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Aug 26th 2025

A Complete Guide to Taiwan’s Language & Places to Learn

Created by CakeResumeBefore traveling to Taiwan, you might wonder - what language do people in Taiwan speak? Taiwan actually adopts a diverse linguistic background which has passed on for countless generations. Because it has a rich historical and cultural setting, it significantly influenced the Taiwan language until today. Language is a valuable asset. So, it’s important to know the language Taiwanese people use, whether you’re here for traveling, studying, working, or doing business. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Taiwan's language.Table of Contents:What Language Do People in Taiwan Speak?The Difference Between Simplified and Traditional Chinese5 Places You Can Learn Chinese in TaiwanThe Advantages of Speaking Chinese in TaiwanConclusionWhat Language Do People in Taiwan Speak?Traveling around Taiwan, either by bus or metro system, you might have noticed that the station announcements are made in several different languages besides Mandarin and English. Fun fact, other unfamiliar languages you’ve heard are also the common languages spoken in Taiwan. Let’s dive into the details.Spoken Languages in Taiwan Besides Taiwanese Mandarin, there are several other languages spoken by the locals in everyday life. 1. Indigenous Languages Taiwan has a rich linguistic history traced back for thousands of years. Not many people know that indigenous languages spoken in Taiwan are known as the Formosan languages. These languages are part of the Austronesian language family, one of the largest language families in the world. Although there are only 2% of the Formosan population in Taiwan, their indigenous languages play a vital role in Taiwan's cultural heritage. To begin with, the languages serve as a preservation of traditional knowledge, such as specific jargon and concepts related to herbal medicine, agricultural methods, or cultural rituals. Additionally, they demonstrate a unique cultural identity, helping individuals connect with their cultural roots. Besides, indigenous oral traditions such as storytelling and songs are the sources of cultural narratives and histories.Despite the declining number of speakers of the indigenous languages these days, their unique features are essentially the source of pride and identity within the respective communities. 2. Mandarin Chinese Mandarin Chinese has been used as the Taiwan official language since 1945, making it the main language in Taiwan that is widely spoken. People in Taiwan have a unique Taiwanese dialect that is slightly different from Mainland China. For this reason, it’s also common to address the language spoken by native Taiwanese people as Taiwanese Mandarin. It’s true that Taiwan language adopts a high level of diversity and cultural influences, but Mandarin still dominates almost every aspect of Taiwanese lives. Education: The Ministry of Education in Taiwan enforces schools to use Mandarin as the official language for class instructions as well as standardized curriculum. This means that all of the textbooks, examinations, and teaching materials use Mandarin Chinese as the primary language.Government: For efficient communication, Government documents, laws, official administration processes and announcements use the Taiwanese official language.Daily Life: Mandarin serves as the lingua franca in Taiwan since the Native Taiwanese may have different linguistic backgrounds. So, it’s more common to use Mandarin Chinese for activities ranging from daily chats, media consumption, to professional business negotiations. 3. Taiwanese Hokkien (Minnan) Taiwanese Hokkien or Minnan is a widely spoken regional language in Taiwan, particularly in the Southern part of the island. The language has its roots originating from Fujian province in China. In fact, it was the main language spoken in Taiwan before being displaced by Mandarin Chinese. However, Hokkien is still regularly used by many Taiwanese locals. Hokkien has long had a significant cultural influence on traditional rituals. For instance, various religious practices, such as prayers and offerings would conduct ceremonies and rituals in Taiwanese Hokkien. Besides, speaking the language in important family gatherings like the Lunar New Year celebration, builds a strong connection among family members of different generations.Written Languages in Taiwan It’s rational to wonder - what is the written language in taiwan? This is because most foreigners are more exposed to simplified characters when they first start learning Mandarin Chinese. Traditional Chinese CharacterTaiwanese writing might look more complicated compared to the characters you see in Mainland China. This is because Traditional Chinese characters are used for written communication in Taiwan. Accordingly, it forms the basis for official documents and academic materials. Such characters are significantly important in portraying cultural and historical aspects that are deeply rooted in Taiwan for centuries. That being said, each character reflects historical context which serves as a linguistic heritage. Most importantly, the traditional characters help distinguish its unique identity from mainland China, where simplified characters are utilized.The Difference Between Simplified and Traditional Chinese Chinese characters represent the exquisite historical context of Chinese linguistics. Thus, being able to distinguish between simplified and traditional Chinese characters is crucial for anyone delving into Chinese language and culture. Origins and Development Chinese writing consists of over 50,000 characters representing numerous vocabularies, which makes it one of the most complicated languages to learn, even for native speakers themselves. Traditional Chinese used to be the standardized writing method in every Chinese-speaking region until simplified characters were established in the 1950’s. The main reason behind the change is because the People’s Republic of China government hoped to enhance China’s literacy rates and education. In other words, they believed that Traditional Chinese characters hindered the learning curve of their people. On the other hand, Taiwan is one of the few regions that still uses traditional characters. Taiwanese writing which adopts traditional Chinese preserves the orthodox characters that have passed on for centuries. That being said, the formation of each character reflects the foundation of Chinese culture enabling learners to genuinely understand how the aesthetic Taiwanese writing originated. Key Differences It’s easy to identify traditional Chinese since they typically have more strokes compared to simplified ones. However, the fascinating part is that one traditional character mostly represents one word, while the simplified version may express various words with the same character. Here are several examples:As you can see, simplified Chinese is basically derived from traditional characters while containing a hint of the former structure. The aforementioned key differences do have an impact on language learners. It could be more challenging for learners to pick up the complexity and stroke count of traditional Chinese in the beginning. However, the characters provide a deeper understanding of Chinese culture and historical context. Thus, those who learn traditional characters may find it easier to adapt to the simplified version. Usage and Context Countries that use simplified characters include Mainland China, Singapore, and Malaysia. It is used as the standard for every aspect such as official documents, educational materials, and daily life text messages. Meanwhile, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau adopt the traditional characters for the same purposes. 5 Places You Can Learn Chinese in TaiwanWith over 1.3 billion native Chinese speakers around the world, there’s no wonder why the demand of learning Mandarin keeps growing year by year. There are diverse options available if you’re looking for effective ways to tackle the language. In fact, Taiwan is one of the best Mandarin learning destinations you should not miss. 1. Language Schools in Taiwan Given that Mandarin is the main language in Taiwan, there has been an increasing trend of foreigners coming here to study with professional native Taiwanese teachers. Here are some of the best language institutions to help master your Mandarin in Taiwan:Mandarin Training Center (MTC) at National Taiwan Normal UniversityTaiwan Mandarin Institute (TMI)Live the Language (LTL) Mandarin SchoolTaipei Language Institute (TLI) 2. Universities and Colleges Another great option is to explore the learning opportunities provided by universities and colleges in Taiwan. There are over 60 Mandarin Chinese Language Centers affiliated with different universities in Taiwan. The best thing is that they offer a wide range of courses and extracurricular activities to help you immerse yourself in not just the language, but also the Taiwanese cultures. Most importantly, the courses are open year-round for all learners, regardless of age, interest, and study goals. You can visit Taiwan Mandarin Educational Resource Center and look for the best school and course that best suits you.3. Online Learning Platforms Another effective way to ace your language skills these days is by learning from online platforms. More and more people tend to lean towards online websites and mobile applications since they are highly flexible, and learners can access engaging learning materials anywhere, at any time. Established by Taiwan’s Ministry of Education (MOE), Huayu 101 is one of the most popular learning platforms that provides learning scenarios for short-stay foreigners in Taiwan. It provides dialogues for everyday Chinese on topics covering “Greetings,” “Accommodation,” “Shopping,” “Order,” “Transportation,” and “Asking for help.”Alongside this platform, you can use Pleco as a translation tool to help you search for vocabularies you need to know. Additionally, it provides a flashcard feature to help you memorize important vocabularies in daily life. 4. Cultural Immersion Programs If you’re looking for an authentic language learning experience, you should consider signing up for cultural immersion programs in Taiwan. Besides intensive mandarin courses, you’ll have the chance to participate in outside-of-the-classroom activities that can make your learning process more enjoyable. There are various programs provided by Taiwanese universities. National Taiwan University, the top ranking university in Taiwan offers language and culture courses for students of all levels. Besides daily in-class Mandarin courses, you will be encouraged to interact with NTU local students using Taiwanese Mandarin. The fun part is you’ll also get to explore cultural and historical places around Taiwan.5. Government Scholarships The Taiwanese government has long been promoting education opportunities to attract foreign students to study in Taiwan. For many years, it has successfully attracted over one hundred thousand oversea students to come and experience the Taiwanese language first hand. One of the government’s initiatives is by establishing scholarships such as the MOE Huayu Enrichment Scholarship (HES) with the aim to encourage international students to study Chinese in Taiwan. If you’re interested to apply, note that you must meet all the eligibility criteria. Scholarship recipients will be provided with a 2-month summer course or 3-month, 6-month, 9-month, a year- long Mandarin courses. Plus, you’ll also be supported with a monthly stipend of 25,000 NTD. How better can it get?The Advantages of Speaking Chinese in TaiwanLearning Chinese as a foreign language is never a waste of effort. Especially if you are looking for career opportunities in Taiwan, being able to speak Taiwanese Mandarin will add a huge advantage to your profile. Access to Local Job Market If you’re on the hunt for a job in Taiwan, having fluent Chinese communication skills will certainly make you stay ahead of your competitors. Be it full-time or part-time jobs, you’ll find it easier to access Taiwan’s local job market. This is because many positions require Chinese proficiency listed on the job descriptions. So, hiring expats or foreigners who are fluent in Mandarin would break the language barrier and ensure a smooth team collaboration. If you’re a job seeker, we recommend the best job search site in Taiwan, CakeResume, to help you land on your next dream job. Entrepreneurship and Startups You can’t deny that language proficiency is a must if you want to run a business in a foreign country like Taiwan. Being able to master Taiwanese Mandarin skills will help you navigate through local regulations, as well as deal with government agencies and local authorities with ease. Another plus side is that you’ll be able to build business connections or local partnerships in the Taiwanese business communities. On top of that, it will be especially valuable for businesses seeking to expand their reach. So, there’s a high opportunity that entrepreneurs with Mandarin proficiency can enter the vast Chinese market such as mainland China, Hong Kong, Singapore, or other Chinese-speaking regions.Conclusion Now, you know all about the Taiwanese language, we highly suggest you strengthen your Taiwanese Mandarin skills with the source that best works for you. It’s also important to choose a reliable resource for career development and guidance like CakeResume. As a resume building and career community platform, it’ll help you create a strong profile and offer useful tips for obtaining a professional career journey in Taiwan.Don't let resume mistakes hold you back. Scan your resume with our AI checker and get personalized recommendations to land more interviews.Scan Now--- Originally written by Ainee Setthamalinee ---
Career Planning
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Aug 30th 2022

How to Write an Engaging Letter of Intent [Tips & Examples]

Created by CakeIn this article, we'll cover: What Is a Letter of Interest?What to Include in a Letter of Intent (Template)Tips on How to Write a Letter of IntentLetter of Interest SamplesYou may be applying for jobs right now and none of them seem to match your idea of a dream job at a dream company. Why not take this as a chance to create your own ideal position? This is when a letter of interest comes into the picture. A letter of interest is a great way of putting yourself out there first for potential dream companies to know about you and understand why you fit into their workplace culture. Who knows? You might be their dream employee! Read on to find out how to format a letter of intent, how to write a letter of intent, tips on writing a letter of intent, and examples of letters of intent for employment and scholarships. What Is a Letter of Interest?A letter of interest, a letter of intent, or LOI are the same thing. It is a letter that voices your interest in working for a company or in pursuing a particular academic field. When searching for a job, a letter of interest notifies an organization your availability for upcoming opportunities. In essence, you are pitching why your qualities and skill set are essential to the company. 📍 Letter of Interest vs Cover LetterDo not confuse a letter of interest with a cover letter. A letter of interest, which broadly appeals to a company, is initiated by a candidate and can be submitted whenever. A cover letter, on the other hand, is more specific to an existing position and is written in response to a job posting. A letter of interest aims to relate to a company’s goals while a cover letter hones in on the descriptions of a job role. What to Include in a Letter of Intent (Template)When writing a letter of intent, make sure to include basic contact information, the desired position, your skills/qualities, and lastly, a call-to-action. The following is a basic format for a letter of intent: 🖋 Letter Header State in your header that you are writing a “Letter of Intent” or “Letter of Interest”. Next, if you are writing a letter of interest for a job, include your contact details, the submission date, and the company’s name and address. If you are writing a letter of intent for a scholarship, you would typically also include your home address and the school’s address. 🖋 Salutations When starting your letter of intent, search up, call, or email to find out the exact name of the hiring manager. You could also use LinkedIn or Facebook to find the recruiter’s name through the company’s updates. If you can’t find the name, mention the position of the person you are addressing to. Examples of appropriate salutations to use for letters of intent for jobs or letters of interest for scholarships:Dear Mr. Sprague,Dear Jesse Sprague,To Hiring Team,Dear Dr. Warren,To Admissions Officer, 🖋 Opening Paragraph Open your letter of intent with a brief introduction of who you are, the position of interest, and your reason for choosing the organization. Touch on your key skills or traits and relate it to the company’s values, goals, or mission. 🖋Body Paragraph(s) The opening paragraph of your letter of intent is where you highlight your top relevant skills and traits. Your body paragraph is your chance to show the organization why your skills would be essential to the company’s aims. Sample of how a body paragraph might appear in a letter of intent for an internship as a graphic design intern at a local news organization:As a Graphic Design Volunteer who regularly assists in the creation of logos, online newsletters, and print collateral for 10-15 design cases per week, I believe my multitasking drive aligns with CityXCollective’s goal of delivering “quality news whenever and wherever”. I understand that both quality and quantity are determining factors for your viewers to tune in. With accuracy and speed in assembling varying print/digital graphical materials, all while following branding guidelines for 30 different businesses, I want to join your inclusive journey in print and digital news development. 🖋Closing Paragraph The closing paragraph of your letter of intent is where you state what you want the company to do, your call-to-action. Invite them for an interview or meetup. Including your contact details is necessary in the closing paragraph of your letter of interest. Sample of closing paragraph for a letter of interest for a teaching position:Finally, I would love to meet up and discuss more about sharing your passion for enriching lives through teaching. Please find enclosed my resume which elaborates my experiences in managing classrooms. Do not hesitate to contact me at 122-234-5678 or at [email protected]. 🖋 Sign off Sign off with a closing phrase (Sincerely, Kind Regards, etc.), your signature, and name at the end of your letter of interest. To simplify the process, you can use the following letter of intent template as a guide: Letter of Interest [Your Full Name] [Email][Phone Number][Address, if necessary][State/Province, Zip/Postal Code] [Date] [Company Name] [Company Street Address][State/Province, Zip/Postal Code] Dear [Recipient Name] or [Hiring Team], [Mention why you want to work at the company and describe the position of interest. Touch on why the company appeals to you and list the skills/qualities you could provide.] [Dive into details about the work/projects you’ve done. Think about how you helped a previous company improve or what achievements you’ve accomplished. You could also focus on a singular memorable experience and the contributions you’ve made.] [State the next step you would like for the recruiter to take, whether it be an interview or a follow-up call. Leave your email and phone number, inviting the recruiter to contact you.] Thank the recruiter for their consideration or end with a closing phrase. [Thank you for your consideration / Sincerely / Best Regards, etc.],[Your Signature, if possible][Your Name] 💡 Tip: Expressing Interest in a Job Email When expressing interest in a job email, remember to include in the subject line the position of interest, the company name, and your full name. If you are attaching additional documents (e.g. cover letter, resume) along with your letter of interest, specify that in your email message and be sure to include a brief summary of what you’re applying for.Tips on How to Write a Letter of Intent✅ Do your research and show that off in your letter of interestShow you’ve done research on the company in your letter of interest. Scan through the company’s “About” on its profile or website to learn the objectives and skim through their typical job postings to get a feel for what types of candidates they’re looking for.✅ Be brief and concisePreferably, you want your letter of interest to be less than 250 words. A simple method is to aim for 2-4 sentences per paragraph, and add on or remove words from there.✅ Underscore your skills and notable achievementsShow off your skills and accomplishments in your letter of interest by drawing on specific cases or going into detail (figures, improvement rates, etc.) about work/projects you’ve done.✅ Create a hooking opening paragraph and an inviting closingTo engage the recruiter, start off your letter of intent with a hooking achievement from your past experiences or mention how the company’s products, services, or directions spoke to you. Invite the recruiter at the end of your letter of intent to discuss what you can offer to the company over a sit-down or a follow-up call.✅ Lead with an inspiring experienceIf you’ve been a long-time reader/user of a company, you could mention this in your letter of intent and recount why your experience motivated you to join them. If you’re new to learning about the organization, you could search for a news piece about them.Letter of Interest Samples📝 Sample Letter of Interest for a Job The following is a sample letter of interest for a teaching position at a learning academy. Jane Doe [email protected](605) 123-4567September 1, 2022. To: ABC Academy 123 Reading Rd.ON, M35 2X9 Dear Ms. Reader, Passing by one of your Toronto branches and seeing the passion your teachers and students have for learning reignited my love for teaching. As a peer tutor who helped over 70 students achieve A-letter grades, I am writing to express my interest in joining ABC Academy as an English Educator in the future. Growing up, it wasn’t until I went to a tutoring center that I began to enjoy learning subjects that were once challenging for me. I wanted to pass that sense of excitement from problem-solving to others too. From high school to university, I volunteered as a peer tutor where most of my students saw improvements by a letter grade or more. I also hold a Bachelor of Arts in English and possess in-depth knowledge about literature, historical works, and proper essay structures, all of which are in line with your curricula. I will give you a call next week, at your convenience, to discuss more about what I have to offer. You can also reach me at (605) 123-4567 or [email protected] for further details. Please find enclosed a copy of my cover letter and resume. Best Regards,Jane Doe 📝 Sample Letter of Intent for a Scholarship Application The following is a sample letter of intent for a scholarship that focuses on environmental issues. When writing a letter of intent for scholarships, discuss your motivation to pursue your studies and include field-related academic achievements. Jane Doe [email protected](605) 123-4567123 Fern Ave.Vancouver, BC, Canada, V3R L1K September 1, 2022. To: Stanley Park University Dean of AdmissionsFaculty of Environment555 Stanley Park RdVancouver, BC, Canada, VN2 3RF Dear Dr. Park, With an ambition to eliminate environmental issues, I am writing to express my interest in the Sylvia Environ Scholarship Program. At present, I am a second year undergraduate with a 4.0 CGPA and am planning to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science. My passion for environmental conservation started when I saw the effects that modern pollution in the form of electronic waste and deforestation had on our everyday habitat. Thrown out improperly, even digital mediums, once heralded as eco-friendly means for a sustainable life, can negatively impact countries responsible for their powering or disposal. With public speaking and planning experiences on the Environmental Committee at Stanley Park University, I know how to encourage actionable awareness. I was a speaker at the conference Making Waste Management Manageable, where I discussed the causes of improper waste disposal and methods to reduce our daily ecological footprint. I have also worked as an Executive on our university’s Committee where I assisted landscape development, assessed the school’s carbon footprint, and planned events like Dark Hour to demonstrate the effects of e-waste. Thank you for your consideration and I would be honored if I could be selected for the Sylvia Environ Scholarship Program. Kind Regards,Jane Doe 🔑 Key TakeawaysUnlike a cover letter, a letter of interest emphasizes the relation between your skills/qualities and the company’s goals. Do not go into specifics about traits that seem impressive but are irrelevant.Make your letter of intent engaging by tying in a strong accomplishment or inspiring story. Include figures or a memorable narrative that guides your experiences.Remember to include contact details in the header and in your closing paragraph for your letter of interest. End with a call-to-action for recruiters to take the next step.Write a concise and specific letter of intent. Being concise boosts scanning while being specific about a relevant strength helps recruiters imagine you as their employee. With Cake, you can easily create a resume online, free download your resume in PDF, and utilize ATS-compliant templates to create a resume. Create your resume online (free download) now and land your dream job!Create resume--- Originally written by Flora Lai ---
Career Planning
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Mar 6th 2024

What Skills Should I Enhance for A Successful Career?

Created by CakeSkill enhancement is an important part of your career, whether it's to move up in your company, change industries or find new jobs. Continuous skill enhancement can help you improve personally and in your career, and in today's online world, it is becoming increasingly easy to achieve a new skill. Skill enhancement can also help you to adapt and thrive in ever changing career environments, as companies become influenced by the economic, industrial, technological and hiring trends.Table of Contents:What Is Skill Enhancement?Why Does Skill Enhancement Matter?Types of Skills for EnhancementHow to Enhance Your SkillsWhat Is Skill Enhancement?Skill enhancement involves looking for ways to gain new skills, capabilities and competencies which can help you perform better in your current job, or to progress to a new role. Skill enhancement can involve developing hard skills, such as a new software, analytics methods, or technical understanding, but it can also involve developing soft skills such as public speaking, communication, and team management.Why Does Skill Enhancement Matter?Skill enhancement could seem unnecessary or laborious, especially if your current job is time consuming. However, real career moves are made when an employee can constantly adapt to the environment of their industry. So, here are some reasons why skill enhancement can’t be overlooked: Career Advancement The main reason people look to enhance their skills is to move up in their career. Higher-paying and senior-level roles require people with the experience and skills to take on the duties of the role. One of the easiest ways to receive a higher salary is to become the ideal candidate for the role – you will have a competitive edge over other candidates, and you could gain the ability to negotiate for a higher salary. Some of the technical expertise required by these roles is not always learnt on the job, and therefore taking the initiative of learning new skills will allow you to become qualified for the role. Aside from hard skills, high-paying roles usually involve management, which requires highly developed soft skills, too. Soft skills for higher level roles involve managing teams, communication, decision-making and negotiation. Soft skills need to be developed over time, as opportunities to use them might be rare. Demonstrating your developed hard and soft skills over a period of time, and achieving results by using them will allow you to receive promotions or become qualified for other jobs. Adaptability Constant enhancement of skills means constant learning, which helps build adaptability in the long run. Being adaptable is a highly sought after trait, as many people become comfortable with their jobs, and tend to not be motivated to upskill. Adaptability can help you develop resilience, patience and the ability to cope with stress, which managers will appreciate. Technology, finance and communications are constantly changing and adapting to trends, so upskilling in these industries is important. Having a diverse skill set and the ability to learn will make you a resilient and highly valuable employee. Job Security Skill enhancement throughout your career means that you can easily change careers or find a new job whenever necessary. Having the mindset of constantly learning and a wide array of skills means that you can maintain employment easily, especially if your industry experiences changes often. Upskilling means you are constantly on the forefront of new trends, skills and capabilities, which employers will seek in their candidates. Personal Growth Skill enhancement can not only help you in your career, but it can help you develop personally as well. Learning new skills can bring new perspectives, insights and challenges which can help you build patience, respect and humility. Personal development is an overlooked part of career and skill enhancement, as many people believe that they should not mix their personal and work lives together. However, striving for personal growth can be advantageous to both your career and personal life, as it can assist you in becoming a more well-rounded employee and person. As well as being a better employee, skill enhancement can give you more confidence in yourself – learning a new skill successfully can bring great satisfaction. By gaining confidence, you can become more confident in your job, when it comes to sharing ideas, collaborating or leading others.Types of Skills for Enhancement Now that we’ve gone through the concept of skill enhancement, let’s go through skills which you can begin working on to help you develop in your career: Technical Skills Technical skills involve learning and adapting to new technologies. Some technical skills you can work on include: New software for sales or payrollDigital and creative software e.g. photoshopNew data analysis techniquesProgramming languagesThese technical skills are important to learn as companies want to become more streamlined and efficient. Many companies do not hold training sessions for new hard skills, but rather look to hire people who are already proficient in them. Improving skills with technology and software in general will allow you to easily adapt to changes, and become more independent and productive in your work. Soft Skills Soft skills are non-technical skills which do not involve learning new technology. Soft skills require development over a longer period of time, as the opportunities to use new soft skills depends on your role or industry. Regardless, anyone striving for a management or upper level role will need to develop and enhance their soft skills, as they will be used daily by managers. Usually soft skills are based on interpersonal communication and teamwork, including: Leading teamsManaging teamsCommunication and public speakingWorking in cross-cultural teamsConflict resolutionSome of these skills seem very obvious or common sense. However, developing skills in handling diverse groups of people, as well as handling teams across multiple levels and departments, requires some lateral thinking, which can be taught through courses. It’s important to have an open mind if you decide you want to improve your soft skills; being cynical won’t allow you to learn anything. Digital Literacy Enhancing skills in digital literacy is different from technical skill improvement as becoming digitally literate involves becoming more familiar and comfortable with technology in general. Becoming digitally literate means that you can adapt to learning technical skills when they arise. In an increasingly digital world, being digitally literate is essential to progressing in your career. Digital literacy includes: Different operating systems e.g. windows, mac, linuxResearch tools such as google scholar and pubmedAI tools such as ChatGPTTools and their applications to web and mobileDigital literacy is especially important for consultants or jobs which are heavily client facing; as being digitally literate means you can handle situations where you have to set up or use unfamiliar technology. Likewise, becoming familiar with the vocabulary used by engineers, finance and analytical professionals is another way you can improve digital literacy. Some industries and professions have specific ways they communicate; understanding this will help you immensely in your career.Language Skills Enhancing skills through learning a new language is not usually the first option for most people, but can be incredibly valuable in your career. If you work for an international company, or want to pursue business or consulting, learning another language can help you to progress in your career, as clients in these industries will be from all around the world. If your second language is English, you can enhance your skills in business English through: Online courses which focus on business languageReading English books about your industryIndividual or group lessonsLeadership and Management Skills Leadership and management skills are slightly different from regular soft skills as they require specific training to be developed. Good leaders and managers are important for employee satisfaction, and help with productivity and reaching goals. Leadership and management skills to develop can include: Change managementStrategy buildingGoal settingEmployee motivationStrengthening communicationSkill enhancement for leaders involves developing technical, interpersonal and leadership skills, as well as other personal qualities such as optimism and empathy. These skills need to be learned over time, and to get promoted into a management role, you need to demonstrate that you can effectively use them in your work. You can read more on how to be a good leader here.How to Enhance Your SkillsIf you know which areas you would like to improve your skills, you can begin making a plan on how you will achieve them. To help you get started, here are our 3 steps for skill improvement: 1. Set Clear and Achievable Goals Define specific goals about the skill you want to improve and set out steps to achieving it. Set milestones for your goal – for example, if you want to learn photoshop for your job, your first step could be downloading the program and watching tutorials. Setting out specific goals can show you the pathway you need to take in order to achieve a new skill. This can help keep you motivated, and avoid putting stress on yourself to master a new skill in a short period of time. 2. Diversify Your Learning Methods To keep the process of improving your skills interesting, try and collect resources from a variety of places, and in a variety of forms. Different forms could be books, video, in-person conferences, or through conversations. This way, you can find a learning method that works for you, making you more interested and motivated to achieve your goals. Some websites you can look through for resources which can help you improve your skills include:Technical or Hard Skills EnhancementCoursera Coursera provides short courses which involve video and reading materials, for a variety of business and academic topics. Many of these courses are run by universities or prominent figures from various industries. You can also get a certificate at the end. Skillshare Skillshare is an online video platform where you can learn a variety of skills – creative, interpersonal and technical. They have easy to follow courses for almost any topic, for any level. Codecademy Codecademy is a beginner-friendly coding course which teaches a variety of programming languages and web development skills. If you want to learn to code, this would be a good place to start. Udemy Udemy is an online course platform which has courses on skills from design, to coding, to software as well as leadership and management. Courses are from beginner to expert, and can be done at the user’s pace. Duolingo Duolingo is a language app that teaches a variety of languages, from complete beginner to advanced. Duolingo uses a fun interactive approach to motivate users to log in every day and complete their courses.Leadership, Management and Soft Skills EnhancementCCL CCL is an intensive management program for mid level managers to enhance their skills. It offers credentials and can be completed online. Mind Tools Mind Tools is a personal development platform with a focus on skill enhancement for careers, which includes video and written materials. They offer a variety of courses for management and soft skills for employees of all levels. Alison Alison offers free online management skill improvement courses, for a variety of industries. This means you can easily learn how to be a good manager in the context of your company or industry. Alison also offers certifications for completing a course.3. Practice Consistently To learn a new skill, you need to constantly work on it. Having this learning mindset will allow you to achieve your goals, as well as become more adaptable in your career. Understanding the value of practice can help you become a patient and well-rounded employee. You can also integrate reflection and review as a part of skill enhancement, where you can learn to introspect about your experiences. Skill enhancement is an important part of your overall career path. Learning new skills can help you land a new role, higher pay, and allow you to develop personally as well. Hard and soft skills can be learned in a variety of ways, and keeping track of your progress can help keep you motivated to achieve your skill enhancement goals. You can also find other career advice on Cake, for everything from resume writing, to interviews, to enhancing your career.With Cake, a resume builder, we provide you with hundreds of free resume templates (free download) and various resume examples that help showcase the best you. Landing your dream job will be a piece of cake!Create Resume--- Originally written by Bronte McNamara ---
Career Planning
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Mar 22nd 2022

Should I Quit My Job? Here's All You Need for Doing it Right

Created by Cake“Should I quit my job if it makes me unhappy?”“Should I leave my job for more money?”“Can I quit my job due to stress?” If these kinds of questions have been on your mind for a while, these are the signs you should quit your job. Whatever your reason for wanting to leave a job, doing so is not a failure— what matters is whether you actually enjoy what you’re doing and whom you’re working with. If you’ve decided to leave the current role, make sure you do it as professionally as possible. Some things you need to consider are showing your employer and the HR manager good reasons for resignation and giving them proper notice in advance. In this article, you will learn about:7 Signs You Should Quit Your Job Immediately6 Good Reasons to Leave a JobReasons Why You Should Not Leave Your JobHow to Quit Your Job and Leave On Good Terms7 Signs You Should Quit Your Job ImmediatelyIf you’ve noticed the following signs, it's time to quit your job. Note that in this part, we will focus on factors that push an employee out of the role. 7 Signs You Should Quit Your Job ImmediatelyThere is a high turnover rate at the company.The company has no future.Your workplace is toxic.You are not growing professionally.You are no longer contributing at work.You are not motivated.You are not valued at work.1. There is a high turnover rate at the company. The turnover rate refers to the percentage of employees who leave a company within a certain period of time, including those who resign voluntarily as well as being fired or laid off. Below are the major drivers of employee turnover:Job contentWork satisfactionStressCompensationCo-workersLeadershipExternal environment Different businesses and industries have different expected turnover rates. But generally speaking, a high turnover rate is often the result of negative employee experiences. Thus, if your company has high turnover, it will also affect your mood and productivity too. 2. The company has no future. As an employee, you expect to work for a financially-secure company with a clear vision. If not, you may feel less secure in your role and worry that you may be laid off due to the company closing or downsizing. So, how to know when it's time to leave a job? Observe the financial position of a company before applying for the job and while working there. Additionally, you can pay attention to whether the company's vision and mission are not aligned with what has been mentioned in the job interview. 3. Your workplace is toxic. Oftentimes, being dissatisfied with the work environment is one of the major reasons for wanting to leave a job. Negative workplace culture can present itself in different ways, but generally is made apparent by the following practices: Your workplace has poor communication.Many people are calling in sick or, worse, are working sick.There are many cliques, gossip, and rumors but no genuine friendships among coworkers.Almost everyone doesn't appear to be happy working there.The higher-ups demand that employees like you have to agree with everything they say and do, and they also set very high standards. Working in a toxic workplace can lead to stress, burnout, damage to your self-esteem, and serious disruptions in your normal life. Hence, consider leaving an organization if you notice some signs of negative company culture. 4. You are not growing professionally. A lack of future opportunities can bring a sign that you should quit your job. When pursuing a career, you should also care about your professional growth. That means you have chances to acquire new knowledge and skills, take on more responsibilities, and thus bring more value to the employer. Hence, if you feel like the managers can’t support your career advancement, that’s when you should tell yourself “I want to quit my job.” 5. You are no longer contributing at work. When you first start a new job, the employer details all of your responsibilities and duties that you are excited about, challenging tasks and opportunities to learn and make contributions to the company. However, things have changed over time—you realize what you're doing is entirely different. You find what you have been working on is boring and, even worse, doesn't create much value for the employer. That will be a clear sign indicating it's time to quit your job. 6. You are not motivated. According to a study by LinkedIn in 2019, not feeling a strong sense of purpose is among the top reasons people leave jobs, making up 35% of the 3,000 professionals surveyed. Quite simply, it means that you dread going to work and don't really enjoy what you're doing every day. Moreover, you don't see your work having a purpose and/or creating an impact. For that case, it's an appropriate reason for leaving a job. 7. You are not valued at work. Does your employer often provide you with positive feedback and praise? Or does your company run employee-recognition programs of some sort? If the answers are no, your work is likely not valued by others in the company. It's never pleasant to be unseen and unheard at work, especially when you contribute to the success of the team or the company. Since employee recognition is very important in the workplace, it's time you tell yourself “I want to quit my job and find a better employer” where your efforts are valued more. 6 Good Reasons to Leave a JobNow, let’s take a closer look at pull factors and personal reasons for leaving a job with examples of a specific situation as shown below. A better job offerRelocation planPersonal conflictsScheduling issuesPursuing further educationCareer change ✨A better job offer “Should I leave my job for a better one?” Everyone has different expectations about salary, benefits, and career advancement. If you have been made a better offer that meets or ,even better, exceeds your expectations, leaving your job for it seems to be a no-brainer. However, you should still carefully weigh the pros and cons, and make sure it’s potentially a big improvement. ✨ Relocation plan Looking to live somewhere else can also be an appropriate reason for leaving a job. For example, you want to move to somewhere with lower living expenses and/or more things to do, or you prefer to live near your family and friends. If you work remotely, you don’t necessarily need to quit. However, consider this as a sign to quit your job since it might affect your life in the long run. ✨ Personal conflicts Your personal life has changed and your current workplace cannot accommodate—that's when you should quit your job. Let's say you find it hard to get along well with your colleagues even though you are all nice. Or maybe, the current job involves a lot of travel, which doesn't really match your lifestyle. Your partner might even be moving to another city or country where he/she gets a new job offer. These kinds of things will lead to changes in your personal life, indicating a sign it's time to quit your job. ✨ Scheduling issues Sometimes being unable to resolve a scheduling conflict, either due to child care arrangements or personal issues can also be a good reason for leaving a company. ✨ Pursuing further education You have decided to go back to school to further your education, either on a part-time or full-time basis—this can necessitate a job resignation (unless you can maintain a work-study-life balance). However, it's still better to focus on one thing at a time. Given the demands of your job and having a busy school schedule, your current employment may no longer be a good fit. ✨ Career change Here are the top reasons for wanting to leave a job as career-changers are becoming more and more common nowadays. Many of you feel like you have been doing the same thing for too long, and now you are looking to do something different. It can be a new field, a new industry, or a new career path that may bring you a lot of exciting challenges. Upon deciding when you should quit your job for a career change, make sure you know exactly what you're passionate about and what you want to do for the next employment. Reasons Why You Should Not Leave Your JobTo know when it's not a good idea to leave your job, check out the following reasons.💭 You are overlooked for a promotion. Of course, it's hard to feel happy, or even content, in the workplace for being passed up for a promotion. Even so, you need to figure out why other colleagues can make it whereas you can’t. There're many factors contributing to career advancement and getting a promotion takes more than just doing your job well. 💭 You receive harsh but fair criticism. An inappropriate reason to leave the current job is that you are not willing to accept negative evaluations. Instead of quitting, try to reflect on constructive feedback given, which is very vital for your professional growth. 💭 You don’t know why you want to quit. Obviously, this is not either a sign you should quit your job, or a good reason for leaving a company. Having no clue about the situation means that there is nothing serious that affects your work and life. 💭 You don’t have a clear plan for the future. You will always need to be well-planned at every stage of your life, especially the moment your gut tells you “I want to quit my job.” It's not a good idea to leave the current position while you don’t know what you’re passionate about and what you want to do next. That will make you feel your life is pointless and meaningless in the long run. 💭 You haven’t tried to consult HR or your manager to resolve issues. To stay or leave the company is your decision. Yet, you should have a conversation with your boss or the HR manager so they can give you important counsel. There might be some issues at work that they are unaware of, and thus they can't help you resolve the problems. How to Quit Your Job and Leave On Good TermsOnce you have enough appropriate reasons for leaving a job, do it properly and professionally. Step 1: Know why you are leaving. You can keep the actual reason to leave the current job to yourself. However, prepare something nice to say when being asked by your boss and even the potential employer in the next job interview. Step 2: Check your current contract. In the employment contract, you can find the notice period and any details relevant to your current benefits. Reviewing this carefully will likely ensure that you follow every essential step of resignation without missing anything. Step 3: Check unemployment benefits. Upon your resignation, you may receive a severance package from your employer, including your final paycheck, compensation for unused PTO or holiday breaks or a 401(k) account. Depending on your situation, you may also want to look up labor laws to see if you qualify for unemployment benefits offered by the government that provides you with temporary income when you’re no longer employed. Step 4: Inform your manager and the company in advance. Normally you will need to notify your employer at least two weeks in advance. Give them a good reason to leave your current job and avoid being negative. This is not only part of the resignation process but also work etiquette, so they can have the time to find your replacement. Step 5: Write a polite resignation letter. This is the last but most critical step in quitting a job—to write a letter to inform your employer of your intention. A resignation letter should cover the following elements:Date and addressYour job titleYour name and your manager's nameResignation dateReason for leaving the current jobGratitude to the employerYour contact infoClosing Signature💡 Pro Tip: Keep it short, simple, and polite!🔑Key Takeaways:All in all, be wise when seeing signs that it’s time to quit your job versus signs telling you that you shouldn’t. Do the reasons come from yourself, the company, or both? Have you talked to your boss or the HR manager regarding the issue?If you’ve decided to leave your current role, make sure you have a specific plan for your career path. And most importantly, keep in mind to resign professionally so you can leave on good terms.With Cake, you can easily create a CV online and download your CV’s PDF format for free. Land your dream job and create your CV online (free download) now!Create CV--- Originally written by May Luong ---
Career Planning
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Mar 6th 2024

Living and Working in Malaysia Guide for Expats | 2024 Guide

Living in MalaysiaWelcome to the vibrant tapestry of expat life in Malaysia, a Southeast Asian gem that beckons with its diverse cultural palette, economic opportunities, and breathtaking landscapes. You might be looking for what to do in Malaysia, accommodations in Malaysia, even questions like: do foreigners pay income tax in Malaysia? Malaysia boasts a tropical climate, making it an enticing destination for those seeking a balance between work and play. With Kuala Lumpur as its bustling capital, the country embraces a harmonious blend of modernity and tradition. Boasting a population known for its warm hospitality, Malaysia stands as a melting pot of ethnicities, including Malays, Chinese, Indians, and indigenous groups. Renowned for its dynamic job market and affordable living, Malaysia is an expat haven, offering a plethora of experiences, from exploring the iconic Petronas Towers to savoring delectable street food. In this guide, we'll delve into the intricacies of living in Malaysia, especially living in Malaysia as an expat, covering key aspects such as the cost of living in Malaysia, job vacancies in Malaysia, what language Malaysians speak, and the best places for expats to live to call this tropical paradise home.TABLE OF CONTENTSCost of Living in MalaysiaHousing Accommodation in MalaysiaHealthcare Education in Malaysia for ExpatsWork Business Opportunities for Expats in MalaysiaMalaysian Lifestyle and CultureFAQs Cost of Living in Malaysia Living in Malaysia, with its thriving economy, could be a great place for expatriates seeking diverse opportunities. The country's currency, the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), is favorable for many expats, offering a cost-effective yet high-quality living standard. Housing Rental costs vary, with Kuala Lumpur being the costliest. On average, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center may cost around MYR 2,000, while suburban areas offer more budget-friendly options around MYR 1,200.Utilities for a standard apartment amount to approximately MYR 150 per month. Transportation Public transportation is efficient and affordable, with a monthly pass for trains and buses under MYR 150.Owning a car involves additional costs, including fuel at MYR 2.20 per liter and insurance averaging MYR 2,000 annually. Daily Expenses Groceries for a single person may range from MYR 600 to MYR 800 per month.Dining out is reasonably priced, with a meal at a local restaurant costing around MYR 20. Currency Exchange and Comparative Analysis When considering the cost of living in Malaysia compared to other popular expat destinations in Asia, such as Taiwan and the United States, Malaysia emerges as a cost-effective choice. The exchange rate and cost of living index reflect Malaysia's appeal, offering a favorable balance between affordability and quality of life. Expatriates can confidently navigate their economic landscape, enjoying the unique blend of economic opportunities and a comfortable cost of living in Malaysia that the country has to offer.Housing Accommodation in Malaysia When it comes to living in Malaysia as an expat, the housing landscape is as diverse as the cultural fabric that defines the nation. Expatriates have a myriad of options, ranging from urban condominiums to suburban houses, catering to various preferences and budgets. Rental Options In major cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang, expats can choose from a plethora of rental options. Apartments, ranging from cozy studios to spacious penthouses, are abundant. Rental costs vary depending on location, size, and amenities. The bustling city center may offer luxury condominiums at MYR 2,000 or more, while suburban areas provide more economical choices around MYR 1,200. Popular Expat Neighborhoods Expatriates often gravitate towards specific neighborhoods known for their international communities and convenient amenities. Most expats choose to live in Kuala Lumpur, areas like Bangsar, Mont Kiara, and Damansara Heights are renowned for their expat-friendly environment, international schools, dining options, and proximity to business districts, making them the best places for expats to live. Renting vs. Buying The decision between renting and buying in Malaysia depends on individual preferences and long-term plans. Renting provides flexibility and eliminates the responsibility of property maintenance, making it ideal for short-term stays. On the other hand, buying property can be a wise investment for those planning a more permanent residency. Leasing Property Leasing property in Malaysia typically involves a straightforward process. Rental agreements are commonly signed for a one-year period, with a security deposit equivalent to two months' rent. It's advisable for expats to engage a reputable real estate agent to navigate legalities and ensure a smooth leasing experience.Healthcare Education in Malaysia for Expats Healthcare Systems insurance Malaysia boasts a well-developed healthcare system that combines modern medical facilities with traditional practices. Expatriates can access a range of public and private healthcare services, with major cities housing internationally accredited hospitals. Expatriates living in Malaysia often opt for private healthcare due to its efficiency and English-speaking staff. Health screenings, dental care, and specialist consultations are readily available. Navigating the Malaysian healthcare landscape is more seamless with proper health insurance coverage. Expats can choose from international health insurance plans that cater specifically to their needs. These plans often cover hospitalization, outpatient services, and emergency evacuation. Renowned international insurance providers offer policies designed to meet the diverse healthcare requirements of expatriates in Malaysia. Educational Systems For expat families that relocate to living in Malaysia, the country offers a diverse range of educational options. International schools provide curricula in English, following globally recognized standards such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or British curriculum. International schools cater to expat children of all ages, offering a blend of academic excellence and extracurricular activities. The seamless integration of students from various cultural backgrounds enriches the educational experience. The curriculum often incorporates language support for non-native English speakers, ensuring a smooth transition for expat children.Work Business Opportunities for Expats in Malaysia Is searching for a job in Malaysia hard? Malaysia's dynamic economy has positioned itself as a hub for expatriates seeking diverse professional opportunities. Industries such as technology, finance, manufacturing, and healthcare present a flourishing job market, providing jobs in Malaysia for foreigners. Kuala Lumpur, the bustling capital, hosts numerous multinational companies, creating a robust environment for career growth. Networking events and job fairs provide expats with valuable connections and insights into the job market. For those with an entrepreneurial spirit, Malaysia offers a conducive environment to establish and grow businesses. The government actively supports startups and small to medium enterprises (SMEs) through initiatives like the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint and grants provided by agencies such as Cradle Fund. Expatriate entrepreneurs find a welcoming ecosystem, with co-working spaces and incubators fostering innovation and collaboration. Work Permits and Visa Requirements Navigating the legalities of working in Malaysia involves obtaining the appropriate work permits and visas. Expatriates typically secure job offers before arriving, as sponsors (employers) play a crucial role in facilitating the application process. The Employment Pass (EP) is the primary work permit for skilled professionals, while the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program caters to retirees and individuals seeking a more extended stay.Key PointsThe EP application requires a job offer from a Malaysian employer, and the pass is valid for up to 60 months.The MM2H program allows foreigners to live in Malaysia on a long-term basis, with various financial criteria for different age groups. Business-Friendly Environment Malaysia's commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment extends beyond employment and entrepreneurship. The country's strategic location, well-developed infrastructure, and government incentives make it an attractive destination for international business expansions. Expatriates involved in business activities often find the necessary support and resources to thrive in the Malaysian market.Malaysian Lifestyle an Culture Malaysia is a captivating blend of traditions, customs, and ethnicities. The country celebrates diversity, with Malays, Chinese, Indians, and indigenous groups coexisting harmoniously, therefore you shall not be surprised to find the locals speaking 4 or even more languages fluently. Visitors and expatriates often find themselves enchanted by festivals like Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, and Deepavali, where the streets come alive with vibrant colors, cultural performances, and delectable traditional treats. Understanding Malaysian customs adds depth to the expat experience of living in Malaysia. Malaysians value politeness and respect, with a warm "Salam" greeting being a common expression of goodwill. When entering homes or places of worship, it's customary to remove shoes. Additionally, during festive occasions, it's customary to give and receive gifts with the right hand or both hands. Malaysia's culinary scene is an adventure that mirrors its cultural diversity. Expatriates are treated to an array of flavors, from the iconic Nasi Lemak and Char Kway Teow to the diverse offerings of Indian and Chinese cuisines. Hawker centers, bustling with locals and expats alike, provide an authentic taste of Malaysian street food. Dining becomes a social affair, with the practice of sharing meals symbolizing camaraderie and connection. Beyond its cultural richness, Malaysia offers a spectrum of leisure activities for expatriates. The country's natural beauty is showcased in its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and iconic landmarks like the Petronas Towers. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Cameron Highlands or go island hopping to Langkawi. Urban centers like Kuala Lumpur provide a vibrant nightlife scene, with rooftop bars and entertainment hubs catering to diverse tastes.Common FAQs Emergency Contacts and Resources Emergency Services: In case of emergencies, dial 999 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services.Embassy Contacts: Expatriates should keep their embassy's contact information handy for any consular assistance required. The U.S. Embassy in Malaysia, for instance, can be reached at +60 3-2168 5000. Taxes in Malaysia for Foreigners Understanding the Malaysian tax landscape is crucial for expatriates. As mentioned by PwC, “An individual, whether tax resident or non-resident in Malaysia, is taxed on any income accruing in or derived from Malaysia.” Here is a comprehensive guide to personal income tax rates for the year of 2023 onwards:Personal Income Tax Rates Expat Communities and Networks For expatriates seeking community support and networking opportunities, joining expat groups can be invaluable. One such platform is the Facebook Group: Trending Jobs in Malaysia | 马来西亚热门工作 | Pekerjaan paling POPULAR di Malaysia. This community provides a space for expats to connect, share experiences, and stay informed about job trends in Malaysia!Common QuestionsWhat is the cost of living in Malaysia per month??The amount needed to live comfortably varies, but a general estimate is around MYR 5,000 to MYR 7,000 per month, excluding rent.Is it worth living in Malaysia?Malaysia's unique blend of cultural diversity, economic opportunities, and natural beauty make it a rewarding destination for many expatriates.Is Malaysia a good country for foreigners? Yes, Malaysia is known for its welcoming atmosphere, diverse expat communities, and favorable living conditions.What are the preferred expat locations?Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru are popular among expats due to job opportunities, amenities, and vibrant communities. Key Takeaways As we conclude our exploration of living in Malaysia as an expat, it's essential to recap the key points that shape this vibrant and welcoming experience. Malaysia, with its diverse culture, robust job market, and affordable living, stands as an enticing destination for individuals seeking a unique blend of professional growth and lifestyle enrichment. From understanding the nuances of Malaysia's healthcare and education systems to navigating the business landscape and immersing yourself in the rich cultural tapestry, this guide for living in Malaysia has aimed to provide a comprehensive overview. The dynamic job vacancy in Malaysia, diverse housing options, and the warmth of the Malaysian people collectively contribute to a fulfilling expat life. For those eager to delve deeper into career opportunities in Malaysia, Cake's Career Guide offers a wealth of information and insights. Explore the trends, job opportunities, and community discussions in Facebook group, connecting with fellow expats and professionals. Embark on your journey to living in Malaysia with confidence, armed with the knowledge to embrace the rich culture, navigate the professional landscape, and build a fulfilling life in this Southeast Asian gem. Malaysia awaits with open arms, ready to welcome you to an adventure that transcends borders and promises a unique chapter in your expat story! Cake is an all-in-one talent platform that helps job seekers on their career journey, from building resumes to searching for jobs. With an intuitivefree resume builder providing 15+ ATS-friendly resume templates, 50+ resume snippets, and an AI-powered job search portal, job seekers can now find any job, anywhere. Start My Journey Now — Originally Written by Wendy Chang —
Career Planning
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Mar 6th 2024

10 Best Jobs for People with ADHD [+ Tips in Job Hunting]

It is thought that 2.5% of adults have ADHD. Even so, it can still be tricky to find suitable jobs for people with ADHD. ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. While symptoms vary, ADHD is often associated with struggling to focus, impulsive decisions, disorganization, and bouts of energy. With simply sitting being a challenge, it’s no wonder that usual office jobs just aren’t suitable careers for people with ADHD. Regardless of whether you’re an early detection or a late bloomer, ADHD can have a profound impact on your organizational skills, ability to complete tasks, and social interactions within the workplace. Thankfully, with a little bit of forethought (and this article!), it’s not impossible to find high paying careers for ADHD job seekers. So, read on to uncover the best working environments for people with ADHD, what jobs are good for people with ADHD and why, and tips to find good careers for people with ADHD.Table of Contents:Working Environment Suitable for Individuals with ADHD10 Best Jobs for People with ADHDTips for Job Seekers with ADHDConclusion10 Best Jobs for People with ADHD Working Environment Suitable for Individuals with ADHD The best jobs for people with ADHD are where there is a suitable working environment. This can differ on personal preference, but good jobs for people with ADHD generally feature: Dynamic and fast-paced settings People with ADHD often have trouble focusing for long periods of time, making a fast-paced environment a great way to avoid getting bogged down with one task. As this setting demands flexibility, and engagement with multiple tasks, fast-paced ADHD careers can actually be beneficial. These kinds of jobs for people with ADHD are also a great way to implement problem solving into the daily routine, ensuring that there is no boredom in sight! Collaborative environments While people with ADHD can be creative and successful all on their own, collaborative environments are better in jobs for people with ADHD. That’s because, even though ADHD can impact effective communication, people with ADHD actually perform well in groups. This is especially so when collaborating to achieve a certain task. Jobs with clear and organized structures Structure is probably the biggest asset in jobs for people with ADHD. Having a clear and organized structure in the workplace can ensure steady and manageable work flows, decreasing the chances of chaotic work that ends up being unfinished (which is a common result for people with ADHD). Creative environments Creativity is, without a doubt, one of the best outlets for ADHD. Regardless of the field, a creative environment offers careers for people with ADHD a space to let loose the build up of energy and stress, diverting attention to matters that may even require problem solving skills, adaptability, and curiosity. Calm environment Noise and light can both be distractions to someone with ADHD, causing their work productivity to be impacted. Having a calm (aka not too noisy), de-cluttered, and well-lit environment is an easy way to ensure that people are comfortable in the working environment.10 Best Jobs for People with ADHD The best jobs for people with ADHD allow you to showcase your naturally heightened skills like problem solving, creativity, and adaptability. However, the thing that separates the good jobs for people with ADHD from the truly great is how deep your interest goes. Too little, and you’ll get easily distracted. Too much and - there’s never too much. So, what jobs are good for people with ADHD? 1. Journalist Journalism is a job for people with ADHD that needs you to be creative, energetic, adaptive, and social. You’ll need to feel comfortable socializing with different kinds of people, and be adaptive enough to work out solutions from different angles and viewpoints. 2. Teacher Teachers need to be creative, outgoing, adaptive, and good at problem solving. That’s because the workload and demand in these jobs for people with ADHD is constantly changing and fast-paced, making it less likely that you’ll get bored or distracted at work. 3. Artist There’s so much more to being an artist than painting on a canvas. In addition to creativity, these jobs for people with ADHD can be fast-paced, often requiring you to follow a clear structure and routine. 4. Small business owner When thinking about ‘what are people with ADHD good at?’, the first thing that comes to mind is problem solving. That and creativity is essentially all you need for this role, along with a passion for your business and flexibility. 5. Athlete A common symptom of ADHD is increased, almost uncontrollable, energy. Exercising is a great way to dispel and release some of that, making being an athlete among the best jobs for people with ADHD. 6. Chef While there definitely can be some repetition, cheffing it up in the kitchen is a great place to unleash your creativity and energy. It’s also a good job for people with ADHD that demands focus without long-term commitment, and multitasking. Being a chef also sometimes has flexible hours, making this among the good careers for people with ADHD. 7. Retail worker It’s hard, it’s tough, but being a retail worker is among the worthwhile jobs for people with ADHD. From problem solving to sociability and energy, being a retail worker is a good career for people with ADHD. 8. Designer From UX to UI design, the jobs for people with ADHD wanting to specialize in design are endless - as long as you’re creative! More frequently offering rigid organizational structures, routines, and environments, working as a designer can give people with ADHD a greater sense of control. 9. Hospitality worker Like in the retail industry, being a hospitality worker requires problem solving and adaptability. Always up on your feet and always with a different task in hand, there’s never a dull moment for these ADHD careers. 10. Computer Technician Being a computer technician is among the most well known and good careers for people with ADHD. That’s because ADHD is often associated with computer-smarts and problem solving, which is basically this role.Tips for Job Seekers with ADHD While there are plenty of good careers for people with ADHD out there, following these three tips will ensure that you find the very best jobs for people with ADHD: 💡 Tip 1: Search for jobs that align with your strengths It’s no good applying for a job specializing in a field or topic you won’t enjoy, especially if you’re looking into careers for people with ADHD. That’s because people with ADHD actually perform better when they’re dealing with things that interest them. So, if you’ve ever wondered ‘What are people with ADHD good at?’, it’s really whatever you think you’re good at. 💡 Tip 2: Craft your resume When looking for jobs for people with ADHD, ADHD careers seekers need to go through the same processes just like any other jobseeker. From finding a suitable work environment to an interesting job, it all still boils down to that pesky cover letter and resume. Make your resume stand out with Cake’s free resume builder, filled with loads of stunning resume formats to help you stand out from the crowd. 💡 Tip 3: Prepare for the interview Getting ready for an interview? Regardless of how far along you are in your application for jobs for people with ADHD, do yourself a favor and start preparing early. Conclusion Just because you have ADHD does not mean that you can’t find good jobs for people with ADHD. In fact, with the variety of suitable workplace environments and different career paths available, there are plenty of jobs for ADHD jobseekers. From fast-paced and collaborative environments to cheffing it up and journalism, there are so many jobs for people with ADHD. Find yours today on Cake’s job portal!With Cake, the best free resume builder, we provide you with hundreds of free resume templates download and various resume examples that help showcase the best you. Landing your dream job will be a piece of cake!Create Resume — Originally written by Eva O'Mara —
Career Planning
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Sep 28th 2022

But Really, What Are Job Requirements?

Created by CakeIn this article, we'll cover: What are job requirements?Job requirement elementsHow to know if you meet the job requirementsWhat if you don’t meet all the requirements?One of the first things that you will see when browsing for jobs or applying for vacancies is job requirements. But what are job requirements? They are essentially something that details the job criteria needed to be met for the candidate and the responsibilities expected of a role, written out in words for understanding. In other words, they are the job qualifications, the job criteria, or the hiring requirements. They are most likely seen on company websites, professional networking sites, and job posting boards at employment centers.What are job requirements?To be more specific, job requirements list out the attributes, experience and skills an employer would like their ideal candidate for the job vacancy to have. It goes down to whether you meet the required qualifications, experience requirements and employment requirements, as the potential employer deems these to be essential job criteria for someone to perform to a satisfactory standard if hired on the job. Job requirement example for a data scientist role:You are excited and driven by our mission to improve patients’ health and save money for people around the world.You understand the challenges and opportunities that arise at the early stages of a startup and are determined and willing to tackle them.You strive to deliver work to a high standard and hold yourself accountable.You are energized by finding creative solutions to help resolve issues and challenges.You are a self-starter who takes initiative and is ambitious, and thrives in an environment with minimal supervision. This example company particularly puts more emphasis on hiring based on personal qualities and soft skills, which align with the company’s values and culture.Job requirement example for an enterprise account executive role:You have 5+ years experience in enterprise sales within a B2B SaaS vertical.You have a proven track record of engaging a consultative approach to sell to CXO-level sales executives.You are experienced in prospecting and generating businesses, as well as exceeding quotas.You are familiar with working with executive-level customers from Fortune 500 companies.You are full of passion, enthusiasm, energy and humor and you are excited by the selling and sales of technologies. In this example, the experience, qualifications, skills, attributes and motivation sought after in a candidate are all mentioned. Job requirement elementsAs seen in the couple of examples above, there are a number of elements that can make up a job requirement.Below are some that are often seen in posts of requirements for a job: SkillsWork experienceEducationLanguageCertificates, licenses, accreditationsField knowledgePersonal attributesPhysical attributes or abilities ✅ Skills Each job vacancy will have different requirements of skills needed to complete the work successfully, which can usually be categorized into soft, hard and technical skills. Soft skills are, for instance, those related to communication, leadership and time management; whereas hard skills, also called technical skills, are those that can be taught and easy to measure or quntitfy, such as operating specific machinery or understanding of industrial technology. ✅ Work experience This is another major section in job requirements, as employers tend to use this to gauge how much time you have spent and how much knowledge you have gained in a similar position to the one you are looking to get into. This will help them understand how familiar you are with such a position and whether you require more training before you begin. Senior roles will usually require more experience than junior roles, as the longer one works in a field the more responsibilities and knowledge one would generally accumulate. ✅ Education Some job requirements will list out the educational qualifications employers expect candidates to have for a job, for instance, a degree from a certain subject, or high school diploma including certain grades. However, this is not always the case, as more employers now look to widen access to employability and promote diversity amongst their employees, where having relevant or equivalent work experience can replace, if not all, some of the required educational qualifications for a job vacancy. ✅ Language Being able to speak the language of the country you are hoping to be employed in or to the clients and customers you will be expected to work with is another key element of a job requirement. Employers will specify if they require specific languages as part of the job criteria, including the preference of language they may have and the level to which they require for the job. ✅ Certificates, licenses, accreditations This job requirement is more particularly the case for job vacancies that are highly technical, often needing extensive training, completing rigorous training programs and obtaining certificates, licenses and accreditations. These are generally seen most within healthcare, but also traditional fields such as law and engineering. Having these up your sleeve can increase your chance of securing a role, as some employers may see this as an alternative to educational qualifications or relevant experience required for a job. ✅ Field knowledge Having specific field knowledge is another strength that can make you stand out as a candidate, more so when looking to meet the requirements for a job. It can often be seen listed in job requirements as a separate category, since this can only be obtained through practical experience, personal curiosity and extensive research. An example of this would be having research experience specializing in cancer for a post-doctoral vacancy at a university. This is most seen listed as a job criterion in scientific and other highly technical fields. ✅ Personal attributes This section of a job requirement describes the persona best fitted into such a role and company. You will often find that details of the work environment, company culture and team dynamic will be listed as part of the requirements for the job, along with the specific traits and personalities that the employer deem will fit best with the team members and management team, and those that align with the company’s values. Some examples of this could include qualities like curiosity, creativity and empathy. ✅ Physical attributes or abilities If there are any physical activities involved in the job, employers would often include them in the job requirements as well. These can be, for instance, standing for long periods of time and lifting heavy items or working outdoors. By indicating these details it allows candidates to determine whether they are able to carry out the work requirements, or share any reasonable changes that they might require for the job. How to know if you meet the job requirements?Now that you have found some job vacancies you are interested in and looked through the job requirements, the next step would be to know if you meet the hiring requirements. Take a look below at some of the methods that will help you determine whether you meet the job requirements. ✏️ List down the requirements mentioned in a job post. Start by writing down and organizing the job requirements into a document that you can easily understand. You might want to consider typing this down or copying and pasting it in a document which you can access via the internet, in case that you lose the paper or have bad handwriting! ✏️ Identify required and preferred qualifications for a job. Next is to check which job requirements are required and which are preferred. Those qualifications that are required are those which must be met, and those that are preferred are those that would be advantageous to have. ✏️ Compare the minimum requirements with your skills and experience. The required qualifications for a job are the minimum requirements you must meet to be considered for hiring. Comparing these with the skills and experience you have on record will help you understand whether you meet the job requirement, and hence help you decide whether you should begin filling out the job application. ✏️ Check if your personality traits are required for the job. Another way of knowing whether you meet the job requirement is to check if your personality trait would fit the type of person they are looking to hire. You can find this by looking at the personal attributes section in the job requirement, or checking the company’s values to see if it matches your personality traits. What if you don't meet all the job requirements?In the case that you looked through the job requirements and realized you perhaps don’t meet all the hiring requirements, there are still some tips that will help you maximize your chance in securing the role you are interested in. 🎯 Focus on your ability/skills that can solve problems the new hire needs to solve. One of the best ways to prove you have what it takes to do the job is to highlight the abilities and skills you have accumulated that will allow you to solve business problems companies are likely to face. More specifically, showcase that you understand the responsibilities new hires are expected to own and link that to what you have to offer. This can help employers see the attractiveness in hiring you, on top of the job requirements listed. 🎯 Highlight relevant transferable skills. Another way to prove you can excel at the job is to underscore your transferable skills, particularly those that are relevant to the role you are applying for. This could include those listed as part of the soft skills within the job criteria list, or perhaps not mentioned within the job requirement at all. These are skills that you gained which can be used in any job role, company or industry; for instance, foreign language proficiency, leadership skills or computer programming skills. 🎯 Think of similar experiences you have. Another tip to prepare yourself as an attractive candidate is by linking to similar experiences that you might have. Perhaps you don’t have relevant experience listed in the job criteria for the role you are applying to, or that you lack exposure in the field, but you can think of those experiences you have accumulated in the past and elements that are akin, and showcase how that will help you become a successful employee. For example, you can demonstrate that you have great customer service skills from your past experience volunteering at the local charity shop, where you managed the till and answered customer questions. 🎯 Emphasize your compatibility with the company. You may also focus on how compatible you are with the company you are applying to. This can be, for example, through the alignment of values between you and the company, or perhaps through your fit for the company culture and how you see yourself make a mark. This part may take some more thinking and brainstorming, as information like values and culture might not be listed within the job requirement. 🎯 Avoid ATS Rejections. This is perhaps one of the most mistaken steps candidates take when applying to jobs. Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) is essentially a keyword-based software that helps companies filter out candidates that don’t meet the job requirements, meaning that it will automatically screen out anyone that doesn’t tick all the boxes, with no leeway around it. To avoid this, you should consider reaching out to hiring managers or recruiters, as they are more likely to bring in personal judgment and make expectations if they find you interesting. 🔑 Key Takeaways:In summary, job searching is not an easy process, but understanding the importance job requirement plays as part of the application process is one of the key factors in securing your dream role. Make sure to know what each of the elements within a job requirement represents, how to check whether you meet the job requirements, and what to do if you don’t quite meet everything listed in the job criteria. Above this, stay positive and keep working hard, then you will be one step closer to the job you want! With Cake, you can easily create a resume online, free download your resume in PDF, and utilize ATS-compliant templates to create a resume. Create your resume online (free download) now and land your dream job!Create resume--- Originally written by Wayne Chang---
Career Planning
・
Dec 9th 2020

Successful Career Change Guide: How to start a new career? [Ideas, Resume, Cover Letter]

Just between you and me, do you know that on average, 90000 hours of your life will be dedicated to working? Finding a job you’re willing to stick to forever is never easy. Passion in your 20s can eventually lead to burnout in your 40s, and that is 25 years to go before retirement, sounds miserable, right? It’s never easy to make a huge decision, you might still be indecisive and think that you shall weather this, it’s just a phase… but what if it’s not? Here are a few common scenarios for career-changers, if you see yourself in them, then a midlife career change might do you good. Are rigid company policies barring your creativity?Is it a waste of time to do what you absolutely don’t like?Are your credits always taken away by some bootlickers?Do you want to escape from the dull and stagnated environment you’re in now?Are you always hypervigilant and stressed in your current 9-5 job and you can barely see the blurry line between work and life? In our previous article, we’ve listed out 3 tips for a successful career change. But what are the final determinants to switch jobs; how can one embark on a new career path? Finding a new career at 30, 40, or 50 is not easy, but life changes can often bring you unexpectedly great results, the prerequisite is to try. In this article, we’ll dive into different phases of a career change.You'll learn:3 surefire signs for a career change3 pieces of career-change adviceCareer change ideas for nurses, teachers, and accountantsHow to write a resume for a career change?How to write a cover letter for a career change? 3 signs showing you should plan for a career change 1. Frustration and Underperformance Every morning, day after day, you feel like you’re drained of energy despite slurping down fresh ground coffee. You don’t feel like you’re rebooted despite a long night’s sleep. The thought of going to that cubicle job wears you out. True, life is not a rosy bed, but sticking to a job where your feelings of apathy have skewed toward day-dreaming and operate on autopilot is TOO overwhelming and frustrating, it’s just impossible to reignite the spark. As if the work itself isn’t annoying and frustrating enough, the work doldrums are spilling over into other areas of your life, jeopardizing your relationships with friends and family. What’s worse, your health, mentally and physically, is hanging by the thread. It’s become a vicious cycle: frustration; resentment; underperformance, and again and again does the cycle repeat itself. 2. Lack of competence Competence and ambition constitute a fulfilling job. How do you commit to your job if neither of these exists? It’s especially hard to stay sharp when your mind is swirling somewhere else. Lack of competence not only undermines your performance but also makes you cynical. Worst case scenario? Self-loathing. It’s a lot of ambition and competence lost considering how many years have passed. 3. Stagnation (You have nothing more to learn!) One of the greatest things about working a 9-5 job is learning. You are in your early 20s when you have your first job. You are new to the field, a lot of things to grasp and absorb. After a while, you start to pick up and manage a project on your own. Boredom gradually creeps into you after a couple of years, and finally, here you are reading this career-change article. Obviously, you’re stagnated. When you first take on a position, the learning starts steep, and then it hits a plateau where you’ve been equipped with relevant knowledge to tackle almost all the problems. Your tasks at work have become daily routines that don't require you to think or experiment. Skills gradually become obsolete. You need to step on a new learning curve, and a career change can drag you out of boredom and stagnation. All the symptoms mentioned above are different dominos in the chain reaction, the cumulative pressure, depression, and suffocation can wear you out. Losing the momentum in your professional life manifests itself in many areas and may affect personal relationships and be exhibited in dysfunctional behavior. If you’ve been plagued with these negative thoughts for a while, it might be time to plan out to the T for a thorough career change. 3 Pieces of Career-Change Advice For a significant decision like a job change, you should know what are the options. Most importantly, what makes you consider a career shift? You have to think about what triggers you to change to a new career, it’s a great opportunity to reflect on your past experiences. The realization of spending time at a job that is not fulfilling presents the opportunity for soul-searching and contemplating purpose, happiness, and personal values. Aside from eyeing the right route, here are 3 reminders for you before starting a new career. Treat the cause, not the symptoms. It’s the first piece of advice that should be engraved in your mind. If you hastily go on a different track without much consideration, you might soon find yourself in the same dilemma which is endless resentment and depression. Think about what makes you suffer and how you would like to change that in a new environment. Incentives vary, including higher salary, ability to grow, a better work-life balance, sense of fulfillment, and caliber, your strengths and passion, etc... For example, if boredom is what you hate the most about your job, the expectation for your next job should be more dynamic than the current one where you can get exposed to new information or challenges. Or, if the stress is killing you, you need to change your career path for a job that you can strike a work-life balance. Have an emergency fund saved up for 3-6 months. There is no guarantee that you can find a new job right away. Job-seeking can be a tormenting process, and being tenacious should be your new motto to reach your dream job. There will be a time of turbulence in between jobs. For career-changes who have accumulated quite a few working experiences, it should not be that difficult to have an emergency fund set up. Be proactive, but don’t rush. Starting a whole new job is like starting from scratch. You’re closer to your ideal life, but before reaching the end, it’s a process of trial and error. Gearing toward a new position nevertheless entails higher stakes; therefore, you have to be more proactive in hunting down your next job. Besides, you should also think about the following two questions. What kinds of career change am I considering?Same position in a different industry; different position in the same industry; or a whole new track in an entirely different new industry, just to name a few. What’s your short-term and long-term career planning? Let’s say you aim to start a new job in a different industry in several years, then this should be your long-term goal. Short-term goals refer to the various phases in the career-changing journey. Little advice, don’t rush, focus on one step at a time. Beware, you’ll be bombarded with lots of questions from now on. You can start thinking about skills you have yet to acquire, and how you are going to bridge the gap. Have you taken relevant (online) classes before or received certification elsewhere? Is it possible that you settle for a job in between, and along the way, you can gradually pick up relevant skills needed to reach the long-term goal? If this is feasible, how long do you plan on staying in the in-between job? These questions are bound to swirl in your head when you lie awake in bed at night. It’s tough, but nothing worth having comes easy. Despite the bumpy road ahead, it’ll come a day that you enjoy the fruits. How to make a career change for Teachers/ Nurses/ Accountants? By now you should be ready to move on to the next step. What are the viable options for you?The last time we heard, we know that teachers, nurses, and accountants are more likely to consider a career change. Here are a few new career ideas for you folks. There are several jobs in all types of industries that benefit from the skills acquired as a teacher, a nurse, and an accountant. Knowing the types of positions where you can use your expertise can help maximize your potential in the next career path. Career Changes for Teachers Teachers have a wide range of transferable skills that they can use to their advantage. They are pros in learning and educational processes, skilled communicators catering to learners with very different needs, planners, and organizers. Career changes for teachers are relatively easy compared to others. Here are some most common ideas for new careers: an occupational therapist assistant, a life skills trainer, and a curator in the educational setting. Career Changes for Nurses Like teachers, nurses can capitalize on their skills in the new career path. Most common career changes for nurses include health educator, nutritionist, pharmaceutical sales, health educator, physical therapist, and clinical social worker. Career changes for nurses revolve around medicine. The good news is that career change can go smoothly for nurses. Career Changes for Accountants Accountants are savvy in numbers and familiar with pesky mountains of rules. The skillset can be utilized in other positions. The technical skills acquired as a CPA is valuable in the banking industry. Financial analysts and financial planning are also viable options. But remember, despite there are several transferable skills you have at hand, you always need to have a pragmatic reality check to make sure that the role you are after matches with your imagination. You might have surface-level visibility of some careers but there are so many fields and roles that are off your radar screen. Talk to someone in the industry or position you’re after. It helps to break some myths and clarify assumptions. Next, it’s time to draft a career change resume and cover letter. How to write a resume for a career change? Your resume is a snapshot of your employment history. But how to write a resume for a career change? A resume catered to a career change should focus on three things: objective, transferable skills, and education section. Moreover, nothing can interest recruiters like a resume packed with a PAR (Problem-Approach-Result) strategy, so make sure you include them in your resume.Objective You should state clearly why you choose to pursue a career different from your current one and what are your strengths compared to your counterparts, who have been in the field for quite a while. State your motivation and objective clearly. It should pave the way for other parts of your resume and cover letter. Transferable skills Namely, you should list the skills you acquired in other industries and capitalize on them. In a nutshell, it’s a tactic that lets you take the exact same experience and make it sound relevant to positions you’re interested in. Lack of direct industry-specific experience is not necessarily a barrier to a new job, you can complement it with fresh thoughts and experiences accumulated in other industries. What’s more, employers want someone with potential. Prove that you’re a great candidate with transferable skills. Education Section Your college diploma might be brittle and yellowed by the time you consider a career change, and that’s why the education section should be updated. It doesn’t necessarily have to be a formal certification or another master’s degree. Lifelong learning is good enough, it not only keeps dementia at bay but enhances employability and competitiveness. If you’ve taken online classes or training offered by either the government or the private sector, put them in this section! Online and offline learning both do magic. Don’t worry if you haven’t ventured out in these areas. It’s never too late to start investing in yourself. Never stop voluntarily to be a self-motivated and self-sustained person, and make sure the outside-of-work learning is relevant to the new job you’re after.Cake provides professional resume templates formats for career changers to build strong resumes. Considering starting a new career? Create acompelling Cake right now!Create a Resume How to write a cover letter for a career change? Now that you have a well-drafted resume, a career change cover letter can tell the intriguing story behind the bullet points. There are a few things a cover letter can do: you’re passionate; you’re a go-getter; you’ve walked the talk, just to name a few. Of course, one of the most important questions to be answered is what’s the motive to switch fields, and what unique skills you have. It’s especially invaluable to consider all the soft power and technical skills you’ve cultivated over time. For a career change cover letter, here are three reminders handed to you on a silver platter. With these, you can rise above your competitors. Skills (both soft and technical wise) These include the elaboration of transferable skills mentioned in the resume. Soft skills are indispensable in all industries, such as communication skills, leadership, adaptability, teamwork, resilience, etc. As for technical skills, research, data analysis, project management, etc. are all included. What’s more important, you have to put forward solid evidence that you’ve earned strong references and tangible achievements in your previous positions. It’ll grant you higher chances of being trusted in the new role. You’ve shown the recruiter that you did pretty well in the previous position, now tap on transferable skills. Elaborate on the linkage of how you can utilize skills you’ve acquired in the past and make a contribution to your new role. Relevancy Aside from transferable skills, you want the recruiter to know that the company culture is exactly the vision you want to see in a company. Look at the job description thoroughly and use the keywords in your cover letter, link it with the transferable skills we just talked about. It shows that you’ve looked up the company and have done your homework, recruiters like that. Passion Finally, in a world or ladder-climbers, this is the part where you can outshine other candidates. You’ve had a few trials and errors in the past, and now that you’ve sailed through some parts of the murky water. You’re yearning for something stimulating and dynamic, and thus you are more motivated than others since you’ve gone through enough to know where your passion lies. Here's the rule of thumb: develop a touching story, tell recruiters what drew you in this particular direction, and show your determination. Keep your story brisk and invigorating. Takeaways Finally, we’ve reached the last part of this detailed guide. I hope you’ve found the answer to “how to make a career change”, all the nitty-gritty you need to know for a career change is covered here. Let’s recap a few points. When you launch your job search, you have to know clearly what you want, why you want it, and what qualifies you. It’s terrifying for one to be in the depths of despair of their lifeless status quo. Not even Xanax’s antidepressants can save you from the excruciating and dire position you’re in. Bearing in mind that actions precede clarity, not the other way around. Actions are needed to truly make changes happen. Crossing off possibilities is a much better solution compared to leaving them as open questions. If you hastily trawl through job sites and go on a different trek without thinking about what values you hold close to your heart, you’ll be likely to experience the same conundrum even in a new position. As for a career change resume and cover letter, emphasize the transferable skills and your strong motivation. It takes a lot of courage to change careers, especially when you’ve passed 30 years old. Recruiters will appreciate that. With all the advice, you’ll cut through the clutter. Please bear with me, one more thing to say here. This too, like other obstacles you’ve encountered in the past, shall pass. Dear (potential) career changers, may all your Sunday night blues can metamorphose into joie de vivre for an aspiring new job. Remember, career change is probably just a blessing in disguise.
Career Planning
・
Mar 6th 2024

A Complete Guide to Taiwan Welfare System for Foreigners

Created by CakeWhen living abroad, having a good welfare system that covers basic medical things such as access to pharmacies and medication, nursing and health care, as well as oral health care to rely on is certainly important. Welfare systems are government programs designed to provide financial aid to citizens and expatriates. It helps relieve financial stress from expensive medical bills during rough times. The welfare system in Taiwan adopts a single-payer system run by the government. In this article, we will share everything you need to know about Taiwan National Health Insurance (NHI) for foreigners.Table of Contents:What Is Taiwan’s National Health Insurance (NHI)?What Are the Requirements for a Foreigner in Taiwan to Apply for a NHI Card?How to Apply for a NHI Card?Is There a Punishment for Failing to Apply for a Taiwan NHI Insurance Card?8 Common FAQs about Taiwan NHIConclusionWhat Is Taiwan’s National Health Insurance (NHI)?Taiwan healthcare system, commonly known as the Taiwan National Health Insurance (NHI), is a national healthcare system compulsory for Taiwanese residents, locals, and foreigners residing in Taiwan. The insured must show their Taiwan NHI insurance card to receive medical care. Taiwan NHI has a reputation for offering world class healthcare services with affordable prices. It was ranked first in the 2023 edition of the CEOWORLD magazine Health Care Index for having the best healthcare system in the world. Here is a list of a few NHI Pros and Cons in Taiwan:Pros of Taiwan NHI:Low cost: The co-payment system allows the insured to pay only a small amount of money to cover their healthcare expenses.Comprehensive coverage: Both inpatient and outpatient care are covered, as well as dental care, maternity care, over-the-counter drugs, and traditional Chinese medicine.Good Accessibility: Patients can easily get medical treatment information and specialized treatment without a referral, and wait times are often short.Cons of Taiwan NHI:Physician shortage: There are more doctors and hospitals per capita compared to the rural areas.Financial Problems: Costs are not being fully covered by revenue, raising concerns about the system's long-term viability.Increased Healthcare Costs: Due to Taiwan's aging population and low birth rate, it will face higher overall healthcare expenses and a reduced tax base.What Are the Requirements for a Foreigner in Taiwan to Apply for a NHI Card?The Taiwan National Health Insurance card is mandatory for foreigners in Taiwan to register. Please check the list of requirements below before applying. A foreign resident who holds an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) in Taiwan after residing in the country for a full 6 months, or has stayed in Taiwan for 6 months without leaving the country for more than 30 days.Self-employed foreign residents or entrepreneurs and their dependents must enroll for the NHI Taiwan after 6 months.Students are required to enroll through their school.Newborn foreigners in Taiwan should be enrolled in the Taiwan NHI on the date of birth as a dependent of an employed parent. How to Apply for a NHI Card?Follow the step-by-step guide below to apply for your Taiwan National Health Insurance card. Step 1: Apply online or through district office If you are enrolling for Taiwan NHI for the first time, you can either apply online or through the district office. Online applications can be registered through the “multi-certificate online platform” of the National Health Insurance Administration (NHIA). The Taiwan NHI insurance card can be applied at the same time you enroll in NHI at the local administrative office where your house is registered. Step 2: Prepare the documents needed for a Taiwan NHI application Application formA 2-inch photo. (Required for new NHI card applicants)A copy of the front and back of your ARC Step 3: Fill out application The handler of the insured unit should tick the box to issue the NHI card and fill in the delivery address. The photo file format is .JPG and the image should not exceed 5M in size. Step 4: Wait to pick up a NHI card The Taiwan NHI card will be sent to the mailing address stated on the application form within 5-14 working days after applying.Note:Foreign students will be registered for the Taiwan National Health Insurance card by their school, while employed expatriates will be enrolled by their employers.Is There a Punishment for Failing to Apply for a Taiwan NHI Insurance Card?Failing to apply for the Taiwan NHI card will be fined NT$3,000-NT$15,000. You will also be required to pay the premiums for the whole period that you failed to enroll in the program. Until all premiums are fully paid, you will not have access to any NHI benefits. It is more affordable to be insured by the Taiwan National Health Insurance. For example, in case of an accident, it is still much cheaper to pay for the premium than to pay the hospital bills by yourself. Also, co-payment for dental treatment is only NT$150 per visit, while having consultation from the doctor with prescribed medication costs $NT250. The actual fee could be twice the amount without the Taiwan NHI.8 Common FAQs about Taiwan NHI1. How much is the premium for NHI? The premium price varies depending on your job and monthly income. The formula used to calculate premiums are as follows: Category 1The insuredSalary Basis x insurance premium rate x contribution ratio x(1 + number of dependents)Insurance unit, governmentSalary Basis x insurance premium rate x contribution ratio x(1 + average number of dependents)Category 2 and 3The insuredSalary Basis x insurance premium rate x contribution ratio x(1 + number of dependents)GovernmentSalary Basis x insurance premium rate x contribution ratio x(1 + actual number of people insured)Category 6 : Veterans, veterans' dependentThe insuredAverage premium x contribution ratio x number of dependentsGovernmentAverage premium x contribution ratio x actual number of people insuredCategory 6 : Regional populationThe insuredAverage premium x contribution ratio x(1 + number of dependents)GovernmentAverage premium x contribution ratio x actual number of people insured2. How often do I need to renew my NHI? The NHI card has a long shelf life. Even if one changes jobs, it does not have to be renewed. 3. Will the premium increase if I use my NHI often? No, it will not since the premium will be calculated based on your job and salary. However, your premium will increase based on the number of dependents you have. 4. Is there an alternative to NHI? Yes, there are a range of local and international private health insurance alternatives. However, Taiwan NHI should cover all necessary healthcare services. 5. How long does it take to get a NHI after I’ve applied for it? Within 5 to 14 working days after completing the registration process, the Taiwan NHI card will be sent to the mailing address stated on the application form. 6. How long does it take for the NHI renewal process? In case you lose or damage your Taiwan National Health Insurance card, it will take 7 working days for the renewal process. 7. What if I lost my NHI card and how to get a new one? The renewal fee if you lose your national health insurance card in Taiwan is NT$200. You can apply on-site at NHIA or post office collection. 8. What NHI doesn’t cover? Although NHI benefits cover a wide range of things such as child delivery, maternity care and physical rehabilitation, Taiwan NHI doesn’t cover the following: Prolonged treatments over a month longPreventative surgeryChemotherapyPrivate hospital rooms4D embryo scans and other pregnancy testsArtificial reproductionTreatment of drug addictionDentures, braces, glasses, wheelchairs, and other equipment not required to actually treat the patient.ConclusionWe have covered all the information about Taiwan's welfare system including what it is, the requirements, application procedures, punishment from failing to apply, and common FAQs. For further information, please visit Taiwan NHI website. Cake provides the best free resume builder and resume templates to help you create the perfect resume for your job hunt. Take your career journey to new heights - create a resume online (free download) now!Create Resume--- Originally written by Ainee Setthamalinee ---
Career Planning
・
Nov 3rd 2020

First job for freshers: Startups or Corporates? 3 differences

Graduating from college is a significant milestone to many, but it’s also terrifying. Waving goodbye to the past 22 years of hard toil doesn’t mean your life ahead is any easier. When it comes to job options, it can be tough to embark on the next journey. As a fresher, you might spend most of your waking hours at your new job for about two or three years; therefore before you recklessly pick your first job, ponder carefully. Here is the classic startup-corporate duel, do you prefer working for a startup or a big company? But first and foremost, let’s define what constitutes a startup and an established company. Next, we’ll delve into some inherent differences in terms of working culture and perks, etc.. After fathoming these two options, you’ll have a clearer picture of which to pick and what suits you better. Without further adieu, let’s dive right in.Further reading:How to Write a Professional Resume?|Ultimate Writing Guide TipsStartup vs. Corporates What are established companies/businesses? A corporate job might invoke images of employees wearing suits and bringing a suitcase like Barney from HIMYM, or maybe boring board meetings where everyone has acquired how to doze off with their eyes wide open. These are outdated stereotypes, big companies do not equate to a stagnant environment. More and more companies are moving towards a start-up-esque environment; for example, employees can play foosball during brainstorming meetings to spark creativity; team members can also show solidarity during the process. Some enterprises also encourage internal entrepreneurship by incentivizing them with benefits. However, working in a corporate is less diverse because labor is highly specialized, every member in established companies is assigned to specific job tasks.If you happen to be a specialist, and you prefer to work systematically and methodically towards your goals, mature firms can offer you that. Besides, established companies with brawny balance sheets might relatively manage CSR and ESG better and initiate more radical changes to our society. A large portion of millennials put these issues on a pedestal. In fact, startups are also increasingly geared towards solving societal problems. What are startups? Not every startup founder works in garages, and even if they do, only very few have the potential to create another Apple. If you choose startups for the sake of free refreshments and flexible hours, I suggest you think twice. Startups are always evolving and dynamic; therefore, employees are expected to be resilient and adaptable to various scenarios. With a smaller employee base, a “generalist” is more suitable in startups where one can dabble in different tasks, from PM to advertising to editing or PR. That being said, the smaller the company, the broader the work. Evidently, it can be pretty stressful for a fresher to take on so many roles, but surely one will be rewarded with a wealth of knowledge and experience. As was mentioned, startups are more turbulent. According to the report released by CBinsights in mid-2019, here are the top 3 reasons for startups to fail:No market needRun out of cashNot the right team These are the Achilles heels of startups, not to mention the gloomy 2020 is bad news for all, but startups take the hardest hit. With a dooming market outlook and plummeting consumer confidence, resiliency becomes one of the key indicators of whether a startup can survive or not. 3 Main Differences Between Startups and Big CompaniesNow that we’ve defined some traits of startups and established companies, let’s take a closer look at some intrinsic differences between established businesses and startups. In the following section, we’ll talk about responsibility and autonomy, culture, and perks in both businesses and startups. 1. Responsibilities and autonomy Responsibility and autonomy go hand in hand. Given the looser job descriptions in startups, you’ll be given a variety of responsibilities while at the same time, you also have the say to make major decisions on your own. More responsibility thrust on your shoulders. It’s either a blessing or a curse: you receive accreditation or you take the blame. For those who enjoy using their initiative and dislike following the orders of bunky company policies, more autonomy equals more freedom. In a dynamic environment like startups, every employee wears all hats and you can expect to have a steep learning curve. Therefore, skill sets also grow at a fast clip. For freshers, startups allow you to know your preferences before deciding which specific skill you want to develop. But for others, the aforementioned features could be an added layer of pressure, they’d prefer a clear chain of command and lists of duties. They might prefer to work at established companies. In enterprise careers, the environment is more “tepid,” you won’t need to shoulder tremendous responsibility, even if mistakes are made, consequences won’t be so severe. In established companies, the working environment is more rigid and less flexible since company policies should be strictly followed. As for what exactly you will work on, established companies go with more specific job tasks, a “specialist” as some may term; freshers can hone skills they need as opposed to spending a lot of time on numerous tasks at startups. 2. Startup culture vs. corporate culture Before landing on a job, 80% of job seekers would consider a company’s mission, culture, or core values. But what exactly are they looking at? Providing endless beers from the kitchen fridge or foosball is too narrow to define startup cultures, let’s not conflate perks with culture. According to Glassdoor’s survey, 65% of 18-to-34-year-olds are likely to place culture over salary. In a nutshell, a good culture sets the tone for how your startup interacts with customers, suppliers, and stakeholders. There have been quite a lot of resemblances between startups and established companies with the latter catching up to offer more freedom to employees, but they’re essentially very different. Take orientation for example, in established companies, newbies are gathered on their first week to receive guides, manuals, and structured on-the-job training. Mentorship is quite common in established companies, you can turn to savvy veterans for instructions. While at startups, set-in-stone rules have yet to be established, rookies won’t be instructed with concrete guides telling them what the SOPs are. They mostly learn from hands-on experiences. But it also implies that rookies could be contributing to shaping the startup’s products or goals, values, and culture.Further reading:4 Things You Should Ponder on Before Working at a Startup An ideal working atmosphere should value problem-solving, open communication, rapid response, transparency, and a flat hierarchy where everyone is equally involved and actively engaging. Some other key virtues include business agility and resilience to adapt to internal and external pressures. You can find these in both startups and mature firms, but to value every member’s voice, it’s probably more viable in startups given that the employee base is smaller. An established company has too many employees to reach fair engagement. Hierarchy helps businesses manage their employees, and SOPs, rules, or practices help to resolve problems when crises emerge. 3. Perks: Stability, compensation, and benefitsStability Statistically, about 70% of startups fail, and failure is most common during the first two to five years. The beginning stages of startups are risky and vulnerable because securing seed funding is a huge task. Needless to say, you can expect more security in your job and less volatility when you’re working for a more established company than a startup. Or, pick a startup in the scaling stage, profitability is more foreseeable compared to ones that are still conceptualizing innovative ideas. In terms of crisis management, predictions are always hard to call, but a company with a big war chest is unlikely to go out of business soon, even after being hit by pandemics or economic crises, they are more capable of taking the brunt. Compensation and benefits As one can imagine, established companies have the whole package, retirement plans, 401K, child-care assistance, dividends…, needless to say, their startup counterparts have difficulties catching up with these cradle-to-grave benefits. But for freshers like you, it’s less likely for you to stick to your first job for 40 years, so retirement plans and child-care assistance might not be your priorities at this stage. As for salary, there’s no guarantee that established companies pay higher than their startup counterparts. Let’s put it this way, once a company survives the odds of failing, its employees can enjoy the benefits of bonuses or dividends. In some cases, in face of a dilemma between retaining talents and jeopardizing the fragile finance, startups might also offer equity in addition to salary. What do you personally need to succeed? After sharing three intrinsic differences between startups and established companies, it’s time to think about what you need to succeed. What is success to you? You have to consider all the aforementioned things, be it lifestyle, benefits, or work-life balance. Certain personalities fit in different working environments. If you thrive on taking risks, taking initiative to get the resources you need, and learning from trial and error, you can easily accumulate these experiences in startups. On the other hand, if you prefer that available wealth of knowledge in a less volatile environment, you might find a corporate position more comfortable. The typical startup-corporate duel has no definite answer assuring you which is better. Of course, you can always go for a mixed type, startups for the first couple of years and corporate next, or vice versa. No matter what, you got to think thoroughly about all the questions listed here. In which environment will you fully realize your potential? What kinds of work can offer lots of opportunities that you can adorn your resume with? What will help you climb up the career ladder fast? In what settings can you strike a healthier work-life balance? After reviewing major differences between startups and established companies, you have to think about what suits you best. Takeaways This guide helps freshers pave the way to understand what to expect, the ups, and the downs in startups and established companies. Knowing what you need and whether your needs can be fulfilled in either startups or established companies is key to a good start. With these basic distinctions in mind, do not forget the importance of Google! Every company’s culture and perks are still very different, do your research on both avenues, and take your personality, work style, your expectation, unique needs, and career goals into consideration. Please bear with me to repeat a few points. When you come out of a startup, you come out as a Jack of all trades, dabbling in everything from ground reality to bottom-up. While at a corporate company, the environment is more regimented and more secured. Less responsibility and autonomy, but this kind of environment can equip you with specific specialties. Working at enterprises or startups have their pros and cons, so think thoroughly before landing your first job. Make this journey worthwhile. With the intention of helping job seekers to fully display their value, Cake creates an accessible free resume/CV/biodata builder, for users to build highly-customized resumes. Having a compelling resume is just like a piece of cake! ➡ Create my Cake

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