💬 Quotes
"The sweetest pleasure arises from difficulties overcome." – Publilius Syrus (85 B.C. – 43 B.C.)
"Your most unhappy customers are your greatest source of learning." - Bill Gates
"The most important single ingredient in the formula of success is knowing how to get along with people." - President Teddy Roosevelt
❓Did You Know?
According to Google search data, the most popular Halloween costume this year was ‘Barbie’.
🗣️ Buzzwords
Super commuters - anyone taking a train or car from outside a big city to flying in from a town in an entirely different state.
Exurb - an area outside the typically denser inner suburban area, ie where super commuters commute from.
Funflation - the current trend that bucks traditional consumer behaviour during times of inflation, hence record-setting concert spending and pent-up travel demand.
💡Opinion
Unlocking the Power of Personal Stories in Interviews
In the world of job interviews, we've all been there - the anxious moments, the rehearsed answers, and the relentless pursuit of leaving a lasting impression. But what truly stands out in these encounters are the individuals who bring their personal stories to the forefront.
The Power of Personal Stories
It's the personal stories, the anecdotes from your own life, that have the potential to set you apart. Whether you're asked about your strengths, your weaknesses, or your experiences, weaving a personal narrative into your responses can leave a lasting impact.
Memorability through Humour and Empathy
If you can make your interviewer laugh or share a story that compels them to root for your success, you're on the right track. Such stories have a way of lingering in their minds long after you've left the interview room. Personal stories foster a connection, making the interview process more than just a question-and-answer session.
Deciding the Fit
Moreover, these stories play a pivotal role in determining whether both you and your potential employer are a good fit for each other. They give insight into your character, values, and personality, which are vital factors in deciding whether you'll enjoy spending 40 hours a week working together.
Building Your Story Library
So, before you step into that interview room, curate a collection of stories. Think of it as your "story library" - a selection of anecdotes that reflect aspects of your character and experiences. Consider including:
Stories with Messages
Stories that Illustrate Your Values
Stories of Personal Growth
Stories that Showcase Your Sense of Humor
Remember, the art of storytelling is not about embellishment but about authenticity and relatability.
So, when you walk into your next interview, carry your story library with you. Let your personal stories shine through, forming connections and leaving a memorable impression. Your story is your unique asset - embrace it, and let it be your guide to success.
The next time you find yourself in an interview room, remember to tell your story.
👨💼 Wisdom
Happiness lies in every moment – we just have to approach it the right way.
Japanese wisdom can help. Invite it into your life today.
Wabi-sabi: Find the beauty in imperfection instead of letting your fears drive you into perfectionism.
Kaizen: Improve in small, tiny steps instead of getting overwhelmed by the mountain of work.
Kodawari: Honour the details and be present with what you do instead of half-assing it.
Ichigo Ichie: Treat everything you do as the last time you can do it instead of wishing it to be over.
Shoshin: Stay curious, ask questions, experiment, and keep a beginner's mind instead of getting bored by the same routines.
Let a little ancient wisdom guide your modern-day life.
📖 Reads (or Views)
How Humans around the World Spend 24 Hours in a Day
5 job interview templates
🔣 Some Stats
Unilever reported a 15% surge in deodorant sales as workers returned to the office and socialising picked back up.
16.5% of items purchased online last year were returned. Companies like Amazon, H&M, and Zara are trying to reduce this number with online return fees.
55% of workers wave at the end of a Zoom call (Source)
⌛ Time Wasters
The Best Inventions of 2023
🐔 Chicken Soup for the Office
In a quaint local restaurant one evening, a waiter found himself in an unfortunate situation. As he was diligently collecting plates from a table, a sudden mishap occurred, causing the plates to slip through his grasp and crash onto the unforgiving concrete floor. The restaurant itself exuded a minimalistic charm, with its bare brick walls and cold, hard floors, which only added to the drama.
Amidst the clatter and apologies, a remarkable display of teamwork unfolded. In the blink of an eye, two other waiters sprang into action, rushing towards the scene armed with brooms, mops, and buckets. They tackled the mess with a fervour that was nothing short of impressive. Within just a few minutes, the chaotic aftermath was transformed back into its orderly state.
This is precisely what defines a great team: the willingness to set aside their own tasks and come to the aid of a colleague in need. The helpers injected a sense of urgency and enthusiasm into the situation, swiftly restoring normalcy and even evoking a few shared laughs.
A less energetic response would have been to leave the red-faced waiter to deal with the calamity alone, while others continued to serve the diners. However, in this restaurant, it was clear that the team leader understood the importance of a high-energy response when a team member requires assistance.
This heartwarming story reminds us that the strength of a team is measured not only by individual abilities but also by the collective spirit to help and support one another in times of need. It's a lesson that transcends the confines of restaurant walls and serves as a reminder for all of us in our everyday lives.