First day of work
I just had a bowl of abalone chicken instant noodle, with literally abalone and chicken pieces that were left over from last night's steamboat. The cool thing was, I cooked it all by myself! And sometimes, food with MSG can taste good too. Just realised I haven't been consuming enough MSG since army, cos it's a trend in camp to eat cup noodles, but I just did not have the habit. So cooking a good bowl of instant noodles with extra egg, abalone and chicken could be rather satisfying too!
Anyway, I just had my first day of work today. Supposed to be orientation period for 6 days. I kinda liked the people in the company. Most of them looked so jovial, so full of zest, so excited, enthusiastic and positive. They reminded me of the outdoor sales job I did before few years back, which could have nothing at all to compare to the current company I'm in, in terms of office structure, professionalism, and what we actually help to sell and promote. Just for your information, my company is dealing with clients from international banks, telecommunications, charities, securities, etc. So you could say I am a "high class promoter" in some way. My sisters, not being very supportive, irked at the idea of me being a promoter. But there are just so many things to learn. I can't stay put in an office-working environment from 9 to 5. I would rather walk around and tire my legs as long as I feel I'm free to roam anywhere around the area I want.
Today, I got introduced to my team leader, Kester, who is in-charge of my training. Very nice guy to talk to, very professional, and he just knows all his stuff, which makes him a really good salesman and mentor as well. I was bombarded with so much information that I felt mentally exhausted at times. At certain times, I was still having doubts whether I can clinch deals or not. After all, this job is a make or break kind of job. If you make it, the money is yours. If you break it, you need to aim high again. The good thing about the job is it has lots of travel opportunities(already there are people going on cruise on Saturday and a few handpicked for the Bangkok educational trip on Sunday).
After all the familiarisation with the office, the work scope, I was brought to the field to observe how my team mates do their talking. We were stationed at Toa Payoh HUB, and the response ain't that bad just now. I tried pitching to people but did not manage to close any deals. Being a newbie, it's very normal. But to me, I'll start to have doubts whether I am able to close any. I know it sounds funny, but there's this pressure to get more money, to get recognised, and not left in the lurch and feeling all so miserable.
I reached the office at 12pm today and started the outdoor job around 5pm, till around 10pm. By the time I was going back, I felt friggin' tired. It's a fun job but it requires a high level of energy. I think it's time I need to pop some vitamins to keep me going.
2nd day tomorrow. Do hope I get some results. Till then, see ya.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Imagine a dream that is not too far.
I just watched American Idol Season 7 on tv just now. 10 guys in the competition. And I must say this year's competition is stiff, and it's a youngster influx, with contestants as young as 16. The one hot male contestant favourite is David Archuleta. His performance was astonishing. Singing John Lennon's Imagine, he totally blew away the crowds and the judges. Even I was spell-bound, considering the fact that I was just seeing that through the screen. A beautiful song, beautiful voice, beautiful emotions. What more can you want? Bah.. some people are just born with a singing voice.
Meaningful song. Very. Loved every word.
I just watched American Idol Season 7 on tv just now. 10 guys in the competition. And I must say this year's competition is stiff, and it's a youngster influx, with contestants as young as 16. The one hot male contestant favourite is David Archuleta. His performance was astonishing. Singing John Lennon's Imagine, he totally blew away the crowds and the judges. Even I was spell-bound, considering the fact that I was just seeing that through the screen. A beautiful song, beautiful voice, beautiful emotions. What more can you want? Bah.. some people are just born with a singing voice.
Meaningful song. Very. Loved every word.
Imagine there's no heaven
It's easy if you try
No hell below us
Above us only sky
Imagine all the people
Living for today...
***
Imagine there's no countries
It isn't hard to do
Nothing to kill or die for
And no religion too
Imagine all the people
Living life in peace...
***
You may say I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will be as one
***
Imagine no possessions
I wonder if you can
No need for greed or hunger
A brotherhood of man
Imagine all the people
Sharing all the world...
***
You may say I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will live as one
***
Here's David's performance clip.. Enjoy.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Transition
I feel excited, elated, exhilarated... cos you know what?
I'm GOING to "Hollywood!" HAHAHAHAA.
Ok, not really Hollywood. But I just got a call from the company that I got accepted!! And I'm starting work tomorrow! Oh man.......... Too good to be true. But it's true! I can't believe the long 3 hour interview yesterday actually did pay off!! Speaking of that..
*Flashback*
At 3.30pm yesterday, I reached my company's office. I was immediately greeted by a number of applicants there, sitting at the sofa. Then I was handed some details about the company. I scanned through the papers and got a brief understanding of the company's structure. Then we were showed a video about the company.
After that, we were ushered into the room. Me, along with 4 other ladies. The thorn among the roses. So we were told that we were to be attending this 3 hour long interview together. I was overwhelmed by the surge of female hormones in the room. But I stood tall. Well, actually, I did not stand. I sat down. But sat tall still. Lol. Throughout the whole session with the managing director, I had a good time mingling with the ladies. We were challenged with questions which required us to brainstorm and come up with ideas, answers, and were each given chance to speak and present on our topics. Initially I felt a little jittery but it was soon appeased when the managing director seemed more approachable than I had expected. So it was more like a talk session. It was cool alright. I liked the company in the sense that they do not believe in qualifications, cos in sales, qualifications is optional. What is compulsory is a keen interest, passion for the field, motivation to work and the drive for success.
So anyway, I was told that I would start my orientation tomorrow. Going to meetings, talks with the manager, on-sites observation, which get me pretty excited about. Cos it's not just about the work, it's about meeting new faces! One of the reason I told the HR manager during my first interview why I wanted to venture into sales is that I wanted to step out of my comfort zone, to gravitate towards my other extrovert self, though I was innately an introvert.
Actually, after the 2nd round of interview yesterday, I was struggling with some inner thoughts. Having known that it would be a 6-day work week, I understand that I have to compromise a lot on my leisure time, and probably my social time, which I was reluctant to. Especially that meant getting lesser time to spend with my love. But I guess it's a phase most people have to go through. Talking to my other friends who had ORD, they are pretty much slacking away, enjoying their post-ORD breaks, or maybe just doing some part-time jobs. But for me, it's a different story. I'm going into full-time, and if I were to commit to this job, it has to be at least for a year I think. The duration does not matter much to me actually. It's about whether I can make full use of this duration and earn as much as I can. I have to think about my future and build pathways for that. I need to start saving up too.
Am I ready to give up my free time and exchange them for money opportunities? And also, if I were to start school in the 2nd quarter of the year, am I going to be able to juggle things well? As far as I'm concerned, it's going to be quite taxing, especially when you have to deal with projects, exams and at the same time, clients and deals. Am I able to take all these pressure?
Maybe I can look it the other way round, that it's a good opportunity to learn about time management, and not dwindle away the precious minutes and seconds.
I feel excited, elated, exhilarated... cos you know what?
I'm GOING to "Hollywood!" HAHAHAHAA.
Ok, not really Hollywood. But I just got a call from the company that I got accepted!! And I'm starting work tomorrow! Oh man.......... Too good to be true. But it's true! I can't believe the long 3 hour interview yesterday actually did pay off!! Speaking of that..
*Flashback*
At 3.30pm yesterday, I reached my company's office. I was immediately greeted by a number of applicants there, sitting at the sofa. Then I was handed some details about the company. I scanned through the papers and got a brief understanding of the company's structure. Then we were showed a video about the company.
After that, we were ushered into the room. Me, along with 4 other ladies. The thorn among the roses. So we were told that we were to be attending this 3 hour long interview together. I was overwhelmed by the surge of female hormones in the room. But I stood tall. Well, actually, I did not stand. I sat down. But sat tall still. Lol. Throughout the whole session with the managing director, I had a good time mingling with the ladies. We were challenged with questions which required us to brainstorm and come up with ideas, answers, and were each given chance to speak and present on our topics. Initially I felt a little jittery but it was soon appeased when the managing director seemed more approachable than I had expected. So it was more like a talk session. It was cool alright. I liked the company in the sense that they do not believe in qualifications, cos in sales, qualifications is optional. What is compulsory is a keen interest, passion for the field, motivation to work and the drive for success.
*****
So anyway, I was told that I would start my orientation tomorrow. Going to meetings, talks with the manager, on-sites observation, which get me pretty excited about. Cos it's not just about the work, it's about meeting new faces! One of the reason I told the HR manager during my first interview why I wanted to venture into sales is that I wanted to step out of my comfort zone, to gravitate towards my other extrovert self, though I was innately an introvert.
Actually, after the 2nd round of interview yesterday, I was struggling with some inner thoughts. Having known that it would be a 6-day work week, I understand that I have to compromise a lot on my leisure time, and probably my social time, which I was reluctant to. Especially that meant getting lesser time to spend with my love. But I guess it's a phase most people have to go through. Talking to my other friends who had ORD, they are pretty much slacking away, enjoying their post-ORD breaks, or maybe just doing some part-time jobs. But for me, it's a different story. I'm going into full-time, and if I were to commit to this job, it has to be at least for a year I think. The duration does not matter much to me actually. It's about whether I can make full use of this duration and earn as much as I can. I have to think about my future and build pathways for that. I need to start saving up too.
Am I ready to give up my free time and exchange them for money opportunities? And also, if I were to start school in the 2nd quarter of the year, am I going to be able to juggle things well? As far as I'm concerned, it's going to be quite taxing, especially when you have to deal with projects, exams and at the same time, clients and deals. Am I able to take all these pressure?
Maybe I can look it the other way round, that it's a good opportunity to learn about time management, and not dwindle away the precious minutes and seconds.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Getting man-nual
Guess what? I spent a whole good afternoon today fixing a new bookcase I have bought(which I'm so proud of it due to the low price I got it for but had to compromise with some perspiration), cleaning my room's air-conditioner, mopping the floor, cleaning my room, washing my clothes, unclogging the sink, throwing the rubbish... In fact, my sis saw me fixing my bookcase and popped a remark, "Wah Chao, so technical today ah? Not bad ah."
Yeah man, I felt a deep sense of accomplishment indeed. And I realise good things don't necessarily cost a hole in your wallet. They can come in cheap, if you don't mind paying the rest with your hands, hammering and knocking and twisting and turning. And hey, you get a free workout too! Heh. But I guess I kinda like DIY, not in the sense of making friendship bracelets, embroidering your pencil case and such if that was what came into your mind. What I mean is fixing and creating stuff, building stuff. It leaves you a deep sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. Though the bookcase I bought was plain, it was spiced up by every effort I put in. And it's now standing proud in a corner of my room, displaying the wonderful array of CDs I have placed and other more books in time to populate the shelves. Woohoo!
So anyway, I was complaining to dearie that my sisters were not doing much to contribute to the tidiness of the house, and she was like saying at least I know how to do such things, then my future wife would be better off. Heh heh. I feel comforted at the thought. As far as I could, I guess I would help out with the household chores, to assume the post of househusband at times. Haha. However, I still retain the traditional point of view that men should be the breadwinners of the family.
Speaking of that, I'm going to my second round of interview tomorrow at the job I'm currently applying for. Second round of interview! Wah, and it's with the managing director. I have to prepare a list of questions to ask and be graded based on that. And I heard the interview would last for 3 hours or so!! I don't know, I do hope it's a good decent company to start with. Oh well, wish me luck.
Guess what? I spent a whole good afternoon today fixing a new bookcase I have bought(which I'm so proud of it due to the low price I got it for but had to compromise with some perspiration), cleaning my room's air-conditioner, mopping the floor, cleaning my room, washing my clothes, unclogging the sink, throwing the rubbish... In fact, my sis saw me fixing my bookcase and popped a remark, "Wah Chao, so technical today ah? Not bad ah."
Yeah man, I felt a deep sense of accomplishment indeed. And I realise good things don't necessarily cost a hole in your wallet. They can come in cheap, if you don't mind paying the rest with your hands, hammering and knocking and twisting and turning. And hey, you get a free workout too! Heh. But I guess I kinda like DIY, not in the sense of making friendship bracelets, embroidering your pencil case and such if that was what came into your mind. What I mean is fixing and creating stuff, building stuff. It leaves you a deep sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. Though the bookcase I bought was plain, it was spiced up by every effort I put in. And it's now standing proud in a corner of my room, displaying the wonderful array of CDs I have placed and other more books in time to populate the shelves. Woohoo!
So anyway, I was complaining to dearie that my sisters were not doing much to contribute to the tidiness of the house, and she was like saying at least I know how to do such things, then my future wife would be better off. Heh heh. I feel comforted at the thought. As far as I could, I guess I would help out with the household chores, to assume the post of househusband at times. Haha. However, I still retain the traditional point of view that men should be the breadwinners of the family.
Speaking of that, I'm going to my second round of interview tomorrow at the job I'm currently applying for. Second round of interview! Wah, and it's with the managing director. I have to prepare a list of questions to ask and be graded based on that. And I heard the interview would last for 3 hours or so!! I don't know, I do hope it's a good decent company to start with. Oh well, wish me luck.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
The steps to success start from scratch. I need a lucky scratchcard though.
Oh man, so many things to blog about. I don't mean to make this blog wordy, but I can't help it but to express so many of my thoughts that are constantly running through my mind like an incessant moving train.
First off, ever since ORD, I believe I have reached out actively to search for jobs, get tuition assignments, and whatever. The tuition centre that I am currently working in on Saturdays is like an extra avenue for extra income. But I don't see it as somewhere I could work long time. Sure, I did learn quite a number of things from my manager, Yean. But recently, there's a slight conflict over some money matters that made me think twice about staying for long. I am currently teaching a Primary One girl and I'm generally satisfied with teaching, specially kids. Teaching them really make me feel all so young again, as if I see my childhood school days playback right in front of me. Besides teaching, I'm also helping out with recruiting new students, following up with contacts and so on. Yean told me that I was a highly-valued team member and expressed hopes that I could stay on. But honestly, I want to venture elsewhere with a more lucrative job scope and income. That's because I'm a man. And I crave for success. Who don't? But I'm obsessed with it.
So, a few days ago, I decided to try some online job search. Came across this advertising and marketing company which caught my eye. In a bid to vye for a chance to try out in this arena, I wrote my resume for the first time by copying my sister's resume template! Haha. So I was just sending it over. And the next day, I received a phone call saying that the managing director read my resume and would "very much like to put me into an interview". I went to the interview yesterday in corporate attire, and the office, though small, was filled with properly attired working adults. The lady who interviewed us was the HR manager, and she was very eloquent. I was interviewed together with 2 other job "wannabes". The first question she popped to us was to ask us to give an answer on why she arranged the interview this way instead of a 1 to 1 normal session. I wasn't awe struck at the moment, but I was like "oh man, this is the deal. The real interview stuff." This was probably the first ever time I faced such a serious interview and man was I like caught in real stuff. I knew I would be bombarded with questions and I need to tackle them well. The interview session went rather smoothly, and because of the fact that I paled in comparison in terms of job experience compared to the other two interviewees, I spoke more of my character, my personality and my dreams. The lady said she was impressed with my replies. Before the end of the interview, she told us she would contact us within 3 working days if we got into the 2nd round of interview. Oh man, and this time round would be a 3 hour interview session with the managing director! And we are supposed to come up with a list of questions to ask and we would be graded based on that, if we were to be selected.
Guess what? On the afternoon itself, I got a call. I was accepted into round 2. I'm so going to "Hollywood" man. HAHAHA. OK. *Maintains composure*
Oh man, so many things to blog about. I don't mean to make this blog wordy, but I can't help it but to express so many of my thoughts that are constantly running through my mind like an incessant moving train.
First off, ever since ORD, I believe I have reached out actively to search for jobs, get tuition assignments, and whatever. The tuition centre that I am currently working in on Saturdays is like an extra avenue for extra income. But I don't see it as somewhere I could work long time. Sure, I did learn quite a number of things from my manager, Yean. But recently, there's a slight conflict over some money matters that made me think twice about staying for long. I am currently teaching a Primary One girl and I'm generally satisfied with teaching, specially kids. Teaching them really make me feel all so young again, as if I see my childhood school days playback right in front of me. Besides teaching, I'm also helping out with recruiting new students, following up with contacts and so on. Yean told me that I was a highly-valued team member and expressed hopes that I could stay on. But honestly, I want to venture elsewhere with a more lucrative job scope and income. That's because I'm a man. And I crave for success. Who don't? But I'm obsessed with it.
So, a few days ago, I decided to try some online job search. Came across this advertising and marketing company which caught my eye. In a bid to vye for a chance to try out in this arena, I wrote my resume for the first time by copying my sister's resume template! Haha. So I was just sending it over. And the next day, I received a phone call saying that the managing director read my resume and would "very much like to put me into an interview". I went to the interview yesterday in corporate attire, and the office, though small, was filled with properly attired working adults. The lady who interviewed us was the HR manager, and she was very eloquent. I was interviewed together with 2 other job "wannabes". The first question she popped to us was to ask us to give an answer on why she arranged the interview this way instead of a 1 to 1 normal session. I wasn't awe struck at the moment, but I was like "oh man, this is the deal. The real interview stuff." This was probably the first ever time I faced such a serious interview and man was I like caught in real stuff. I knew I would be bombarded with questions and I need to tackle them well. The interview session went rather smoothly, and because of the fact that I paled in comparison in terms of job experience compared to the other two interviewees, I spoke more of my character, my personality and my dreams. The lady said she was impressed with my replies. Before the end of the interview, she told us she would contact us within 3 working days if we got into the 2nd round of interview. Oh man, and this time round would be a 3 hour interview session with the managing director! And we are supposed to come up with a list of questions to ask and we would be graded based on that, if we were to be selected.
Guess what? On the afternoon itself, I got a call. I was accepted into round 2. I'm so going to "Hollywood" man. HAHAHA. OK. *Maintains composure*
Thursday, February 21, 2008
From Vday to Bday - Part Two
At Timbre...
Later on at night, we met up with trio, deniece, yingpeng and russell at the new Timbre pub at City Hall area. We had an "extravaganza" night snapping photos. And they gave me a surprise with a nice chocolatey birthday cake! Thanks guys!
At Home...
On the day of my birthday itself, I met up with Aaron and dearie. Then we went to Jurong Point after walking around town cos Aaron said they wanted me to choose a gift at Harvey Norman, which they already thought of to buy for me. I was thrilled and excited to see that they are planning to get me a LG Chocolate Jukebox, which is a DVD Home Theatre System that could store up to 22,000 songs, rip cds and store them in and so on!! It's so uber cool. I mean I couldn't reject right? Not very nice right? Haha. Especially such an irresistable offer! Anyway, thanks guys. Really appreciated it. Also to dearie and my siblings who shared the cost. That was the coolest and most highly-valued birthday gift I ever received! After that, back at home, the celebration continued...
At Timbre...
Later on at night, we met up with trio, deniece, yingpeng and russell at the new Timbre pub at City Hall area. We had an "extravaganza" night snapping photos. And they gave me a surprise with a nice chocolatey birthday cake! Thanks guys!
At Home...
On the day of my birthday itself, I met up with Aaron and dearie. Then we went to Jurong Point after walking around town cos Aaron said they wanted me to choose a gift at Harvey Norman, which they already thought of to buy for me. I was thrilled and excited to see that they are planning to get me a LG Chocolate Jukebox, which is a DVD Home Theatre System that could store up to 22,000 songs, rip cds and store them in and so on!! It's so uber cool. I mean I couldn't reject right? Not very nice right? Haha. Especially such an irresistable offer! Anyway, thanks guys. Really appreciated it. Also to dearie and my siblings who shared the cost. That was the coolest and most highly-valued birthday gift I ever received! After that, back at home, the celebration continued...
You know, honestly, I don't need grand celebrations for my birthday each year. It is already comforting to know that each year, I have my family, a bunch of good friends and right now, my girlfriend, to be there to celebrate with me. Having blessed with all these, I am already contented. =)
From Vday to Bday - Part One
So many things happened during the past weeks which left me choked with emotions, urged with reflections.
I have received a complain letter from the Ministry of Pictures saying that my blog is too wordy! *Grumbles* So I'm going to lighten things a bit by adding some palette of pictures. First off, just a couple of photos leading from Valentine's Day to my Birthday. For more of the pictures, check out my Friendster and Facebook.
Vday 08 - Dempsey Hill's Ben and Jerry's
Valentine's Day this year was great. And it was especially significant for me as it meant that my 20 years of singlehood were finally replaced by a spark of joy in my life. And to me. It meant a lot. Loved the ambience of the restaurant. And the music. Perfect ambience. Perfect date. :)
22nd Birthday Celebrations - At Singapore Flying Club, Timbre, Home...
At Singapore Flying Club...
Dearie planned a surprise for me by bringing me to this awesome place to eat. Loved the atmosphere, especially at night. First impression I had was that it was so remote that it was highly accessible. Who knows it turned out to be quite a gem. I could see the planes taking off while having my meal. The food serving was generous and the entire meal was sumptuous! The "foresty" nature of the environment was awesome as well.
Is that a bird, a plane....?!
"Hey man, check out that butt."
What dearie had: Pork Chop. Chop chilli chop!
What I had: Pan-Fried Fish. Something fishy going on eh?
This is how you eat gracefully.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Singapore's Next Top Model?! DREAMing.. Haha.
Oh how I love life after army! I'm serious. Spending my days away from the dusty, musty camp really feels like luxury. Probably because I haven't felt so "free" before. Finally, I don't have to worry about booking in, don't have to worry about breaking any army law right now. Cos you know what, I'm a civilian! Hohohoo!!!
So let's see. These 2 days been rather eventful for me. Yesterday, my dad woke me up early in the morning and told me that I had to start my orientation with him. Yeah, did I mention I'm supposed to help out my dad in his job? So anyway, I visited Nestle factory with him to check out on our exports, then we headed to a farm at Lim Chu Kang where the exports were sent over there. It was so good to see the farm roads again. I've used to go to my dad's farm when I was younger and there were so many ducks there. But sadly, the farmland had to be returned to the government. So I really missed the good old days running around with the dogs in camp, touching and hatching the little ducklings. So back to the farm yesterday brought back memories, though it's my father's friend's farm. But the odour that hung in the air was instantly reminiscent of those farm days. And the swallows that circled the warehouses were just everywhere! Sometimes, it's good to step back a little and relax a bit at the "countryside".
So anyway, today, I decided to go for some job hunting. Woke up in the morning to go through the Classified section of Straits Times. Managed to book a few interviews for tomorrow. I even called up a modelling agency and went down for an interview today!! Haha. Yeah man, it's back to the "wannabe" lifestyle of going for auditions, interviews and whatever, just to see how far I can go. I mean, I've loved to perform ever since, so army has been a long break for such ventures.
So as I was saying, I dropped by this model agency which I knew had advertised almost everyday on the papers. I had this impression that it was rather sleazy. And my elder sister heard of it before, and advised me not to even waste my time. However, the adventurous spirit in me decided to check it out. I mean, I couldn't be too gullible right?! Surely I could differentiate what's good for me. So anyway, the place was not as bad as what I thought it would be. I was greeted by rows and columns of professionally-taken face photos on the walls, as if they made up the wallpapers. And this "booker" talked to me. Talked a lot. Nearly more than an hour I think.
He asked me if I had the passion and interest for modelling and asked me if I have heard anything about the model industry. Of course I have heard lots from my elder sister who used to model for prestigious model agencies. I followed her to numerous fashion shows and therefore sparked my interest in this arena. I just told the guy that the modelling industry is not as glam as it seems. And he asked me for examples. Then I said well, there's this thing about being manipulated, about influences into clubbing and things that basically stray from the good path. So anyway, that was the skeptical me, not that I have come up with all these myself, but I have heard stories too. But the guy just gave me a "question mark" look, trying to tell me that all these are untrue, and that these don't happen in his agency. Seriously, I can tell he's trying to buy me, but I know these are all "part of the process". But he did not look unscrupulous in any way, so I guess it's ok to hear more. He showed me evidence of his models in photoshoots, print ads, and so on.
He told me that the model market is all out for Caucasians and Pan Asians, and that Asians like us are not in high demand. This I have heard about too. But he said his agency is different from the rest, saying that they are all out to promote the Asians. I don't know whether to buy that or not but I just continued to listen on. So he blabbered on with what's the industry about, and that they wanted to gather models from the public because they are looking for different faces and personalities, and that personality is the key to making it big.
I told him I don't mind giving a try though I did not have very high self esteem on this. But he assured me that looks-wise, I look pleasant and nice-looking, and that the moment I stepped into the office, he found me refreshing. I stared at myself wearing a mickey-mouse long sleeve white shirt with a 3-quarter green black striped pants, and I wonder if he's just trying to console me. HAHA. But anyway, I also wonder if he told everyone who stepped in all these, like as if he's got some script or something.
He proceeded on to tell me that he's already accepted me and just waiting for my response. ALREADY accepted me?! For like an hour of sitting in his office? Ok. That's fast. But he told me I had to go for some photoshoot to see how good I am on photos. And the package is charged at $199 for 9 professional photos, a student rate, according to him. I wanted to roll my eyes but decided to prevent that from happening. Then he showed me some COM cards of the models with their pictures and statistics on it and said that the cards are to be shown to clients. The agency will help to promote to the clients, but there are still auditions to go through. So whether or not we get to have an assignment, it's another thing.
I told him I would need to consult some people for advice. And well, he's just waiting for a reply from me now.
I don't know. Me? A model? Oh man, I think I need to bulk up more first before thinking about going any further huh? But can you imagine seeing me on TV, on print ads on posters at bus-stops or whatever? HAHAHA. Sounds hilarious. Let's see. I'm still hesitating though. But honestly, if it's 100% free, I would just sign up instantly man.
Ok. I need to do some serious job hunting first. And enrol in a school. I still wanna study!
Get down to work Chao. Time to put effort and put time to wise use. Now get cracking tallie. XD
Oh how I love life after army! I'm serious. Spending my days away from the dusty, musty camp really feels like luxury. Probably because I haven't felt so "free" before. Finally, I don't have to worry about booking in, don't have to worry about breaking any army law right now. Cos you know what, I'm a civilian! Hohohoo!!!
So let's see. These 2 days been rather eventful for me. Yesterday, my dad woke me up early in the morning and told me that I had to start my orientation with him. Yeah, did I mention I'm supposed to help out my dad in his job? So anyway, I visited Nestle factory with him to check out on our exports, then we headed to a farm at Lim Chu Kang where the exports were sent over there. It was so good to see the farm roads again. I've used to go to my dad's farm when I was younger and there were so many ducks there. But sadly, the farmland had to be returned to the government. So I really missed the good old days running around with the dogs in camp, touching and hatching the little ducklings. So back to the farm yesterday brought back memories, though it's my father's friend's farm. But the odour that hung in the air was instantly reminiscent of those farm days. And the swallows that circled the warehouses were just everywhere! Sometimes, it's good to step back a little and relax a bit at the "countryside".
So anyway, today, I decided to go for some job hunting. Woke up in the morning to go through the Classified section of Straits Times. Managed to book a few interviews for tomorrow. I even called up a modelling agency and went down for an interview today!! Haha. Yeah man, it's back to the "wannabe" lifestyle of going for auditions, interviews and whatever, just to see how far I can go. I mean, I've loved to perform ever since, so army has been a long break for such ventures.
So as I was saying, I dropped by this model agency which I knew had advertised almost everyday on the papers. I had this impression that it was rather sleazy. And my elder sister heard of it before, and advised me not to even waste my time. However, the adventurous spirit in me decided to check it out. I mean, I couldn't be too gullible right?! Surely I could differentiate what's good for me. So anyway, the place was not as bad as what I thought it would be. I was greeted by rows and columns of professionally-taken face photos on the walls, as if they made up the wallpapers. And this "booker" talked to me. Talked a lot. Nearly more than an hour I think.
He asked me if I had the passion and interest for modelling and asked me if I have heard anything about the model industry. Of course I have heard lots from my elder sister who used to model for prestigious model agencies. I followed her to numerous fashion shows and therefore sparked my interest in this arena. I just told the guy that the modelling industry is not as glam as it seems. And he asked me for examples. Then I said well, there's this thing about being manipulated, about influences into clubbing and things that basically stray from the good path. So anyway, that was the skeptical me, not that I have come up with all these myself, but I have heard stories too. But the guy just gave me a "question mark" look, trying to tell me that all these are untrue, and that these don't happen in his agency. Seriously, I can tell he's trying to buy me, but I know these are all "part of the process". But he did not look unscrupulous in any way, so I guess it's ok to hear more. He showed me evidence of his models in photoshoots, print ads, and so on.
He told me that the model market is all out for Caucasians and Pan Asians, and that Asians like us are not in high demand. This I have heard about too. But he said his agency is different from the rest, saying that they are all out to promote the Asians. I don't know whether to buy that or not but I just continued to listen on. So he blabbered on with what's the industry about, and that they wanted to gather models from the public because they are looking for different faces and personalities, and that personality is the key to making it big.
I told him I don't mind giving a try though I did not have very high self esteem on this. But he assured me that looks-wise, I look pleasant and nice-looking, and that the moment I stepped into the office, he found me refreshing. I stared at myself wearing a mickey-mouse long sleeve white shirt with a 3-quarter green black striped pants, and I wonder if he's just trying to console me. HAHA. But anyway, I also wonder if he told everyone who stepped in all these, like as if he's got some script or something.
He proceeded on to tell me that he's already accepted me and just waiting for my response. ALREADY accepted me?! For like an hour of sitting in his office? Ok. That's fast. But he told me I had to go for some photoshoot to see how good I am on photos. And the package is charged at $199 for 9 professional photos, a student rate, according to him. I wanted to roll my eyes but decided to prevent that from happening. Then he showed me some COM cards of the models with their pictures and statistics on it and said that the cards are to be shown to clients. The agency will help to promote to the clients, but there are still auditions to go through. So whether or not we get to have an assignment, it's another thing.
I told him I would need to consult some people for advice. And well, he's just waiting for a reply from me now.
I don't know. Me? A model? Oh man, I think I need to bulk up more first before thinking about going any further huh? But can you imagine seeing me on TV, on print ads on posters at bus-stops or whatever? HAHAHA. Sounds hilarious. Let's see. I'm still hesitating though. But honestly, if it's 100% free, I would just sign up instantly man.
Ok. I need to do some serious job hunting first. And enrol in a school. I still wanna study!
Get down to work Chao. Time to put effort and put time to wise use. Now get cracking tallie. XD
Monday, February 11, 2008
Civilianised once more!
This is the first ever Sunday that I can put off any worries about booking in. Cos I don't have to anymore.
ORD LOH!!!
Lol. I can't contain the excitement. Finally, free from the tentacles of the law. I'm free to roam about in the open sea, finding my own cosy seabed. =)
Anyway, here's a Happy CNY to all! A bit late, but better late than never right? Hope you guys have been enjoying yourself as much as I do. And this year's earnings are rather lucrative. Hahaha. It's like "shaking your leg" and money comes to you. If only that can happen everyday. Lol. You wish. I wish. HAHAHA.
Ok, now is high time for some job-hunting. And I've yet to enrol in a school. Procrastination. Kill it please! ><
This is the first ever Sunday that I can put off any worries about booking in. Cos I don't have to anymore.
ORD LOH!!!
Lol. I can't contain the excitement. Finally, free from the tentacles of the law. I'm free to roam about in the open sea, finding my own cosy seabed. =)
Anyway, here's a Happy CNY to all! A bit late, but better late than never right? Hope you guys have been enjoying yourself as much as I do. And this year's earnings are rather lucrative. Hahaha. It's like "shaking your leg" and money comes to you. If only that can happen everyday. Lol. You wish. I wish. HAHAHA.
Ok, now is high time for some job-hunting. And I've yet to enrol in a school. Procrastination. Kill it please! ><
Saturday, February 02, 2008
ORD... counting down...
Hey peeps, what's up?
You know, for the past whole week, I was having this terrible sore throat. Then it escalated and snowballed into flu, cough, and eventually, fever. Like a surprise package for me just before ORD. -_-
I went to see the doctor yesterday cos I was feeling really terrible. And guess what was my temperature? 39.3 degree celsius! I think it's a record-breaking one for me. The past few days in camp I felt rather lethargic. How funny, at this point of time, people would usually revel since ORD is already like only few days away?! But for me, I felt numbed. And to top it off, this irritating thing called illness. The doctor was like saying, if there are any rashes I should be wary. The first thing that came to my mind was dengue. Ok. That's a bit too much for me. But then, she blamed it on the bad weather and was saying many people were "high" on fever recently too. So I would rather believe on the latter. If there's anything to blame, blame it on the weather! Definitely not me right? Oh come on, look at me, I'm strong! *Flexes muscles* ;)
Anyway, I have already brought most of my stuff back from camp. My bulky duffel bag which I spent time cleaning and washing it even though I really dreaded doing it. My field pack too. All fully stuffed with army "goodies". And now they are all safely "thrown" away in the mini storeroom. Let's hope "they" have a good time in there. And let's hope I don't have to touch them. Ever again.
Ok, let's see. How many more days to ORD? Officially should be 4 more days. But I've officially declared myself an ORD personnel already since there's really nothing much left, except some dekitting stuff to do in camp on Monday, our Battery ORD function on Tuesday at Sentosa, and CNY celebration on Wednesday. Oh and of course not to forget the toiletries still left in my cabinet.
With that in mind, I really need to find jobs real soon. I mean I'm doing some part time now at the tuition centre and teaching tuition, but I would want more assignments. Tuition agencies kept calling me up for assignments to which either I find the pay too little or I have no time to entertain the requests. But for now, I would pay attention to every opportunity given to me. Another one called me earlier just now. It seems a pretty good deal. One month, once per week, 1½ hours per session. Primary 5 student. $220. Still waiting for a reply though.
Anyway, tuition can't be the only job. It's just something extra. Another avenue to earn extra cash. So I gotta find some concrete job, hopefully a lucrative one. But tell me, where can I find such a good lobang?! I think I told dearie that I wanted to earn my first million when I reach 25. I wanted to laugh my head off but it's always good to dream. Haha. Admin jobs for me is a no-no, unless the pay is really good. I just can't bear to sit in front of a computer typing all day, craning my neck, squinting my eyes on the monitor or furiously scribbling away on pieces and pieces of paper. To put it simple, I'm a rather restless person. This means I need to walk around. That's why I prefer to do sales. I like to talk too.
Okok, later.
Hey peeps, what's up?
You know, for the past whole week, I was having this terrible sore throat. Then it escalated and snowballed into flu, cough, and eventually, fever. Like a surprise package for me just before ORD. -_-
I went to see the doctor yesterday cos I was feeling really terrible. And guess what was my temperature? 39.3 degree celsius! I think it's a record-breaking one for me. The past few days in camp I felt rather lethargic. How funny, at this point of time, people would usually revel since ORD is already like only few days away?! But for me, I felt numbed. And to top it off, this irritating thing called illness. The doctor was like saying, if there are any rashes I should be wary. The first thing that came to my mind was dengue. Ok. That's a bit too much for me. But then, she blamed it on the bad weather and was saying many people were "high" on fever recently too. So I would rather believe on the latter. If there's anything to blame, blame it on the weather! Definitely not me right? Oh come on, look at me, I'm strong! *Flexes muscles* ;)
Anyway, I have already brought most of my stuff back from camp. My bulky duffel bag which I spent time cleaning and washing it even though I really dreaded doing it. My field pack too. All fully stuffed with army "goodies". And now they are all safely "thrown" away in the mini storeroom. Let's hope "they" have a good time in there. And let's hope I don't have to touch them. Ever again.
Ok, let's see. How many more days to ORD? Officially should be 4 more days. But I've officially declared myself an ORD personnel already since there's really nothing much left, except some dekitting stuff to do in camp on Monday, our Battery ORD function on Tuesday at Sentosa, and CNY celebration on Wednesday. Oh and of course not to forget the toiletries still left in my cabinet.
With that in mind, I really need to find jobs real soon. I mean I'm doing some part time now at the tuition centre and teaching tuition, but I would want more assignments. Tuition agencies kept calling me up for assignments to which either I find the pay too little or I have no time to entertain the requests. But for now, I would pay attention to every opportunity given to me. Another one called me earlier just now. It seems a pretty good deal. One month, once per week, 1½ hours per session. Primary 5 student. $220. Still waiting for a reply though.
Anyway, tuition can't be the only job. It's just something extra. Another avenue to earn extra cash. So I gotta find some concrete job, hopefully a lucrative one. But tell me, where can I find such a good lobang?! I think I told dearie that I wanted to earn my first million when I reach 25. I wanted to laugh my head off but it's always good to dream. Haha. Admin jobs for me is a no-no, unless the pay is really good. I just can't bear to sit in front of a computer typing all day, craning my neck, squinting my eyes on the monitor or furiously scribbling away on pieces and pieces of paper. To put it simple, I'm a rather restless person. This means I need to walk around. That's why I prefer to do sales. I like to talk too.
Okok, later.
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