Public Officers’ Advice For Our Younger Selves (Part 1)

Winning Entry:

Grace Huang Wei, Central Provident Fund Board (CPFB)

A career in the Public Service wasn’t exactly my dream straight out of graduation. I initially held the usual stereotypes about slow progress and rigid structures, with little real understanding of what the job truly entailed. However, after a conversation with a friend about their experience in the Public Service, I decided to dive in.

Reflecting on the past two years in this field, here’s the advice I would give my younger self:

1. Learn the rules before you break them

The Public Service has established processes that may seem manual. Coming from an engineering background where innovation and technology is leveraged in projects and assignments, you might find things a bit “old-school”.

However, it is important to respect the knowledge of your colleagues and understand why things are done a certain way before pushing for change. Technology may be powerful, but it is not always the quick fix.

2. Embrace tech trends

You’re entering the Public Service during a time of significant digital transformation. Generative Artificial Intelligence, automation, and data analytics are the buzzwords among your bosses.

Don’t shy away from exploring these trends to streamline work and boost efficiency. Your ideas might start off rough, but experienced colleagues will help you bring them to life step by step.

3. Be resilient and adapt to changes

Navigating a rapidly evolving work environment requires resilience. The shift from school to work, combined with post-pandemic and digital transformation in the workplace, can feel challenging. Take your time to learn, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

4. Focus on Personal Growth

Explore your passions and build your network. It’s okay to feel new to the field. When you have ideas, share them confidently. Invest in learning new skills and don’t hesitate to have career conversations with your bosses—they’re often more approachable than they seem.

5. Enjoy the Journey

The Public Service is full of opportunities and challenges. Embrace the journey, stay committed to your growth, and keep an open mind. Starting a career in the Public Service has been a rewarding adventure. Keep these tips in mind to navigate your journey and make the most of it.

Thank you for sharing your wisdom, Grace! You win $100 worth of Klook vouchers to continue exploring your passions and embracing new experiences!

Other Entries:

Athena Michael, Ministry of Digital Development and Information (MDDI)

As I look back on my nine-year adventure in the Public Service, I can't help but ponder the advice I would give to my younger self - the bright-eyed, bushy-tailed newbie eager to make a difference. So here it goes, a few nuggets of wisdom I've gleaned along the way:

1) Embrace the rollercoaster ride: Dear younger Athena, buckle up because the ride in the Public Service is going to be a thrilling roller coaster. There will be highs that make you feel on top of the world and lows that test your resilience. Embrace it all and remember that every twist and turn is an opportunity for growth.

2) Listen more, talk less: In a world buzzing with opinions and ideas, remember to listen attentively before you speak. Your colleagues, superiors, and even those you serve have valuable insights to offer. Soak it all in like a sponge and watch how it enriches your perspective.

3) Build your tribe: Surround yourself with a tribe of diverse, supportive, and inspiring individuals. These are the people who will lift you up on tough days, celebrate your wins with genuine joy, and challenge you to be the best version of yourself. Together, you'll create magic.

4) Celebrate small victories: Amid tackling grand challenges and navigating the woes of adulthood, don't forget to celebrate the small victories along the way. Each milestone achieved, each life touched positively, is a cause for celebration. Remember, progress is progress, no matter how small.

5) Embrace change fearlessly: The only constant in the Public Service is change. Embrace it fearlessly, adapt quickly, and see it as an opportunity to innovate and make a real impact. Your flexibility and openness to change will set you apart.

So, dear younger Athena, as you navigate the dynamic world of the Public Service, remember to stay curious, stay humble, and above all, stay true to your passion for serving others. The road ahead is full of challenges and triumphs, but with the right mindset and a dash of courage, you'll go places you never thought possible.

Text by Yoganeetha Sivakumar

Photos by Mandy Ong