The Singapore Computer Society IT Youth Council organized a Yes! Youth Engagement Series on the 7th September 2013, where young IT Professionals like myself had the rare opportunity to get up close and personal with Ms. Jessica Tan, Managing Director of Microsoft Singapore. Youths who attended the dialogue included students from tertiary education, start-up entrepreneurs and young IT professionals.
The session kick started with a brief introduction of Ms. Tan and her portfolio. The audience was in awe of her impressive and extensive portfolio and could not wait for her to start the session off. Unsurprisingly, the question of commitment surfaced when the floor was opened. She generously shared how she juggled her responsibilities on top of being a successful wife and mother of three.
Ms. Tan’s candid and whimsical approach kept us engaged, especially with her personal anecdotes. She also took the opportunity to attribute her success to those she had worked with, as well as those who scaled her ideas. She highlighted her family, particularly her husband, for being her pillar of support. Ms. Tan also elaborated on what motivates her, particularly when her ideas had come to fruition. Career wise, she reminded us of the importance of recognizing and acknowledging our partners and benefactors.
Ms. Tan brought up some interesting points when a student inquired as to how to stay relevant and successful in the industry. Firstly, drawing on a solid 24 years of experience in the industry, she predicts that the industry in the coming years will be different and more exciting. Despite the fact that success and relevance can be influenced by many external factors, she suggested that flexibility, relevant skills and building a track record would definitely give a clear advantage. In addition, we should be prepared to run with opportunities, learn & innovate, know the interest in the industry, and to be involved with the community. At the same time, she dissuaded us from choosing our career simply based on our perception of what makes the most money, and also from changing jobs too often.
When another student asked about how she overcame inevitable challenges in her career, she candidly shared about how she took them in her stride. For instance, she mentioned that one of the challenges being a leader is to help people understand the goal and why they need contribute. This could be a challenge as team members may not agree with the leader’s way of thinking. She also emphasized that although achieving the objective is important, working together as a team is an integral part as well.
Ms. Tan rounded off the 2-hour dialogue by leaving some valuable advice for the youths in audience. She emphasized the need to build professional networks and stressed the need to be genuine. She also stressed on the importance to have the right attitude, to be sincere about learning as well as sharing our knowledge and experiences, and also to be clear of what we want to do and remember our values. Without a doubt, Ms. Tan has illustrated an intriguing industry for us young IT professionals to look forward to, and her tips and advice will serve us useful.
We were all treated to a feast of pizzas during a post-dialogue networking session. Participants also took the opportunity to speak with Ms. Tan, as well as feedback to the organizers. They remarked that the dialogue was very engaging and informative and looked forward to attending future similar events.
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