ST HeadSTart: Changing jobs in a down economy: Is it a good idea? | What's the post-pandemic office dress code?

Good morning and Merry Christmas! With the economy expected to slow down next year, it may not be advisable to change jobs without a firm offer, even when you are being interviewed for a new role, experts told journalist Tay Hong Yi.

Are you thinking of switching to a new role next year? Let us know at headstart@sph.com.sg.

Meanwhile, journalist Rosalind Ang reports that while most Japanese companies in Singapore expect to maintain or expand their operations here, paying higher wages is their biggest concern.

Even as more workers head back to the office, Associate editor Lee Su Shyan writes that worries of a Covid-19 era, the focus on practicalities and desire for comfort should make stuffy dress norms a thing of the past.

Despite a red-hot rental market, Invest editor Tan Ooi Boon reminds us that landlords should not let their guard down when it comes to undertaking the vital steps to get the best tenants and rents.

In her Young & Savvy column, journalist Jessie Lim spoke to experts on the importance of investing early and how to do so when there is imperfect information.

We hope you enjoy this week's round-up of stories. Have a good week ahead. 

It is not advisable to change jobs in an economic downturn without a firm offer, even when you are being interviewed for a new role, experts said.

Happiness is an elusive emotion but you might get lucky after reading Jon Clifton's new book Blind Spot, senior correspondent Krist Boo writes in her Work/Life column.

Despite a red-hot rental market, landlords should not let their guard down when it comes to undertaking the vital steps to get the best tenants and rents.

Journalist Jessie Lim spoke to experts on the importance of investing early and how to do so when there is imperfect information.

Despite higher layoffs in the sector this year, demand for tech roles will remain robust as employers seek growth in 2023, journalist Tay Hong Yi reports.

The focus on practicalities and desire for comfort should make stuffy dress norms a thing of the past, associate editor Lee Su Shyan opines.

Insight looks at the five highlights of the year and how there may be a silver lining to these challenges.

Core consumer prices in Singapore rose in November at a pace that was unchanged from October, in what analysts say could be a sign that inflation is levelling off.

Most Japanese companies in S'pore will maintain or expand their operations here, but paying higher wages is their biggest concern.

Saying I told you so is not much use, but the market implosion holds some real lessons, says the writer.

Thank you for reading this week’s round-up of ST’s career and personal finance coverage. Have a great work week ahead.