Having worked in the Human Resources Department for the most part of my career, one of the key takeaway is updating my job description then transfer and update the information onto my CV regularly.

It has become a habit and I take the additional step to post my updated CV on job portals. Depending on which portal the interesting role is advertised in, I apply and submit my CV directly. After that, I always make it a point to add the link, salary range and job title into a spreadsheet in my cloud drive.

I vaguely remembered I saw a role advertised last year. At that time, I was toying with the idea to go back to full time work this year. This application was sent around the same time with this role I wrote about previously. I was surprised I received a call from the in house recruiter in late January. I did a quick search on the sheet and replied, “Oh yes! I remember this role. Blah blah blah…”

The recruiter revealed the role I applied previously was filled (probably by an internal candidate) but this is a same new role that just opened up and the pay range is actually higher. They called me up because my CV was still in their database and they felt my skills was a right fit. In short, technically I did not actually apply for this role. Do you see the importance of having your CV and applications ready at your fingertips now?

Good impression starts the moment you speak to a recruiter. They are the gatekeepers. Never say no and no harm trying when opportunity knocks. Since I am having problems in my marriage, the need to have financial stability become all the more important. A lot of women don’t leave abusive and unhappy marriages because they cannot afford to. Not because they don’t want to. I want to have the option open.

Lo and behold I got the job!

Tough question was how do I see myself contributing to the company? I said I am not one who keep quiet when I feel something is not right. If they want someone that doesn’t ask questions and does not challenge status quo then I am not the right candidate. I had bad experience working in a culture that does not encourage this and I will rather be disappointed being rejected than enter and be unhappy.

The interview process took close to a month and assessment of excel and writing skills was required. I have not used the vlookup for years and I always get the formula and figures wrong for my vlookup. Somehow I had an Eureka moment while working on the lookup and I managed to pass the assessments and went ahead for the final interview.

Traditionally, job market slows down during year end and start moving after CNY. The time is now! The job market is moving and recruiters are reaching out everyday. What are you waiting for? Get your fingers working!