Achievement unlocked – you’ve graduated! Finally, after many seemingly endless years of school, you’re about to enter a whole new world…
WORK.
A word that brings about mixed reactions. It can send jitters down your spine or make you tingle with excitement. Whatever it may be, and no matter which career you choose, a noob like you could always use a little help to navigate this unfamiliar realm.
There are many resources out there, but sometimes, you(th) wouldn’t know where to look. So we spotlight some of Young NTUC’s programmes that will give you a 1-up in the game.
#1 Learn from a Guru
Are you a fresh lawyer raring to conquer the legal profession? An architect dreaming of designing homes for the future? Or a musician ready to unleash your songs to the world?
Whichever career path you take, there will always be someone who has gone before you.
Young NTUC currently has a pool of over 400 volunteer career coaches and guides for 23 different industries and functions, including banking and finance, healthcare, infocomm technology, social services, engineering and so on.
Hook up with one of them for support and guidance on all things work. Click here to meet your mentor.
#2 Gear Up for Battle
You well know that preparation is key to success in any endeavour. You can’t just spray and pray when it comes to that all-important job application.
Before you start your search, you need to make sure your resume is polished, and your interview skills are top-notch.
The LIT Prep programme is curated specially for you to get tips and tricks from volunteer career coaches and HR professionals to ace your interview for your dream job.
Bonus points if you’re an NTUC member! You can get 1-to-1 resume reviews and mock interviews with career coaches.
To get more badges, you can also join LIT Learning Journeys to get an insider look at companies from various sectors. Kickstart your career preps here.
#3 Get a Mental Reboot
All these new experiences and challenges can get overwhelming. Add to that the stresses from events beyond your control (shout-out to COVID-19!).
No shame in admitting that you need a break from the uncertainties you face. Remember, it’s okay to not be okay.
If you need a shoulder to lean on or a listening ear, we got you! Young NTUC has a community of certified peer supporters who you can turn to if you feel mentally distressed.
For a mental health check, check out these resources.
If, on the other hand, you would like to try on a career in the mental well-being space, they also have a first-in-market WSQ-Certified Training in Peer-to-Peer Mental Well-being Support @ Work.
This course by Young NTUC and NTUC LearningHub aims to equip individuals with peer support and psychological first-aid skills.
#4 Join the Party at LIT DISCOvery
Are you the type of person for whom saving time and effort is a priority? If you want a one-stop shop where you can find all resources for your job search needs, come to Young NTUC’s LIT DISCOvery.
This is an annual large-scale symposium and marketplace where industry leaders share industry trends; C-suite professionals give masterclasses on soft skills and technical skills; and companies offer job opportunities.
Find out here when the next will be.
#5 Engage in Meaningful Convos
Finally, one of the best ways to overcome obstacles in the working world is to speak up.
No better way to reach your end game than to ensure that your concerns, fears and aspirations are heard by those who can do something about them.
One channel to do this is the NTUC Youth Taskforce, led by Young NTUC. Launched in May 2022, the initiative hopes to engage 10,000 of you(ths) aged 18-25 and get your thoughts on addressing your work-life needs.
There will be many conversations, focus group discussions, a roving Youth Hub, youth events, and online and offline surveys.
Click here and chat us up!
Taking the first steps in any journey is daunting. But there are many resources you can tap on to give you(th) a firm footing. Exciting times are ahead!