plan may involve the following steps:

1. Establishing a joint savings account.
2. Exploring opportunities for additional sources of income.
3. Gradually settling smaller debts.
4. Conducting thorough research on investment options.
5. Making a structured plan for significant purchases.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Lastly, don’t forget to reward yourselves along the way! Even after being married, my husband and I still make time for regular dates and save up for enjoyable activities like travel and relaxing spa treatments.

Remember, open communication, understanding, and teamwork are the keys to successfully managing your finances as a couple. By following these financial tips, you and your partner can build a strong financial foundation together and enjoy a prosperous future.

Sources: 1 & 2

Practical ways to stop a spouse from spending impulsively while out shopping together

You and your wife/husband are going shopping again and you know what that means.

Another dent in the wallet and more clutter in the house. You’ve tried talking to them so many times already but the impulse buys just keep coming.

How?

Well, keep reading.

Make a shopping list and stick to it

First thing first, before going out, sit down together and write a list of only the things y’all really need.

Don’t put extras or ‘maybe can buy’ stuff. Focus only on necessities. Then when shopping, buy only what’s on the list and don’t deviate. No matter how tempting the sales or newly released items are, don’t sway.

If your spouse sees something extra they want, tell them “next time.” For now, just focus on needs. Next, check off items from the list as you buy. This gives a sense of progress to not make impulse buys.

Using a targeted list works. It provides focus and direction, limiting distractions. And by reviewing the list and receipt, you’re keeping each other accountable. If can master this, you sure can tame the spendthrift beau/beast and save more money.

Cash over credit

Another tip is to use cold hard cash instead of a card. Physical money means you and your spouse can see how much is left in their wallet. This makes your spouse think twice before buying.

Using cash is a good way to control impulse buys. Your spouse can see how much they spending, so he/she is more likely will buy only what they need. And when the money runs out, no choice but to stop shopping and balik kampung.

Time-out before check-out

Still, we know it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and still make impulse buys. So here’s another way to avoid overspending: take a quick “time-out” before heading to the checkout counter.

Maybe grab a cuppa? Suggest taking a tea/coffee or snack break before proceeding to pay. This pause gives you both a chance to reconsider your cart and think twice about any non-essential purchases.

Image Credits: nowboarding.changiairport.com

Ask your spouse:

“Do you need that? Let’s stick to what’s on the list.”
“We have a budget to keep. Why not wait till next month to get that, in case you change your mind?”

Often, the urge to buy something fades after a short break.

Leaving the store environment also helps provide perspective. The music, lighting, and product displays are all designed to encourage spending. Stepping away helps combat these effects so you can make better decisions.

If after your break, your spouse still feels strongly about a particular item, consider setting a 24-hour waiting period before buying. This extra time allows the initial excitement to fade so you and your partner can determine if it’s a well-thought-out purchase or just an impulse buy.

Pausing and reevaluating before paying is an easy way to curb overspending while shopping together. Staying within budget and making joint decisions will help ensure you both leave the store feeling good about your purchases.

Reward mindful spending

Last but not least, reward your spouse when they make mindful spending choices! Every time your spouse passes up a huge impulse buy, reemphasize how much both of you have saved. Give them praise and maybe a small treat.

For example, you can say:

“Well done, dear! I’m proud of you for not buying that new gadget even though you really wanted it. Milk tea? My treat!”
“Thank you for being so disciplined today. I appreciate you helping us save money. Want to go for a massage session this weekend?”

Over time, this positive reinforcement will strengthen their ability to curb impulse spending. Your spouse will start to associate mindful shopping choices with rewards and praise from you, giving them motivation to keep spending wisely.

So the next time you go shopping with your other half, try out some of these practical tips. They may complain a bit at first, but deep down they will appreciate you helping them save some dough. At the end of the day, successful relationships are built on understanding and supporting each other’s weaknesses. Help your spouse shop smarter, and the financial gods will help secure your future.

How to talk to your boss about a salary raise with your recent mediocre performance review

Hey you, don’t be so down.

So your boss says you only “met expectations” for the last quarterly performance review? Does it mean you don’t deserve that pay raise you’ve been eyeing?

Of course not! Just because your boss doesn’t appreciate how much you’ve been sweating this whole year doesn’t mean you should give up. Listen, even if you know you didn’t exactly set the office on fire recently, that doesn’t mean you don’t deserve to get paid what you’re worth.

Review your performance review & prepare your case

Take a good look at your performance review again. Which parts are not so “power”? Double-check with your boss the areas you need to improve. Then plan how to up your game in the next few months. Maybe you can ask your mentor or senior colleagues to guide you.

After that, compile all the stuff you have done thus far that shows you deserve a promotion. Put together reports, emails, or data to build your case. Highlight your key contributions and the ways you added value to the team or company. Show how you took on more responsibilities (if any).

Timing & framing the discussion

Image Credits: forbes.com

Timing plays a huge part.

Choose a good time to talk when things at the office are not so busy. Avoid the week before major deadlines or when the company is not doing so well. Your boss will be more receptive if you bring this up at the right time.

Then, go meet your boss and be honest that the review wasn’t what you expected. But say you want to improve and have concrete ideas on how to do better. Explain the steps you will take to get there.

At the same time, don’t forget to bring up all your achievements and contributions if you’ve been in the company for some time. Tell him/her you feel you deserve a raise because you have proven yourself in the past. If he/she hesitates, ask what else you need to do to get a promotion and negotiate from there.

A few negotiating angles for your consideration

I’ve taken on more responsibilities over time. I’m now mentoring two new team members and handling some big client accounts. My job scope has increased but my pay hasn’t.
I’ve been loyal to the company. I’ve stuck around even when other opportunities came up. I believe in the work we do here and want to continue progressing in my career with this company.
I’m committed to continuous improvement. I realize I have more to learn, but I’m eager to develop my skills and strengthen my performance. If given clear feedback, I will be highly motivated to exceed expectations going forward.
I understand that now may not be the right time for a pay increase, but I wanted to express my interest in advancing my career here. If a salary bump isn’t possible at the moment, would you consider other benefits like extra annual leave or flexible work arrangements? I’m open to discussing various options.
I appreciate you taking the time to consider my request. Can we meet again in three months to revisit this conversation? I aim to prove my value to the team during this time. Thank you for your support and mentorship thus far. I look forward to continuing our discussion!

So don’t be that dejected by your not-so-fantastic review this last quarter, my friend. Though your boss may not see your value now, you know the contributions you’ve made. Take a step back and look at your wins, big and small. Prep, build your case and schedule that meeting. Go in with confidence in what you’ve achieved, give some solid examples, and ask for that raise. Your boss may surprise you if you show how much you care about career growth. If you get a ‘not now’, don’t lose hope. Use that fire in your belly to push on and exceed next year. The only way is up, so keep your head up high.

4 Food Trends Making Waves in S’pore

1. NO NEED TO WIPE TABLES, BUT RESPECT IS KEY

In a recent announcement, the National Environment Agency (NEA) clarified that diners at public eating areas in Singapore are not obligated to wipe their tables after use. However, it’s crucial to show respect to the workers by not leaving any litter behind on or around the tables. “These include tissues, wet wipes, shells, drink cans, and bones,” the agency added. This reminder followed an incident captured on social media where NEA enforcement officers had a discussion with a diner outside Tekka Market and Food Centre in Little India last week.

I, personally, have friends and relatives employed in the F&B (Food and Beverage) industry. In this field, known for its dynamic and challenging nature with shifts spanning 12 hours at times. So, let’s help the F&B workers out! They would greatly appreciate it if you would clean up after eating.

2. SINGAPOREANS’ HIGH SALT INTAKE & RISING BLOOD PRESSURE LEVELS

A concerning trend has emerged in Singapore, where nine out of ten residents are consuming more salt than recommended. Surveys conducted by the Ministry of Health and Health Promotion Board revealed that the prevalence of high blood pressure has nearly doubled since 2010.

Additionally, fat intake among Singaporeans increased from 94g in 2019 to 100g in 2022, underlining the impact of lifestyle choices on public health. Thus, it highlights the significance of maintaining fitness and embracing a balanced diet as integral components of a lifestyle, rather than merely indulging in hobbies.

3. ICONIC DESSERT BRAND SARA LEE FACES UNCERTAIN FUTURE

Sara Lee, the beloved Australian dessert brand known for its delectable pound cakes, is facing a precarious situation. The iconic frozen desserts company has entered voluntary administration due to rising costs.

Despite being profitable from May 2021 to July 2022, increased expenses led to price hikes across all products in May. This news has left many netizens shocked and nostalgic, as Sara Lee has been a household name in Singapore for years.

4. MCDONALD’S 1980s MENU RESURFACES ON SOCIAL MEDIA

A blast from the past took over social media when a user, by the name of “Boon Wee”, shared McDonald’s menu from the 1980s. The menu was posted on the “Heritage SG Memories” Facebook group. It featured a variety of burgers, fries, shakes, sundaes, and the iconic apple pie.

Image Credits: Boon Wee via facebook.com

Interestingly, soft drinks were priced as low as S$0.50, and the famous Big Mac was a mere S$2.35. Now, soft drinks start at S$3.15, while the Big Mac starts at a whopping S$7.25. The post garnered significant attention, with netizens expressing surprise at the inflation rates and the use of traditional Chinese characters in the 1980s menu.

Sources:1,2, 3, & 4

Latest WFH internships posted from 16 to 19 October 2023

Good Friday!

Hope the recent rain didn’t dampen your job-searching spirits.

We’re here to make it better with the latest WFH internships this week.

Keep scrolling.

#1: Glints – People Strategy Intern

Website: glints.com/sg

Allowance / Remuneration: $700 – 850 monthly

Job Qualifications

Having a strong growth mindset, adaptable, learns, and moves quickly
A person who is proactive and has a strong work ethic
Ability to work well in a multi-cultural team and with senior stakeholders
Demonstrate a high level of organizational skills and ownership with attention to detail.

Key Responsibilities

Act as a key contributor and thought partner to supporting Glints’ People Team leadership in various strategic initiatives
Facilitate the strategic planning and coordination of people-related special projects across teams and regions, not limited to re-organizations, engagement & change management efforts, internal communications, L&D
Support ad-hoc people projects and tasks.

How to apply?

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

#2: Social Jet – Marketing Intern

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A post shared by Social Jet Singapore (@socialjet.sg)

Website: socialjet.sg

Allowance / Remuneration: $700 – 1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications

Be fluent in English, both written and spoken
Simplify technical terms into simple-to-understand English
Have strong attention to detail and organizational skills
Communicate clearly and efficiently both with the team and clients
Have a basic understanding of digital marketing platforms, especially Instagram & TikTok, and online marketing strategies
Able to work with software like Canva, Google Workspace (Google Docs, Google Sheets), Zoom, Whatsapp Business
Work effectively with the team to ensure smooth and timely project execution
Check and approve the quality of work submitted by influencers
Resolve client requests & feedback professionally
Committed to continuous learning and adapting to industry best practices
Multitask and work toward several milestones on various projects simultaneously

Key Responsibilities

Client Project Management:

Manage multiple client projects simultaneously, ensuring tasks and deliverables are met on time.
Act as a point of contact for clients, addressing their inquiries and providing updates on campaign progress.

Team Collaboration:

Collaborate closely with the internal team, including creative, content, and analytics teams, to ensure all aspects of influencer campaigns are coordinated and deadlines are met.
Work closely with the Founder and Director, and provide timely updates and feedback.

Influencer Coordination:

Shortlist influencers for client campaigns using the company’s process.
Work closely with a network of influencers and content creators to ensure they receive clear briefs and guidelines for content creation.
Assist in their content creation.
Monitor influencer deliverables, deadlines, and campaign performance.

How to apply?

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

#3: The Green Mortician – Startup / Creative Marketing Intern

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A post shared by Pawkit | App made by pet owners for pet owners (@pawkitapp)

Website: thegreenmortician.sg

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,500 monthly

Job Qualifications

Undergraduates/Fresh graduates currently pursuing marketing, communications, journalism, graphic design, or a related field
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Experience with social media platforms (TikTok, Facebook, Instagram)
Basic videography and photography skills
Graphic design skills using Canva or Photoshop
Creative and flexible
Detail-oriented with a flair for copywriting
Knowledge of SEO best practices and experience with keyword research is an advantage
A basic understanding of website management using WordPress is an advantage
A basic understanding of PR outreach and media relations is an advantage
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Share the company’s passion for giving back to the community and promoting environmental sustainability
And of course, being an animal/pet lover is essential

Key Responsibilities

Creating short, engaging content for social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok)
Assisting with social media management, including scheduling and publishing posts, monitoring engagement, and analyzing/utilizing data
Conducting keyword research and optimizing content for search engines
Assisting with website management using WordPress
Conducting research and outreach for PR opportunities, including identifying journalists and media outlets, drafting pitches, and building media lists
Writing and editing copy for various marketing materials, including website content, email newsletters, and press releases
Develop collaborative initiatives with non-profits, start-ups, artists, etc.
Assisting with various other marketing and administrative tasks as needed

How to apply?

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

#4: Handdi.Io – Social Media Intern – TikTok / Meta

Website: handdi.io

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications

Diploma or equivalent in a creative field
Video editing skills
Past portfolio of aesthetic social media accounts
Basic knowledge of social media analytics and data interpretation.

Key Responsibilities

TikTok Content Creation: Produce and curate compelling and shareable content for TikTok channel that aligns with brand and marketing goals.
Content Strategy: Collaborate with the marketing team to develop and execute a TikTok content strategy that boosts brand awareness and engages the target audience.
Community Engagement: Engage with followers, respond to comments, and actively participate in conversations to foster a vibrant and interactive TikTok community.
Analytics and Reporting: Monitor performance metrics, track growth, and provide regular reports on TikTok channel performance, making data-driven recommendations for improvement.
Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with TikTok trends, features, and algorithm changes to ensure content remains fresh and relevant.
Cross-Promotion: Collaborate with other social media platforms and marketing channels to ensure a consistent brand message and cross-promotion opportunities.
Travel and On-Site Engagement: As part of this role, you will need to travel to various locations to capture on-site content and engage with customers. This may involve visiting homes, capturing content, and creating unique experiences for followers.

How to apply?

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

#5: Versuni – HR Intern

Website: versuni.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications

Currently studying towards a university degree focused on Human Resource Management.
You are a proactive, detailed oriented, independent, and ambitious person
You thrive in a dynamic environment working with projects, data, and documentation
You are a true team player, stepping in where support is needed and acting with integrity
You have excellent English skills
Able to commit fully for 6 months

Key Responsibilities

Support country HR initiatives & projects related to HR Management as well as Change Management
Support with projects related to setting up the documentation for Versuni (Templates, Policies, etc.)
Support annual HR timeline activities (PPM, Insurance Renewal, etc)
Be integrated into an extensively internationally operating team, which is active in different markets and business areas

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and apply on LinkedIn.

Editor’s note: These internships are selected based on the “remote” tag, but some positions are hybrid ones and you may need to report physically to the office. For more deets, do contact the employer directly.