Tag: job seeker insights

  • Why Do You Need To Work In The Healthcare Sector? Here Are The Top Reasons

    Why Do You Need To Work In The Healthcare Sector? Here Are The Top Reasons

    Healthcare is a staple industry all over the world and in developed nations, a core industry underlining a healthy future. In Singapore, the healthcare industry has received increasing attention from both public and private sectors especially in the last decade, resulting in the rapid development of the industry.

    Singapore’s healthcare industry is well regarded as one of the best in the world due to a combination of factors, such as:

    • Strong regulatory governance,
    • Good blend of public and private healthcare infrastructure, and
    • A comprehensive, cost-sharing medical health insurance system.

    With Healthcare being one of the major industries pulsating Singapore, what could potential job seekers expect if they choose to join this industry?​

    Stable Job & Career Growth Opportunity

    The Healthcare sector in Singapore has continued to grow from 2012 to 2022, and currently employs around 150K talents (clinical and non-clinical), of which close to 100K are working in public healthcare. What this means to potential job seekers is the availability of jobs on both sides of the fence which guarantees good career development /pathing opportunities.

    This is set to become even better moving ahead as Singapore further develops its healthcare industry – the Ministry of Health has recently announced a 10-year development plan to create a “Healthier Singapore” – and job seekers in both clinical and corporate functions can expect more robust career and growth opportunities in this sector.

    Some of the highlights include more and more opportunities for mental health and finance professionals and experts, as the Singapore government looks at developing more mental health facilities and more value-driven, cost-effective financing options for the public.

    ​ With pandemic bringing to the forefront the importance of healthcare workers, coulped with Singapore’s newest Healthier SG plans, the industry is expected to undergo drastic changes in hiring practices and offer the diversity of positions.

    ​A Plethora of Career Development Options

    As the industry continues to grow and develop, new job functions and vacancies are created every year. For healthcare talents this means no matter where they start in the field, they have a variety of options to pick from when pursuing their careers. They could even change paths a few times before charting a final career pursuit, without losing any pre-existing respect in their field.

    ​Both clinical and corporate healthcare professionals can leverage training mechanisms made available by their employer or through reskilling courses subsidised by the Singapore government when making a career transition.

    Apply for Healthcare & Clinical Jobs Here »​

    Competitive Total Rewards

    Clinical professionals in Singapore are among the best remunerated in Asia, in addition to receiving structured professional skill development training that will see them progressing steadily upwards in their careers. Mid-career switch opportunities are also readily available for clinical professionals wanting to make a transition into corporate functions. Some of these job opportunities include Quality Development, Program Management, Training & Development, etc.

    ​Corporate function professionals in healthcare (Finance, Healthcare, Information Technology, etc.) are also in demand – this is in tandem with the continued growth of the sector warranting new job creation, especially in cutting-edge technology (Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning) for the advancement of care provision, and corporate shared services (human resource, finance) for improved cost efficiency.

    ​In summary, jobseekers could expect a comprehensive base salary in addition to attractive fixed and performance-based bonuses and perks when joining the Healthcare industry. Click here to download full report on salary trends.​

    Value-Driven Work

    Healthcare is fundamentally about extending and saving lives – and this remains one of the most rewarding aspects of holding a job in this industry. While the industry generally offers competitive total rewards and career development plans – healthcare professionals identify most with the fact that they go to bed each day having improved a patient’s quality of life.

    For someone compassionate to help and give back to society – joining the healthcare industry means you will be doing this day in and out while making a pretty good living. Regardless of your chosen vocation – corporate or clinical – you will be helping patients all the same to get the care that they need. Very few other industries could afford the value-driven work whilst paying competitive salaries and rewards.​

    ​In-Demand Roles In The Healthcare Sector

    Currently, there are several clinical and non-clinical roles in demand in the Healthcare industry, such as:

    • Nursing & Allied Health: Nursing Manager to Directors, Nurse Clinician, Radiographer, Psychologist, Radiologist
    • Corporate Positions: Human Resources, Accounting & Finance, Information Technology, Transformation & Project Management, Quality Management, Operations

    To find out more insights into hiring trends in the Healthcare industry, get in touch with our Healthcare and Clinical recruitment team now!

    Meet the Team

    Submit a Vacancy​

    References:

    1. https://www.moh.gov.sg/news-highlights/details/promoting-overall-healthier-living-while-targeting-specific-sub-populations
    2. https://www.careersingovernment.com/tools/gov-talk/career-advice/on-the-job/7-advantages-working-healthcare-industry/
    3. https://www.skillsfuture.gov.sg/skills-framework/hc
  • 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.

  • Why Should Job Seekers Consider Working With A Recruitment Agency?

    Why Should Job Seekers Consider Working With A Recruitment Agency?

    Finding Your Perfect Fit Job

    Hands up if you have exhausted your energy and resources to find the right job.

    Let’s admit the fact: job hunting can be tormenting. Why? It is because there is a difference between finding an employer and finding the ‘right’ employer. Moreover, as time passes and the rejection rate increases, job seekers lose confidence and enthusiasm.

    Just as every movie has a plot, a protagonist & a supporting actor, a job seeker’s story also begins with the struggle to find a good job. And a recruitment agency is in the supporting role. But before proceeding to avail a recruitment firm’s assistance, make sure to seek answers to the following questions and look for solutions, if lacking:

      • Do you lack experience?

      • Do you find the job market challenging and competitive?

      • Is your age affecting your application?

      • Are you unable to fit into the job roles offered to you?

      • Are you pushing yourself hard to meet your job requirements?

    Once you have the answers, working with a recruitment agency will be easier. The blog entails the reasons why job seekers should consider working with a recruitment agency.

    ALSO READ: 7 Traits Every Employer is Looking for in a New Employee​

    The Role of Recruitment Agencies in Your Job Search

    Although platforms like LinkedIn can help you land your dream job, there’s an even easier way— hiring a recruitment agency. Expert recruiters provide multiple career opportunities that match candidates’ skill sets and expectations.

    Here are the top five reasons a job hunter must consider hiring a recruitment agency.

    A recruitment agency does the job search for you

    A recruitment agency takes the burden off your shoulders and relieves you from the overwhelming job-hunting process. Recruiters maintain a vast database of positions, including ones not advertised publicly. This helps candidates cover the gap between finding a job and the right one.

    A recruitment agency provides you access to various jobs at once

    You know what it feels like looking for a new role. Right? Fortunately, recruitment firms help candidates sail through the arduous process. Their eagle eye focuses on the market constantly and records job openings. Furthermore, they consider one candidate for multiple career opportunities, keeping the employer’s and employee’s requirements in mind.

    A recruitment agency helps you put your best foot forward

    There is a misconception that recruiters stay occupied with the application and screening process. However, they also work to

    • gain employer insights,

    • determine the candidates they are looking for, and

    • help you prepare accordingly.

    They can help you with your resume, cover letter, portfolio, and financials.

    A recruitment agency provides you with inside knowledge

    The task of gaining employer insights and market knowledge is no cakewalk. Nonetheless, recruiters spend much time speaking with the client and knowing what they require. Further, they share the information with the job seekers to help them prepare for interviews and understand what is expected of them.

    A recruitment agency gives you constructive feedback

    As a job seeker, it would benefit you to gain constructive feedback to boost your chances of getting the right job. They can help speed up the job search process and increase their chance of securing good jobs.

    Are you looking for a job? 

    Cornerstone Global Partners is right here. While we do not encourage you to leave everything in our hands, we work to increase your chances of success. How do we make that possible?

    1. We save you time. Our team knows what jobs are out there in the market and devote time to filling them with the right candidates.

    2. We help you network on a large scale. You can take advantage of our connections and strengthen your job search.

    3. We provide you access to more job opportunities. Since not all open positions are posted on job boards, you can apply for the confidentially advertised jobs.

    4. You stay in our database. Even if you are not hired for the first potential match, your profile stays with us and is considered for future positions.

    Contact our specialist recruiters and boost your visibility in the market. Our team will assist you in getting placed in fulfilling careers by aligning your career advancement goals with the employers’ requirements.

    VIEW CURRENT JOB OPENINGS

    Final Thoughts

    The market is highly competitive, and there are millions of candidates looking for jobs. Undoubtedly, there might be many of them who will surpass your academic achievements and skills, but you can have a leg-up against the competition. And the best way to do it is by availing of specialist recruiters’ services. Additionally, develop a lasting relationship with them to keep your ear to the ground and check the availability of new roles.

    The only thing you must be careful about is choosing the most genuine and reliable recruitment agency. Only some recruitment firms are worth your time and effort.

    RELATED READ:

    FAQs

    1. Why should you work with a recruitment agency?

    Finding the right employer is an uphill task and time-consuming. As a result, job seekers fail to land their dream job and keep looking for the right offer since they do not possess market knowledge. Moreover, they do not know how to reach the right employers. Fortunately, a reliable recruitment agency can help job seekers to connect with genuine employers. Therefore, candidates can join jobs that match their financial and growth requirements.

    2. What do recruiters look for in job seekers?

    Recruiters look for employees who are passionate about their work and stay loyal to their employers. Secondly, recruiters prefer hiring candidates with a high emotional quotient. Other factors that recruiters consider before hiring a candidate are their commitment to work, communication skills, track record, leadership skills, and ability to work with a team.

  • The Transition Of Face To Face Interviews

    The Transition Of Face To Face Interviews

    Face-to-face job interviews have existed for centuries, but they have evolved significantly. You are mistaken here if you think you’ll be asked the same questions and undergo similar interview rounds.

    In the early days, face-to-face job interviews were used primarily for entry-level positions. But, the recruitment world has changed, and you will experience a different hiring process with each organisation. With increasing competition in the job market, face-to-face interviews are becoming increasingly common for all positions.

    There were times when interviews didn’t even exist. So how did it begin, and how has it changed over the years? We will answer it.

    How Did It Start?

    The beginning phase didn’t have jobs; people just strived to survive.

    1700-1800:

    People inherited professions that did not require interviews. After 1800, the industrial revolution started creating low-skilled jobs. With time, technology began to rise, which led to the generation of job opportunities.

    1920:

    The year 1920 and onwards saw a rise in college education. Then came telephonic interviews and the advent of the Internet.

    2003-2005:

    Platforms such as LinkedIn and YouTube came into the picture. The advent of these platforms brought an opportunity for employers and employees to interact in real-time and learn about an organisation through its YouTube channel. Both platforms attracted millions of job seekers who capitalised on their potential to seek employment opportunities.

    2006:

    Job seekers started looking for employers on social media. There has been a growing trend towards using video conferencing for job interviews.

    Present:

    Employers conduct virtual interviews for remote hiring. Additionally, headhunters look for candidates’ profiles online and even seek recommendations through social media.

    Pros & Cons of Face-to-Face Interviews

    There are a number of reasons why face-to-face job interviews are still considered to be the gold standard for hiring.

    1. First, they allow for a more personal connection between the interviewer and the interviewee. This can help build rapport and trust, which is essential for a successful working relationship.

    2. Second, face-to-face interviews allow the interviewer to assess the interviewee’s communication skills, personality, and overall fit for the role.

    3. Third, face-to-face interviews can answer any interviewee’s questions about the company or the position.

    Despite the advantages of face-to-face job interviews, there are a number of challenges associated with them, such as:

    1. They can be time-consuming and expensive for both the employer and the interviewee.

    2. They can be difficult to schedule, especially if the interviewee is located in a different city or country.

    3. Face-to-face interviews can be intimidating for some interviewees, which can make it difficult for them to perform at their best.

    Here are some of the key factors that have influenced the evolution of face-to-face job interviews:

    • Technology: The development of new technologies, such as video conferencing, has made it possible to conduct interviews in new ways.

    • Cost: The cost of conducting face-to-face job interviews has decreased over time, making them more accessible to a wider range of employers.

    • Convenience: Face-to-face job interviews can be time-consuming and inconvenient for both the employer and the interviewee. Video conferencing offers a more convenient alternative.

    • Accuracy: Face-to-face job interviews are often seen as being more accurate than other forms of interviews, such as phone interviews. However, if conducted properly, video conferencing can be just as accurate as face-to-face interviews.

    • Flexibility: Face-to-face job interviews can be tailored to the employer’s specific needs. Video conferencing can also be flexible, but ensuring the technology works properly is important.

    The Future of Interviews

    The future of interviews is technology. As HR practitioners strive to conduct fair interviews, the market is turning to technology. The technology adoption is seen in the early stages of the hiring process — attraction & screening. And it spreads throughout the recruitment journey. Undoubtedly, the tools are modernising, streamlining, and improving the hiring process.

    The future of interviewing is exciting and will put employers in a better position to make informed decisions. In addition, technology and software boost the chances of hiring the right candidates, owing to modern resources’ accuracy, efficiency, and fairness.

    ALSO READ: The Future of HR: Predictions and Analysis

    How to Prepare for the Future of Interviewing?

    Job seekers cannot afford to lose a job opportunity because they weren’t prepared enough. So here are a few tips for job candidates to strengthen their game and ace the interviews.

    1. Prepare for a virtual interview 

    Virtual interviews are the new normal. Employers are moving on from the concept of conducting in-office interviews. However, that does not mean employers do not want to see how candidates carry themselves. Therefore, even in preliminary interviews, candidates may have to go for online interviews, which seem like they are face-to-face.

    2. Research about the company

    Nowadays, companies expect candidates to research them before appearing for an interview. So take time to surf the information on the company’s website or social media platforms. Once you have obtained all the relevant information, you can effectively demonstrate your value and potential.

    Tip for job seekers: Do your homework. Come well-researched.

    3. Know about the hiring manager

    Your work does not end with knowing about the organisation. In fact, you must also track down the hiring manager’s details and the title. Look for them on platforms like LinkedIn. The more you know about the interviewer, the better you can know what they require and address their requirements.

    Tips for job seekers: Do the proper research at the right place.

    4. Figure out what to wear

    This may seem off-track because modern interviewing does not involve in-person interaction. But most employers prefer platforms such as Zoom & Google Meet to interview candidates. This means the candidate can be asked to keep the camera on during the process. For that reason, the interviewee must figure out what to wear.

    Tips for job seekers: Dress your best.

    5. Perform a technical trial run

    Get familiar with the webcam and microphone. Understand how they work in advance and ensure their audibility and clarity. Have a friend or a family member by your side who can assist you in doing a trial run. Check the technicalities of your device beforehand to prevent last-minute chaos.

    Tips for job seekers: Check before you begin.

    RELATED READ:

    The Bottom Line

    Whether you are a recruiter or a job seeker, we know your plate is full. While it may seem lucrative to get into a routine, the trends of the corporate world keep changing. It is time to adapt to the changes, with virtual interviews gradually replacing face-to-face interviews.

    The formula to embrace change is continuously upgrading your knowledge about current trends. An employer can modernise the hiring process and integrate technology to facilitate smooth interviews. And job seekers can prepare themselves to sail through unfamiliar yet modern hiring processes.

    We at Cornerstone Global Partners (CGP) Singapore are here to help!

    Whether you are waiting to land your dream job or looking for star candidates to join your team. We can assist you and make your journey hassle-free. View the diverse role our team of expert recruiters are currently hiring for, or get in touch with one of them to discuss your needs.

    ​VIEW JOBS

    FIND A RECRUITER

  • The Top Myths About Recruitment Agencies (And Why They’re Not True)

    The Top Myths About Recruitment Agencies (And Why They’re Not True)

    “What are the benefits of using a headhunter/recruiter to fill our company’s positions?” – This is one of the common questions we come across all the time.

    It is important to understand that recruitment is not just about ‘filling a position’. The whole process starts off with recruitment planning that involves analyzing and describing job specifications, qualifications, experience, and skills required to fill the open positions.

    However, there remain some common myths about recruitment or staffing agencies, preventing employers and job seekers from engaging them. There is one thing they all have in common: they are all incorrect and misinterpreted. It’s time to debunk these myths, so let’s begin…

    • For Job Seekers
    • For Employers

    Busting Myths for Job Seekers

    Let us first walk through the myths that job seekers or candidates have in their minds and eliminate them forever.

    Myth 1: Job seekers need to pay placement fee

    This myth originated from sheer misunderstanding and resulted in a common misconception among candidates. The reality is candidates do not pay recruitment agencies, and services are completely free for them. The recruitment fee is paid by the employer for the recruitment agencies’ services and only after finding the right person for the job and once they’ve started in the role.

    The payment is made toward seeking firm’s assistance, such as sourcing, background checks, and interviews.

    At CGP Singapore, we thoroughly guide each candidate throughout the whole hiring process delivering the right experience at every stage (free of cost!). We firmly follow a candidate-centric approach and help them assess their skills, qualifications, and their fit for the roles. “Elevate your career with us! Discover our latest job opportunities and be part of a thriving organization.

    Discover Currently Open Roles

    Myth 2: It’s just about forwarding CVs to employers

    Employers and employees might think that the role of a recruitment agency is to be a mediator and send CVs – It is much more than that. Recruitment agencies like CGP Singapore break stereotypes and stretch themselves. Instead of simply forwarding resumes, the part embraces understanding the role and the required abilities, screening them through interviews, and adding them to the candidate pool.

    We work closely with employers and candidates to understand their needs thus offering the right experience to both the parties pre- and post-placement, during onboarding as well as proactively addressing any concerns or issues that may arise.​

    Myth 3: Prime focus is only high-level executives

    This is another common misconception that recruitment agencies only work with senior level positions. Usually staffing agencies work with a broad range of job roles across multiple industries – from junior to mid-management and senior-level contracting as well as permanent positions. Recruitment agencies cater to a range of employment types, offering flexibility to candidates seeking different job arrangements.

    At CGP, Singapore, we value building relationships with candidates and providing personalised experiences. We thrive to understand each candidates’ career goals, aspirations, and preferences to match them with suitable opportunities.

    Looking for a job that aligns with your passion and expertise? Talk to an Expert Today​

    Myth 4: Stuffing resumes with keywords is the key to get shortlisted

    The reality is just the opposite of what you read here. Many individuals believe that agencies shortlist candidates solely based on automated keyword-matching systems. It should be noted, however, that reputable agencies employ a comprehensive approach to hiring, taking into account factors beyond resume keywords, such as skills, experience, qualifications, and cultural fit, in addition to resume keywords.

    Candidates are evaluated holistically through interviews and assessments.​

    Myth 5: Only ‘Active Candidates’ are Considered

    Many job seekers live in a bubble where they think that recruitment agencies only assist those actively looking for a job. Active and passive are distinct categories of candidates. For active candidates the top factor is better work and career opportunities, while passive job seekers are passionate about their work, engaged in improving their skills, and reasonably satisfied with their current jobs , but they will consider any vacancies that are brought to their attention.

    Whether you are an active or passive candidate, at CGP Singapore our highest priority is to match the right people with the right opportunity.

    We proactively reach out to potential candidates and provide them with access to job opportunities they may not have otherwise encountered. We also offer a reward program where we welcome candidates to actively refer their friends or family for job opportunities thus helping us unleash greater talent.

    ​Busting Myths for Employers

    Myth 1: Recruitment agencies are expensive

    Businesses often complain about recruitment agencies being highly expensive. The reason is employers do not see the perspective from the other end— the cost of sourcing, screening, and interviewing the candidates and most importantly not to forget hidden costs of bad hires or employee turnover.

    According to a report by the SHRM, the average cost of a bad hire can range from 50% to 150% of the employee’s annual salary. This cost includes not only the direct expenses of recruitment and training but also the indirect costs of lost productivity, damaged morale, and the impact on customer satisfaction.

    Outsourcing the hiring process to recruitment services incurs costs, but the benefits they offer often exceed the expenses. By entrusting the recruitment process to experts, organizations can save valuable time and resources. Additionally, the potential to attract top-quality candidates through recruitment agencies can result in long-term cost savings for the organization. Once you consider a recruiter’s expertise and services, the cost would start seeming justified.

    KNOW MORE: 3 Advantages of Working with a HR Specialist Recruiter​

    Myth 2: The sole focus is on filling roles quickly

    Timely hiring always saves employers’ resources and is the essence of any business. Still, it is not necessary that every recruiter will only focus on filling vacant positions quickly. Modern-day recruiters understand the awareness levels of employers and know a task done in haste will reap no benefits to both. Moreover, if the agency finds a candidate who doesn’t fit in the role or leaves within three months of joining, their image gets jeopardised.

    Engaging a recruitment agency is about getting access to a broader talent pool, expert candidate evaluation, time and resource savings, market knowledge and insights, confidentiality, negotiation support, and the potential for long-term partnership.

    Get assistance with your hiring needs now! Our expert recruiters offer specialist market knowledge and have an extensive network to provide you with the best recruitment solutions to achieve your objectives across multiple industries and functions.

    View Our Expertise

    Myth 3: Posting on multiple job boards can help you find the candidate

    Are you under the impression that you can post an opening on multiple job boards and find the candidates yourself? Well! If that is the case, you prevent yourself from reaching the untapped candidates. Recruiters do more than just post job ads and surf the internet. In simple words, you need to see them as a source that has relationships with thousands of candidates.

    Going further, the top talent can grace your organisation and fulfill your objectives.​

    Myth 4: Recruitment agencies find candidates from the same talent pool

    It is another misconception that recruiters keep recycling the same talent pipeline and put minimum to null effort into seeking new candidates. Businesses are evolving and so is the way we work. Both employers and candidates have a certain level of expectation from each other.

    To keep up with a client’s evolving requirements, recruiters source, continuously find fresh talent options, and assess candidates on both objective and subjective criteria.

    At CGP, we refrain from following a one size fits all approach. Rather our specialist recruiters work closely with employers to understand their specific needs and create accurate job descriptions, thus finding highly skilled and talented professionals who are best suitable for the roles.​

    Myth 5: Recruitment agencies don’t understand businesses

    Undeniably, it is not easy for recruiters to understand every organisation like a pro. But, on the flip side, assuming that a recruitment agency won’t understand your industry and its requirements isn’t right.  Professional recruiters invest time in understanding their clients’ organizations, including culture, values, and specific hiring needs.

    Recruitment agencies never cease to network with talented professionals and often attend & host events relating to different industries. As a result, they start learning the intricacies of every industry to better serve their clients needs.

    Overcome Challenges by Partnering with the Right Recruitment Agency

    And there you have it— myths about recruitment agencies gone in a flash. Still unsure of seeking expert assistance from a reliable recruitment agency?

    There are several benefits of partnering with staffing agencies, and working with them helps you develop an effective hiring strategy as well as find the best candidates for your organisation. The key is to find the right agency that fits with your business needs.

    Fulfilling Careers, Empowering Companies: Our Holistic Approach Goes Beyond Filling Positions

    At CGP Singapore, we are a team of experienced consultants dedicated to helping our clients and candidates in finding the perfect match, we believe our role is to positively impact and change their journey for the better. We’re more than just recruiters; we’re partners in your journey to success. Our passion lies in bringing together great people with great companies, creating a future of thriving workplaces and fulfilling careers.

    Get in Touch

    FAQs

    1. What is the importance of employee recruitment?

    A company’s success cannot only be measured by its financial figures. In other words, the organisation’s people determine whether the business is booming. To hire top talent, companies must have a solid recruitment process, which is highly important. An effective recruitment process starts from acquiring new talent to retaining them. Employee recruitment prevents disruption of business activities, increases the success rate of hiring, and improves the organisation’s credibility.

    2. What are the benefits of a recruitment plan?

    An effective recruitment plan makes the hiring process smoother and ensures that the organisation hires the right people. Moreover, it reduces costs, enhances the company’s reputation, and engages employees. Having a recruitment plan helps organisations streamline their processes.

  • 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.

  • From Generic To Personalized: Why Tailoring Your Cover Letter Matters

    From Generic To Personalized: Why Tailoring Your Cover Letter Matters

    We live in an era where businesses spend billions on creating their brand identity & image. This means developing marketing resources & spreading the company’s vision and mission. Similarly, this era also demands job seekers market themselves by creating their own brand identity.

    And, this is where your cover letter plays a very key role in your job application. It is your opportunity to introduce yourself to the hiring manager and explain why you are the right fit for the job. Nevertheless, a generic cover letter that doesn’t address the company culture and job requirements may not appeal to the hiring manager.

    Writing a bespoke cover letter and tailoring it to the position you are applying for can do wonders. Understandably, customising your cover letter for each job application can be overwhelming. However, we promise it will be worth all the effort and time. Explore why tailoring your cover letter to the job is important and how you can do it effectively.

    What is a Cover Letter?

    A cover letter is a document that you often submit during your job application. The document showcases your capabilities w.r.t job fit, job requirements, and your skills & experience. It is used to grab hiring manager’s attention and it is one of the most critical parts of your job application and tells employers who you are and showcases why they should hire you.

    So, what details do employers or hiring managers look for in a cover letter? When you tailor your cover letter to the job, you show the hiring manager that you have done your research and understand the requirements of the job. It also demonstrates your interest in the company and your ability to adapt to their culture. Employers often look for the following traits in a cover letter:

    • Tailored skills from the job description

    • Clarity (Aesthetics, well-written…)

    • Additional accomplishments (career achievements, gaps details, etc.)

    • The value you can bring to the organisation

    • Grammatically-correct representation

    • Personal vision & uniqueness

    Importance of Customising Cover Letter to the Job

    The purpose of a cover letter is to get you noticed by a recruiter or employer. Nonetheless, you must tailor your cover letter for the present-day recruiters to capitalise on the benefits. Therefore, we have underlined the advantages of a tailor-made cover letter.

    1. Gives you the freedom to pitch – Writing a tailored cover letter lets you pitch yourself on multiple skill sets. As a positive outcome, you won’t be required to amend your CV with each job application you make.

    2. Convinces the employer – A tailor-made cover letter can focus on the specifics of the respective job description. Additionally, it showcases how your skill sets are relevant and why the employer should hire you.

    3. Reflects positive traits – Tailoring a cover letter reflects all the positive aspects of the candidate’s personality. As a result, the employer learns the highlights of your skill sets and experience that make you employable.

    4. Makes you stand out – Out of the hundreds of job applications, how do you make sure to get noticed by the recruiter? A well-written and tailor-made cover letter can help you outshine other candidates. The content you mention in the cover letter must depict how excited you are to be a part of the respective organisation.

    5. Helps highlight the experience relevant to the job – You can highlight the experience in an area relevant to the job you want. Then, if you succeed at attracting the hiring manager’s attention to your cover letter, you can expect them to check your CV, too.

    Key Elements in a Customised Cover Letter

    When writing a cover letter, always seek answers to the following questions:

    • What is the purpose of writing it?

    • Who will read your cover letter?

    • How to make it unique and noticeable?

    Once you have the answers, you can focus your energy on writing a great cover letter. Anyhow, you must also ensure you are applying for the right positions. Self-evaluate before you reach out to the recruiter. Here are a few tips to help you sail through the sea of job searches.

    #1. Start with major attributes

    Hiring managers spend a few seconds scanning a job application. Therefore, start with relevant skills and abilities and let the employer learn why they should employ you.

    #2. Connect company’s and your goals

    The hiring process is not only about the job candidates but also the recruiters. A hiring manager seeking a suitable candidate seeks a person who can benefit the company. So tell the recruiter you want the job and why. Organisation’s mission and vision statement can tell you a lot about its goals that you can use to connect to your goals.

    #3. Design your introductory paragraph well

    A customised cover letter must include the company’s name, position, and other relevant parts of the job description. However, don’t be vague and focus on the topic and the cover letter’s outline. Also, refrain from extending personal greetings and save yourself from sounding unprofessional.​

    Conclusion

    As you are challenged to find the right job, stimulating the courage to succeed is critical. A tailored cover letter does half the job, but you must understand writing a good one. Unarguably, a job application is your chance to shine and show why the employer should hire you.

    The tip is not to rely on the hiring manager’s ability to determine whether your skills match their job description. Instead, speak up through your cover letter by highlighting your skills and experience and how they relate to the job description.

    Another point you must remember is that no company would write back to you asking for more information. In other words, market yourself in a way company would default to putting you in the “fit for the role candidate list” instantly. Here is the checklist you could follow:

    • Begin by putting your contact information in the header
    • Follow with greetings to the hiring manager and from where you learned about the role
    • Grab hiring manager’s attention with your key achievements in the next paragraph
    • Explain why you are the perfect candidate for the job and the company
    • Close with a formal message

    Get the Right Assistance from CGP Singapore!

    CGP Singapore’s Talent Search assists suitable candidates in getting placed with the right organisations.

    So, now you have discovered how to customise your cover letter, start working on it and you can land your dream job. Connect with us and allow our expert consultants at Cornerstone Global Partners (CGP) Singapore to help you take one step closer to your next job.

    View All Jobs

    Find an Expert in Your Industry

    FAQs

    1. Why customising cover letters is important?

    Certainly, cover letters need to be tailored. Employers don’t have enough time to reach out to candidates who fail to tailor their cover letters to the job description. Therefore, candidates tend to lose great job opportunities as hiring managers put them in the not-fit-for-the-role job applications bucket. On the contrary, if you tailor your cover letter, you are likely to be called for the next interview stage.

    2. What is the purpose of a cover letter?

    A cover letter addresses the hiring manager or the interviewer. It contains the contact details, the role you are applying for, and the essential details of your CV. It highlights your interest in the position and skills & experience that make you fit for hire. It can be a make-or-break factor in your job application and must be developed wisely to land the job you desire and deserve.

  • 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

  • How to Answer “Tell Me About Yourself” In An Interview

    How to Answer “Tell Me About Yourself” In An Interview

    ​“Tell me about yourself” is a very common start to an interview but also a deceptively difficult opening for most of us – especially for individuals who do not speak English as a native language.

    Over the years, I have found that the vast majority of people I meet will pick a point in time – mostly around college – and then ramble through jobs and life events. Often, people tend to start talking and then speed up and keep talking. People will often overshare about bad decisions or difficult moments in life. If you can imagine for a moment an EKG or seismograph, you would have an accurate depiction of how this type of presentation might sound to the interviewer… we are admitting to having life push and pull us around with rarely a plan in place.

    Honestly speaking, very few of us did have a plan in our younger days and life did kind of unroll before us.

    However, the person on the other side of the table would ideally like to hire someone who is active in determining their life and does not simply take the path of least resistance.

    So, how should you reply to the “tell me about yourself” opening?

    Simply take your life story which looks like an up-and-down seismograph of random events and straighten it out to look more like a staircase. Here are some points.

    1. Group similar positions into one stair and speak about them as a block.

    2. Make short-term work or positions which aren’t relevant into smaller stairs and spend less time on them.

    3.  Talk about what you learned from each step and why you made the transition to the next step.

    4. Tell your history with a purpose as though you had been building your career with intent all along and that your steps are leading you someplace with meaning.

    ​

    If you imagine that this job you are interviewing for is the next step on your staircase, then you have hopefully described how your previous education, work experience, and life wisdom have made you the perfect candidate for that role. Here is an example of how to improve the answer.

    Before:

    “I am currently a Senior Manager with 3 staff. I used to have 7 staff but the company cut some people. I am looking for a job where I can use my previous experience. I learned English at University in the Vancouver. I was married to a Canadian and worked there but I got divorced and moved to Singapore in 2015. I couldn’t find a job right away and I didn’t like the first job I got, so I left after 9 months and joined my current company.”

    After:

    “I am originally from Singapore but I attended university in Vancouver where I studied Marketing as well as English. After graduating, I joined a local marketing agency for several years where I learned more about Western Marketing and Branding.

    I returned to Singapore in 2015 and briefly worked at a domestic agency where I learned the Japanese business language and practices and how to apply my experience in the local Tokyo market. Soon after, I had an opportunity to join my current company where I have been for the past 7 years. I am currently a Senior Manager with 3 staff. I am happy in my current role, but I learned about your opportunity and feel that my Marketing abilities, as well as my understanding of both local and Western business, will make me a great fit. I am really excited to learn more about this opportunity and how I might add value to your team!”

    ​I hope that this tool is useful as you review your resume and prepare for your next interviews!

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    Get the Right Assistance from CGP Singapore

    CGP Singapore’s Talent Search assists suitable candidates in getting placed with the right organisations.

    So now you have discovered how to find a job & have started working on your skills, you can land your dream job. Connect with us and allow our expert consultants to help you take one step closer to your next job.

    Find an Expert

    View All Jobs

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