Stuck between your current job and a dream interview, fellow Singaporean? You’re not alone! Many of us face the kiasu struggle of balancing work commitments with career advancement. Let’s explore this dilemma and find some practical solutions. Ever felt like your company wouldn’t understand if you needed time off for an interview? This is a common sentiment in Singapore’s competitive job market.
Tough Job Market Realities
- Recent rejection stories highlight inflexibility.
I just got rejected from a company that I was really excited and looking forward to working for. All because I couldn’t take leave on short notice to attend a second round interview.
- Companies may prioritize candidates with immediate availability.
What this sounds like to me: They already had a strong candidate and some time pressure.
- The current climate may not reward loyalty to unsupportive employers. Many feel that companies won’t thank you for prioritizing them over your own career.
Many Singaporeans are experiencing this push and pull. Job security concerns clash with the need to pursue better opportunities, creating a stressful situation for many. With uncertainty in the global economy, the pressure to secure a better job is even greater.
Interview Scheduling Conflicts
- Limited flexibility from potential employers.
Imo if that company couldn’t even try to accommodate to your timings, they certainly don’t seem to value you as a person (and more as a commodity).
- Fear of repercussions from current employer.
- Moral dilemma of using MC for non-illness reasons.
The struggle is real! Singaporeans are caught in a bind. They want to explore new opportunities, but fear jeopardizing their current job or acting unethically. The pressure to be readily available for interviews clashes with the reality of demanding work schedules, creating a ‘lose-lose’ situation for many job seekers. Some perceive that companies treat employees as commodities, not people. This perception fuels the temptation to prioritize personal gain over company loyalty.
Strategic Interview Planning
- Attempt to negotiate interview timings.
Did you dodge a bullet for a company that couldn’t even spare time to reschedule? Yes.
- Utilize available leave options (AL, childcare leave).
If I’m already thinking of leaving a company already, I’d use whatever resources I can get to be out of office so I can prepare / go for the interview; MC, AL, childcare leave, etc.
- Consider the long-term impact on your career.
Ultimately, Singaporeans need to prioritize their career goals while remaining as ethical as possible. Negotiate interview timings when possible. Utilize annual leave or other legitimate leave options. If all else fails, carefully weigh the risks and benefits of taking MC, considering your company culture and personal values. Remember, pre-employment is when you have the most leverage, and you should get your priorities right.
