MoneyDigest - Personal Finance, Lifestyle, Money Saving Tips

4 Work Emails That Can Cost You Your Job

For majority of us, a significant amount of time we spent at work is placed on sending and receiving several emails throughout the day. Because we send and receive hundreds of messages a day, some end up making embarrassing or shameful mistakes that can be harmful in the profession. Yes! Some of your corporate emails may send a bad tone to the receiver. If the receiver decides to forward that said email to your boss then, you might lose your job. Prevent that from happening by knowing the 4 Work Emails That Can Cost You Your Job:

1. “I AM CURRENTLY LOOKING FOR ANOTHER JOB!”

Do I even need to explain why this is inappropriate? If you are sick of your current workplace, looking for another job is one thing but admitting it through a work email is another! You might as well have an “I Hate This Place” sign on your chest!

Do not use your corporate or work email to relay this kind of message even to your most trusted colleagues. You may think that if people know you are seeking for another job then, they will do anything to keep you around. Perhaps you are expecting a raise or a promotion…but that rarely happens! Most likely, you are the first candidate in mind during layoffs.

2. “I AM PASSING AN MC TOMORROW.”

This is not a work email that you want to circulate around unless you really feel sick and you cannot make it tomorrow. Although many people have done this before, it is not professional and it sends a message that you are tired of your job. Not only does the company pay for your MC but they also need to cover for you. If the HR gets this email, you will have some explaining to do!

3. “PLEASE DELETE AFTER READING.”

Having a disclaimer like this is a sign that something shady or something highly sensitive is coming next. If someone outside of your circle reads this, you are going to be in big trouble. The truth is, nothing is ever completely deleted. Take Hillary Clinton for example, whose emails to non-government accounts were out in the public because it was maintained on the Federal government’s servers. So, if it is a sensitive matter, use your personal email or meet up your colleague and talk about it in closed doors.

4. “LET’S ALL PARTY TONIGHT!”

We spend most of our time at work so, it comes as no surprise that parties and get-togethers happen all the time. But, this is a personal event that you must organize and send through your personal email. If anything bad happens in the party, evidence might bring down the company too. Unless it is a workplace party, organize your parties via personal Gmail invites or personal Whatsapp conversations.

Image Credits: pixabay.com (License: CC0 Public Domain)

Oh one more thing! Please avoid sending drunken emails or sending a message that you got really wasted last night using a corporate email. No explanations needed!

Sources: 1 & 2

Perfect Places To Buy The Cheapest Perfume And Other Fragrances In Singapore

Singapore is a haven not only for food or gadget lovers but also for the fashionistas! It seems that the country offers some of the cheapest branded goods in Asia. That being said, most of the tourists that come to the Lion City are in search of the best fragrances available. Ease your search by checking out this list:

1. CHANGI AIRPORT

Fragrances in Changi Airport are cheaper that the rest because they are free of tax. They have a wide range of designer brands such as Tommy Hilfiger, Bvlgari, Burberry, Elizabeth Arden, Karl Lagerfeld, and Calvin Klein. Furthermore, there are ongoing specials that you cannot resist such as the S$25.50 ACCA KAPPA fragrance!

You can save more than S$19 by buying the Calvin Klein’s CK Free that is priced at S$45.85 (U.P. S$65.50). Also, one of the best-selling brands out there – Davidoff Cool Water is now priced at S$45.57 (U.P. S$65.10).

2. MUSTAFA CENTRE

This list would not be complete without the only 24-hour shopping center in Singapore called Mustafa Centre. Famed for its bargain prices, shops at Mustafa Centre offer an array of product selections. If you are buying fragrances in bulk, go to Level 1. There, you will find different fragrances, household items, books, cosmetics, electronics, shoes, watches, and so much more.

Image Credits: Fabio Achilli via Flickr

Because of the competitive prices in Mustafa, most would go there to buy in extremely large quantities in order to increase their savings.

3. LUCKY PLAZA

Nestled in the bustling Orchard Road, is a hub for affordable products called Lucky Plaza. While most of the shops along the road are catering to high-end customers, Lucky Plaza is unique as it speaks to the hearts of the budget shoppers. Mostly on the ground floor, you will find varieties of perfumes that are available at the lowest prices. The branded fragrances are cheaper than most because you can purchase them in sample sizes. If you are undecided or are adventurous in your selection then, it is the ideal place for you!

Image Credits: facebook.com/pages/Dollars-Scent-Singapore/215765261882750?sk=timeline&ref=page_internal

Friendly reminders, get the best deal by politely asking if you can bargain for the price. Then, always ask the total price of the purchase including the GST.

Must Read: 5 Tips On Using Credit Cards While Traveling Overseas

If you are traveling soon, arming yourself with sufficient cash and credit cards can conveniently cover all your expenses. When using your plastic card in fancy restaurants or tourist destinations, you would not have to worry about converting the currency (through the nearest money converter) or whether you converted the right amount. The credit card company will automatically do that for you. This process not only comes with simplicity but also extra costs.

Aside from choosing a credit card that is widely accepted across the globe such as MasterCard or Visa, here are 5 tips on getting the most of using your credit cards while traveling overseas…

1. KNOW THE EXTRA FEES

Even if your credit card is widely accepted, you must expect foreign exchange fees and ATM transaction charges. This is why it is recommended to contact your card issuer or bank to inquire about any extra fees or interest while traveling overseas. Through this, you can maintain your travel budget.

2. KNOW THE CREDIT LIMIT AND CARD’S EXPIRATION DATE

Nothing greatly ruins a glorious trip than suddenly discovering that you are unable to pay for your expenses. It is a shameful mess you do not want to get caught on! So, you must know and double confirm your credit limit and credit card’s expiration date with your card issuer or bank.

3. KNOW THE PROTOCOL FOR STOLEN CARDS

Although pick pocketing happens less when you conceal your credit card well, you must be familiar with the protocol for stolen cards. Firstly, you must check all your pockets and bags in case you just misplaced it. Then, report that your card is missing so you will not be charged for unauthorized purchases.

4. KNOW IF THE MERCHANT OR RESTAURANT ACCEPTS CARDS

Before deciding to indulge in the services of a merchant or a restaurant, it pays to know if they accept credit cards first. While some proudly display their credit card partnerships on the walls, others may hide it. You must still carry cash in case you found out that you couldn’t pay via credit card due to unforeseen events.

5. KNOW THE CARD’S TRAVEL BENEFITS

Most credit cards come with travel benefits such as discounted accommodations or dining. Take advantage of these rewards to help fund your vacation. If you want to know the best travel credit cards in Singapore, check this out.

Image Credits: pixabay.com (License: CC0 Public Domain)

Sources:1 & 2

Important Things You Must Know About Women And Money

The spending and money management patterns of Singaporean men and women are intuitively different. But, if you surveyed people around on your own, you would realize that there are distinct differences between how these genders approach money. With that in mind, here are the common money mistakes women make and the essential financial steps they must take:

COMMON MONEY MISTAKES

1. OVERSPENDING ON CLOTHES AND MORE

According to a study by Boston Consulting Group, women take control of about 73% of the household spending. The control the wives have over the budget can lead to overspending. Overspending can occur in shopping for clothes, cleaning supplies, home decorations, bags, and more. This is why knowing when to save and when to splurge is an important distinction for financial security. Overspend only on products that are useful and long-lasting.

2. BEING FINANCIALLY DEPENDENT

Although more and more women are breadwinners nowadays, there are still a good number of women who are totally reliant on their husband’s income. This is bad because unforeseen events such as unemployment, divorce, and death can happen to anyone. Which is why women need to create and secure a financial future for themselves by having a career or skill they can depend on.

3. NOT PREPARING FOR LONGER RETIREMENT

Let us face the facts. Women outlive men on average and often remarry. This is why women should prepare for their additional years and long-term elderly care. It is always a good idea to be prepared.

Image Credits: pixabay.com (License: CC0 Public Domain)

ESSENTIAL STEPS TO TAKE

1. USE ONLINE MONEY-MANAGEMENT TOOLS

To prevent overspending, women shall use online tools that are interactive and time-saving. There are a lot of free help available on the Internet such as budgeting software called Money Dance or Mint as well as retirement resources called Vanguard Retirement Insights or Central Provident Fund Retirement Calculator.

2. TALK MORE ABOUT MONEY

Financial independence starts by talking about finances comfortably. This will create a community of friend who can turn to each other for advice on money issues and investments. Also, getting comfortable in the S$ topics should be applied when you are talking to your financial advisor.

3. UNDERSTAND YOUR INVESTMENTS

Prepare for your retirement and emergency fund by prioritizing your investments. Save money on near term needs such as the emergency fund first then, move on to the long-term investments such as retirement fund. Since most women tend to be risk-averse, the more you are comfortable with talking about money, the more you will be able to take calculated risks.

Original investments for the next 10 years

Image Credits: Ars Electronica via Flickr

Sources: 1,2 & 3

Cost-Effective Gifts Your Special Someone Would Really Want

You do not have to splurge so much to give your boyfriend or girlfriend a really great gift. Explore your options and budget with these gift ideas…

1. EVENING OUT AT THE THEATRE

Making unforgettable memories is important in a lasting relationship. No matter how far in advance the show is, if you think she is into it then, buy the tickets. This way, you two will have a date night to look forward too.

Eventbrite Singapore showcases a list of events happening nationwide. Currently, Lee Foundation Theatre is having ticket sales on the “Then & Now” concert by Singapore Wind Symphony (SWS). The concert features previous music director Joost Flach, who played a crucial role in shaping SWS as well as the up and coming young conductor named Seow Yibin. General tickets are sold at S$16.63, here.

Image Credits: pixabay.com (License: CC0 Public Domain)

2. PHOTO ALBUM

Want to make those unforgettable memories last longer? Take pictures of it then, collate them into an album. It is really simple to make a scrapbook full of photos and it does not have to be perfect as long as it comes from your heart. The sentimental value adds points to your relationship.

If you are looking for a shop that prints your photos conveniently, look no further. PixaRoll, an online shop that transforms your memories into keepsakes such as stickers and stamps, offers photo printing for as low as S$12 (12 pieces of 3.5 x 3.5 inch square prints). Or, you can make a digital photo album and have it printed at Photobook Singapore for as low as S$34 (40 pages of 6 x 6 inch album).

Image Credits: pixabay.com (License: CC0 Public Domain)

3. ROMANTIC INDOOR DINNER

Nothing screams romance more than a home-cooked dinner. Just cook a two-course meal at your house and purchase a meal from your favorite restaurant in case something bad happens. If you want to spice things up you may:

a. Put scented candles: IKEA sells a pack of 12 small scented candles for S$7.90.

b. Put flowers on the center of the table: Floral Garage Singapore sells freestyle bouquets for only S$29.90. Tell them how you are feeling and briefly describe your love story so they can create a bouquet that complements your relationship.

Image Credits: pixabay.com (License: CC0 Public Domain)

4. WRITE LOVE LETTERS

In the digital age, a handwritten love letter is both utterly unique and undeniably special. Write your girlfriend or boyfriend a series of affectionate letters with various messages of being thankful, sorry, and in love. For example, you may highlight these titles on top:

a. “You need to know how much I adore you.”
b. “I made you mad and I am deeply sorry.”

Best of all? Colored and designed papers cost only S$3 and less at Popular Bookstore or Daiso.

Image Credits: pixabay.com (License: CC0 Public Domain)

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