Career Development - Mar08

Where's the Passion?

Choosing a job based on salary has no long term value.

The number of rejections of employment offers has hit a record high in recent years. Market sentiments are extremely positive and companies in the region are now gearing up for headcount expansion, riding on the strong and buoyant economic growth. The job market is abuzz with increased recruitment activity with a rising number of candidates who have more than one job offer on their plate as companies vie for a limited pool of talent.

However, the bullish economy has shown some candidates in bad light. Demand for marketing professionals has increased as more companies set up or expand their presence in Singapore. In a talent short market, employers are often willing to pay a premium for the best candidates, resulting in many cases of candidates juggling multiple job offers. The knee-jerk reaction is to take on the job that provides the most in terms of monetary rewards, with little consideration for longer term career prospects or even passion for the job at hand. Some candidates have no qualms leaving their current job in less than a year to take up another that offers more money and benefits. A case of short term gains at the expense of long term value.

When faced with multiple job offers, how can the job seeker decide on the right one?

Pursue your passion. As marketing professionals who are driven by passion for the products that you manage, you should likewise choose a job that you are passionate about. If your job does not match your interests, values and personality, it will not be long before you feel the strain. You need this energy to sustain you through bad days.

Know what you are capable of. Know what your unique selling proposition is and ensure that the job at hand allows you to capitalise on, and add to your strengths. Being passionate about your career isn't enough; you should ensure that your skills and abilities are developed along with your career ambitions.

Work for a company that supports you. The right company culture is critical in determining if you fit and eventually flourish in your role. The right fit results in greater workplace satisfaction and therefore better productivity. Never overlook assessing cultural fit as you spend a significant amount of your time at work.

Exhaust all options, including internal ones. Assess all options holistically before you make a decision. This includes exploring internal options with your current employer. The grass isn't always greener out there.

In a buoyant market where job options and attractive monetary offers abound, one should never lose sight of where your passion in your career lies. Money should never be the driving criteria. It could certainly be amongst the top three but it should not overshadow other factors that will contribute to your longer term success.

Karen Kwan

Director

Hudson Singapore