in collaboration with

Accounting Student

nowboarding.cpaaustralia.com.au

Welcome to the StreetSmart Guide to Job Hunting, your handy resource in starting your career.

Where do I start? How do I write a good resume? How do I excel in interviews? How does the web approach work? These are some of the many questions you probably would ask yourself when looking for a job. As you flip through the pages of this Guide, you will find comfort in knowing exactly what to do with yourself.

Please be reminded that this Guide does not serve as the ultimate advice provider. It only serves as a comprehensive and resourceful friend in helping the most important element: YOU. Here’s the first advice: Read plenty more about job hunting because as you read more, you will learn more and this can only benefit you.

DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITYThis is a JobStreet.com Publication. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior permission from JobStreet.com. Although every care has been taken to ensure our content’s accuracy, JobStreet.com assumes no responsibility for any consequences arising from errors and omissions. The views and opinions expressed in this book do not necessarily reflect the views of JobStreet.com.

Table of ContentsNew membership pathways 5into CPA Australia

Quick Updates: Job Trends & the 7Evolution of an Accountant’s Role

How much are you getting? 8

Join the CPA Passport student 10network

How To Survive and Look for a Job 12In Tough Times

How Do I Write My Resume? 14

Resume Writing Tips 16

How Best To Seek Jobs, Where Do I Look? 19

A world of opportunities 22

What Is The Right Job? Choose Your Best Fit 24

The global accountancy designation for 26strategic business leaders

Take Your Best Pick – Weigh Your Job Options 28

The skills successful employers are looking for 29

How to Handle Interviews 31

It Doesn’t End There - Remind Them of You! 34

Wheel & Deal - Negotiate Your Package 36

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T +603 2267 3388 | E my@cpaaustralia.com.au | W cpaaustralia.com.au

New membership pathways intoCPA Australia

CPA Australia’s new membership pathways and enhanced CPA Program pave the way for candidates studying any discipline the opportunity to join one of the largest networks of business and finance professionals in the world with a membership of more than 122,000 members in over 100 countries.

Whether you are studying finance, business, I.T or even engineering, you can benefit from a career built on professional accounting skills.

The increased accessibility to the CPA Program provides candidates from accounting and non-accounting backgrounds a streamlined pathway to achieve the CPA (Aust.) designation. The enhanced program is a crucial part of CPA Australia’s efforts to ensure the designation continues to be recognised by employers globally as a highly valuable asset that drives business success.

As a CPA Australia member, you’ll gain instant recognition and professional credibility associated with having the letters CPA (Aust.) after your name. You’ll be internationally recognised as a leader in finance, accounting and business by the Malaysian Institute of Accountants and other professional bodies in Canada, Hong Kong, Singapore, UK and USA.

The CPA Program is structured as distance learning. Candidates are provided with the segment manuals and learning aids including computer-based education and online support program. This means there are no compulsory classes. Students can choose how they want to be supported and they can study anywhere in the world at any time at their convenience.

The CPA Program integrates educational and practical experience, designed to equip you with all of the technical, business, personal effectiveness and leadership skills you’ll need to be a CPA (Aust.).

The educational component of the CPA Program is broken into foundation and professional levels.

The foundation level provides you with a base of knowledge of accounting principles and practices that undergo the financial dimension of an organisation covering eight core knowledge requirements.

The professional level builds on your foundation knowledge with higher level analysis, judgement, decision making and reporting. It focuses on ethics, governance and global strategy & leadership which makes a CPA Australia member stand out from other accountants.

The practical experience requirement of the CPA Program is part of the professional level and is undertaken concurrently with the educational component which ensures you become a work-ready professional. For more information on CPA Australia or CPA Program visit:nowboarding.cpaaustralia.com.au

5

Quick Updates: Job Trends & the Evolution of an Accountant’s RoleTimes have changed and much has happened in the world of accounting and finance, all of which have contributed to changing job trends and a rapid evolution of an accountant’s role in today’s workplace. You need to stay alert of what’s happening around you and what the future holds. Knowing and understanding the current trend will help tremendously in your career planning.

In terms of job posting numbers, the hard times have not spared accounting and finance jobs as we see a general decrease in the hiring numbers across the country. Even then, these charts (above) showcase the top 5 specializations in demand for each year and clearly, the need for finance/accounting positions have not waned since 2007. The recent years have seen marketing positions moving upwards in ranking but finance positions remain strongly rooted on top. It should also be noted that out of all the jobs posted, 36% of them listed CPA/Professional Qualified Accountants as part of the requirements.

Ranking Top 5 Specialization

1 Finance - General/ Cost Accounting

2 Marketing/ Business Development

3 IT/ Computer - Software

4 Clerical/ Administrative Support

5 IT/ Computer - Network/ System/ Database Admin

Year 2008

Ranking Top 5 Specialization

1 Finance - General/ Cost Accounting

2 IT/ Computer - Software

3 IT/ Computer - Network/ System/Database Admin

4 Marketing/ Business Development

5 Clerical/ Administrative Support

Year 2007

Ranking Top 5 Specialization

1 Finance - General/Cost Accounting

2 IT/Computer - Software

3 IT/Computer - Network/System/Database Admin

4 Marketing/Business Development

5 Clerical/Administrative Support

Year 2009 -1st Half

Job Trends

6 7

Whether you are a fresh graduate or a senior manager, it’s also important to know where you stand in terms of salary. Above is our salary report which shows the minimum and maximum pay of each position according to their fields. Typically, executives earn below RM4,000 with managers and senior managers earning up to RM12,000. The difference in the minimum and maximum amount each position level receives varies little in positions which are executive (with differences of up to RM1,500). It only widens at managerial positions where the differences are around RM 5,000 and above.

The Evolution of an Accountant’s role:As businesses go global and transform in light of technological advances, so does the role of an accountant. Where accountants of old were used to a localized business environment, today’s accountants have to deal with an increasing demand to be more specialized in a dynamic and global business world.

Yet another interesting development is how an accountant’s role has become more strategic rather than operational role. As a result, accountants today are required to be more dynamic, proactive, business savvy, strategic, and possess high business intelligence. All this is a far cry from accountants before where cautiousness and standard routines were common practice.

ConclusionIn a nutshell, would-be accountants today must realize that today’s businesses need accountants to be more than merely accountants. They need to be strategic partners in an organization, a valuable arm of the institution capable of addressing issues or problems in creative and flexible means. Companies are still hiring, and those who are CPA/Professional Qualified Accountants will find themselves in a favorable position.

How much are you getting?Salary Report

Min Max Min Max Min Max Min Max Min Max Min MaxRM RM RM RM RM RM RM RM RM RM RM RM

Finance - Audit/Taxation 5,625 10,000 4,000 6,500 2,200 3,700 1,500 2,400 500 1,550 850 1,800

Finance - Corporate Finance/Investment/Merchant Banking

6,875 12,000 4,000 6,795 2,500 4,000 1,800 2,600 1,000 2,000 1,103 2,000

Finance - General/Cost Accounting 6,000 10,788 4,000 6,500 2,300 3,500 1,500 2,378 864 1,600 1,100 1,800

Non-ExecutivePosition Level

Senior Manager Manager Senior Executive Junior Executive Fresh / Entry Level

9

CPA

1290

55 0

7/20

09

CPA PassportCPA Passport is CPA Australia’s global student network. It’s your ticket to the broadest

career options available in Australia and overseas. It provides more resources, networking

opportunities, study support, ongoing training and work experience programs than any

other professional body of its kind.

Magazine access

As a CPA Passport student you’ll get free

access to Real Business magazine – the only

finance, accounting and business magazine

specifically for students.

Professional and

current resources

When assignment time hits there’s no better

resource than cpaaustralia.com.au, containing

everything you need to know from the world of

finance, accounting and business.

Internship program

The CPA Australia Internship Program is about

helping you find relevant professional experience

throughout Australia, China, Hong Kong,

Singapore and Malaysia with great employers.

Over 90 organisations signed up for the program

in 2008 from industries such as banking, energy,

finance, government, professional services and

resources providing paid professional placements.

For more information on the 2009 – 2010

internship program check out

cpacareers.com.au

8

Get yourself a head start in the ultra-competitive employment

market by joining CPA Australia’s CPA Passport student network

which is open to undergraduates and graduates. You’ll get

access to global networking opportunities, career fairs, online

resources, career advice and tips, as well as the CPA Australia

Internship Program.

CPA Passport student Chua Chye Soon shares with us what the

CPA Passport Program means to him.

Tell us about yourself. I am a final year student currently enrolled in the University of South Australia’s Bachelor

of Commerce (Accounting & Finance) via a twinning arrangement between the University

and Taylor’s University College.

How did you join the CPA Passport network?My understanding has been that CPA Australia is a professional accounting body aimed

at providing benefits only to its members. Little did I know that CPA Australia also has a

student network that focuses in providing benefits to students until CPA Australia staff

came over to Taylor’s University College and delivered a talk during the orientation day in

my first semester. I found it interesting and I joined the CPA Passport network immediately

after that talk.

How beneficial is the CPA Passport network and what do you think about the CPA Australia student charter?I was excited by the various benefits that an undergraduate can reap from joining the

CPA Passport network - getting free newsletters and magazines, participating in various

Join the CPA Passport student networkCPA Passport events such as CPA Australia Career Market Day, undergraduate conferences,

camps and office trips. All these at absolutely no cost at all!

I also joined the Taylor’s University College - CPA Australia Student Charter where I

was elected president last year. The student charter is dedicated to providing learning,

networking and personal development opportunities to its members. Personally, I feel

that the charter has provided a solid platform for my personal growth, as I get to lead a

team of enthusiastic students, manage events and make contacts with industry players.

Why do you want to pursue a career in accounting?Having strong technical knowledge does not guarantee success as other factors such

as people, financial resources, timing, luck and opportunities also almost always play a

part in determining success or failure. As I see myself as a business person in the future,

the possibility of me venturing into any industry is very high. As I am unable to learn

everything now, I believe that equipping myself with accounting knowledge seems to

be the best bet. This is why I want to get into the accounting field because it is certainly

relevant in all businesses.

Chua Chye SoonCPA Passport student

10 11

Which one are you? Rethink your current or past job to understand your position in the bigger corporate picture. Here are some questions to ask yourself:

- How did my work improve the performance of my department or company?

- How many roles did I perform that saved the company the expense of added employees or contractors?

- How has my work made the work of others (employees and managers) easier, faster and more effective?

Collect specific examples of the benefit that your company gained from the work you’ve already performed. Clarify the specific benefits your company received by making money or saving money, and write them down.

• Add achievements to your resume:Employers do not hire employees, they hire problem-solvers. Your new resume should be a hard-hitting sales tool designed to accomplish one goal: get the interview. To demonstrate this, add a specific list of achievements to your resume. Take the list that you developed in the previous section and hone it down to your biggest and most notable accomplishments. Now, describe the benefit that your employer gained from each example. This will put you several steps ahead of your job-seeking competitors. Plus, you will now have some talking points ready for that next phone interview.

• Research your options:Does your industry or line of work offer little promise of employment in the coming months? If so, now is a good time to step back to identify the projected top performing industries and jobs. The best place to find this information in the Web is through a Google or Yahoo search. Start with “best industries work recession” or “recession jobs 2008” to uncover articles describing some of the more “recession-proof” sectors to target.

• Change your focus:Start asking yourself the question “What’s in it for them?” as opposed to “What’s in it for me?” Especially in an economic downturn, you will want to stay focused on what you can accomplish for your next employer. Show them that you understand the macroeconomic “bigger picture” of the role you play in moving the company forward.

• Sell results, not skills:Leave behind that old mindset that your job-related skills or length of service are selling factors. The new mindset is to think of yourself as a mini profit-and-loss centre rather than just an employee. Employers today buy results and are less impressed with candidates promoting a long laundry list of skills. You will want to define the many ways your past and present job performance is an asset to your next employer.

• Start talking money:The downturn has made the private sector economy even more bottom-line-oriented than ever. Hiring managers categorize employees into one of two distinct groups: a) those who help make money, and b) those who help save money.

12 13

FUNCTIONAL RESUME organizes work history into sections that highlight skills and accomplishments deemed most appropriate for the position. Job hop-pers, career changers and fresh graduates may use this type to make sense of seemingly disconnected experiences and display transferable skills and related achievements. It could raise concerns that it is being used to cover information gaps and a spotty employment record. Employers might also encounter difficul-ties matching skills and accomplishments to actual job titles, dates and respon-sibilities. To avoid this, include the company name in the bulleted description of your accomplishments. Do not omit at least a brief chronological listing of your work experience.

COMBINATION RESUME tries to merge the best features of the chronologi-cal and functional types – incorporating both a chronological work history and a skills and achievements section. In this format, skills and accomplishments get top billing followed by employment history. The combination resume may not sit well with some employers who may find these longer resumes particularly repetitious and confusing. This format can be a good tool, however, for some-one with strong editing skills.

CURRICULUM VITAE is sometimes used interchangeably with resume but by formal definition, a curriculum vitae refers to a detailed, lengthy and struc-tured outline of educational background, publications, projects, awards and work history. It can run up to 20 pages and usually employed by educators and scientists boasting extensive academic and professional credentials and seeking positions in education or research.

ELECTRONIC RESUME is one that can be sent by email or viewed on the Internet and specially formatted for scanning and searching by optical scanning systems. This format is frequently used when sending resumes to electronic resume banks and job sites. It is becoming an increasingly popular choice as it is fast, effective and convenient. It can come in different file formats but experts recommend using the ASCII text file formats as they are universally recognized by computer systems.

After that self-assessment, it is time to go into action – that is, to plunk yourself before the computer and compose a power resume. Any job hunter worth his salt knows a good resume is the key to an interview invitation and ultimately, to employment. Aside from a summary of your abilities, work experience and education, a resume should reveal your unique selling point to entice a potential employer to “buy” you.

The secret to an irresistible resume is to address the specific needs of a specific job. A tailored resume has infinitely more impact than a one-size-fits-all. To craft such a resume, you need to firstly organize information under specific headings such as education, academic achievements, work experience (if any), skills and activities. When you have them all on paper, decide on the proper format to play up outstanding qualities that fit into the job’s requirements. Here are several kinds of resumes for your perusal.

CHRONOLOGICAL RESUME is the most conventional as it emphasizes on an itemized employment history. Career milestones are presented in reverse chronological order, starting with the current position held. Each position contains a description of relevant responsibilities and accomplishments. Ideal for candidates with solid experience and progressive job history in a field or industry, and want to continue along a similar career path. Most employers prefer this style as it is based on facts and easily digestible.

Do It To Your Strengths

How Do I Write My Resume ?

14 15

RESUME WRITING TIPS• AVOID SPELLING BOO BOOS. Errors such as simple typo blunders re-flect poorly on you. Proofread separately until your resume is perfect.

• STREAMLINE. Remove personal pronouns like “I” and articles like “a”, “an” and “the” to create punchy phrases and maximize space.

• USE POWER VERBS. Action words add “oomph” to your writing and enable you to describe clearly what you did and how well you did it.

• USE PERSONAL DETAILS SPARINGLY. Leave out extraneous informa-tion to free up limited space. This includes names, parents’ occupations, birthplace, etc. Reserve these details when asked during the interview.

• BE CONCISE. Resumes are often screened in 10 seconds or less. Be brief and to the point. Use bullet points to underscore im-portant information. Employ paragraph breaks, lines and num-bers. Your resume should not be more than two pages, or if you have extensive professional experience, three pages long.

• MAKE IT AN EASY READ. Your resume should be visually appealing. A carelessly printed, sloppily designed resume is a challenge to most recruiters. Use a font size of at least 10, and at the most two conser-vative type styles. Underlined and bold text should be used spar-ingly and only to highlight significant data or indicate section breaks.

DAVID LOWBlk 223, Bukit Pertama, #07-21075450 Kuala Lumpur.(03) 212-3473davidlow@mycom.net

OBJECTIVEA challenging sales and marketing position with an IT or Internet company

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY2007 – Present Sales Manager, Data Solutions Sdn Bhd. • Top Salesperson for 2007. • Promoted to Manager within one year of joining company. • Developed new client relationships for company resulting in in- creased sales revenue of 25% since assuming management of sales force in 1998. • In charge of managing and motivating sales force of 15 • Developed quality control measures for customer service

1994 – 1996 Assistant Sales Manager, Seven Seas Import Co. Sdn Bhd • Top Salesperson 1994 – 1996 • Made cold-calls and follow-up visits to vendors and retail outlets for products. • Observations made during client contacts helped to strategically broaden product range offered by company resulting in new high profit margin product line.

1990 – 1993 P/T Sales Representative, Hygeia Health Products Sdn Bhd. • Developed sales leads through personal contacts and referrals. • Achieved highest commission bracket despite working part-time.

EDUCATION2000 – Present Stanstead Business School, Kuala Lumpur. Working towards a Bachelor of Business Administration Night classes in Data Management, Marketing and Cust. Relations.

1991 – 1993 Nanling Polytechnic, Kuala Lumpur. Diploma in Business Management

1987 – 1990 SMK Damansara, Kuala Lumpur.

OTHERIT Skills : MS Office (Word, Excel, Power Point, Publisher, Access)Languages Spoken : Chinese (Mandarin, Hokkien, Teochew), Bahasa Melayu, and English

REFERENCESMr. Andrew Lim General Manager, System Resources Inc.Mr. Alan Tong CEO, Seven Seas Import Sdn BhdDr. Judith Prahba Professor of Marketing, Stanstead Business School

CHRONOLOGICAL RESUME SAMPLE

16 17

How Best To Seek Jobs

On-line recruitment is another avenue for you. In fact, on-line recruitment is fast growing in popularity with jobseekers looking for jobs and employers looking to hire. The underlying reasons behind its growth in popularity are:

• It’s ConvenientLook for jobs from the comfort of your own home or wherever you have access to the Internet. You do not have to sift through pages upon pages of newspaper advertisements, buy stamps, stick them on envelopes and send your applications out. You are able to apply, monitor all your applications and check their status all at once from where you are seated.

• It’s QuickThere are snail mails and then there are emails. Given an option, you obviously would not prefer sending applications through the postal service because you will be wondering if they had actually reached the intended recipients or whether they would take days or weeks to arrive. With on-line recruitment, you can apply with a click of a button and you can be sure the application is submitted immediately. The speed of email ensures you get a reply in a timely manner.

• It’s AccurateGet alerted only on vacancies that interest you. On-line systems allow very specialized job alerts where you can look only at the vacancies you want to apply for or be notified of any vacancy that matches your qualifications and interests. With that, you only will filter through appropriate jobs and need not be frustrated with discovering that you are engaging yourself with irrelevant job functions.

• You get more out of itJob hunting aside, you are able to find many other resources to enhance your personal development. You will be able to find most of what this Guide offers you and perhaps even more to help you progress in your career. Visit www.jobstreet.com and take some time to explore the website to discover what are readily available to you.

So you see, the evolution in job hunting has brought on-line recruitment to the fore in preference and effectiveness. Looking for a job is tedious enough. Would you not rather relieve yourself of the cumbersome routine of conventional job hunting methods? Give on-line recruitment a try! Visit www.jobstreet.com.

Where Do I Look ?There are many ways to seek your first job. Traditionally, you can ask your relatives, look through the newspapers, go to employment agencies or attend walk-in interviews.

AMY CHAN27 Jalan Bunga Raya, 73520 Kuala Lumpur.(03) 3325874(hp) 0123325874achan@orchid.com.my

OBJECTIVESeeking a position in public relations with a regional or multinational company.

RELEVANT SKILLS & ACHIEVEMENTSPublic Relations • As a summer intern with a national software company, wrote press releases and coordinated with public relations for a major product launch. • Class spokesperson on student-faculty campus council for three successive years at university. • Selected and serves as one of Singapore’s national student representatives for the International Cultural Festival, 1994.

Writing • Assistant editor of student-run weekly current events paper at university. • Published three guest editorials in the local Mesa Chronicle. • Wrote and co-directed several publicly performed plays in high school and JC.

Managing • Planned and coordinated cultural awareness festival at university that involved over a dozen organizations and was attended by 2,500 students. • Directed a university volunteer program for local Adopt-a-Sister program, in volving twenty-five felame students.

EMPLOYMENT/EXPERIENCECheyenne Software Corp. Public Relations Intern Summer 2000Mesa St. Journal Assistant Editor 1997 – 1999

EDUCATIONMesa St. University Mesa, CaliforniaB.S. Public Relations 1995 – 1999 Honours (3.5/4.0)

Joaquim Junior College Singapore

REFERENCESFurnished Upon Request

FUNCTIONAL RESUME SAMPLE

18 19

Today’s CPA Program now offers even

more ways to become a CPA (Aust.).

So, whether you’re studying an

accounting, finance, business or even

an IT or engineering degree, you too can

benefit from a career built on professional

accounting skills.

A professional accounting qualification

opens up a world of opportunities,

including a wide variety of business

careers. As one of the world’s leading

professional accounting bodies, CPA

Australia gives you the technical expertise

for today plus the knowledge to become

a strategic business leader of tomorrow.

CPA Program is a rigorous and fully

integrated education and experience

program that exceeds world-class ethical

and professional standards. It is also

recognised and respected around the

world. That’s why today’s employers

choose CPAs.

Visit our website to find out how you

can secure career excellence with

CPA Australia.

Now more students can become a CPA (Aust.).

nowboarding.cpaaustralia.com.au

Tell us about yourself? I graduated from Curtin University of Technology, Australia, majoring in Accounting and

Finance. I worked as an auditor in Ernst and Young for a year and a half, and then joined

Mayban Investment Management as an equity analyst.

As an equity analyst, I analyse stocks and related sectors by reviewing financial statements

and other macro/micro factors to understand the fundamentals of the companies and the

sectors. I then produce reports and present them to the Head of Equity Research and Fund

Managers in order to assist them in terms of stock selection.

I am currently an associate (ASA) member of CPA Australia undertaking the CPA Program.

Why is it important to join a professional body like CPA Australia?A professional qualification is like a key to many doors. I believe CPA Australia enhances

my working life by exposing me to a lot of skills and knowledge that are really useful.

Those who are in doubt about pursuing the CPA Program should go for it. Be motivated

and passionate about it.

Through strategic alliances with other organisations in North

America, Europe and Asia, CPA Australia members form part

of a network of over 800,000 professional accountants. CPA

Australia responds strongly to employer demands by providing

members with skills that deliver value.

For Jonathan Lai Jun Fei ASA the CPA (Aust.) designation is about

making him the choice of employers.

A world of opportunities What are the benefits of the CPA Program and how does it relate to your past studies and current work?I am in the process of finishing my CPA Program which enables me to learn the necessary

skills and knowledge to help me in my job. The scope of the CPA Program accommodates

my interests and job requirements.

I’m looking forward to carrying the CPA (Aust.) badge as it will open a world of opportunities

because it will certify me as having the highest level of competency and ethics.

23

For Kevin Trantallis, the CPA Australia designation is always in fashion.

The fashion industry, perhaps more than any

other, embodies the qualities CPAs bring to a

business. An ability to be both analytical and

visionary, to think+create, is a mark of the

CPA designation.

Being a CPA means having the career scope

to work globally, across industries, using this

combination of technical and creative skills.

It also enables access to knowledge exchange

regardless of geographic location.

With more than 122,000 members operating

in over 100 countries, CPA Australia is one of

the largest finance and accounting bodies

in the world.

Contact the Malaysia office on 03 2267 3388

or visit our website for more information.

CP

A130

027

07/2

009

cpaaustralia.com.au

KEVIN TRANTALLIS CPA (Aust.)GenerAl mAnAGer ChrIsTIAn DIor, GuAm AnD sAIPAn

A CPA (Aust.) drives business success.

Jonathan Lai Jun Fei ASAEquity Research Analyst

Mayban Investment Management

22

What Is The Right Job?Choose Your Best Fit

As you prepare to launch your job search, it is important to start off on the right foot and waste less time on the trial. More than anything else, here is where planning, preparation and research are crucial. It is equally critical that you have a solid idea of where you want to go. To point you at the right direction, ask yourself these four questions before you take the plunge.

1. WHAT CAREER WILL SUIT MY LIFESTYLE? Your work is only one aspect of your life. So, look for work that will fit your life, not the other way around. By envisioning the life you want, you narrow your choices to those careers that complement that vision.

Would you prefer working in a big company and managing a large staff count, or running your own small business with a couple of assistants? Which would make you happier: being office-bound or doing field work all day? Are you at your performing best surrounded by office colleagues or do you yearn for a flexible arrangement that allows you to work partly from home?

2. WHAT ARE MY TALENTS AND SKILLS? Look for a job that you feel can make full use of your skills set and abilities. Do you have the gift of the gab and can sell just about anything? Or are you creative with a flair for words or an eye for design? Are you good in a particular sport? Or can you cook like a pro or have a green thumb?

3. WHAT DO I LIKE DOING? It does not seem like work when you enjoy what you are doing. Find out what catches your interest or stirs your passion. Do you like the idea of teaching little children and moulding their young minds? Or are you more attracted to a life of public service? Is creative work your cup of tea? Or are you more at home in the realm of cold logic and hard facts?

4. WHAT DO I DISLIKE ABOUT WORK? Asking yourself what you cannot stand doing – what bores you to death – will help you focus. Are you uncomfortable striking up a conversation with strangers? Does anything technical make you yawn? Do you abhor the limelight? Do you hate the unexpected?

After writing down the answers, go over them and see how they fit together like the pieces in a jigsaw puzzle. They should give you a mental picture of who you are – your ideal life, your perceived skills set, and your work turn-ons and turn-offs.

Then look outward for validation. Read or surf the Internet for careers that might suit your lifestyle. Approach friends, professionals and acquaintances who hold jobs you find interesting. Request if you can do formal informational interviews (ask them about particulars of their work) or ‘shadow’ them (observe them in action at work). Your objective is to form a clearer image of what they really do and assess whether you will like to be in their place. From your findings, you can begin a more informed search for your dream career. Your career choice should depend on your perceived happiness on the job, the potential rewards and your chances of success.

http://my.jobstreet.com/career/premium/career_profile.htm

24 25

More than 21,000 CPA Australia members hold senior positions of

CEO, CFO, GM or Financial Controller showing that many different

careers can be built on a base of professional accounting skills.

Penang based Indian national Amit Minocha CPA (Aust.) is proud to

belong to one of the most respected and recognised accounting

bodies in the world.

Tell us about yourself. I hold a Bachelor of Commerce (Hons) and an MBA specialising in International

Management, in addition to a professional membership with CPA Australia and the

Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. I have 16 years of experience across different

countries (Asia Pacific & Australia) and a variety of industries from multi-nationals, small &

medium enterprises, public sector and accounting firms – each one giving me valuable

knowledge and experience in several facets of accounting and finance. I am currently

the operations finance manager in Intel Products (M) Sdn Bhd. managing assembly test

factories in Kulim, Kedah.

My job basically involves working with a team of professionals in providing world-class

financial service to business operations to ensure solid tactical execution of strategic

objectives for the company. It covers cost, budgeting & forecasting, business planning

process, capital and controls, business decision-making, identifying and working on

strategic initiatives and projects leading to roadmap and/or affordability goals.

The global accountancy designation for strategic business leaders

How has the CPA (Aust.) designation helped you in your career?Frankly, I was in two minds on whether to do the CPA program or not. I am lucky to have

made a wise decision. I truly believe that the CPA (Aust.) designation has been a key to my

career success, as its status as a leading global accounting qualification has helped open

a world of opportunities – literally in my case.

The CPA Program has helped me develop into a better, more complete finance

professional able to contribute and add value to the organisation I work for.

What is the importance of gaining work experience?Having worked through my CPA Program and MBA, I am a strong proponent of ‘theory

can only get you so far as you have to do the real thing to experience the rest. Years of

work experience has helped me develop and grow skill-sets necessary to be successful

in today’s competitive world. More importantly, it has taught me how important it is to

chase your dreams and give it your best shot.

What is the importance of continuing professional development (CPD)?We are living in truly exciting times, but we forget sometimes how challenging these times

are as well – with the constant changes in the macro environment. I personally believe

CPD is the key to ensure continued success. Most of us recognize the importance of

continuous improvement at work, well, CPD is no different. It’s the process of continuous

learning for personal and professional development. Having access to all the tools and

resources available, enables us to do our jobs better.

Amit Minocha CPA (Aust.)Operations Finance Manager

intel

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Tell us about yourself. The tax profession has given me the opportunity to fully utilise my skills both as an

accountant and as a tax specialist. As the Group Head of Tax, I am accountable and

responsible for tax matters throughout the organisation and am constantly developing

tax strategies that are consistent with the Group’s stated tax philosophy and policies.

Managing the global tax position of the CIMB Group, Malaysia’s second largest financial

services provider, can be very challenging indeed, but I feel very fortunate to work with a

talented group of people within the Group and the opportunity to work in a dynamic and

fast paced environment. This is a great experience for me personally and professionally.

How has the CPA (Aust.) designation helped you in your career?It cannot be denied that the CPA (Aust.) designation is one of the most sought after

qualifications in today’s corporate world.

The skills successful employers are looking forSuccessful employers are looking for people who use their

judgment to make good decisions and exercise technical

skills. They want people who take a strategic view and are

across details – people who are globally focused and know

their local market conditions.

Sam Chay Siew Hun CPA (Aust.) was headhunted by CIMB

three years ago to set up the tax department responsible for

tax planning and compliance, and the mandate of making

the tax department into a profit centre. He couldn’t refuse.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT COMPANYWell, it felt like you had gone through the wringer – grueling tests, screenings, brutal interviews, even dry runs and group simulations to see you in an actual work milieu – and you passed them all! The potential employers are suitably impressed and give you anticipated offers. Now you face a different kind of pressure to decide which to accept. For many candidates, the choice seems obvious enough: the offer with the fattest paycheck. But experts advise caution in singling an employment contract on the mere basis of an irresistible pay offer. They point to the need to first consider all relevant factors before you decide.

Points to consider:COMPANY VISION. Look for an employer that knows its business, where it is going and how it will get there.

LONG-TERM ORIENTATION. Pick an organization that intends to stay for the long haul, i.e. has a long-term orientation plan, invests heavily in facilities and people, and makes decisions with far-reaching significance and benchmarks with the best industry practices.

PEOPLE ORIENTATION. A good company regards its people as its most important assets. It should have values such as development programmes, a democratic system of communication and consultation, career and succession planning. It should have clear and just policies, a professional yet familial atmosphere, a sense of pride and belonging among the employees.

EXCELLENCE. Organizational excellence does not happen overnight. It rests on a delicate balance between culture and strategy. A company needs culture to help implement strategy. Without strategy, the company will just be one big, happy but unproductive family.

COMPENSATION. Good compensation questions to ask yourself include: Does the company provide annual salary reviews? How do they make compensation competitive with the market, industry or business community? Will extraordinary performance be recognized and compensated through a merit system or a performance bonus scheme?

Take Your Best Pick – Weigh Your Job Options

Sam Chay Siew Hun CPA (Aust.)Group Head of Tax

CIMB Group

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MASTERING INTERVIEW SKILLS

The interview is a crucial area. It is not enough to show up for the meeting and hope that inspiration will hit you. While a well-crafted resume will definitely help carry you to first base, it is the interview that will ultimately bring you to home base – or lead you to a strikeout. Therefore, knowing how to play the interview cat-and-mouse game cannot be overemphasized. There are different forms of the interview but the basic principles of good interviewing remain the same.

Dig up all you can about the hiring company and prepare ahead of time by anticipating questions and having ready answers in your head. During the interview, extend a warm handshake, show confidence and enthusiasm and flash your pearly whites. After the interview, do not forget to thank the interviewer and to inquire about what will happen next. Back home, draft and send a Thank You letter to the interviewer immediately.

A serious jobseeker should not leave this crucial stage of the search process to chance or luck. Here are 10 rules of thumb for a winning interview performance:

1. COME PREPARED. Research beforehand on the company’s services, products and operations. Get details from their annual reports or websites. This way, you will be able to discuss intelligently how your talents, skills and experience can help reach their organizational goals. Bring along additional materials for a successful presentation, such as an extra resume and work samples.

The tax arena has become increasingly complex, and businesses today, more than ever

before, need to recognise tax as a strategic management issue. Therefore, I believe in

hiring the best qualified people i.e. a CPA (Aust.), providing clear direction and then

guiding them all the way.

What advice would you provide jobseekers (fresh grads) on how to better equip themselves in th e current economic downturn?Retention is rarely an issue, but finding the best people is always a challenge. I am

constantly on the lookout for like-minded fresh graduates with the same aspirations to

join my team. Someone who demonstrates our core values: innovation, integrity, passion

and teamwork. I like people with good energy, enthusiasm and intellectual curiosity.

As an employer what are you looking for in candidates when recruiting?Having all the technical skills is not enough. Entrepreneurial and soft skills are also required

because tax planning cannot occur in a vacuum, it must be linked with the operations

and culture of the organisation. There is a wonderful feeling of accomplishment when we

achieve a successful synergy of operational objectives, tax benefits and implementation.

But even when we manage to achieve the proverbial “win-win”, the CIMB Group often

changes course and we must be prepared to evolve or sometimes, chart an entirely new

course. But that only ensures that the fun never ends.

The biggest challenge facing tax professionals today is the pace of change. Developments

seem to occur more frequently today not only with tax laws but with business models that

are evolving. This means the candidates must continue to learn, develop and enhance

their tax skills.

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8. ASK AWAY. If the recruiter inquires, “Do you have any ques-tions?” take him up on it. Good questions to pose include those on the company’s directions, plans, culture, the specifics and expectations of the job and those along a similar vein to underline your keen interest in the firm and the position.

9. DON’T ACT DESPERATE OR APOLOGETIC. Jobs are hard to find, it is true, but have some pride. Do not reveal over-eagerness to please or an over-willingness to accept everything. Maintain a good posture, extend a firm handshake, flash friendly teeth, and strive for an alert and confident attitude.

10. OBSERVE PROPER ETIQUETTE. An interview requires that you follow certain practices such as maintaining eye contact and wear-ing formal clothing. But more than that, sending a Thank You letter after the interview shows basic courtesy and proof of your sincere interest in the position.

2. ARRIVE EARLY. The horrendous traffic is no excuse to be late for your appointment and thus earn debit points from the start. Leave for the interview at least one hour earlier than necessary to cope with any contingencies such as motor breakdown, flat tyre, traffic jams and poor weather.

3. DRESS SMART. Remember what they say about first impres-sions? You may be tempted in this casual-dress age to dress down, but be warned that conservative dress codes still rule the hiring day. Formal clothes show you consider the interview important enough to have taken pains to dress up. 4. REPLY CALMLY. Due to over-eagerness or nervousness, some candidates blurt out their response even before the question sinks in, thus giving half-baked answers. Listen carefully and organize your thoughts before answering. If you have done your homework, you will have ready answers for some of the standard questions thrown your way.

5. DON’T SHOOT YOUR EX-BOSS. It is amazing how some can-didates think they can win sympathy points from the interviewer by ranting against a previous employer. On the contrary, this will mark you as a potential troublemaker and raise serious doubts about the real reason you left your job. Concentrate on elaborating your own accomplishments – and squash any impulse to gripe.

6. FOCUS ON THE COMPANY’S INTEREST. Of course, we all love a dream job offer that is bundled with a fantastic pay package but you must not say that. Do not go to the interview intent on ex-tracting information from the interviewer about what the firm can give you. Remember that you are marketing yourself, so strive to convince the employer that you are their best bet.

7. DON’T TALK MONEY TOO SOON. Making salary inquiries during the first interview is a big no-no. It gives the interviewer an in-kling into what your utmost consideration is. Do not broach the topic until you receive a definite offer. And find out beforehand what the salary scale is for the position to negotiate effectively.

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If the interviewer tells you the position has been filled,remain • calm and respectful. You may yet salvage something out of the situation. If you feel you have established rapport with the interviewer, you could:

Request that your application be considered for future • openings.

Ask for referrals to other hiring employers.•

Solicit feedback on your weak areas so you can improve.•

If your emails or phone calls are not being returned three • weeks after your interview, it is safe to assume you were not chosen. But do not be crestfallen – a better offer will surely come your way. Just remember that practice makes perfect. Reflect on the interview and extract lessons of improvement to prepare for the next interview.

THE APPLICATION FOLLOW-UP

Many jobseekers erroneously think that the job hunting process ends with the interview, and that all they can do afterward is helplessly wait for the employer’s next move. Actually, there is another thing you can – and should – do. This crucial but often overlooked initiative is called the follow-up. Carefully executed, this can give you bonus points in the employer’s tally card. Here are some guidelines on doing it properly:

Inform your references that they might receive a call from the • employer. This is basic courtesy and prepares your references on what to say.

The follow-up starts at the end of the interview. Before you • leave, be sure to ask when the employer might arrive at a hiring decision.

Always write a Thank You letter within 48 hours of the • interview. Express appreciation for the interview opportunity and stress briefly how you are the perfect fit for the position.

Make sure your letter is free of errors. This includes ensuring that • there are no typos, grammatical errors and misspellings. Double check the company’s name as well as the interviewer’s name and position title.

Do call on the day instructed to. If the interviewer promised to • contact you and has not, make a follow-up letter or call a week or so later to inquire about your application and underscore your continued interest in the position.

While doing follow-up, do not let up on your pursuit of employment • with other firms. In this manner, your job hunting campaign is not limited to one company and you have more chances of getting calls from other employers.

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2. THE INTERVIEWDuring the meeting, you can raise your worth in the recruiter’s eyes by stressing your strengths, talents, knowledge, accomplishments and skills. If you have no work experience, you can discuss your school projects and undertakings, using control words such as “took charge”, “initiated”, “developed” or “implemented” to indicate successful completion of a programme or activity.

TIP: RESIST ANY ATTEMPT AT THIS STAGE TO STATE A SPECIFIC FIGURE. Instead, provide a salary range rather than a definite number, going for an offer in the middle to high end of the spectrum. The less you reveal about what offer will make you bite, the more you are likely to receive a best offer.

3. THE NEGOTIATION STAGENow comes the tricky part. Admittedly, salary ranges for most entry-level positions are set and leave you little room to negotiate. But most employers would probably quote the lower end of the salary scale, so your goal is to shoot for the high end. Here is an example of an offer being made and possible responses. Experts suggest framing responses in a question form to avoid sounding arrogant or demanding.

The salary is RM2,000 per month

Employer

You

I am happy about the job offer and I am very interested in the position. But considering today’s

high cost of living, I’d like to be making around RM2,500. Would that be possible ?

I’m delighted in your interest in me and I really believe I can contribute, but I have other options in the RM2,500 range (say this only if true). Is there a way we can work this out ?

or

SAVVY SALARY BARGAINING TIPS

1. PRE-BARGAINING STAGEThe salary negotiation process starts even before the actual interview takes place with an assessment of your financial needs and situation. The goal is to find out the acceptable initial salary scale for you. Here is how you do it:

Calculate the amount you will need to support your lifestyle. • Factor in your monthly expenses such as transportation, work, clothes, food expenses, etc.

Assess your value. Describe your skills, abilities, talents and • knowledge on paper and be prepared to show your future employer the benefits you can bring to their company.

Do a comparative research on prevailing salary trends. This • is so you do not underprice or overprice yourself. How do you conduct a salary survey? Ask your friends, contacts, professional associations and other job seekers. You might also try your school career centre, trade publications and on-line re-sources.

Conduct a discreet study of the hiring company. Ask from inside • sources if you have them, visit its website or gather company brochures or profiles.

The secret is to come up with three figures: the minimum, mid-level and maximum acceptable salary. When asked your desired compensation during the interview, articulate a salary figure between the mid-level to maximum, never the minimum pay which should only be a guide on the absolute bottom line offer you are willing to entertain.

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You should be able to draw from your preliminary research here. If you have learned the company’s benefit and compensation package, you can pick up clues when pushing your luck. Remember that you are negotiating for the upper end, not squeezing the company dry, which is a strategy that is likely to boomerang.

TIP: DON’T BE ASHAMED TO NEGOTIATE. Potential employers look favourably on aspirants who are not afraid to negotiate, since it shows the job seeker knows current market rates and puts a high premium on himself or herself – surely positive qualities of awareness and self-confidence.

4. THE JOB OFFERIf the company states the offer is final, find out if they can offer non-monetary perks instead, such as allowances, bonuses, performance raises, stock options and profit sharing. Or you can ask for a promise of a raise – which should be given in writing. Or if the offer is really hard to swallow, ask if they will consider other work arrangements including part-time or consultancy work.

Key rules when considering job offers include:Once you receive a job offer, never accept or reject it on the • spot.

Ask about their other fringe benefits. •

Then ask for at least 24 hours to think it over and request another • meeting to finalize discussions.

Be enthusiastic but non-committal.•

Offers made over the phone, in particular, should not be • accepted.

Insist on a face-to-face meeting to discuss details. •

When deciding, consider all factors including opportunities for • growth, promotion, training and skills enhancement; the company’s stability and management style; advice from your mentors, family and friends; the total pay and benefit package.

CAMPUS

JobStreet Campusis the place to begin with.

Ample Fresh Graduate Jobs!Great Jobseeking Resources!

http://my.jobstreet.com/campus

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accountant+strategist

Charles Wong FCPa (aust.)Senior regional Strategic change ManageraSia pacific finance, hSBc, hong Kong

cpa

1290

51 0

7/20

09