Sunday, June 5, 2016

New job, new beginning

So I started with another company at the start of the month. Given the uncertainty surrounding my previous company, I decided to take the plunge and hunt around for a more secure job for my career. I did not wait for a severance package, because I think I would not be asked to go anytime soon, and I wasn't there for very long in the first place - hence my package (if any) won't be that large.

In any case, it gave me a good story to hop out, and I took the opportunity for an increment in base pay (I think it would take a few years in my ex-company for my pay to rise to my current now - I guess that's why they say if employees stay in the same company for too long, their pay would be below market value).
















In all, it was pretty good, and I do hope I can stay sometime in my current company. I do not like unfamiliar environments, getting to know new people and trying to establish myself all over again.

A few things that struck me:
1. It's not good to be a job hopper, and there are certainly risks involved in changing jobs. On the flip side, there are opportunities involved. Always have a good story/rationale for what you do, and why a job switched is needed..
I was always told at my ex-company which was undergoing down-sizing to focus on what you can control. (I think they meant to focus on your work - but I took it to mean focus on getting another job which is within my control!) I rather be employed at my own terms, than be asked to leave at another's term!

2. I got my current job through my network (of course, I did go through interviews), so this highlights the importance of networking. Never burn bridges - you do not know when you will need to leverage on connections.

3. Have an adequate back-up cash reserves. I saw a few colleagues being let go over the past couple of months. Not too sure about their financial reserves - but I know some have a young family, some with mortgage commitments. It's important to have a buffer in case the severance package is not sufficient to tide over till the next job comes around.

So, with this new job and company, I hope to be here for good with them. :)

4 comments:

  1. Agreed that networking is important. In fact, the best jobs are only circulated through networks. Good for you and hope for my updates from you.

    Regards,
    SG Wealth Builder
    www.sgwealthbuilder.com

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    Replies
    1. Thank you - learnt a lot from your blog too. Were you from sgfunds in the past too?

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  2. There is this bank that is in the news that is retrenching but with more shocking than normal practices. I wonder if the industry left is big enough to take the 100 people that is retrench
    http://www.straitstimes.com/business/banking/barclays-laying-off-100-employees-in-singapore

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    Replies
    1. Yea - that's in January. I survived that, and another round in April - but decided enough was enough. Too much instability, and not much prospects going forward I believe at the moment.

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