The booming of ICT

"Since COVID-19 pandemic breaks out many people assert that “Pandemic has accelerated the development of IT technology”. In fact, not only IT but also ICT development is growing vigorously in spite of pandemic, which is only a trigger. Everyone in the world is witnessing the power of ICT. Web conference, online classroom, digital payment as well as live broadcasting are so common nowadays.

ICT stands for Information and Communications Technology. Information Technology emphasises encoding and decoding while Communications Technology is related to information dissemination. As science and technology are so advanced in this era the relationship between IT and CT are inseparable. ICT covers an extensive scope. In general, it includes three categories - Networking, Information Security and IT Services, i.e. software, hardware, cloud services and AI etc. The exact categorisation and implementation are different in various companies. Besides the traditional knowledge of IT, “ABCD” skills are tending to be valuable in the ICT industry. A is Artificial Intelligence (AI); B is Block chain; C is Cloud computing while D is Big Data. In face of pandemic, ABCD bring remarkable changes to the society and our daily lives.

Undoubtedly, the prospect of ICT industry is bright enough. So what are the actual job duties? And what qualifications should young people possess if they want to enter this field of work?

According to some HR staffs, ICT doesn't simply mean sitting in front of a computer all day long. It depends on the job requirements. For instance, staffs who're responsible for network and server will go to data centres to setup the servers personally. Those who love interpersonal communication as well as technology may consider project management or customer service related positions, which require IT related knowledge and the skill to communicate with customers.

Regarding academic qualifications and depending on job requirements, computer engineering and computer science graduates have definite advantage to be admitted. But don't feel disappointed even though you're not graduated from those subjects. ICT is a diversified and specialised industry. If you suit the job requirements and have relevant certificates or online courses qualifications you can also be a potential candidate.

ICT technology is changing rapidly. Young people who are ambitious to enter this industry must be willing to learn. Being open-minded and embracing new trends will make you stand out. Truly, keeping abreast of time is always the key to be successful in all industries!

Important TIPS for CV writing

Imagine you are the boss of a telecommunication corporation and you are going to recruit a mobile game designer. You then post a job advertisement in mass media and what would you do if it turns out 100 applications are received? Obviously it is impossible to arrange job interviews for all 100 applicants. As a result you request them to submit their CVs first and shortlist some suitable candidates for face-to-face interviews. That is the crucial function of CV.

To make it simple, CV is the first key to success which plays an important role of getting a chance for job interviews.

Hence, how to prepare an impressive CV? What should we pay more attention in writing CV? Common mistakes in writing CV are easily found on websites so I wouldn't bother mentioning here. The followings are the important TIPS in which some of them are even based on my real cases.

1. Length

Be Concise. As disclosed by some experienced Human Resources Managers, nobody will spend more than 40 seconds to screen each CV. Therefore do not make your CV look like an autobiography.

2. Personal Information

Personal information such as ID number and address should not be included in your CV. Simply write down your contact details, most likely your mobile phone number. Make sure your mobile number is just 8-digit ONLY. Number“1” and Letter “l” as well as Number”0” and Letter “O” are often confusing in an email account. You may miss the golden opportunity of an interview if people cannot even contact you.

3. Social Media

FB, IG, MEWE are all commonly used social media and at the same time they are another means for the interviewers to know you more. A 30-minute job interview can be well prepared through continuous practice. However, what appears on your own social media account will absolutely reflect your true self. If you have somehow posted some improper messages or pictures on those platforms, you should change your status to “private”.

4. Do not be "over-friendly"

Before screening your CV, sometimes people will have bad impression of you just by looking at the email. Subject, name of receiver, name of sender (your name) must be included in it. Remember they're not your friends and they don't even know you. So NEVER leave those areas blank otherwise your potential employers may consider you “Impolite”.

5. Proof reading

The most conventional but effective way of proof reading before sending your CV out can be done by yourself or with the help of your friends. We all have our blind spots in writing so keep checking especially with others will definitely help minimise the careless mistakes.

Everyone writes CV, but does everyone know how?

No matter you are graduated from secondary schools or universities, you must have a CV when you are applying for a job but not everyone knows how to write it properly. To write a CV that represents you, you must have a clear picture of its features and functions. Only in this way it can be targeted to be unique, revealing your personal character and the best of yourself.

That's right, CV is a powerful tool which opens the door to an interview for you.

CV is your personal profile. Ask yourself first before writing, what do you want the employers to know when he reads your CV? Let's say if you're applying for a job in a telecommunications company, what do you want this company to know about you? From another angle what do you think they want to know about you? Do you have what it takes to write something presentable?

In fact, it takes only 2 minutes reading a CV so it must be concise. Generally speaking, CV can be classified into “Full of content” and “Without content”

“Full of content” and “Without content”? Seriously? No kidding, keep reading and you'll know what I mean.

Type A: CV with full of content

You have so many things to put in your CV. Due to length constraints you need to make strategical choices of what should be included. Here are some important points to note:

Make sure you understand what jobs you are applying for and learn from people engaged in related businesses about the quality, experience and skill required. Jot them down on a piece of paper and check one by one to see whether you are qualified. For example, if you want to apply for the position of a programme designer in a telecommunications company, you surely must highlight your IT knowledge and programming skill in order to create a CV that completely outstands yourself and is highly relevant. But remember, BE HONEST!

Do you have any special experiences to share? Although your CV may go through the HR department first, after examination it will be passed to the interviewers (whom might be your future boss!). They usually ask questions based on your CV. Therefore, if you want to impress them with your edge and lead them to know more about you, leave some clues in CV to prepare for your "showtime" during the interview.

Considering the above-mentioned and given length limitations, it is not difficult to understand you have to be picky even listing out your interests and hobbies. But don't fill up your CV with every personal stuff. It is CONTENT, instead of length that matters.

Type B: CV without content

Of course, It doesn't mean you don't have any academic attainment or inner quality, it's the dull life you're living. From my experience, I met quite a few young people who showed me their CVs asking for my comments. My instant respond was: "What have you done all these years? Is your life really that empty? Apart from your educational background I find nothing else to write even to finish half a page.

Such "empty" CVs are not rare, as I have received many of these. Let’s imagine, are you willing to interview that person if you were a boss? When you are drafting your CV and discover you do not have enough content to fill in, I suggest you to make good use of the current pandemic to enrich your life. For example, you can upgrade yourself through free on-line classes or web trainings. Participating in volunteer work is also an option. During this time when it's not easy to get a job, you can seize the moment to break through in life and make your CV extraordinary. Pandemic is a crisis but also an opportunity for self-enhancement.

Tips for successful video job interview (I)

Job interviews are conducted in various forms over the years like group interview, individual interview, game interview and aptitude test. Under current pandemic circumstances, video job interview has become a brand new trend. And due to pandemic many corporations are gradually adopting virtual job interview in the first round of recruitment and even virtual job fair is emerging.

Since video job interview is going to be a widespread phenomenon, what should we pay particular attention to? How is it different from physical interview? The followings are some helpful tips for a video job interview.

1. The Equipment List

Equipments must be well prepared before the video interview, essentially the “Big Four” - computer, internet connection with broadband, camera with a built-in microphone and lighting (overlooked easily). Try combining everything for a test run. Nowadays most young people can use a computer, especially for the video game lovers computer speed is never a problem. However it requires more focus on the quality of camera. With regard to broadband, stability is more important than speed. It goes without saying that talking device is indispensable. During a video interview it is annoying if the interviewers can't hear you clearly and keep asking you to repeat. Therefore choosing a microphone with better quality is very important. Surely you also won't miss the lighting part in order to let the interviewers take a good look at you.

2. Closing unnecessary software

Before the video interview, close all unnecessary software to avoid crashing of your computer at critical moments or abrupt interruption of some weird soundtracks. Likewise you know, disabling the pop-up functions will make you feel less embarrassed.

3. Appearance

Be well groomed before the interview. You don't really have to dress up but at least be in great spirits in front of the interviewers. Especially for girls whose faces are a bit pale makeup is more vital. A simple makeup can make you look refreshing. Many interviewees often neglect this part in their video interviews. Remember, even you're at home your appearance still matters.

4. Lighting

According to a web research, companies which have conducted video job interviews think that the first thing interviewees need to focus on is lighting effect. You may say, “Lighting? Are we filming a movie in Hollywood? No joking, those who have experience of video interview know that lighting is the most difficult to manage. You need to be slightly equipped for the interviewers to see you clearly. Instead of professional lighting, desk lamps will do but preferably you have 2 shining from 45 degree angle to reduce the shadow and sharpen the outline of your face. When you look sharp you'll naturally shine and leave people a good impression. Remember, don’t make yourself look like “coal”!

Tips for successful video job interview (II)

1. Avoiding distraction at home

Distraction at home is one of the most neglected but yet the easiest thing to happen in a video job interview. What is distraction at home? Let's say if you're in the middle of a video interview in your room and you mum suddenly open the door and ask, "Would you like some soup?" Now you can imagine how embarrassing distraction at home is. Other distraction includes: your dog barks, half-naked dad passes by, telephone rings, TV's too noisy, washing machine makes an alert sound, and many more.

Please prepare an undistracted environment at home before the interview.

2. Sticky Notes

During an interview the eyesight of the interviewer is just within a certain frame of the camera. You may try to use some sticky notes outside the frame to give you hints when necessary.

3. Background and Clothing

Better find a plain background without any photo or poster on it, and a spot where nobody walks pass behind you to avoid distraction. Also the colour of the clothes you wear should not clash with the background colour, especially if you are using a virtual background. Otherwise it will look cluttered.

4. Camera

Your camera should be at eye level, so that it will be like you're having a face-to-face conversation with the interviewer. Both “high angle” and "low angle" makes people feel uncomfortable. Normally desktop computers tend to have less eye level problems, but if you're using a notebook you have to pay more attention. Find something at home to adjust the height of the notebook. When you're talking, make it a habit to look at the camera instead of the screen to create an impact of eye contact.

The above TIPS are not just some chit-chats but all based on practical experiences. After all under pandemic video job interview is an irresistible trend, but it could also be a new norm. It's time to get prepared.

Lastly and corny it may sound, make sure you have all the relevant content fully prepared because as always "CONTENT IS KING". When it comes to a video job interview you must even rehearse with your friends beforehand.

Learning to shine in the workplace in 1 minute: Your image does matter.

Oh, you look great!" How can you be presentable and attractive in front of your colleagues, especially it is the first day of your work?

Appearance is the reflection of your character, personality, and respect towards a career, as well as how professional you are at their first sight. That's why a proper way to present yourself is very important. Have you ever asked yourself what first impression you want to give to others? Charming? Or dull?

1. Hairstyle

Discover your unique hairstyle. Keep your face clean. For girls, try tying up your hair if you don’t like it to look untidy. And as for boy’s short hair gives people a feeling of neatness.

2. Facial Cleanliness

No matter you are a boy or a girl, having dry or oily skin, you must keep your face clean. It is not advised to wash your face with merely water, otherwise the dirt can hardly be rinsed and your skin colour could be affected. The most essential way to keep your face in good condition is washing it with cleansing cream and then putting on simple skin care products.

3. Make-up

In order to match your make-up with your working environment and avoid looking pale and tired before others, boys may shave and girls may put on rogue and lipstick to enrich your skin colour and feel refreshed. Flaming red lip is not appropriate, so plain make-up will be more pleasant and decent.

Learning to shine in the workplace in 1 minute: Always be courteous

I believe everyone agrees that a "first impression" is very important. However it never simply applies at the moment you're in an interview. Since the day you're employed and step into your office, you still wish to impress people at first glance throughout the whole "new month". Here are some "tips" for you to build a good image.

1. "Good morning / Goodbye": The magic words

Even though you're well known for being "arrogant" at home or among your circle of friends - like always putting on a poker face and trying to look "cool", in your workplace you should say "good morning" to your colleagues when you go to work and "goodbye" when you're off. These are two basic rules to make you look polite.

2."Smiling / Nodding": A definite advantage

Apart from saying good morning and goodbye, when someone talks to you if you can offer a brief smile and a nod to respond. These little body languages are heart-warming signs of friendliness.

3."Excuse me, may I......"

In a new job, there must be so many things you can't control. Your boss or the seniors probably wouldn't mind you asking quite a lot of questions and understanding more about the company, but the way you ask is critical. So always be aware of the place, timing and opening line when you do that. Show them you're courteous and have a willing heart to learn.

"Courtesy" is not something you need to buy. All it takes is just a few more body languages, and taking the first step eagerly to be likeable!

Learning to shine in the workplace in 1 min: Small Talk

Have you ever noticed that in our workplaces we have to deal with all kinds of people we don't know? Quite often we even have to stick together for the rides, meals, meetings, and chit-chats etc. Therefore how to break the ice with your new colleagues has become a hot topic in the workplace: Small Talk.

No matter you're talking or listening to someone, there could be an art of Small Talk. The followings are some tips for you who's getting ready to enter the workplace.

• Even though you don't understand what people's talking about and feel speechless, keep listening and take it as an opportunity to lean new knowledge. During the process, focus on one or two main points to ask questions and explore.
• Start observing more in your daily life, you can make a conversation with everything that happens around you: It could be sports, beauty, fashion, food and drinks, travelling, movies, music, video games and the list goes on. There are so many interesting things in life you can talk about!
• Don't casually ask questions about people's salary, religious and political orientation in order to prevent dispute and embarrassment.
• Whether you're asking or answering someone, try using open-end questions which helps keep the conversation going.

Do we really need to learn how to talk? Yes we do! After leaving school, let's all start with Small Talk to adapt to the culture in your workplace and leave everyone with a great impression!

Daily application of digital technology

Nowadays AI technology has been introduced in numerous industries all over the world. They significantly increase their work efficiency and even launch brand new services, making major breakthroughs one by one. Don't think AI is a technical term for special effect in Hollywood movies. In fact it has been an essential part of our lives long ago. For instance, the Google search function, Facebook face recognition system, IPhone virtual assistant Siri and YouTube video recommendation are all supported up by AI. Evidently this innovative technology is indispensable in our everyday lives. As AI is constantly evolving, it has developed a seamless connection with our living. Let's take a few examples to elaborate.

In 2011, developed by IBM, an AI super computer "Watson" which can answer questions in human language beat the highest prize winner and record holder in a famous American quiz show, winning a million USD. Afterwards "Watson’s technology is respectively applied in medical, cooking and customer service areas etc., such as assisting doctors diagnose through reading a huge amount of medical journals, clinical data and medical history.

For another example, in 2014 the Associate Press introduced the AI system WordSmith to write financial news. It can write a report in 150 to 300 words simply by inputting important data like corporate revenue and net profit. AI is currently writing over 4000 articles each season and thus remarkably boosts the volume of news publications. Subsequently the application of WordSmith is extended to sports news.

Owned by Google, Waymo has developed the robotic car. With the multiple sensors installed inside and the aid of AI, you can decide by yourself the route, speed and direction. It can not only keep away from the pedestrians but also adjust the driving mode according to different types of weather. After repeated examination, robotic car can now travel 600 miles on a highway. It is anticipated in a few years the United States will introduce robotic car pick-up service.