Blog Post 3: Interpersonal Conflict

I think most of us when we come across the term ‘interpersonal conflict’ would naturally picture a heated debate between two people. However, the term encompasses more than that. It also includes bottling up feelings and avoiding confrontation, be it between two people or in a group.

While understanding that conflict can be constructive at times, the situation gets a little more complicated when it comes to dealing with a person of higher authority, for instance my aunt.

I will visit my aunt at least once a year in Malaysia. She is known to give negative comments which at times make me feel bad and uncomfortable. Although she meant it for our own good, the way she delivers her suggestions are quite uncomfortable to the ear. Especially if we are in a group, her comments will often leave us in an awkward predicament. For instance during the recent Chinese New Year dinner in a restaurant, she will advise us against eating a particular dish on the table which she deemed unhealthy. Throughout the dinner she pulled a sulky face as she was dissatisfied with our decision to eat out.

Most of us have learnt the ‘art of ignoring’ what she says as we know there is no point in arguing since she is very adamant on her stand. Moreover, I am not on the same level as her in terms of hierarchy which makes it even harder for me to confront her. So how will you respond to her negative comments if you were me? (ignore? confront?)

Blog Post 2: Application Letter

Below are my job advertisement and the application letter:

Junior/Medical Laboratory Technologist Date Posted : 6 Jan 11

JOB DESCRIPTION

You will play a crucial role in the detection, diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Using sophisticated automated equipment and instruments, you will examine and analyze body fluids, tissues and cells, look for bacteria, parasites and other micro-organisms, analyze the chemical content of fluids, match blood for transfusions and test for drug levels in the blood to show how a patient is responding to treatment. You will analyze the results and relay them to physicians in a timely manner in order for them to confirm a diagnosis or to monitor treatment. You are also expected to contribute towards quality improvement in the department and provide guidance to trainees and students.

Depending on the department's needs, you may be assigned to any of the following laboratories:

• Biochemistry Laboratory;
• Blood Transfusion Service;
• Hematology Laboratory;
• Microbiology Laboratory; or
• Histopathology Laboratory.

REQUIREMENTS

1. Relevant and recognized degree/diploma (e.g. medical laboratory science, biomedical science, biotechnology). Candidates with local working experience are preferred.

2. No colour blindness.

3. Team player, with good interpersonal and communication skills.

4. Open to working shifts, extended hours, on weekends/public holidays.

5. Passionate about pursuing a career in healthcare, and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

	Education Level	Degree & Diploma
	Job Function	Allied Health
	Job Location	Singapore-Tan Tock Seng Hospital
	Job Type	Full Time

29 Prince George’s Park Road,

Block 10 Level 5 Room A,
Singapore 118426

13 February 2010

Human Resource Department,

Level 1, Tan Tock Seng Hospital,

11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng,

Singapore 308433

Dear Hiring Professionals,

I’m very interested to know that there is a fulfilling role in the healthcare industry which I believe my laboratory knowledge and skills can be a contribution to the hospital. Hence, I am writing to express my interest in the position of a Junior/Medical Laboratory Technologist in Tan Tock Seng Hospital, with reference to the Job Vacancies posted on 6 Jan 2011. (http://www.nhg.com.sg/)

I am expected to graduate in 2013 from the National University of Singapore with a Bachelor of Science Degree, majoring in Life Sciences (Biomedical Sciences). This specialization exposed me to many health sciences courses and the multiple laboratory sessions in the university helped equip me with the knowledge and techniques in using the instruments and handling the experiments. This practical aspect has in turn molded me into a meticulous and analytical person, which enables me to work well in the laboratory.

Throughout my education years, I have also learnt how to balance studies and co-curricular activities. I participated in various organizing committees such as the Science Orientation Week Committee and the Science Welfare Committee. Being a Vice Director in the latter committee has helped sharpened my leadership skills in the area of decision-making and mobilizing the team to carry out events such as Second Hand Book Sales and Exam Tea. Furthermore, I was also a Cluster Leader in one of the school’s residence. I shouldered the responsibility of promoting clustermates interaction and also ensuring that the facilities are in good conditions. Thus, all these experiences bolstered my ability to be a leader and team player. In addition, I’m juggling my studies and a part time job as a tuition centre administrator since Year 1 in university. I have also acquired soft skills such as interpersonal and communication skills through the interaction with my colleagues and customers.

I am aware that the healthcare sector is continuously faced with challenges arising from the unpredictability of diseases and the search for the right treatment. I believe my interest in the healthcare industry will enable me to thrive under challenging circumstances so that I can play a part in this fulfilling role to promote the overall welfare of the society.

I look forward to meeting you to discuss the job position further and to be assessed in person at a time you are convenient. Please feel free to contact me at 94827611 or email me at cvn@hotmail.com. I will also contact you before 16^th February to discuss my application.  

Yours Sincerely,

Chan Fong Mei

Enclosed: Resume