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Category: Career Advice

  • CGP Singapore: Official Statement on Job Scams and How to Avoid Them

    CGP Singapore: Official Statement on Job Scams and How to Avoid Them

    CGP Singapore, part of the Cornerstone Global Partners (CGP) Group, is aware of recent incidents involving individuals claiming to be employed and/or associated with CGP and are recruiting in Singapore & Malaysia. We, at CGP, take our candidates safety seriously during the recruitment process. When in doubt, it is always best to contact the company the recruiter is claiming to be from via the official number/email.

    Scams including job scams hit all time high in Singapore, recording 45000+ cases in 2024 and in the first half of 2025, there were 2,701 reported job scam cases.  So far in 2025, job scams were the third most common scam type (2701 cases reported), after phishing and e-commerce scams, while victims reported over 9043 cases in 2024.

    In this scenario, how can you ensure a legitimate job opportunity and protect yourself from falling victim?

    Understanding Job Scams

    Job scams are fraudulent schemes where scammers pose as employers or recruiters to deceive individuals seeking employment. The primary objectives of these scams are to extract money, obtain personal information, or exploit victims for free labor. Scammers often advertise fake job openings through various channels, including online ads, social media platforms, and even reputable job search websites, sometimes mimicking legitimate companies to appear credible.

    Common Warning Signs of Job Scams

    • Unprofessional Communication:  Correspondence from recruiters or employers containing grammatical errors, generic email addresses (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo), or unprofessional language. Professional organizations maintain a standard of communication; deviations may indicate fraudulent activity.
    •  Unsolicited Job Offers: Ambiguity in job descriptions can indicate a scam. Additionally, promises of high income for minimal work, especially for entry-level positions, are often too good to be true.
    • Requests for Personal or Financial Information: Legitimate employers will not ask for sensitive details like your Social Security number or bank account information early in the recruitment process.
    • Upfront Payment Requirements: Be cautious if asked to pay for training materials, background checks, or other fees. Authentic employers typically cover these costs.
    • Vague Job Descriptions: Job postings lacking clear details about responsibilities or qualifications may indicate a scam.
    • High Earnings for Entry-Level Positions: Offers that promise substantial income with little experience required should be approached with skepticism.

    Nov 2025: Impersonation Alert: Fake Consultant Calls Reported

    We are aware of recent incidents involving individuals impersonating our consultants and contacting candidates via phone calls. These impersonators may offer fake job opportunities or inquire about employment status under false pretences.

    We take candidate safety seriously and urge everyone to remain vigilant. As part of our Protective Measures Against Unsolicited Communications, please note the following:

    • All CGP Singapore consultants will state their EA Personnel Registration number, which begins with “R”, when contacting candidates.
    • All CGP Malaysia consultants will provide their JTK license number or registration number during outreach.
    • See below to understand how to stay vigilant and verify our consultants.

    How to Protect Yourself from Job Scams

    • Research the Company: Verify the organization’s legitimacy by checking for an official website, reading reviews, and confirming contact information. At CGP, our official emails are from @cornerstoneglobalpartners.com or @cgptalent.com
    • Be Cautious with Personal Information: Share sensitive details only after confirming the employer’s authenticity and receiving a formal job offer.
    • Avoid Upfront Payments: Decline any job opportunity that requires you to pay fees before starting employment.
    • Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off about a job offer or recruitment process, it’s wise to step back and reassess.

    Protective Measures Against Unsolicited Communications

    We’ve been getting reports about unsolicited WhatsApp messages from people pretending to be from ‘CGP Personnel’ or ‘CGP Singapore.’ Sometimes, they use fake names of people who don’t even work here; other times they use the name of one of our consultants.

    Unless verified, these messages aren’t from us. Here’s what you can do:

    • DO NOT respond to text messages or calls from unknown numbers and avoid any communication with unverified individuals.
    • DO NOT click on any links within the message unless verified.
    • DO NOT share any personal information at the initial stage of the interview process.
    • DO NOT proceed with any monetary transactions as we at CGP never ask for any form of payment from candidates as part of the recruitment process.

    We are grateful that all our potential candidates exercised due diligence by verifying with us, and our CGP team responded promptly to prevent them from falling victim to these job scams.

    scam msg 1

    Stay vigilant from job scams

    We encourage all job seekers to take extra precautions, especially when receiving unsolicited messages. . If you receive an unexpected communication claiming to be from CGP, you can verify the person’s identity by using the  Ministry of Manpower EA Directory. You can also contact us directly at contact@cornerstoneglobalpartners.com before responding.

    CGP’s Official Social Accounts 

    ​CGP Group’s only official social media accounts in Singapore are on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and our WhatsApp channel: 

    For information on reporting suspected recruitment scams, please refer to the Singapore Police Force’s guide.

  • How To Write A Professional CV And A CV Template

    How To Write A Professional CV And A CV Template

    One of the most vital documents in anyone’s possession is their resume or CV.

    It serves as both a record of past achievements and a marketing tool to showcase your potential. Strangely, many of us often neglect the task of updating it properly.

    Throughout the years, we’ve come across a vast number of CVs that clearly appeared to be unchanged legacy documents with new job entries tacked onto the top. Alternatively, they were freshly created files using template software

    – Abundant in graphics but lacking in substance.

    Irrespective of your background, level of seniority, or industry,
    there are certain fundamental principles to adhere to when crafting your CV:

    1. Keep your resume concise, ideally under four pages

    Without going overboard, if you are a senior finance professional with over 15 to 20 years of experience, you should aim for a 2-page CV that focuses on recent roles and provides concise summaries.

    Recruiters, HR professionals, and hiring managers are all pressed for time and often have to sift through dozens, if not hundreds, of CVs daily.

    A lengthy CV can be overwhelming and discouraging, leaving two negative initial impressions: either you couldn’t be bothered to edit your resume properly, or you lacked the awareness that such extensive documents are inappropriate.

    Read this LinkedIn article to find out more!

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    Source: https://www.linkedin.com

    2. Ensure your resume is visually clear and legible

    It’s astonishing how many resumes assault the reader with an array of typefaces, font colors, font effects (e.g., bold, underline), graphics, and more.

    A well-written document with a clean presentation is far more effective than trying to grab attention with visual elements. This doesn’t mean you can’t have some variety, but it’s essential to maintain consistency and effectiveness. From my experience, it works well to use bold for highlighting companies and dates, and italics for job titles, or vice versa.

    Bullet points can be circles, stars, numbers, or dashes, but they should remain consistent throughout your document.

    For example, seek inspiration from this resume template from Enhancv.

    Alternatively, click here to learn more resume-writing tips!

    3. Include pertinent information on your resume

    List your employment history, including company names, dates, job titles, and key responsibilities. Highlight significant achievements and quantify your results with data (e.g., staff managed, sales generated).

    Consider including relevant internships, volunteer work, or academic experiences. Related Reads!

    4. Review and Roleplay

    After creating your resume, we suggest engaging in two straightforward roleplay exercises:

    First, cover up your name on the resume and imagine it belongs to your friend Lincoln, seeking your advice. How do you feel about the resume’s appearance? Does it convey essential information clearly? Would you recommend it?

    Next, cover your name again and envision you are in the position to hire for your team, with the resume being an applicant’s. Would you hire this individual based on the resume? Does it highlight the skills and experiences you’d expect from a potential interviewee?

    Creating a resume often induces stress, mainly due to the discomfort of self-promotion. It’s remarkable how clarity emerges when you pretend the document isn’t about you. Watch these videos to learn how to properly role-play interviews!

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    We Can Help You!

    In conclusion, creating a strong CV is essential to your job search.

    By following these guidelines and utilizing the provided template, you can craft a professional and impactful document that showcases your skills and experiences.

    Enjoyed this read? Check out more articles here!

    Our FAQs

    While the terms are often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences. A CV (Curriculum Vitae) is a more detailed document that provides a comprehensive overview of your academic and professional history. It’s commonly used in academic and research fields. A resume, on the other hand, is a concise summary of your relevant skills and experiences, tailored to specific job applications.

    If you have gaps in your employment history, it’s important to address them honestly and positively. You can explain the reasons for the gaps, such as pursuing further education, caring for family members, or taking time off for personal reasons. Highlight any volunteer work, freelance projects, or online courses you completed during these periods.

  • Top 3 Skills For Finance Leaders In A Post Pandemic World

    Top 3 Skills For Finance Leaders In A Post Pandemic World

    The COVID-19 pandemic has set in motion numerous new changes and challenges in how businesses and organizations operate. This includes an increase in flexible and remote work arrangement for workers, a higher emphasis on employee well-being, and greater importance on technology and data to name a few. Finance leaders today will need to navigate and overcome a new set of challenges in a “post-pandemic” world.

    Adriell Ong, our recruitment expert in Accounting & Finance Sector at Cornerstone Global Partners Singapore, shares the top 3 skills for finance leaders required to help them and their organization succeed in a post-pandemic world.​

    Business Collaboration

    The pandemic has put an even greater emphasis on Finance Leaders to work even closer with the business stakeholders within an organization as the economic and business landscape is evolving at a faster pace with greater volatility.

    Finance Leaders will need to be more adept in stakeholder management, and to understand the greater business as finance teams will be increasingly relied on for their insights to make strategic decisions. Finance Leaders will work closer with Information Technology to drive digitalization and create a more data-driven organization, and Human Resources on employee development and retention matters.

    People Management

    With more finance teams working and communicating remotely, issues such as lack of clarity in communications, employee isolation, and diminishing work performances may occur in finance teams.

    In addition, the changing hiring landscape for finance professionals also meant that putting a lot of emphasis on talent retention. Thus, it is important that Finance Leaders recognize the issue and put in place plans to ensure higher work efficiency. Finance Leaders will need to emphasize on stronger relationships with their team, building stronger connections and making an effort to recognize their contributions.

    Browse Accounting & Finance Jobs »​

    Technological Aptitude

    In the last couple of years, there has been a major push towards digitalization within finance teams, with a greater emphasis on data analytics and automation. This process has certainly accelerated by the pandemic with more frequent strategic planning and updates in businesses due to the uncertainty. Finance Leaders today will need to possess a stronger understanding of new technologies to meet new business demands, increasing agility in forecasting and enhancing efficiencies.

    The role of a Finance Leader has changed significantly over the years from a bookkeeper to a strategic advisor. The challenges poised in a post-pandemic world will further evolve a Finance Leader’s role and increase their importance to any organization.

    If you wish to discuss more insights on Accountancy & Finance, get in touch with Adriell Ong at adriell.ong@cornerstoneglobalpartners.com

    ​ALSO READ

  • Logistics Job Skills: What Employers Are Looking For

    Logistics Job Skills: What Employers Are Looking For

    The logistics industry is a complex and ever-changing field. It involves coordinating and moving resources from a location to the desired destination. Resources can be people, materials, inventory, and equipment. The sector demands detail-oriented planning and execution to meet deadlines. And to accomplish the business function, an organisation needs the right people possessing key skills for logistics.

    With the continuous evolution of this industry, organisations constantly need to adapt to new challenges, which demand professionals with unique skills to thrive in various roles within the logistics sector.

    In this blog, understand what are the top job skills for you to claim your place in the logistics industry.  Whether you are a seasoned logistics professional looking to stay ahead or an aspiring professional seeking to enter this dynamic field, this guide will provide valuable insights into the key skills that employers highly value.

    You must also read: 7 Traits Every Employer Is Looking for in a New Employee

    What are the Elemental Skills Required in Logistics?

    Various logistics job skills must synergise to make you stand out and get hired. So let us look closely at the must-have skills.

    #1. Data analysis

    Data is everything for the modern logistics industry. Data analysis lets you make informed decisions and plan the next step accordingly. Additionally, data allows teams to spot trends & patterns and forecast what the future holds.

    With top-grade data analysis skills, you can quickly ensure your company’s goods reach their destination. Along with strong mathematical skills, you must also use spreadsheets to plan and execute activities to calculate pricing & delivery times.

    #2. Versatility

    Knowing how to identify & address concerns rapidly is one of the key skills for logistics for having a progressive career in logistics. In addition, those who understand the importance of adaptability pave the way for their growth. The reason is the scale of the supply chain for large-scale organisations require flexibility to address the situation effectively.

    #3. Resource management

    Logistics workers must be able to allocate the ideal amount of staff and other resources, such as vehicles, equipment, and building space, for a smooth process. They must know the resources available at their disposal and understand the right way to utilise them.

    Besides, resource maintenance skills are crucial when shaping a logistics career. Therefore, one must hone resource management skills to build a bright career in the industry.

    #4. Planning & organisation

    Strict planning and organisation are required for working in logistics. If you aren’t good at planning and organisation, it might lead to unhappy customers who would discontinue using your firm’s services due to missed deadlines. Undoubtedly, even the employer wouldn’t consider retaining an employee who cannot plan accordingly.

    On top of it, the organisation wouldn’t only lose revenue but see a sharp rise in costs due to an unplanned way of working.

    #5. Preventive maintenance

    Machine downtime causes loss of production and money, and companies look out for candidates with preventive maintenance skills. The reason is the skill helps employees to lower the risks of breakdown. Additionally, knowing the maintenance and repair of plant tools and equipment is a bonus in landing the right job.

    #6. Smart transport modeling

    It makes perfect sense to learn how to evaluate existing conditions and conduct a more detailed investigation into future projections. Logistics companies look for candidates who can approach logistical routes mathematically and ensure the cost-effectiveness of the trips.

    #7. Dispute resolution

    To enter the world of logistics, you must acquire and master dispute resolution. You must be able to minimise the effect of a dispute through arbitration and mediation. For employers, job hunters who can pay attention to detail and check how communication happens are the most valuable assets.

    To enhance your profile even better, you must work on your ability to work alongside clients, businesses, and legal teams.

    #8. Warehouse safety knowledge

    Having good warehouse safety knowledge is necessary because warehouses remain under potential risks. However, you must remember that you should aim to acquire warehouse safety knowledge from a legal and moral viewpoint. If you have the proper knowledge, you can optimise the warehouse’s layout to improve workflow and shift to new technology to make the work environment safer.

    Related Read: Skills to Master Before Your Next Job Search

    Additional Must-have Skills

    There are specific other skills that you must embed in your personality to progress in the logistics industry. Have a look at them!

    Teamwork

    Whether you are experienced or planning to enter the industry as a newbie, teamwork is one of the crucial logistics job skills at the heart of the industry. Having the ability to work with a team is fundamental to your success.

    Communication

    You cannot help yourself settle into the environment without good communication skills. Therefore, you must know how to communicate with the stakeholders, customers, and colleagues. Also, encourage openness and honesty to enable the other person to communicate freely.

    Contingency planning

    Disruptions are a part of logistics. Therefore, staying prepared by creating a contingency plan can serve as a merit point for you while applying for a job. The skill involves assessing potential risks, communicating with customers, and seeking alternatives.

    If you’re interested in a career in logistics, it’s important to develop the skills that are essential for success in this field. By developing these skills, you’ll be well-positioned for a successful career in logistics.

    Ready to grow your career?

    Integral to every part of modern society, logistics is a very diverse sector. As a result, it offers a multitude of career opportunities. Moreover, the industry boasts fast growth even in times of economic struggle. If you are willing to start at the bottom of the ladder and work your way up, the industry will never disappoint you. While you get to work with new technologies, the starting salary packages also attract job seekers.

    Master the logistics job skills and break into the world of logistics. Check out the latest job openings and how our Supply Chain & Procurement team can help you land your dream job.

    Apply Now – Jobs in Supply Chain

    FAQs

    1. What are the skills needed for logistics?

    Carving a career in logistics requires some skills that make you stand out, which are as follows:

    • Data analysis

    • Resource management

    • Planning and organisation

    • Transport management

    • Adaptability

    2. What are the five elements of logistics?

    The five elements of logistics are:

    • Storage, warehousing, and materials handling.

    • Packaging and unitisation.

    • Inventory.

    • Transport.

    • Information and control.

  • The Future Of Work: Preparing For The Changing Landscape Of Employment

    The Future Of Work: Preparing For The Changing Landscape Of Employment

    The world is changing, and so is the way we work. Trends like, artificial intelligence and automation are the stimuli that have spurred a transformation in the work landscape.

    When you think of the future of work, what do you see? Robots in place of human resources? Office setups are entirely different from today, or the absence of physical offices due to adopting remote work?

    While it is impossible to predict the future of work, it is visible that the employment landscape is changing rapidly. Therefore, there is a need for human resources to prepare themselves and adapt to the transition. Presently, the focus is placed on technology in the future of work discussions. However, other factors such as remote work, workplace diversity, and the gig economy also shape the future of work.

    Looking ahead and preparing for the changing world of work can help you maintain a work-life balance.

    So, let’s take a closer look at the tips to prepare you for it.

    #1. Create a professional development plan

    “Planning is bringing the future into the present so that you can do something about it now.”- Alexander Graham Bell.

    Outline your goals and map the route you must take to achieve them. This will allow you to clearly understand your expectations & desires, assess your skills, determine your success route, focus on essential activities, and strategise accordingly.

    smart goal

    Follow the SMART goals rule:

    S– Specific

    M– Measurable

    A– Achievable

    R– Relevant

    T– Time-based

    #2. Evaluate your skills

    Most importantly, for quick adaptation to the future of work, don’t wait. Take control of your profile and strengthen it by working on the weak areas. To make it happen, you must evaluate your skills and identify the areas you lack. As a result, you will be in a better position to work on yourself and add to the skills bucket. Pay careful attention to the skills you lack for your industry, as that will help you choose the right training or mentorship program.

    #3. Explore the redesigning of learning

    The definition of a skilled candidate has changed and is no longer restricted to just micro-learning. Simply put, you must lean into macro-learning to level up and prepare yourself technically and professionally.

    While micro-learning refers to learning small chunks of a larger topic, macro-learning is learning complex skills. Therefore, your professional development plan must include your macro-learning plans.

    #4. Capitalise on next-gen technology

    Changing times demand embracing new, disruptive technologies to prepare for the challenges. The candidates who will be counted among the top talent are the ones who are using technology to prepare for the future of work today. Stay updated on the latest technologies that are impacting the marketplace and leave no stone unturned in leveraging their potential.

    #5. Tap into your passion and become an expert

    Turn your passion into a profession, and work won’t feel like work. Present-day organisations are looking for candidates who are specialists, and the trend will stay forever. So explore your talent and areas of interest that you can take in the future workplace. In other words, plan to dig deep into your passions and take on a specialised role.

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    #6. Work on your emotional intelligence

    A majority of people seek answers to the question: How can I prepare myself for the future of work?

    Well! Apart from working on technical aspects, you must also work on skills that fall under emotional intelligence. And they are self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. Most importantly, you must strive to become a better human and a leader. The skills will get you closer to your team and help you collaborate with colleagues. Moreover, AI and automation can never outsmart the leadership skills a human possesses.

    RELATED READ: The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership

    Trends for the Future of Work

    The current year and the years ahead are set to see the changed work landscape. Here, we mention the most vital trends you must foresee to handle workplace diversity and changing work environments.

      • Quiet hiring

      • Flexibility for frontline workers

      • Focus on skills rather than candidates’ prior experience

      • Focus on employee well-being

      • Continuous boosting of DEI efforts

    RELATED READ: Diversity and Inclusion in HR: Current Trends and Future Directions

    Final Comments

    A competitive talent landscape and pressure to reduce costs pose challenges for organisations. Given that, companies must start putting the right people in the right place and turn the challenges into opportunities. In addition, enabling a workplace to foster innovation and be inclusive requires leaders to strategize how work gets done.

    You must take charge of your future and upskill yourself to better prepare for the upcoming changes. Whether you are an accounts executive or a data scientist, one thing remains constant: continuous learning & development, reskilling, and upskilling bring job security.

    FAQs

    1. What are the future trends in the workplace?

    The future trends in the workplace are:

      • Flexible hours/four-day working

      • Prioritisation of well-being

      • Focus on skills over jobs

      • The emphasis on soft skills

      • Increased diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts

      • Use of AI and automation

      • Transformation of HR using tech and data

      • Focus on employee growth

    2. What are your suggestions for the future of work at the organization?

    The world of work is changing rapidly. Therefore, employers and employees need to be on their toes to adapt to the changing scenario. While employers must plan accordingly to manage the effects of the future of work, employees must focus on upskilling themselves to stay ahead of the curve.

    3. How will the future of work change?

    With the advent of AI and automation, the future of work is changing. However, various other trends will bring about a change in the future of work. For instance, hybrid flexibility will allow frontline workers flexibility, such as what they work, with whom they work, and how they work. Continuous support for DEI initiatives, sensitive offboarding, emphasis on continued employee growth, focus on skills over jobs, and prioritisation of employee well-being are among the other changes that will define the future of work.

  • The Role Of Body Language In Your Interview

    The Role Of Body Language In Your Interview

    It seems almost incredible how body language has become an active aspect of human personality. Although most people still believe speech is the main communication form, body language’s importance is still indispensable. Before discussing body language’s role in an interview, you must know the relevance of body language skills in daily life. A name like Charlie Chaplin doesn’t need an introduction, owing to his communication through body language as a silent-movie actor.

    Anthropologist Ray Birdwhistell pioneered the original study of nonverbal communication- kinesics. His analysis found that the verbal component of a face-to-face conversation is less than 35 percent, and over 65 percent of communication is done nonverbally.

    Now that you have learned the importance of body language, let us get a step ahead. We have highlighted your body language’s pivotal role during an interview.

    ALSO READ:

    Role of Body Language in an Interview

    #1. Reflects your personality

    The manner in which you present yourself depicts your personality. Companies nowadays look for candidates with strong personalities, suitable skill sets, and education.

    Not every person who is book smart will propel professionally. In fact, people with the right attitude toward work and a presentable personality can do wonders in a professional setup. That being the case, you must consider working on your body language and put forward your best profile highlights.

    #2. Separates you from mediocre candidates

    Your body language tells a lot about your exceptional personality. To get your point across effectively, you can master using your body posture. As an outcome, you can see yourself a notch higher than other candidates.

    If you hone your body language skills, you will never settle for less and strive to give your best in an interview.

    #3. Echoes your professional attitude

    One primary reason why body language plays a vital role during an interview is that it showcases your professional attitude. Hiring managers can judge how you will act during your course of employment from your body language.

    An important aspect you must consider here is to adjust your body language to suit your field.

    #4. Displays your attentiveness

    Your communication through body language lets the recruiter know whether you are attentive. And this decides your fate. If you are attentive to the minute of things and show it through your body language in an interview, nothing can stop you from moving to the next recruitment stage.

    Additionally, hiring managers look for candidates who have a large attention span. You can depict your attentiveness in an interview by having the proper body posture, maintaining eye contact, and speaking confidently.

    #5. Shows that you are a keen listener

    Presenting yourself as a keen listener with good comprehension skills isn’t enough. Unarguably, it’s not sufficient to understand what the interviewer is asking, but you must also answer them wisely. Moreover, answering them with just words won’t suffice for the purpose, and you must use gestures and facial expressions, too.

    Even if you know all the answers but aren’t confident enough, you won’t be able to sail through the hiring process.​

    Pivotal Aspects of Body Language You Must Remember

    During an interview, there are a few things you must remember. Let’s go through them.

    1. Keep your back straight – Understand the term body language and make sure to follow the rules. Keep your back straight, and don’t let it slouch.

    2. Have your legs crossed – You should keep your legs crossed to depict the correct body language in an interview. Make sure you don’t shake your legs or twist your toes.

    3. Make apt gestures – Making thoughtful gestures can make you come across as a good orator used to public speaking. For instance, nod your head to show your attentiveness and to affirm your listening skills.

    4. Maintain eye contact – Don’t avoid maintaining eye contact, and be confident of your abilities and skills.

    5. Upkeep the right tone of voice – Sync your tone of voice with what you want to convey to create a good impression on the recruiters. Keep your words, actions, body language, and tone of voice in a way that compliment one another.

    Bottom line

    Body language is essential to what you wish to convey to the interviewer. Interviewers have observed that bad interviews often contain little to no use of body language. You may leave a negative impression in the recruiter’s mind if you do not exhibit the correct body language. Therefore, it is imperative to acknowledge the role of body language in an interview. While it may seem like a minute thing, body language will set you apart from the crowd.

    It’s important to note that body language can vary across cultures and individuals, so it’s crucial to be mindful of contextual cues and adjust accordingly during an interview. Being aware of and managing your body language can help you convey a positive impression and enhance your overall communication during the interview process.

    Deborah Bull quotes it well: “Body language is a very powerful tool. We had body language before we had speech, and apparently, 80% of what you understand in a conversation is read through the words, not the body.”

    Our team of specialist recruiters advocates that candidates must perfect their body language. Not only will your education, skills, and knowledge land you the right job, but it will also take having the correct body language.

    RELATED READ: Top 9 Candidate Screening Questions Recruiters Ask

    FAQs

    1. What are the five types of body language?

    In an interview, job seekers and employers communicate through verbal responses, nonverbal cues, or body language. Here are five types of body language that can be observed in an interview:

    • Facial expressions convey feelings of joy, sadness, sorrow, anger, fear, or surprise.

    • Eye contact indicates the level of interest or attention.

    • Gestures can have varied meanings across the globe.

    • Voice to make people listen not only to your words but emotions.

    • Posture refers to the way you move and carry yourself.

    2. How do you assess body language in an interview?

    Assessing body language in an interview requires careful observation and interpretation of nonverbal cues. To assess body language in an interview, you can:

    1. Observe extreme behaviour

    2. Spot the difference

    3. Connect the dots

    4. Ask follow-up questions

    It’s important to note that body language cues are not always definitive and can be influenced by various factors. Therefore, it’s essential to consider them as part of a holistic assessment.

  • Why Employee Upskilling Is Essential During Economic Uncertainty?

    Why Employee Upskilling Is Essential During Economic Uncertainty?

    The year 2023 started with economic uncertainty looming worldwide and is gradually becoming a real problem for organisations. Consequently, businesses may consider cost-cutting and slashing their workforce. There’s a lot of uncertainty, but organisations can pull down storm shutters to combat the unpredictable times ahead.

    Now, the question is how?

    LinkedIn Global Talent Trends, October 2022, reveals the importance of opportunities for upskilling and career development and how people place them on their top priorities.

    Additionally,  the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Reports states that because of the growing uptake of technology and automation, half of the workforce will need reskilling by 2025.

    In this blog, we will help you understand how employee upskilling focusing on relevant knowledge and skillsets to reduce the skill gap can help you improve work efficiency and innovation rate, thus nullifying the effects of current market uncertainty.

    Reasons to Upskill Employees

    #1. Boosts Motivation & Morale

    Imagine having two different teams. While team A comprises continuous learners, team B has people who don’t learn much and perform only what’s required.

    Which team would be motivated and committed to producing the best output? Without any doubt, it would be team A.

    Unarguably, if your employees come across a lack of learning opportunities, their work will start becoming burdensome. But, on the flip side, employee upskilling always brings job satisfaction among employees. Sending your team for upskilling courses shows your commitment to their professional development, increasing motivation at work, increasing productivity, reducing attrition rates, and improving job satisfaction. As a result, there arises no point in disagreeing on the benefits of having an invested and engaged team to fight economic instability.​

    #2. Saves on Recruitment Costs

    Organisations that train existing employees are said to have better talent retention rates and save the cost of replacement hiring. Of course, every time an employee leaves, it brings a financial burden, and things worsen during economically uncertain times. Nonetheless, upskilling your existing employees is a much more cost-effective way to hire and train replacements, especially when the economy is unsettled.

    Employee upskilling makes the organisation more agile and responsive to changing times without disrupting the organisation’s social capital.​

    #3. Prepares a Well-prepared Team for the Future 

    Employee upskilling helps team members develop varied skills and abilities. On top of that, it makes them prepared for the changes that lie ahead in the market. Once you identify the benefits of skill programs, there will be no looking back. Your employees will get proof that their career development matters to you.

    When the economy suffers turbulence, your organisation can fill in the gaps without new hires. In other words, upskilling your team will help you have your existing team drive toward goals by playing more than one organisational role. Thus, saving the company from the odds of economic uncertainty.​

    #4. Helps Workers See the Bigger Picture

    In the wake of economic uncertainty, millions of organisations like yours have understood the importance of upskilling. Straight from the shoulder, employee upskilling not only focuses on a promotion or a salary increase but also embraces other crucial factors. While an efficient upskilling program can boost employees’ confidence at work, it also improves their quality of life.

    Career advancement leads to better work-life balance and instills a sense of purpose while making work more interesting. Moreover, modern-day organisations also could nurture better employee experience and create a healthy workplace. Therefore, you can always maintain the best levels of talent retention even during uncertain times by making them reflect on what they might gain.​

    #5. Perseveres Relationships and Teamwork

    Upskilling your employees help improve collaboration and productivity. And when we mention improved teamwork and productivity, we indicate its benefits for your organisation during economically uncertain times. The fact that only some new hires can fit into the role as per your expectations, employee upskilling will keep you afloat without fail. Additionally, you can maintain the best composition of your company’s social capital.

    At this point, you have learned the benefits of employee upskilling, but we haven’t concluded. It would be considered incomplete if we didn’t discuss how to level up the benefits of upskilling. So let’s have a look.

    Get an up-to-date view of ever-changing employment landscape in Southeast Asia to optimise your recruitment strategies to retain top talent.

    Download 2023 Salary Trends Report​

    Getting Through the Uncertainty Ahead

    Leaders must adopt a transparent approach

    Leaders must see uncertainty in the economy as an opportunity to recap and make the necessary adjustments. An adaptive approach by leaders will provide more clarity to employees about the short-term goals and priorities of the organisation.

    Encourage Team Collaboration

    Nurture a work environment that promotes collaboration and knowledge sharing among employees. Nothing can overpower a strong connection of an employee with their colleagues and further strengthens company culture. You just need to know the ways to develop a high-performance team.

    Understand the skills gap

    Identify the difference between the skills your people have and the skills your company needs in the future. It will give you a better idea of designing and developing your skills program to fill the gap.​

    Leveling up: Where to Begin With Employee Upskilling?

    Upskilling could be in any form. From business courses to webinars, build learning paths with your employees customised to the skills they wish to acquire, and get insights into their progress to ensure they’re on the right track. Here we have collated some of the resources

    • SkillsFuture Series – which provides training courses across emerging skills in the four economic growth pillars – Digital, Green, Care, and Industry 4.0.

    • Udemy Business is another useful online learning platform that offers courses on technical and soft skills alike

    • At LinkedIn Learning with Lynda, where you can access business, technology, and creative courses taught by industry experts from various sectors and get course recommendations based on your employees’ unique skill sets.

    • Edx.org is another useful resource offering expert-led to build career-critical skills – ranging from executive education to professional certifications to build today’s in-demand skills.

    Final Words

    Upskilling provides benefits to both employees and organisations. Times have changed, and money is not the only factor that motivates the workforce. Currently, job seekers are looking for meaningful jobs aligned with their professional goals. In that case, organisations can offer upskilling opportunities to their people and make their job roles more purposeful.

    Our exceptional recruitment consultants at CGP Singapore’s team can help you spot suitable candidates and fill the vacant positions within your organisation.

    We pride ourselves on our personalized approach to matching top talent with the perfect job opportunity. Our team of experienced positive recruiters uses the latest technology and modern techniques to ensure a seamless and successful hiring process.

    Get in Touch

    FAQs

    How can employee upskilling help during economic uncertainty?

    Upskilling helps employees prepare for the future of work and boosts their competitiveness. Employers offering skills programs to their employees will help future-proof their organisation and sail through uncertain times due to economic reasons. Moreover, employers that invest in their people always gain their employees’ trust and loyalty.

    How can employee upskilling help with career development?

    Skill development happens over time and is a natural process. However, people who choose to upskill themselves in a planned way can get more benefits, such as

    • Fosters continuous self-improvement

    • Increases competitiveness in the market

    • Helps secure better jobs

    • Qualifies an employee for promotion

    • Assists in progressing toward goals

  • How To Ask The Right Questions At The End Of An Interview?

    How To Ask The Right Questions At The End Of An Interview?

    ​There are two types of questions that you can always be sure you will be asked during an interview:

    1) Tell me about yourself (click here to read the article that goes into more detail)

    2) Do you have any questions for us?

    In this article, we will focus on the second one. It is vital for you to have and ask questions at the end of every interview for three main reasons.​

    #1 Show your interest in the company

    Just imagine you are out with a person and this person asks you nothing about yourself. What would you think about this? That the person has no interest in you whatsoever. When the company you are interviewing with asks you “do you have any questions?” is actually trying to understand if you did research about the company itself and about the role you are applying for.

    This is your chance to demonstrate your knowledge about both. So, check the company’s website/internet to try to familiarize yourself with their products and services, and go much deeper than just the main page. Spend some time looking at facts, figures, competitors, trends, etc.​

    #2 This is your chance to understand more about them

    Always remember that an interview is a two ways road: they are interviewing you but you are also trying to understand if that is the company for you. At the end of every interview, you should ask any question that will help you in seeing yourself working with them so that when eventually you will receive an offer, you will be ready to accept it without any ifs or buts.​

    #3 But not least, you can indirectly give information to the interviewer about yourself.

    Do you feel like you did not have the chance to share with the company something important that can help you get the role? Do you think you have a great story in your current company that is relevant to the position you are applying for? This is your chance to let them know! How you can do it?

    Start by saying something like “In my current role in company X, I am focusing on Y using the tool Z. I have achieved great numbers/goals/deals. Will I be able to work with something similar here at A? Which tools are you currently using?”

    Other samples questions that can help you understand the company and the role may be:

    • What would be expected of me in the first six months?
    • How many people would be on my team and what are their responsibilities?
    • What are the potential career paths for people in the role?

    At the very end, you need to tell them that you want the role; you can do this by saying it between two “thank you” comments.

    “Thank you for answering my questions, it was very informative. I’d like to mention that I really want this position, and I am willing to do what it takes to get it and succeed. I appreciate you taking the time to speak to me today and I look forward to hearing from you in the future. Thank you.”

    ALSO READ:

    ​This article is originally published by Cornerstone Recruitment Japan and edited by CGP Singapore. Original article

  • Applying For Your Next Cyber Security Role: 3 Key Areas To Master

    Applying For Your Next Cyber Security Role: 3 Key Areas To Master

    Demand for cybersecurity professionals is intense across the globe – and the demand is expected to continue. Cybersecurity is increasingly becoming an essential part of every organisation’s strategy for growth and security.

    Ongoing technological advances will radically transform 1 million jobs in the coming decade. Currently, there is a huge cybersecurity skills shortage, and as the business grows, the demand for cybersecurity talent will only continue to grow.

    So if you’ve been contemplating a career move in the technology sector, you might want to look closely at cybersecurity jobs.

    Assuredly, you must have estimated the potential this market holds. Moreover, now is the time to make the best of the skills shortage.

    Understand how you can venture into or grow in your Cybersecurity career path by learning some key tips here.

    1. Master the Technical Skills
    2. Craft a Stellar CV
    3. Get engaged to find a suitable career option

    Let’s begin by understanding the first what cybersecurity is.

    What is Cybersecurity?

    Cybersecurity is securing networks, resources, and systems from cyberattacks. People and companies use this method to protect sensitive data and systems against malicious activities that aim to access, alter, delete, or destroy them.

    Nowadays, financial, health, intellectual, and government information are the most likely to be stolen. Corporate organisations, financial sectors, and government organisations look for ways to protect their data by investing heavily to improve and secure their digital infrastructures.

    There will be a rise in demand for engineers, security testers, and other technical professionals. At the same time, management roles requiring a set of “soft skills” are in demand too.​

    Prepare Yourself to Apply for Cybersecurity Jobs

    Cybersecurity is a sector with highly-ranked job titles on the most popular career options list. But that’s not all about it. Let us walk you through the top three things you must know as you prepare for your cybersecurity job.

    A good cybersecurity professional must possess a rich and diverse set of skills to gain employment in the cybersecurity world. Some of the technical skills you can begin with include as follows.

    Networking & System Administration

    Networking refers to understanding data transmission’s technical aspects that help secure data. Therefore, you must possess in-depth networking knowledge to seek employment as a cybersecurity professional. On top of that, you can take up networking certifications to enhance your profile.

    Another skill you require to get cybersecurity jobs in Singapore is system administration, configuring, and maintaining computers.

    Analytics

    Introduction and the growing use of modern systems in business processes have increased the demand for cybersecurity specialists. As a result, candidates familiar with analytics enjoy a competitive edge over others as they are considered efficient in performing cybersecurity analytics and foreseeing cyber threats.

    Knowledge of Operating Systems & Virtual Machines

    Cybersecurity professionals must know operating systems such as Windows, Linux, and Mac OS is a must for cybersecurity professionals. Virtual Machines allow you to train and research in an isolated environment.

    Intrusion Detection

    The standard cybersecurity analyst job role involves monitoring network activity for intrusions. What’s more, knowing how to use intrusion detection software—security information and event management (SIEM) products, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and intrusion prevention systems (IPS)— is a must.

    Cloud Expertise

    Professionals with cloud expertise are in demand due to the inclination of businesses toward cloud environments. Candidates with cloud security skills can obtain a lucrative salary package compared to the rest.

    While the list doesn’t end here, other skills you must master are coding, blockchain security, the Internet of Things, security development, and more. Additionally, cybersecurity workplace skills such as communication, collaboration, risk management, adaptability, and critical thinking can enable you to choose among cybersecurity jobs.

    ​ For workers and job seekers facing the need or desire to train for a new type of work, cybersecurity offers a stable option with the opportunity for lifelong learning.– World Economic Forum

    RELATED READ:

    You’ve found the perfect job opportunity, and you send your CV. Then, after a long wait for the call-back, you don’t get a response. Probably, it could be that your CV wasn’t good enough. With this example, we aim to focus on crafting a stellar CV that can make you stand apart from the crowd.

    First and foremost, you must summarise what makes you different with a short personal statement at the top. Next, highlight your technical skills and mention the areas where you possess hands-on experience. Finally, ensure to include academic details, professional achievements & certifications.

    Don’t miss mentioning the soft skills you have developed over the years, as they are one of the most crucial elements in cybersecurity. Soft skills like collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving are critical to teams because they help people work strategically and collaboratively to reduce risk and prevent exploits.

    Tip: Use easy-to-understand language. Also, highlight instances of effective communication and leadership in previous roles.​

    Now that you have read until here, you’ve probably figured out that learning never ends if you envision a career in cybersecurity. Since learning has no end, professionals get introduced to a world of opportunities when applying for cybersecurity jobs.

    Before entering into cybersecurity, know what exactly you want. Top career options in cybersecurity are:

    • Chief Information Security Officer- CISO

    • Security Architect

    • Cybersecurity Engineer

    • Malware Analyst

    • Penetration Tester

    • Computer Forensics Analyst

    • Application Security Engineer

    • Cloud Security Specialist

    • Database Administrator

    • Incident Manager

    Know your destination and the path instead of jumping into it without knowledge. Start applying for suitable technology roles with CGP.

    View All Technology Jobs

    Conclusion

    Whether or not a cybersecurity job is for you depends on your preferences and aims. But the future is bright for those entering cybersecurity with skills, knowledge, and mindset. If you think you have what it takes to make a difference, the above three aspects can turn the tables for you.

    Need help identifying the right opportunities?

    Cornerstone Global Partners (CGP) Singapore can assist you in getting placed with the right employer. We are a recruitment agency in singapore that provides the best recruitment solutions to job seekers. The synthesis of our specialist recruiters and market intelligence makes us the market leader in providing services to job seekers and providers.

    Drop us a message, and our experts will get back to you.

    FAQs

    1. What are the key principles of security?

    The key principles of cybersecurity include framing a risk management regime, economy of mechanism, securing all configurations, fail-safe defaults, network security, managing user privileges, monitoring, etc. The role responsibilities also encompass home & mobile networking, incident management, prevention of malware as well as acceptance of security breaches.

    2. What are the top skills of cybersecurity experts?

    The top technical skills of cybersecurity experts are:

    • Scripting

    • Intrusion detection

    • Network security control

    • Operating systems

    • DevOps

    • Threat knowledge

    • Regulatory guidelines

    • Workplace skills such as communication, collaboration, risk management, adaptability, and critical thinking

    3. What are the top 3 personal attributes important to a cyber professional?

    While cybersecurity professionals must have technical skills, they must have a few attributes. Here are the top 3 personal traits:

    • Critical thinking skills

    • Strong communication skills

    • Problem-solving skills

  • 5 Reasons You Should Consider A Career In Engineering

    5 Reasons You Should Consider A Career In Engineering

    Singapore has invested in R&D, advanced manufacturing, and engineering technologies since its first National Technology Plan in 1991 to promote an innovation-driven, knowledge-based economy. This has attracted MNCs to establish their corporate laboratories and R&D centres and perform high VA manufacturing activities in the region.

    Engineering is one of the fastest-growing fields with high demand for professionals in various specializations. With an increased focus on reinforcing SG’s positioning as a manufacturing hub globally, the industrial & engineering sector has been witnessing exciting changes and ground-breaking developments such as digital transformation, sustainability goals, etc. over the years.

    ​ Find out the latest trends shaping up the Industrial & Engineering Job Market in 2023 Southeast Market Insights & Salary Trends Report

    Download Your Copy Here

    From product development to data management and smart & sustainable manufacturing practices, keeping up with what’s trending in the industry can help job seekers remain aware of the skills needed to be employable or advance their careers in engineering.

    There are various niches within the engineering field, including mechanical, electrical, civil, chemical, and aerospace, among others. Before deciding which area(s) you want to focus on, here we share major advantages for pursuing a career in engineering.

    #1. Competitive Packages & Financial Security

    Money determines the quality of your life, and a career in engineering can enhance your life’s quality. Being in a high-demand industry, you’ll likely get lucrative salary offers. Notably, this field is among the highest-paying ones, and the trend is here to stay for years.

    Admittedly, a good salary package isn’t the only metric to judge whether a job is worth taking up— there’s no doubt it’s essential. However, not every degree-holder will get the same offer, depending on your skills, knowledge, and passion for career growth.

    #2. Job Satisfaction

    Unquestionably, even a competitive package cannot make an engineer stay for long with an organisation if they aren’t satisfied with the job role. However, industrial engineering jobs are highly fulfilling as they are stimulating and require engineers to continue learning & prove their mettle.

    In the words of Chris Humphries: “Nowadays, true job satisfaction and happiness are about fulfilling your full potential, tapping into your own creativity, and feeling that you can make a difference.”

    Identifying whether an engineering career is your calling and then beginning your professional life gives you unparalleled job satisfaction. In other words, choosing a job you love will never put you under pressure or make you feel dissatisfied with your job.​

    An Innovative Field

    Engineering jobs possess ever-challenging nature that demands a candidate to be highly innovative and creative. Engineers are expected to gauge the growing consumer and industry needs and design & develop products suitably.

    Additionally, it is interesting to see that the engineering field lets an engineer explore and learn beyond what was taught in the classroom. Since application & analysis drive this field, it allows you to become a practical learner. So, engineering is your field if you are seeking a hands-on career.

    View All Engineering Jobs Here

    #4. International Opportunities

    From electrical and computer engineering, the industry has added environmental and biomedical engineering to its list of career lines. As an engineering graduate, you will find career opportunities both within your country and overseas.

    Is it something you are interested in exploring? If yes, then update yourself about the lifestyle and travel opportunities you can afford by developing a career in engineering. You may have to move to work locations far away from home. The only key here is to research and identify the jobs that suit your expectations concerning the opportunities.

    RELATED READ: Skills to Master Before Your Next Job Search

    #5. A Diverse Industry

    The engineering field introduces candidates to various sectors that offer high-paying jobs. Depending on your skills and interest, you can choose among the specialisations. Modern-day trends count civil, electrical, aerospace, mechanical, computer, software, and telecommunications among the most sought-after engineering career options.

    Diversity in the engineering field makes the industry inclusive and enables it to develop solutions using cutting-edge technology. Fortunately, the area has become much more open to welcoming women playing crucial roles by skillfully fitting themselves in the white spaces.

    High-Demand Engineering Jobs in 2023

    Having entered the year 2023, here’s our list of engineering jobs that will be in high demand for a long time.

    • Automation & Robotics Engineer – The past few years have witnessed the rise of automation, fuelling digital transformation. And this trend will continue to flourish this year and in years ahead. A field that designs and creates robots to minimise manual work is creating numerous job opportunities in nuclear science and designing & developing bio-medical equipment.

    • Civil engineer – There is massive career scope in the civil field with gratifying jobs. Civil engineers are responsible for designing and building the world around us—a function that will never cease to continue. Engineers with critical thinking and problem-solving skills can make the most out of this field and earn competitive packages.

    • Data Science Engineer – Industries such as finance, manufacturing, banking, and eCommerce use data to determine their course of action to drive growth. With large volumes of data generated daily, these industries require data scientists to gather, process & utilise the data. Mainly, the demand for data analytics and data science engineers will always remain high in the big data era.

    • Mechanical Engineer – Demand for mechanical engineers always remains high, owing to their requirements across various sectors such as water, agriculture, healthcare, and others. There is a surge in the number of mechanical engineering jobs with lucrative salary packages in the market.

    • Biomedical engineer – Biomedical engineering combines engineering, design, and medicine to produce life-saving medical equipment, devices, and software. Professionals with excellent communication skills, an eye for technology, and problem-solving skills will stay in high demand throughout the year and ahead.

    Get access to Salary Benchmark data in the engineering sector in CGP’s 2023 Salary Guide Report.

    Download your copy here

    Bottom Line

    Millennials dream of landing the most enriching industrial engineering jobs.

    Come reality check: Most of them back out upon learning that a career in engineering is a serious choice.

    Apart from having a suitable skill set and education, it would be best to have expert advice on advancing your career. Moreover, you can also seek professional assistance for applying to the most reputable organisations.

    Feel free to approach Cornerstone Global Partners (CGP) Singapore, an award-winning recruitment firm in Singapore with experience in delivering Executive Search, Contracting, Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO), and Human Resources Outsourcing services.

    Our experienced consultants can help you get a job matching your expertise. Contact us today!

    FAQs

    1. What are the benefits of a career in engineering?

    The benefits of studying and then pursuing a career in engineering are endless. First, as a student, you will get various chances to learn about multiple engineering specialties allowing you to choose a specialization that aligns with your interests and strengths. On top of it, when you go on to pursue a career, you will find:

    • Employers offering handsome packages,

    • Opportunities to learn and grow,

    • Chance to work with organisations across the world that work in an environment that promotes growth

    Professionals with technical skills, commercial awareness, and problem-solving skills can carve a bright career in engineering.

    2. What are the three important qualities of an engineer?

    The top three important qualities of an engineer are Creativity & innovation, Problem-solving skills as well as Mathematical & analytical abilities plus logical thinking.

    3. What are the top skills of a professional engineer?

    The top skills of a professional engineer are:

    • Technical knowledge

    • Communication

    • Leadership

    • Critical reasoning

    • Creativity

    • Innovation

    • Attention to detail

    • Enthusiasm