Lost or Changing Your Job, and Worried About Money? Here’s a Guide
Money matters can be stressful during career upheaval or change. Read this guide on how to manage it all, and some solutions to consider.
It’s been tough times for some Singaporeans recently. The Covid-19 pandemic has been a big factor, with those working in some industries worried, or dealing with unemployment.
Others have been affected to the point of looking at career change, due to the psychological fallout or personal reasons.
Then comes in key word: finances. Familial responsibilities and financial obligations will certainly weigh on your mind during these lean moments, which only leads to more stress in an already worrisome period of life.
Fret not; we’ve pulled together some smart budgeting tips, as well as monetary matters to consider and plan for, so that you can pull through financially tough times.
Helpful tips to help with money during career transitions
- Plan ahead to stretch your budget
- Track your daily expenses
- Consider traineeship and internship schemes for some income
1. Plan ahead to stretch your budget
First things first — work out how much money you need each week, and assess how long your savings will cover your living expenses.
Ensure that you set aside sufficient money to cover the monthly household budget and personal expenses, such as your mortgage, car loan and children’s education. Financial experts recommend a conservative estimate ofnine to 12 months of savingsfor an emergency fund.
So if you find yourself struggling to make your savings last for this period, it’s time to start tracking your daily expenses and seeing where you can make small compromises every day.
2. Track your daily expenses
Most of us worry about heavy financial obligations, but few of us come up with a plan to cut back on our spending.
Create a budget spreadsheet to track every single cent that goes out of your pocket. Or you could use free personal finance apps like Toshl Finance or Singapore’s very own Seedly for this.
Cut out unnecessary expenses such as lavish dinners and luxury items. Then, take control of your everyday expenses, such as your mobile phone and utility bills.
For example, be careful not to bust the data limit on your mobile phone — this can add as much as $50 to your monthly bill!
3. Try paid attachments and internships, while you job hunt for some income
If you’re unemployed, why not use your spare time to look for training attachments while you continue your job search?
Check out Workforce Singapore’s Career Trial programme, where you try short internships to assess your fit for various jobs.
It’ll equip you with industry experience and offer you a smoother and less obstructed pathway into your desired career.
These roles can turn full-time, at the end of your short-term trial if the host employer finds you suitable.
In fact, to provide more opportunities for Singaporean jobseekers to try out jobs, Career Trial has been expanded (from 15 May 2019) to include part-time jobs. This enhancement helps those who need part-time work arrangements to return to the workforce!
Financially, it’ll help if you’re currently unemployed, with full-time roles on Career Trial paying at least $1,500/month, and part-time jobs paying at least $750/month!
Keen to learn more? Download the Career Trial factsheet and FAQ for more information, and start applying for Career Trial roles now.
Or if you’re exploring a mid-career switch in your 40s, check out the SGUnited Mid-Career Pathways Programme.
It gives mid-career individuals a chance to explore new industries and gain in-demand skills while preparing for more permanent jobs in the future.
The programme even offers a training allowance between $1,600 to $3,800, with the government covering up to 70% of the allowance!
Other alternatives also include taking up part-time work, volunteer opportunities or freelance work while you search for a job, as these add immense value to your resume.
4. Everyone needs a helping hand from time to time
If you or your family member can’t find a job or work for a period of time, there are also financial assistance schemes for a temporary period.
ComCare may be able to help if you or your family member:
- Are looking for work or temporarily unable to work due to illness or have to care for children, elderly or other dependants;
- Have little or no family support, savings or assets to rely on for your daily needs;
- Are a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident (at least one immediate family member in the same household must be a Singapore Citizen; and
- Have a household income of $1,900/month and below, or a per capita household income of $650/month and below.
Even if your income exceeds these guidelines, you can still approach the Ministry of Social And Family Development’s Social Service Offices (SSOs). Head to your nearest Social Service Office (SSO) to find out more.
Last, but certainly not least, here’s a list of stories you can read to learn more about managing your finances!
This article is contributed by Workipedia by MyCareersFuture .
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