Reianthong, a Thai alumnus of the GHRM-MBA program of National Sun Yat-Sen University, shared valuable career insights and job-hunting tips with the Student Association team in a recent online interview, which offers students in the management department advantageous insights and tricks when looking for jobs.

During his study at GHRM-MBA, Reianthong not only focused on his academic learning but also took advantage of attending extracurricular activities to develop the abilities he needs for his future. He was the founder of the Hult Prize at NSYSU and participated in the Rising Star Summer Internship Program at CTBC Bank in 2021 for two months. His academics and extracurricular responsibilities shaped him into an outstanding alumnus.

After completing his Master's degree from GHRM-MBA, he quickly secured a role as an Organization Development Manager at Central Retail Corporation Public Company Limited, a multi-category retail leader and the flagship company at the roots of the Central Group in Thailand. As an Organization Development Manager, two years in this role, following his experience as an HR Strategy and Project Management Office Manager, he shared valuable insights into the complexities of OD. He emphasized how challenging and dynamic the position is, as it requires highlighting the critical link between employee development and financial performance of organizations. By applying both HR and business principles, his work focuses on driving the growth of the organization through the growth of its people, highlighting the critical link between personal development and organizational success. Plus, he recommended from his OD perspective that highlighting the critical link between employee development and financial performance of an organization. Thus, in his opinion, understanding business models and commercial priorities is the most critical skill that supports any HR to truly have value-added to the organization.

Reflecting on his journey, he credited his academic skills and the experiences he had during his time in Taiwan for shaping his professional skills and mindset. He talked to us about the challenges and rewards of studying at NSYSU. He highlighted how adapting to a new culture and language broadened his worldview and strengthened his research skills. He gave him a chance to reflect on himself, which benefited him from working in the business field.

“Studying a Master's degree abroad is the beginning of serenity.”

He also noted that studying for a master's degree abroad became a key opportunity during his job search in Thailand and internationally. Studying for a master's abroad not only gave him a better chance to get better knowledge in the field and salary, but it also provided him a wonderful opportunity to have more time to reflect on himself. It made him think of himself as a 'global citizen' who can live or work wherever he wants, not just in Taiwan or Thailand—spending time in Taiwan helped him understand his identity by focusing on the "why" to stay focused, resilient, and productive.

After sharing his job insights, Reianthong shared tricks he used to get the job, which made him exceptional compared to other candidates.

Key tricks to be an outstanding candidate from an expert HR perspective:

LinkedIn and the STAR Model for Success:

A significant part of the interview was dedicated to practical advice on utilizing LinkedIn effectively—a tool that, according to Reianthong, played a critical role in his job search. He introduced the STAR model (Situation, Task, Action, Result) as a framework for showcasing skills and achievements on LinkedIn.

• Situation: Describe the context of the role or challenge.
• Task: Outline what you were tasked to do.
• Action: Detail the specific steps you took.
• Result: Highlight the positive outcome and its impact on the company or project.

Keyword Optimization

"Start by identifying the key skills and qualifications the position you’re applying for requires," Reianthong advised. He suggested looking at job descriptions to identify keywords and ensuring those skills are highlighted on LinkedIn profiles.

Highlight Irreplaceable Achievements

"They should reflect your skills but also demonstrate why you’re an irreplaceable candidate."

He also stressed the importance of tying unique achievements to those skills. "Your achievements should be something that sets you apart from other candidates," he said. "Think about what you’ve accomplished that others might not be able to replace you."

Build your connections:

Job search sites are powerful tools for connecting with professionals and alumni in the field. Referral is crucial when you are looking for a job. "Don't hesitate to reach out and create your connections with other alumni or professions in the company that you are looking for."

The right time to look for the jobs:

The first quarter will be a perfect time to start applying for a job, as most people who want to change jobs will resign after they already got their bonuses, so many positions will be vacant during that period.

The online interview with Reianthong provided students with a unique perspective on how to be outstanding candidates. His story served as a reminder that challenges, such as studying abroad, can become strengths in one’s professional journey. In closing, Reianthong encouraged students to "focus and reflect on yourselves to sharpen your sense of self.”

Written by Wasaya Chatkaroon, International MBA Programs Student Association Vice President.