Quit Sending These Job Interview Red Flags

The new year beams with career possibilities and job opportunities. As more and more stores have opened, many eager candidates have been given the chance to shine. These candidates bring their best behavior during job interviews. They give answers that the employer wants to hear and attempt to convince him that he or she is the right person for the job.

Knowing which interview red flags to watch out for can help you speed up the process of screening and hiring. You do not want to feel the costs of hiring badly, nor do you want to send the wrong message to an interviewer. Consider these tips.

#1: ARRIVING LATE FOR THE INTERVIEW

Tardiness demonstrates a lack of respect for people and their time. It is the hallmark of unsuccessful people. When a candidate arrives late, he or she gets flustered and apologetic. This type of person can keep meetings from starting, conduct customer visits following their schedules, and constantly say that they will be late for work.

With so many qualified candidates, why would an interviewer hire someone who is late? An employer must not hire someone who is late for the most important meeting of his or her career.

#2: LACK OF COMPANY KNOWLEDGE

Red flags are shinning when you show little to no knowledge about the company’s products or services, customers, and target audience. It is essential for a candidate to research on the company’s background as they prepare for the interview. Start by reading through the pages of the company’s website.

A candidate who has no knowledge about the company shows lack of preparation and interest about the prospective role. You may come across as someone who fits poorly within the company’s values and goals.

#3: LACK OF OWNERSHIP

Another red flag is a candidate who does not admit to any responsibility for his or her past mistakes. It is unpleasant if you blame your co-workers, bosses, and previous company for failed projects and more.

As an interviewer, you must listen carefully to the reasons why someone left his previous job. The right candidate will admit to errors, make thoughtful mistakes, and do their best to repair their problems.

#4: BRAGGING ABOUT OTHER OFFERS

If you want to convey that you are desirable, bragging about your other offers is not a good idea. Arrogance is not an attractive quality. However, mentioning about other offers may not always be a red flag. At the later stages of your job application, it is alright to be transparent when it comes to your other offers. You can say something like this:

Image Credits: pixabay.com

“I am very interested in the position you have offered me. Please let me know the timing and details for the next step, because I am also evaluating another offer.”

Sources: 1 & 2

 

 

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5 red flags it’s time to quit your job

quitting a job

While some of us have a career that makes us feel energised every single day, most of us are in a job that we fantasise about quitting. Whether it’s the early mornings, the stress level, or the over-commitment of time, there are often a few common reasons.

If you’re feeling at a loss on what to do, this article will share some red flags you need to ponder over. Maybe it’s about time you quit your job and say “yes” to a better work opportunity somewhere else?

#1: Spending all weekend dreading Monday

Most of us suffer Monday blues, but if you are dreading Monday morning so much that it leeches all of the fun out of your weekend, quitting should take a front position on your mind. A career that drains and has to have you give up a well-deserved weekend isn’t worth keeping.

#2: Having deep hatred for your job
a woman getting scolded by a coworker

Image Credits: Getty Images/iStockphoto

Do you hate everything about your job – your boss, your employees and, even your work tasks? It’s time to quit. Plain and simple. Yes, we understand that most of us are working to bring food to the table. But consider your mental health if you want to keep your feet on the race track.

#3: Getting passed over for deserved promotions

Have you been putting in extra time and effort to better yourself on the job but keep getting passed over again and again for a promotion? This is a real reason for concern. 

Sure, it makes sense if the person who won the position is more qualified. However, if someone underqualified or entirely undeserving gets that promotion, maybe it’s time to pack up and go somewhere else where your skills are better valued.

#4: Feeling unappreciated and stagnant
unhappy female employee

Image Credits: Human Resource

Working with a management team who doesn’t appreciate your presence or contributions is dangerous for your overall sense of self-confidence. Simply put, you deserve to work at a place that takes you seriously.

Also, peeps who think they have stayed too long and become stagnant in their learning curve should rethink their position. A job is not all about money. It’s also about growth opportunities. It’s your chance to be a better administrator, consultant, or marketer (for example) than you were when you first started.

#5: Continually running on the work treadmill

From dawn to midnight and from Monday to Friday, work may constantly be plaguing you.  Maybe it’s the worry or stress over deadlines, or perhaps it could just be the general fear of it overhanging you.

But if it’s always on your mind, even on rest days, it’s probably time for a change. Folks who find themselves venting about it endlessly to their loved ones should also take this as a warning sign.

After all, work is just work and shouldn’t invade your personal life to such an unhealthy extent.

Final thoughts
resignation-letter-sample

Image Credits: Monster Jobs

Deciding to quit your job is often very challenging, indeed. It can be even scarier for those who’ve been with the company for long enough to feel too “okay” to move.

However, if you think about it, having a job that fulfils you and makes you feel treasured has a more prominent part to play in retaining you for the road ahead. Well, sleep on it and make the decision when you’re ready. 

An excellent way to get started is to begin browsing for job openings and sending resumes. When a suitable role presents itself, and you’re offered a contract, then you know it’s the right time to send in that long-awaited resignation email.

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Here are the latest fuel prices after the petrol duty hike; Shell V-Power highest at S$3.01/litre

Petrol pump prices have gone up after the Government has announced the hike of petrol duty rates on Tuesday (Feb 16).

The hike, which took immediate effect, has cause pump price to rise to what they were before the circuit breaker.

The duty for premium grade (98-octane and above) petrol will be raised by 15 cents a litre to 79 cents a litre and the duty for intermediate grade (92-octane and 95-octane) petrol will be raised by 10 cents a litre to 66 cents a litre.

This means that the most popular 95-octane petrol is now retailing at S$2.32 a litre at all stations, except SPC which charges a litre at S$2.25. The hike also see Shell V-Power tops at S$3.01 per litre.

Here are the latest fuel prices according to fuel price tracker Fuel Kaki.

 

Price Comparison Chart from fuelkaki.sg

It’s about time to consider electric cars.

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You can now custom order a Tesla Model 3 online from S$112,845 (excluding COE)

Tesla Model 3 in red

Tesla is one of the most innovative companies out there, aiming to transition the world’s energy sources to renewable energy. One of its primary ways of doing so is through its iconic electric cars.

By owning one of these powerful vehicles, you no longer have to pay for petrol. Instead, you can charge your Tesla cars at charging stations wherever you go, just as you would power up your phone or electronic devices.

Last December, Tesla announced that they would offer free supercharging to anyone who buys its Model 3 and Y vehicles in the US. At the point of writing, we’re unsure if they would extend it to Singapore or owners will be billed by the minute or per kWh (kilowatt-hour).

Regardless, Tesla fans will be glad to know that the California-based company has recently unveiled its Model 3 in Singapore. The estimated starting price excluding COE is $112,845 according to its website. It’s more than twice the cost of the same model sold in the US, though.

Here are the main features you need to know about the energy-efficient car if you’re planning to hit the road with a custom online order soon.

Built for safety

Tesla Built for safety

When you think of a car, safety may be one of the most critical features that come to mind. After all, your life is literally in its hands.

Thankfully, safety is an essential part of the Model 3 design. Its body and frame are made entirely out of steel and aluminium, making it the most robust metal structure yet.

The car can even withstand its weight stacked on top of itself four times, even with a glass roof! That’s the same as having two adult African elephants on top of your roof. Impressive, isn’t it?

Ultra-fast acceleration

model-3-performance-wheels

To get to the places you want to go, you’re going to need the quickest acceleration possible. Model 3 can exceed your expectations by climbing from 0 to 100 km per hour in little as 3.3 seconds.

That’s all thanks to the option of a dual-motor all-wheel drive, and 20” Uberturbine Wheels and Performance Brakes that have lowered suspension. They give you complete control, no matter the weather condition.

Dual motor

Tesla dual-motor label

The motor for the Tesla Model 3 is quite different from your average gas-powered car. It has two engines that run independently from each other, which provide better redundancy in just one moving part.

That also means it offers minimised maintenance needs, all while providing the most durability for your buck. Plus, the dual-motor lets you harness the power of complete flexibility when it comes to manoeuvring your car front and rear wheels for better traction and handling. 

Range
Tesla Superchargers

Image Credits: The Straits Times

Because the Model 3 is fully electric, you can drive without worrying about stopping at a petrol station. Just by charging overnight, you’ll be set with a full battery every day.

But what if you’re growing old or simply absentminded? Fret not. Thirty minutes is all you need to charge for your vehicle to run for a 270 km distance.

With over 20,000 Superchargers across the world and more opening every week, convenience is just around the corner. Tesla drivers can look forward to more Supercharger locations on our sunny island in time to come.

Autopilot

Tesla autopilot

The Tesla Model 3 not only brings you places but brings the future right before your eyes in the form of autopilot.

When stretches of roads make driving tedious, switching on autopilot will offer you advanced features such as twelve ultrasonic sensors to help you along the way.

Other features worth noting include the navigating guidance from highway on-ramp to off-ramp, single-touch auto parking, and automatic lane changes while on the highway.

Stunning interior

Tesla Model 3 interior

Forget what you know about your regular car. Get ready to step into a whole new interior with your Model 3.

Instead of carrying around a key, consider your smartphone the new replacement and controller hub for all the driver controls you need to work, together with the 15-inch touchscreen. The sleek modern interior also features an all-glass roof, which lets the sunlight in for a brighter and better drive experience.

And that’s all for this section.


Have you done a personal finance review or spoken to your partner regarding your desire for a new car purchase? If yes, you’re just five steps away from your dream car.

Step 1: Partial Premium Interior vs Premium Interior

Partial Premium Interior vs Premium Interior

Take your pick from a Partial Premium Interior or Premium Interior. The latter will raise the cost to S$154,815 from S$112,845 (excluding COE).

However, the extra S$40,000+ you pay is not just for the interior. It also affects the performance in terms of the range (WLTP), top speed, and acceleration power.

Step 2: Colour & Wheels

Select your colour and wheels

Now, it’s time to put on some “clothes” for your Tesla Model 3. Take the default in pearl white multi-coat and 18’’ aero wheels, and there will be no extra charges.

Or you can also choose to have it in solid black, midnight silver metallic, or deep blue metallic for an extra S$1,500. A bright red multi-coat will cost you S$3,000. Next, you have the choice to upgrade to a set of 19’’ sport wheels for S$2,000.

Take some time to think it through before you proceed.

Step 3: Black vs Monochrome

Black vs Monochrome

By now, you should know that when you’re given the freedom to customise, it often comes with extra money. How would you like your interior? Stick with black if you don’t want to fork out another dollar. Or you can go for black & white by paying S$1,500.

Step 4: Autopilot

Autopilot

We’re almost done! This is the second last step to the payment page.

Those who want the most advanced safety and convenience features must be willing to pay S$11,500. The good news is that you can skip this now and choose to buy post-delivery. Just be mindful that with new features rolled out by Tesla in the future, prices may rise accordingly too.

Step 5: Payment

Payment page

Congratulations on getting to this last page. Here, you just have to enter your account details, card, and billing information before placing an order. There is also a one-time S$150 non-refundable order fee to be charged.

Placed an order? Great! Now, sit back and relax. Your customised Tesla Model 3 will reach you in about 12 to 14 weeks. Click here to view a comprehensive list of FAQs and happy waiting!

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Skip these foods and drinks to avoid bloating

a plate of pasta

The feeling of a satisfying meal in your stomach is a blissful experience, no doubt. For many people, warm and filling meals form a considerable part of our daily lives and can make our moods better than ever in just a few moments.

However, the same foods that taste so good can also leave behind some nasty bloating issues. They may cause our stomachs to swell with uncomfortable gas or pain that we can’t seem to get rid of. Let’s not forget the farts we release (or struggle to let out).

If you have an issue with bloating, skip these foods and drinks to make sure you can avoid bloating as much as possible.

#1: Beans
a variety of beans

Image Credits: SCMP

The subject of a famous fairy tale about this “magical pea”, beans are known to be a protein-rich food. Generally, beans are high in amino acids. They are also low in calories and contain high amounts of healthy fibre.

However, the fermentation process used to digest these beans in your system produces a considerable amount of gas that can trigger bloating. If you struggle with that, stay away from beans as much as possible. Or you may also consume tempeh and soybeans (edamame) that are easier to digest.

#2: Onions & Cabbages
roasted cabbage and onions

Image Credits: Taste of Home

Onions are a staple ingredient for many Asian cuisines, so this might shock those who are reading. If you’re the sort that suffers from acid reflux, you want to steer clear of onions. It’s famous for causing a bloated feeling in the upper belly. Go for chives or scallions instead.

As for vegetables in the cabbage family, they are usually called cruciferous vegetables. You want to avoid brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and broccoli if you don’t want to suffer the effects of gassy carbohydrates. Bok choy makes a suitable replacement!

#3: Sweeteners
a spoonful of artificial sweetener

Image Credits: chriskresser.com

Selected artificial sweeteners are hard to digest. This thus leads to bacteria in the intestine fermenting it, which in turn results in gas.

Folks who are looking for alternatives can try Stevia. Tamara Duker Freuman, a New York City-based registered dietitian, said that Stevia is not a fermentable carbohydrate. This means that gas is not produced as a byproduct if consumed.

Did we mention it’s calorie-free and may even help you manage your blood sugar levels? Consider buying the iLIte Stevia Natural Sweetener (S$7.20) from FairPrice.

#4: Carbonated Drinks
soda

Image Credits: eastidahonews.com

This one might seem a bit hard at first. Who’s guilty of gulping down carbonated drinks regularly to counter the summer-forever weather in Singapore? I know I do. Even when we’re unwell, it seems like staying away from that chilled can of cola is impossible.

But you need to know that the substance here that cause our favourite beverages to bubble and stay fresh is carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide is a gas that can get trapped in your digestive system and cause bloating or cramping. Stick to flat drinks to avoid this bloating threat.

#5: Wheat / Gluten
Subway sandwiches

Image Credits: thrillist.com

For people who find themselves running to the bathroom after a good Subway sandwich, bread might be the unsuspecting culprit.

Wheat and the gluten it contains can be alright for some people, but for those with gluten sensitivity, intolerance, or celiac disease, ingesting gluten causes severe digestive issues, including gas, massive bloating, and other stomach discomforts.

If you notice a bloating pattern after consuming bread, it might be time to cut back on your gluten intake. Instead of bread or pasta, try eating these alternatives instead:

  • Quinoa
  • Wild rice
  • Pure oats
  • Buckwheat
  • Almond and coconut flours
#6: Dairy Products
dairy products

Image Credits: health.harvard.edu

Dairy is another major cause of bloating or other digestive issues. Despite being a popular and common ingredient added to many meals, it’s estimated that close to 65% of the world’s population has trouble digesting lactose, the sugar found in most dairy products.

Known as lactose intolerance, this type of dairy shut down means that you’re likely to experience bloating, gas, and pains when eating dairy products. If so, stick to dairy-free or lactose-free products to avoid this source of bloating.

Here are some alternatives:

  • Oat milk
  • Soy milk
  • Almond milk
  • Coconut milk
  • Lactose-free dairy milk
  • Hard cheese such as parmesan, cheddar, or swiss
#7: Beer
two mugs of beer on a table

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Beer is the unfortunate combination of several bloat-heavy ingredients on this list. It is a carbonated and fermented beverage made of carbonated water, fermented gluten, and fermented carbohydrates.

All three of these cause your stomach to bloat tremendously, something that might contribute to the idea of a beer belly. If you’re looking to avoid bloating, cut beer out of your diet and stick to plainer alcoholic alternatives such as liquors, red wines, or hard spirits.

Here’s all you need to know about alcohol bloating.

Final Thoughts

Cutting out the abovementioned foods and drinks is the quickest way to enjoy a satisfying diet that makes you feel and look your best. Or you can gradually reduce them and introduce other alternatives mentioned in this article into your meals.

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