Participants at the 9th Distinguished Alumni Forum pick up tips and more on how to create a positive first impression.

The forum session entitled "The art of making an impression: From inside-out, first time, every time" saw two impressive alumni, Ms Teo Ser Lee (ACC/1988) and Mr Leonard Yeow (EEE/1990), speaking on the subject from different perspectives. Ms Teo approached it from the "outside-in", while Mr Yeow embraced the "inside-out"; their combined talks gave the crowd of 150 attendees the complete big picture of creating good first impression.

Held on 12 September, at the auditorium at NTU's one-north campus, the forum was graced by Guest-of-Honour, Professor Er Meng Hwa, Senior Associate Provost. It was chaired by Mr Loh Pui Wah, Director of NTU's Career and Attachment Office.

Ms Teo, Founder and Director of Protocol Academy Pte Ltd, is a pioneer in the business of providing etiquette and protocol services in Singapore. She pointed to the importance of social graces and cited situational examples on what to do when attending interviews or dining with guests. Her learning point: Respect is earned when etiquette is learnt.

The second speaker, Mr Leonard Yeow, is the Founder and Chief Executive of The Eximius Group, which is the largest executive search organisation in the world. Mr Yeow shared the importance of 'wearing different hats' at different situations. He stressed the importance of having a genuine interest in the people one meets, and conversely, for one to be an interesting person.

Following their presentations was the eagerly anticipated question-and-answer session. The questions came fast and furious and were tackled with aplomb by the charismatic speakers.

Jermaine Lek Li Ping, alumna from NIE's Class of 2004, who picked up valuable tips from the speakers, said: "I found the Forum enlightening. I learnt a lot from the two speakers, whom I felt were knowledgeable and up-to-date. I especially enjoyed the sensible tips on career and image enhancement."



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