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Keep calm and send your CVs: ‘Lagi Probation’ shares ways to enjoy job search
Lagi Probation (Still on Probation) by Samuel Ray delves into the recruitment process, starting from making CVs to negotiating work contracts.
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"Lagi Probation" (Still on Probation ) by Samuel Ray. (JP/Ni Nyoman Wira)
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s a fresh graduate several years ago, job hunting for me was like stepping into unfamiliar territory where everything seemed complicated. Every other job applicant appeared to come prepared while I felt underqualified.
I didn’t know how to create a convincing curriculum vitae (CV) and whether or not I should decorate it or leave it clean, let alone mention my strengths and weaknesses. I was clueless and afraid of failing.
Reading the book Lagi Probation (Still on Probation) by human resources expert Samuel Ray reminded me of those moments, and I wish I'd had the book with me at the time.
Published by Gramedia Pustaka Utama, Lagi Probation consists of nine chapters that delve into the recruitment process, starting from making CVs and joining job fairs to negotiating salaries and work contracts. It also contains drawings by illustrator Yoelanda Sari that emphasize Samuel’s messages.
Writing in a light manner, Samuel positions himself as a friend who guides his readers step by step, added with a healthy dose of reality. He mentions passion in one chapter, particularly those who only follow where their passion will take them. This is not necessarily wrong, but life is not always a walk in the park; there will be moments when reality comes hard and passion will not always be the answer.
In Lagi Probation, Samuel also features cases and answers sourced from his followers on social media. He also provides explanations from experts about recruitment, including Gojek talent and leadership development lead Endamia Carolina, MAP Active senior recruitment specialist Ade Mayasari Nasution and OYO Rooms HR director Benny Rachmadin. They shed light on topics that some job seekers may feel uneasy to ask about in interviews, such as tattoos and physical appearances.
The book may appear to be practical at a glance, but it is more than that. Echoing its title, Samuel encourages people to keep trying even if they have failed again and again. It tries to guide candidates by presenting a technical perspective alongside psychological ones, such as the importance of having an open mind, dealing with failure, self-acceptance and life purpose.
Lagi Probation may appeal more to fresh graduates because of its messages and style of writing, which can help them arm themselves before joining the stiff competition in the working world due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Though the book may not be for those who have landed their fifth or sixth job, it can be a good reminder to always be better prepared because after all, the recruitment process is a battleground. (wng)
