#BetterWorker #BetterEmployer // Adverts- Vogue Avenue, Loveige

Can't believe that in about 1 month, I'll be out of school officially. As mentioned before, I'm not sure if I'll be furthering my studies. I plan to enjoy my life while I can since I haven't been able to do that over the past few years. It's always been about school, blogging and modeling. At the moment, as you all are aware, I am busy with my school's internship program. Many of you have been constantly asking me what it's all about, well... I can't give it away due to a school's policy but I must say that it's totally different from what I'd expected.

I study fashion. Ask any fashion/design student and they will all tell you the same thing. What most people think of the fashion industry isn't exactly what it seems. It isn't always about being glamorous on the runway or working closely with supermodels. Most of time I'm required to run errands for my employer, which inevitably means travelling around the country. Some times, without time to take a break. The working world is entirely different from school life. You can't afford to depend on others cause there really isn't anyone around that would take care of you around the clock.

Through all my experiences of being involved in the working industry, I've come to realize that I might choose to open my own business instead. It's just not in my nature to work under someone. I've tried on many occasions but I think (as cliché as it may sound) my life would be a lot more complete knowing that I own something big. The thought of the future may be scary and I'm sure many of us (myself included) are at the crossroad where we just don't know which path to take. I guess we should all just go ahead with whatever comes our way, take chances and remember to enjoy life while we do it.

I've been kept awake on some nights thinking about it and honestly, no matter how strong my dream to own a business is, I think that it is still important to have some sort of experience working in a company, around people. It's kinda like school where you learn skills that the books can't teach you. And I think that since I aspire to be a boss, it is important for me to know what it feels like to be an employee first. In this way, I am aware of the needs of my future employees. This will help me be a better boss, knowing how to help my staff be happier and better at their jobs, increase their productivity (not squeezing every ounce of time from them) and grow my business on positive energy.  

With all that said, I hope that my future employer would do the same for me. I aspire to be an owner of my own company in future and I will keep in mind that my future employees are human too. From my experiences so far, I will make sure that I am a leader and not just a boss. I guess the following image will give you an idea of what I mean.

I usually don’t follow what politicians say but I totally felt NTUC chief Lim Swee Say summed up how positive energy shouldn’t just come from employers and staff, but customers "should remember that service staff are people too".

For example, how many times have we heard nasty complaints about taxi drivers? But do we also take crappy customers to task when they cheat taxi drivers, beat them up, vomit in their car or become sarcastic when the drivers asks for their preferred route?

Shouldn’t we be more appreciative of these taxi uncles and aunties who ferry us around and hold our safety in their hands?

It really is important that customers interact with staff with a smile on their face and not expect too much. Working at A&F two years back taught me how it feels like to handle nasty customers with unreasonable requests. One time, I was asked to follow a customer around the 3-storey building carrying his pile of merchandises, as though I was his personal helper. Honestly, I don't mind going the extra mile for any customer but it just wasn't a pleasant experience because he was so rude and bossy. It really doesn't hurt to smile and greet the staff back you know?

On another note, some of my friends lament that with Singapore's growing population, will we even be able to find a job easily or if we do have a job, will we be able to look forward to a promotion soon? I've heard of many instances where people are constantly rejected due to the vast amount of people living in Singapore at the moment. Not a day goes by where we don't hear locals complaining about how difficult it is to get the job or position of their dreams since they have to compete with foreign talents. That’s why getting good jobs and pay is such a big worry to students like me.

Union leaders like Patrick Tay are calling for more protection for PMEs, for government to ensure we are considered fairly for jobs before companies can hire foreign talent (we’re so overcrowded in the first place).

And since the world is constantly changing, can companies readily make second skilling opportunities available to us, so we can learn good skills to be even better at what we love to do?

Well, I can't say much about what I expect from my job in future since I don't exactly have a taste of it yet. But I am certain I would like a form of job protection, opportunities to progress etc.

 I guess, I just hope to be able to work in a healthy environment with an employer that's admirable and hardworking on his/her own. It's kinda like school where you would work extra hard on a subject just for the teacher that you like.

Also, I hope that through my commitment to the job and the assets I've given to the company over time, I may progress as well. Nobody wants to stay stagnant at the same position forever right? I'm glad that NTUC and unions are stepping up to protect our interests and our future.

And thanks for reading this rather lengthy post.

I hope it was beneficial though! Anyway, have a great week ahead! ;)

xoxo,

Eunice Annabel
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Advertorials

1) Vogue Avenue
http://www.vogueavenue.com.sg/

"Energetic, fresh and vibrant online boutique based in Singapore. Vogue Avenue deeply understands the love and affection in you girls towards style and fashion." 

You are gonna LOVEEEEE Vogue Avenue's latest collection. I had a tough time picking out what I wanted. Whether you're looking for something a little more edgy, or you've always been that sweet feminine girl, there's definitely something for you in their latest collection. Here are my picks!^^

Nocturne Bare Dress

As you can see, it's the featured dress of this collection cause it's just too freaking stunning. Sure, bare back dresses are such a craze these days and you can never have enough. I just find the criss cross details of this dress really interesting. Kinda looks like it was inspired by an inverted hexagram huh? It's also really comfy thanks to it's super soft cotton fabric. Really, a piece that you won't wanna miss.

Bonnie Top

Lately, I've been into tweed a lot (erhem, check out the bag featured above). But tweed can get pretty uncomfortable especially if it's really thick. But this one's super comfy and since it features a much different, softer fabric at the back, I don't feel an itch at all. I love how easy it is to pair this with almost anything too!

Like and follow Vogue Avenue on their social media platforms for more updates!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VogueAvenue.com.sg

Instagram: @vogueavenuesg

**And in case you didn't know, Vogue Avenue has a "Rewards" system whereby, with every purchase of $1, you will be entitled to 1 VA point. For every 20 VA Points accumulated, it is equivalent to $1 credit! (as stated in screenshot below)

Head on down to http://www.vogueavenue.com.sg/ and click on the "Rewards" icon on the top right hand corner of the website to find out more^^

Vogue Avenue merchandise also available at:

Blogshopping - Far East Plaza #01-33/34

14 Scotts Road, Singapore 228213

Blogshopping - Bugis Junction #03-12A

200 Victoria Street, Singapore 188021

Blogshopping - JEM #04-07 

50 Jurong Gateway Road, Singapore 608549

Wait no further!!! SHOP AWAY!

http://www.vogueavenue.com.sg/

http://www.vogueavenue.com.sg/

http://www.vogueavenue.com.sg/

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2) Loveige

http://loveige.com/en/

Loveige is a spunky online fashion boutique based in Singapore. We aimed at offering high-quality, moderately priced and diverse product range that are trendy and stylish to our customers. We believe in partnering with our customers, employees and community and we aim to become a regionally recognised brand name for the love of Fashion.

Besides offering versatility and variety of clothing to our valued customers age from 18 to 40, we also believe that “Giving is Receiving”, we are committed to donate part of our profits to a charity of our choice and spread love to the community.

Here are my picks!^^

Elisha Royal Blue Maxi

How in the world do you say no to such a gorgeous maxi dress?? First of all, it has such a STUNNING colour that will definitely make you stand out from the crowd. Next, it fits perfectly and it's length is just right! I love how I can wear this to almost any occasion too- perfect for a simple dinner date, brunch appointment or even a special event. Available in black as well^^ Highly recommend this piece if you're looking for a new maxi dress.

Prisca Sequin Frock

Ka-ching, Ka-ching, bling, bling, bling!!! Madly in love with this sequin halter dress. There's so much elegance and poise in it! It'll work great for a special occasion and you'll know for sure that you're neither underdressed or overdressed cause it's almost perfect. I'd picked Gold but it's available in black and blue too.

The Owner of LOVEIGE emphasized: "We are aware that competition for e-commerce apparel shops is very strong these days and to make ourselves stand out from the rest, we vow to make a difference to the shopping experience of consumers. Besides offering more unique designs, we treat every customer like our friend. Going the extra mile for each and every customer is  very important to us because we were consumers too, and we understand the frustrations that one may face while making online purchases.

LOVEIGE aims to minimize those unnecessary frustrations (inflexibility of certain rules and regulations and rudeness of representatives of retail outlets) and enhance the shopping experiences of customers."

LOVEIGE is having a 20% storewide GSS sale*, do hop by and get something for yourself! Enter Discount code GSSLOVEIGE upon checkout for 20% off!

*T&C: GSS sale discount is applicable to all items except sales items & New arrival items that are launched on 12th June

GIVEAWAY TIME!

Wanna stand a chance to be one of the 3 lucky winners to win a $25 voucher each?

Here's what you have to do!:)

1) Like LOVEIGE's FB page at www.facebook.com/loveigesingapore

2) Email LOVEIGE at help@loveige.com with your Facebook profile name

Good luck!^^

INSTAGRAM: http://instagram.com/loveige

WEBSITE: www.loveige.com

Media Literacy Council- Safer Internet Day 2014

Safer Internet Day 2014

Let's create a better Internet together

Hello folks! Today I'm going to be blogging about something that I've always felt strongly about but never had an opportunity to talk about it. Before I begin on this rather personal post, allow me to introduce to you Safer Internet Day 2014. 

Please do not close the tab just yet. It's not going to be just another advertisement post neither is this just another blogging deal I've got. I do enjoy blogging about anything related to fashion or beauty but some how, I feel very strongly about this campaign because I truly believe in its purpose and motive. When Gushcloud handed me out this task from Singapore Media Literacy Council (MLC), I was initially confused and I had no idea how my blog's genre would match this campaign. But after attending a much-needed meeting with MLC themselves, I walked out of the room eager to finally get all of my thoughts out on this space.

First and foremost, the Media Literacy Council (MLC) works hand in hand with our government to ensure that public education regarding media literacy and cyber wellness is developed. The world is continuously developing and it is inevitable to not be connected with one another through social media platforms. Let's be honest, having Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts plays a huge part in our lives whether we are frequent users of them or not. My cousins, nieces and nephews who are barely even 12 are constantly engaged in the virtual world and at times, they may even be more tech-savvy then I am. We can look at it in both positive and negative ways but we have to acknowledge the fact that technology and the Internet are part of our lives whether we like it or not.

Here's how Safer Internet Day comes into the picture. I remember only starting a Facebook account about 7 years ago, at the same time when the first few smart phones were introduced to the world. Back then; I'm sure many of us weren't as hooked onto these social media platforms as we are today. It has become the way we live and interact with one another.

I'm sure it was all fun and games initially, and there’s definitely positive attributes to these platforms like staying connected with your friends whom you may not see very often. On the other hand, it has come to my attention that these platforms have also become some sort of portal for users to confront or hurt another individual without coming into real contact. It's not surprising to witness "dramas" online that really shouldn't even be mentioned on a space that everyone is free to visit and use at all. I am certain that most of us have come across such cases where an individual is bullied and spoken ill of. And in the process, onlookers get to be a part of it as well when it shouldn't even concern them. But since the discussion is put on display online, naturally they'd feel the need to take a stand as well because there simply aren't any boundaries.

And here's what I've always been afraid to write about. I am SICK of the online world. Try to picture the way things are said and done online in the REAL world. Imagine random people on the streets stopping by a conflict and taking sides on a situation that they may not even know anything about. Imagine someone sitting beside you on a bus outspokenly saying mean things to a complete stranger opposite. It's hard to imagine and it may even be funny to think about it but the reality is, if we don't do this sort of things in our REAL lives, why do we do it in our VIRTUAL lives?

This is why up till today; I do not wish to own an Ask.fm account. As we all know, the digital space allows us to hide behind anonymity which many users take advantage of. People enjoy leaving behind crude remarks towards me there even if I hadn't done anything wrong and I don't feel the need to constantly be answering questions from people I do not know. It applies the same way to my real life. I don't see random strangers asking me questions or saying spiteful things to me. Look at yourself. Don't you think that the Internet would be a better and safer place if your virtual life were a little bit more like your real life?

Here's how you can do your part to make our Internet a safer place for everyone.

Empathy: We were all brought up with a mentality to always spare a thought for others. We learn how to think before we say certain things so that it wouldn't hurt anyone. Why can't we apply this very simple value of empathy when we tune in to the virtual world? I think that it is important to always put yourself in the other person's shoe before saying or doing anything. Imagine if you were getting cyber bullied and cornered by hurtful comments by random people instead. How would you deal with it? How would you feel to know that there are people out there hating you when all they know about you is your name? So spare a thought for others. Don't do what you don't want others to do to you.

Responsibility: Every action has a consequence. And I think that the best way to take responsibility when you're online is to ask yourself if you would regret whatever you intend to post when you're 5 years down the road. If you have already said or done something that shouldn't be put on display online, take responsibility for it. Admit that you were wrong, and amend it. It's never too late to reflect and just apologize.

Integrity: I feel that this is significantly missing from the virtual world, specifically from Singaporeans. We all know that majority of Singaporeans tend to "mind their own business" even when something terrible is happening right in front of their eyes. Take about 30 seconds to think of a situation where something bad happened online. Did you keep quiet and watch? Did you jump onto the bandwagon and start criticizing without knowing the full story? Or did you stand up against it knowing that whatever was happening is wrong? Staying away from trouble is a great option but some times, it'll also be awesome to be that person that says, "This isn't right. We don't know what happened and there are always two sides to every story. So we shouldn't be too quick to judge. Maybe we should take a step back and let the matter rest in the hands of the two parties." We all have voices and at times like this, it would be great to utilize it instead of wasting it away on taking sides and displaying our huge vocabulary of profanities.

Respect: Everyone yearns to acquire respect. It is such a simple value that every one of us is capable of displaying. Most often, we forget that the key to gaining it is displaying. And it all starts with our choice of words. I've noticed that people these days aren't afraid to throw uncouth words online and I admit that I do it too. But I've learnt over the years that saying vulgarities online isn't going to get you far. That action and choice of words used already isn't showing respect to everyone else viewing it. And if you think that by using profanities is going to make others afraid of offending you, then you're wrong. I've learnt that it's always better to be loved then feared of. And that’s when you get the respect you truly deserved.

Now that you've read all of this, it is time for you to decide if you want to make our online world just as good as our real world. Be honest and admit that the way we do and say things online isn't healthy at all. Think about the future generations, our younger cousins, nieces and nephews. They are new to the world and unlike us who've grown up without much Internet before; they hardly can function without technology. So we all know what responsibility, empathy, integrity and respect are. But these children might not because we aren't being good role models and we aren't displaying it much in the virtual world that they spend most of their time on.

 We don't see the seriousness of this phenomenon yet but if it is strong enough to cause so much pain and discomfort to many people's lives, then something is wrong there and it needs to be fixed. And it all starts with you. Try practicing the 4 values that I've mentioned earlier whenever you're online from now on. Let's take charge of the way we live online and try not to say or do things that you wouldn't commit in reality. And if haven't got anything nice to say, don't say anything at all.

I hope I've managed to inspire you and it would be GREAT if you'd pledge to create a better Internet with me. From the bottom of my heart, I would really appreciate it if you'd spare just a couple of minutes to think about this and when you're ready, please visit www.betterinternet.sg. 

This video would be waiting for you there and by following just a few steps that I'll be mentioning below, you can star in it too :) 

If you wanna watch the video I'm in, click on this link-----> http://bit.ly/1joYu6d

Here's a step-by-step tutorial on what to do! ^^

1)    Watch the video provided very carefully, listen to the words spoken and think about the underlining message that speaks to you most. I'm sure that you'll relate to it some how.

2)    Wish to be a part of the video? You can star in it! hehehe. Simply pledge by clicking on the icon below the video.

3)    You can choose a photo of your choice and once you're satisfied, click "Pledge Now!"

4)    Congratulations! Now you can watch the video all over again and see yourself at the end of it :)

5)    Thank you for being a part of this global initiative. Let's watch, as our world becomes a better place to live in both in reality and virtually. Remember to share your pledge with everyone!

Facts to take note of:)

- Safer Internet Day 2014 will take place on 11th February 2014 this year.

- There isn't a fix date for SID since it's always held on the second Tuesday of every February.

- This is an international event and you can be a part of it!

- SID is brought to you by Media Literacy Council with a global theme of "Let's create a better internet together".

- YOU have the power to make our digital space a safer envoirnment

- You can find out more about #sid2014sg on Media Literacy Council (MLC) website at www.medialiteracycouncil.com, or MLC facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/MediaLiteracyCouncilSG.

Share with us "What are some of the inspiring things you've seen online?" or "How would you react if you receive nasty comments online?" Comment on my blog post below or write about it on your own social media platforms with the hashtag #sid2014sg

Remember that some people dream of things to happen while others get up and work on it. Be the ones that work towards a safer Internet :) Thank you for reading!

xoxo,

Eunice Annabel