Citadel Search

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COVID19 restriction loosens: Time to return to the office

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To the chagrin of my friends at last night’s dinner, I was acidly clear that I took the Government’s latest announcement so positively! They couldn’t believe their ears when I pumped my fist ” Yes!”. The Singapore government announced that COVID19 restriction loosens, more people can go back to the office for work by April 5, 2021.

Working remotely might have saved me time of travel but I really missed having face-to-face discussions with my colleagues, and being able to concentrate on work without the kids jumping around at home. The revival of entertainment and events also means a lot to me as I really need to socialise and have fun from time to time. Do you feel the same too?

I want Work Life Balance but the pandemic has mashed up my work and life by putting them all in one environment – my home. To some, it is good in a way because you have more time to stay around your family, but even so working at home also meant that you no longer have personal space and time from your family. I don’t know about you, but after almost a year now, I find that I prefer segregation of time and space between work and non-work.

A separation between work and life is necessary for me so that I can enjoy the fullest from both. When I am in a meeting, I should not have unnecessary distractions like the laughter of the kids watching cartoons in the background or their attacking barbs of each other. Likewise when I am at home having dinner with my family, I should not need to have the mental pressure of unfinished work, though self-imposed, makes me want to go back to my work as the laptop is just nearby.  I didn’t have these “work distractions” before.

So as we gradually return to the office, I look forward to my balance being regained. It is worthy of a celebration but I will remember to still put on my mask! We shall patiently wait for everyone to get vaccinated and look forward to less subdued office parties or painting the town red!!

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Sim Jie Yi

Feb 2025 – Aug 2025

Pursuing a Business Administration degree at National University of Singapore (NUS) 

My 6-month internship with Citadel Search has been a highly rewarding and formative experience. Under the supportive mentorship of Cindy, I was entrusted with responsibilities in both recruitment and digital marketing, contributing to projects across a range of industries, including pharmaceutical, finance, and engineering, and was involved in a successful role closure during my time.

On the digital marketing end, I shaped the firm’s social media strategy. This involved crafting LinkedIn content that delivered value to both employers and candidates, while also drawing on my creativity in posts to diversify the firm’s online presence.

In recruitment, the experience gave me a strong foundation for understanding the employer’s perspective, from recognising what makes a CV stand out to understanding how employers assess candidates during interviews. Sourcing candidates sharpened my problem-solving mindset and systematic approach, as I created comprehensive research maps and leveraged existing databases to enhance our sourcing speed, stamina and strategy. Furthermore, conducting candidate qualification interviews honed my interpersonal skills and deepened my understanding of how competency-based questions can be used to assess candidates.

In addition to strengthening my technical skills, this internship allowed me to contribute meaningfully to the firm through innovation. It has fostered a problem-solving mindset in me, encouraging me to go beyond simply completing tasks by actively seeking more efficient and sustainable approaches.

Citadel Search offers internships for Pre-University and University students that balance personal mentorship, hands-on learning and the autonomy to grow. The team is inspiring and supportive, and have equipped me with invaluable life skills that I will cherish for years to come. You are sure to learn a lot in your time here!

Zhu Bo Lin

March 2025 – June 2025

Pursuing Robotics at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Singapore

Interning at Citadel Search has been an incredibly fulfilling and eye-opening experience. As someone with a strong interest in programming and problem-solving, I gained industry exposure and tackled real datasets to optimize workflows, applying both technical and analytical skills to practical use. 

Beyond picking up new programming languages, I learned best practices in software development, documentation, and workflow automation. Being entrusted with projects helped me grow more adaptable and resourceful and boosted my confidence as a developer.

Working in an agile team gave me a unique level of freedom and ownership over my work. I really appreciate how I could contribute directly and see the results of my efforts. This hands-on environment accelerated my learning and made each project feel very meaningful.

I am extremely thankful to Cindy and Raymond for providing this opportunity and creating a safe and supportive environment for me to experiment, ask questions and voice my opinions. As an intern, I felt valued and supported under their care.

Thinking back to the simulation test during my interview, I’m proud of how far I’ve come since my first day, especially in the way I think analytically and tackle problems with a clearer approach. The skills and experience I gained here have given me a solid foundation as I take my next steps into robotics. For anyone looking to learn, contribute, and be part of a supportive team, Citadel Search is the place to be!