As a Coach and Hub Leader, Paul Heng has an extensive background in outplacement and leadership coaching. In his work with Careerminds, he supports participants through career transition journeys, helping them find meaningful new roles following retrenchment.
We sat down with Paul to ask him about his work as a Careerminds coach and his advice to companies and individuals considering using an outplacement service.
More about you
I’m the Asia Pacific Hub Leader. As well as taking care of business needs for Careerminds in Asia Pacific, I also undertake career coaching assignments and provide outplacement support within the region.
Can you tell us a bit about your background before joining Careerminds?
I’ve worked as a Career Consultant for over 25 years, supporting corporate clients by travelling throughout the Asia Pacific region, delivering leadership coaching programmes and outplacement support. I’ve specialised in coaching C-suite and high-potential business leaders across many industries, and have regularly had my views on executive coaching, career management, and HR topics published in the media.
Your work with Careerminds
What can individuals expect when working with a Careerminds coach?
When employee-sponsored participants work with a Careerminds coach, they can expect one-to-one emotional and practical support from the team. We are proactive in reaching out to candidates and supporting them along their career transition journey and with job search projects.
What do you find most fulfilling about working with participants at Careerminds?
The participants are so diverse, in terms of their background, career, and aspirations, and I enjoy playing an active role in these different career transition journeys. I aim to build a rapport with each participant, with some continuing to stay in touch with me after they’ve landed a new job!
Why choose outplacement with Careerminds?
In your view, what does a service like Careerminds bring?
Individuals are coached by someone who works with their heart, as well as their mind. What makes Careerminds unique is the quality of the coaches.
How have you seen the outplacement industry evolve over the past decade?
There have been many changes, but a recent, significant change I’ve seen is the evolution from in-person coaching to virtual coaching. Technology has also taken on a larger role, including artificial intelligence.
Parting advice
How would you approach helping clients who may feel uncertain or anxious about career transitions?
I’d advise them to come to the coaching session with an open mind – we’re there to support them.
What advice would you give to companies that are uncertain about partnering with an outplacement firm?
Be crystal clear about why you want to invest in outplacement. If it’s just for show, you might as well not do it. If you sincerely believe that employees are your greatest asset, then provide outplacement to support their transition. Of course, the cost of investment is important, but choosing the cheapest option may backfire if employees don’t have a useful and positive experience.
What’s one piece of advice you frequently give to employees going through a career transition?
Remind yourself that what you have lost is one particular job, with one particular company. Everything else – your qualifications, skills, and experience – are intact and no-one can take those away from you. Take these and move forward with confidence that you have good qualities to offer the next employer. Learn all you can during the outplacement programme to support future career moves. Remember that no-one owes you a living, so above all, take charge of your career – employability is more important than employment.
If there’s a downsizing exercise on the cards in your business, don’t hesitate to contact Careerminds to find out how we can support your employees, protect your brand, and minimise legal risks.
In need of outplacement assistance?
At Careerminds, we care about people first. That’s why we offer personalized talent management solutions for every level at lower costs, globally.