LOOKING FOR WORK
What do our contributors wish they’d known about the process of job-hunting when they first arrived? Find out below.
Looking for a job as a new expat is tough, as employment passes are becoming harder to get. I would try getting in touch with employment agencies and recruiters who can help you find the right job, and guide you through the process of getting a work permit. – Ankita
I moved here with a job in 2008, and now run my own ethical kids wear label. If you’re thinking of setting up a business, Singapore is a great place to do just that. The process is fairly straightforward if you fulfil the criteria, and using an agency makes it even more so. If you work from home, make sure to register your business as a Home Business with the Urban Redevelopment Agency (URA). – Beth
Companies have specific requirements as to how many locals they can hire versus expats. It can be a confidence bummer when you get rejected and don’t get answers as to why, but just know it’s often not you but your pass! – Alexandra
The job search here can be much more difficult than you think it’ll be. While it can be exhausting and deflating, keep plugging away and keep an open mind when it comes to positions or opportunities that fall outside your specific field or comfort zone. – Dana
Go out and make meaningful connections and use your networks to create opportunities for yourself. – Lisa
Singapore is definitely a place where you can reinvent yourself, however the rules of opening a business and running a business always seem to change, so you really do need to keep on top of it. It’s good to join a business network like the Business Women Network that can always advise you and assist you with any business matters. – Linda
I’m currently working and have been working since we moved to Singapore. I think the key thing to the job process here is networking and contacting people that are in your field or the field that you’re interested in working in. – Mel
I have found the process difficult purely because my background is fashion and it’s not a flourishing industry here. I’ve had to be slightly more creative in my thinking, so setting up my consultancy and knowing the ins and outs of how it works has taken time. – Sophie
Where are you from originally and how long have you been in Singapore?
I’m Australian and my wife Margaret is from the Philippines. I’ve been in Singapore since March 2000 – so, more than 18 years.
What do you do here?
I’m the Chief Stipendiary Steward with the Singapore Turf Club.
Tell us about becoming members of the British Club.
We joined in November 2016. We chose the Club because of the great relaxed setting and the friendly atmosphere.
How often do you visit the club?
We’re often there on the weekend and we regularly visit for dinner during the week. I particularly enjoy the Indian curries at the Verandah Café and a Hendricks gin in the Mountbatten Bar & Grill.
Would you recommend newly arrived expats join the British Club?
Yes, I would strongly recommend people to join. There’s a wonderful family atmosphere at the Club, and it’s a great place for adults and kids to meet new friends. The staff are friendly and helpful, there are plenty of social activities, including for children. And there’s a very good variety and quality of food.