“Where Opportunities Abound
- Contact Singapore -

After a late night hangover watching the Presidential Elections results unfold "LIVE" before my very eyes, I still woke up early again today to attend a Pre-Networking/Opportunities@Singapore 2011 Session at Rydges Melbourne Hotel.

Very appreciative of Contact Singapore and Overseas Singaporean Unit for taking the time and effort to organize such an event for us. Felt valued by my country here especially when not many countries organize such events for their citizens overseas. So THANK YOU!

Majority of the firms were accounting firms (i.e. Big 4) plus a handful of ministries/statutory boards. As a non-accounting student, I felt out of place at the event even though I did enjoy the session. I remembered talking to a representative of an accounting firm and the 1st qn was, which area of accounting am I interested in? My reply was candid. I proudly said that I am not an accountant but I'd like to see if _____ has an opportunity for me to pursue my area of interest. Immediately, I felt a change of mood in the person's tone and facial expression. It sounded as if _____ wasn't interested to talk to me given that I am not an accountant. Feeling that way, I was off to prevent further awkwardness.

Well, I know you're an international firm but certainly that's no way to talk to people even if they can't contribute to the accounting sector of your firm isn't it? Disappointing...

This attitude paled in comparison to Gallup Singapore's representative, Mr. Jerry Hansen whom I highly commend. He was always engaging and receptive of anyone who talked to him. I truly enjoyed talking with him. He made me feel welcomed through out the chat. Given his positive attitude, I am more impressed with his firm and certainly would love to follow up my interest with his company.

Dear Contact Singapore, I understand that this is just a mini-event for a start but I do hope that for future events, you can include companies OTHER than the accounting companies. So that non-accountants like myself can feel appreciated and gain more from the session itself.

For those interested in working in Singapore, visit: http://contactsingapore.sg/