Crystal's Notes 30 March

It may not be immediately obvious, but many of us actually work at jobs that have a lot of transferable skills. Therefore, it is important to zoom out to see that everything that you have learnt or done in life is worthy, and see also the value you can create for others with what you have. For example, cabin crew members have impeccable etiquette and the ability to connect and deal with difficult people and situations – I can see them providing top-notch service in client or customer-facing work, not just in hospitality and tourism, but also in sectors like HR and project management.

Reskilling courses can also allow people to move into a different scope. I love what President Tharman Shanmugaratnam recently said in his post on LinkedIn:

“We need a second wave in our lives when we get into middle age. Learn something solid. Not for grades, and not as a burden. But as a way to keep growing in our careers, or switch to something new. And equally important — to make life more varied, and satisfying as we get older.”

If you are looking to catch that second wave or land a job, here is the insider’s guide for you.

Leverage On Your Skills & Build Social Capital

Today, there is no longer a career ladder or structured environment in the workplace. Specialisation has given way to transferable skillsets. Be able to see your skills and your scope as valuable tools that you can use in myriad settings. Leverage on them and identify gaps that you may have. Sign up for workshops to augment your skills. Also, know what you’re passionate about and join communities that will not only build your competence, but your social capital as well. There are lots of mentoring groups, social media forums, and special interest groups out there. Join them to grow, learn, and earn.

Bring A Gift

Provide something of value to the company you hope to join. Do prior research, and demonstrate problem-solving skills. Don’t go to an interview with just your CV. Go with a revamp of the company’s website. Produce an e-book for a thought leader’s podcast. This demonstrates not only initiative, but your ability and the value you can give the company as well.

Tap On Resources

Get a career coach or visit career centres. Get your CV critiqued, and schedule for mock interview practices. Practising with someone is important because we tend to have low levels of self-awareness and learning by ourselves from books is not as helpful as complementing it with real feedback. Connect also with people who have made transitions; ask them for tips – especially if they’re from a similar industry, or if they have made a transition into an industry that you’re interested in.

It is so exciting to hear that many are looking to make transitions in their career. And for those who are staying in their jobs but want to be valued more, I have just recorded a fun podcast with The Hop Pod, where I spilled the secrets on how you can ask for a raise or a promotion. It may or may not involve crushed pieces of paper with numbers on them, and I’ll cover not just how you can ask for more pay, but when to do it as well. Watch it here!

I take my role as your work bestie seriously so know that I’ll always share tips and what I know to help you along. And, for those of you who have been waiting for the I Am Well journals, they will be ready for purchase on 1 April here!

Much love,

Crystal