Advice for Jobhunters in Singapore

We get a lot of posts asking for advice on jobhunting in Singapore, so as I have just been through this myself, I thought I would write an article: Job Hunting in Singapore

Andiamo, this is excellent stuff, exactly the sort of thing I need for the static content section. Thanks for the article, it's online now... and this makes a good thread for visitors to sign up and comment.

Yes of course, I am glad its helpful.

Nice one Andi - read it a couple of times, and there are *maybe* a couple of comments I *might* add (for finance / commodities rather than IT), but generally I think you hit all the major points right on the head.

Good job mate ...



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Does this mean that anyone junior level employee who takes the initiative is viewed as a "go getter" and will benefit from it, or is it like the Japanese proverb where the nail that sticks up gets banged back into place?

Having an advantage over locals in putting ideas forward might be seen by your immediate supervisor as you trying to cut their feet out from under them and take their place. This could lead to an active discrimination against you, or at least having your boss thwarting any attempt you make to put any further ideas forward.

Article is great, by the way. I've read a few accounts elsewhere of Westerners who get jobs in Singapore- mostly ESL teachers in government schools- and it's often quite a culture shock (shiok!?!) to them. And probably to their Singaporeans hosts, as well.

Uncle Gweilo, on 30 September 2009 - 05:43 AM, said:

Its an interesting question. I suspect a go-getter in the Singaporean context would mean someone who was selling aggressively, pushing to meet deadlines and going that extra mile to please his boss.

Someone who was asking lots of questions, challenging ideas and suggesting new ways of working would probably be regarded as a pain in the butt.

Personally speaking, all my management is in the US so its business as usual. But I have been warned if I ever have a Singapore boss, I would have to change my approach.

Andiamo, on 30 September 2009 - 05:52 PM, said:

relax - it'll never happen...