With Valentine’s Day not far off on the horizon, this episode is going to touch an interesting crossover topic: Are there similarities between modern dating and hiring?
After all, these days the key catchphrase in workforce circles is “transferable skills”, so what would count as such when comparing dating and networking skill sets?
We speak to Ryan Lim, QED Changemakers, a digital management consulting firm, where he is its principal consultant and founding partner.
He covers similarities and tips in terms of:
- Dating apps vs application tracking systems
- Communicating via text for a first date vs an interview
- First impressions on a first date vs an interview
- Dressing to impress for a first date vs an interview
- Small talk and conversation for a first date vs an interview
- Dealing with uncomfortable moments and conversational cul-de-sacs during a first date vs an interview
- Following up for a first date vs an interview
- Dealing with rejection
Listen on for more tips and anecdotes that crossover from dating to professional networking for better “rizz” in both spaces!
Key Highlights to Listen to:
- (1:55) Dealing with dating app algorithms is the same for employer application tracking systems
- (5:12) First date vs first interview: All about first impressions
- (6:46) Why using too much ChatGPT to communicate before a first date and interview will hurt your chances
(BONUS) Tips for Speed Networking at the upcoming Career XP event!
Meet employers, attend expert workshops, participate in hands-on activities, and network with industry leaders through an interactive gaming experience.
Earn XP (experience points) with every challenge. Build skills, make connections, and accelerate your career – whether it’s your first job or next move.
There’ll be networking opportunities with employers in the hospitality sector at the Link-up Challenge, which will allow young jobseekers to speak to employers and volunteer career advisors (VCAs) to uncover exciting opportunities and gain insider knowledge!
When it comes to such events, Ryan has the following advice:
Do your homework
Do some homework of who are the potential people that you might be meeting in advance: who are the candidates or people that you are expecting to meet?
Be interested, not interesting
If you follow this adage, you can have a sustained conversation — just remember it is a relational game, not a transactional game. It’s not about the number of name cards you garner, but the information and connections you truly acquire!
Don’t “kancheong”, first impressions matter
You will get to meet the same number of employers and VCAs as everyone else, so don’t rush. Take the time to make a good first impression, with how you carry yourself and what you’re wearing.
Do a dry run
Have a bit of a dry run with your best friend or even people that you tell them, say, I’m going to meet someone interesting or new. Practice making small talk, if that makes you nervous.
Good luck, and see you there at the Career XP event! Learn more about it
Career XP Event Details
Date: 21 to 25 January 2026
Time: 11am to 9pm
Venue: Suntec City, Level 1 Atrium (Tower 3 & 4)
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