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Article from Sunday Times, 28 September 2008
The Sunday Times September 28, 2008
YOUR PERSONAL ADVISER: CAREER
Q I am a health-care professional. Shortly after my wedding, I quit my job to join my husband overseas as he was required to work outstation for a few years.
We will be in our early 30s when we return to Singapore in the second quarter of next year.
I' m considering whether to go back to my former profession or make a career switch and venture into child education business. I have a strong interest in children. I'm currently doing a long-distance diploma on child education.
Should I return to my former profession so I can enjoy job stability, regular hours and paid maternity leave, or should I venture into a new business?
A Both options are likely to offer you career and personal satisfaction. With each, there are pros and cons.
Being assured of a pay cheque each month is a nice feeling to have.
Since you will be only in your early 30s when you return to Singapore, you can easily afford to take a few years to learn more and absorb more experience in terms of working with people and dealing with challenges and set-backs, while enjoying the perks (including paid maternity leave) of a salaried employee.
If you have a few more years to go before you complete your course, it might be the perfect time for you to launch your business after you get your diploma.
Before starting out on your own, you should, ideally, have a solid understanding of your strengths and your financial situation. You should also be familiar with the market: who the competitors are, what customers need and what prospects are likely. In addition, you should have a business plan.
The issue of whether you should venture out on your own or work with partners must also be considered. Again there are pros and cons either way.
Perhaps, above all else, you should examine your motivations for wanting to become an entrepreneur. Your husband’s moral support is also crucial. Both of you should be on the same page in terms of the risks, demands and challenges you’ll face, and the sacrifices you’ll probably have to make if you become your own boss.
Paul Heng, Founder
NeXT Career Consulting Group, Asia
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