Charlotte Tan, account director in Singapore

How do you describe your job to family and friends?

I’d say it’s about managing clients’ reputation. It’s ensuring people who matter know what they do and persuading these people towards specific behaviour.

Favourite project you’ve worked on at RICE so far, or client highlight?

It feels too early, two months in, to name a favourite project. But I really enjoyed diving into the world of payments for a new business proposal during my first week at RICE.

What I like most about working here so far is hands down, the flexibility the company offers at this particular stage of my life when I have a second job to handle (read: kids/family). I’ve also found the team to be full of inspiring, like-minded and dependable professionals who are really enjoyable to work with.

If I have to name one highlight, it’s probably getting to know Ying – our Eaton client – over lunch. Because it’s always nice to learn more about clients (and colleagues) as humans/people beyond work.

What advice would you give to someone just starting their communications career?

I’ll pass on wisdom that I’ve inherited from others – chase skills and not levels. Experiment, try whatever you can get your hands on. Test, eliminate and dive deeper into what continues to pique your curiosity. 

In the words of Denise Pickett: “If you diversify your skills, and you get experience, the levels will come. And at some point that leads to financial independence, and that’s great too.”

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Whatever struggle or frustration you’re facing right now is highly amplified. You’ll only remember a fraction of it in a few months/years down the road. And for the most part, it’s all part of refinement – diamonds and pearls are a result of extreme pressure and irritants.

Additionally, always try to listen more and speak/think less. The ability to control your tongue is an incredible strength to build.

Hobbies outside of work?

Checking out exhibitions/galleries. Recently I’ve been drawn to Chinese ink paintings and calligraphy, trying out new food places, and spending time with friends and family.

What are you passionate about?

Achieving peace and harmony in physical spaces (i.e. packing/organising).

Also, investing in people and relationships is something I’ve been consciously reminding myself to do. As a task-oriented person, it does not always come naturally to me. 

Side note: I’ve actually explored the option of pursuing a career as a professional organiser and took up an online course with the American National Association of Productivity & Organizing Professionals (NAPO) in 2015. But five years down the road, I’m still in PR/comms and overall enjoying it.