Chasing clout on LinkedIn: Treading the fine line between being real and self-serving
Can we be real when it comes to celebrating professional milestones and branding ourselves?
The Usual Place Podcast Chasing clout on LinkedIn: Treading the fine line between being real and self-serving
A recent viral post on LinkedIn - the professional networking social media platform - has cast the spotlight on how some users have pushed content about their jobs and professional endeavours into something more self-serving and performative.
Just a couple of weeks ago, Ms Janney Hujic shared about what she claimed was a 'chance encounter' with former DBS CEO Piyush Gupta in a cafe in Bali.
She praised his 'quiet conviction' and how he had shared wise words for her upcoming all-women's expedition in Mongolia.
It read like a cool connection moment, until it turned out to be fake.
Mr Gupta, whom she tagged, commented on the post to clarify that she was mistaken. He wrote: 'Sorry to disillusion you. That isn't me!'
While the whole episode took a darker turn later on - with Ms Hujic claiming it was a blackmail post for money by her freelance social media manager in the Philippines - it also sparked a conversation about humble bragging, toxic positivity or exaggerating professional interactions in the quest to stand out on a platform like LinkedIn's.
In this episode of The Usual Place, Ms Crystal Lim-Lange - co-founder of Forest Wolf, a leadership consultancy that specialises in leadership transformation and personal growth - dropped by to talk about how we can be real when it comes to celebrating professional milestones and branding ourselves.
Talking about the viral post, Ms Lim-Lange, who is also a two-time LinkedIn Top Voice, said: 'We are all dealing with human beings, and there are many reasons why people can show up on social media in a certain way. We don't know the full story.'
The post by Ms Hujic has since been deleted.
Our podcast conversation turned to the importance of career visibility, how this incident highlighted the temptation to appear connected or successful, and how to avoid being performative.
On the matter of showing up authentically, the entrepreneur, who also hosts a podcast called Comfort And Growth with Crystal Lim-Lange, said: 'Don't say something because you want to say something. Say something because you have something to say.'
I also wanted to know how someone in Ms Hujic's position can make a comeback after a professional gaffe?
Ms Lim-Lange said: 'You can't go wrong if you are doing your best and it's real...nobody can hold that against you to some extent, because what else can we do other than our best?'
Highlights (click/tap above):
2:12 Many reasons why people show up differently on social media
4:05 Casual racism behind the viral LinkedIn post? Why we need to be conscious of what we say
8:16 Career visibility is important, but when does it become self-serving or a humblebrag?
12:25 What this incident highlights about the temptation to appear connected or successful
13:59 Ms Lim-Lange's checklist for her LinkedIn posts: Is it educational, entertaining or inspirational?
15:30 When to shine the spotlight on your professional journey
17:16 Future jobs will require 'high touch and trust'
18:58 'If you are just a warm body, then you are replaceable.': A lesson learnt from her investing banking days
20:20 What does building career visibility entail?
25:05 'In order to be visible... you need to create value.': Ms Lim-Lange
28:17 How can I be real on a professional networking social media platform like LinkedIn?
30:39 Record and share insights from your work, avoid being performative to sell yourself
36:07 How do we recover from a professional gaffe?
38:21 'Authenticity is the ultimate cure-all.': Ms Lim-Lange's take on why doubling-down doesn't work
42:53 The difference between reacting and responding
Ms Lim-Lange's podcast is available on Spotify and YouTube.
Host: Natasha Ann Zachariah (natashaz@sph.com.sg)
Read Natasha's articles: https://str.sg/iSXm
Follow Natasha on her IG account and DM her your thoughts on this topic: https://str.sg/8Wav
Follow Natasha on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/v6DN
Filmed by ST Video: Joel Chng and T Kumar
Edited by ST Podcast producers: Teo Tong Kai, Eden Soh and Natasha Liew
ST Podcasts' executive producer: Ernest Luis
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New Paper
4 hours ago
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If not for the mistaken identity, Ms Hujic's post would probably have gone unnoticed on the platform. LinkedIn has over one billion users worldwide - more than four million of whom are based in Singapore - all plugging their own professional and personal pursuits. Many of the initial comments lauded her for writing about this fortuitous "chance encounter". Even after Mr Gupta weighed in to dispute the account, some commenters suggested that the post, left up for a week, could draw attention to Ms Hujic's tour company. But at the end of May, her LinkedIn account was gone. What is the line between authenticity and misreading the room? Between clout-chasing and networking? Being vulnerable and oversharing? The Straits Times spoke to recruiters, public relations experts and LinkedIn's "top voices" to find out why you are likely using LinkedIn wrong. Here are five questions to ask before you post. 1. Is it cringe or 'context collapse'? 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Best fixed deposit rates in Singapore (June 2025): Minimum deposits from $500, rates up to 2.45%, Money News
If you think that fixed deposits are only for conservative cash — rich aunties and uncles, think again. A fixed deposit (also known as a time deposit) account is a type of bank account that pays account holders a fixed amount of interest in exchange for depositing a certain sum of money for a certain period of time. Although fixed deposit rates have been falling, there's a good number of rates that are still very decent and worth giving a shot if you have some money lying around. You don't even need a large stash of cash-these days, banks are offering fixed deposits starting from as low as $500! Here's our round-up of the best fixed deposit rates in Singapore in Jun 2025 for banks like UOB, DBS, OCBC, and more. Overview of Singapore fixed deposit rates (June 2025) Which bank in Singapore has the best fixed deposit rate? These are the best fixed deposit rates in Singapore this month for various deposit amounts and commitment periods. Note: Most of these are promotional interest rates, and banks can change their rates anytime. Do check their respective websites for the latest rates. Overall highest fixed deposit rates in Singapore (June 2025) Looking for the absolute highest fixed deposit rates across all deposit amounts and commitment periods? If your deposit amount and period are flexible, these are the best fixed deposit rates you can get in Singapore in Jun 2025: DBS (2.45 per cent p.a. - min. $1,000 for 12 months) HL Bank (2.35 per cent p.a. - $100,000 for six months) State Bank of India (2.35 per cent p.a. - min. $50,000 for six months) StashAway Simple Guaranteed (2.20 per cent p.a. - three months with no minimum amount) CIMB (2.15 per cent p.a. - min. $10,000 for three months) Maybank (2.15 per cent p.a. - min. $20,000 for nine months) ICBC (2.15 per cent p.a. - $500 for three months) Syfe Cash+ Guaranteed (2.15 per cent p.a. - three months with no minimum amount) Bank of China (2.10 per cent p.a. - min. $500 for three months) RHB (2.00 per cent p.a. - min. $20,000 for three, six, or 12 months) UOB (2.00 per cent p.a. - min. $10,000 for six months) OCBC (1.90 per cent p.a. - min. $30,000 for nine months) Hong Leong Finance (1.83 per cent p.a. - min. $20,000 for nine months) Standard Chartered (1.80 per cent p.a. - min. $25,000 for five months) HSBC (1.55 per cent p.a. - min. $30,000 for one month) To view fixed deposit rates by commitment period or deposit amount, navigate our summary to jump to the section that best matches your needs. Fixed deposit rates by commitment period When it comes to fixed deposits, do you have a time frame in mind? Whether you want to stash your cash for three, six or 12 months, we've worked out the best fixed deposit rates for you. Best fixed deposit rates for a 3-month commitment period Looking for a short fixed deposit period? Here are the best fixed deposit rates in Singapore for a 3-month commitment period. Syfe Cash+ Guaranteed (2.15 per cent p.a. - three months with no minimum amount) StashAway Simple Guaranteed (2.20 per cent p.a. - three months with no minimum amount) ICBC (2.15 per cent p.a. - $500 for three months) CIMB (2.15 per cent p.a. - min. $10,000 for three months) Bank of China (2.10 per cent p.a. - $500 for three months) Citibank (2.10 per cent p.a. - $10,000 for three or six months) RHB (2.00 per cent p.a. - min. $20,000 for three, six, or 12 months) Syfe Cash+ Guaranteed Period Syfe Cash+ Guaranteed rate (no min. or max deposit amount) 1 month 2.00% p.a. 3 months 2.15% p.a. 6 months 2.05% p.a. 12 months 1.90% p.a. Rates accurate as of 5 June 2025. Do check the Syfe Cash+ Guaranteed page for the latest rates. If you're looking for a fuss-free, guaranteed way to grow your money, you might want to look beyond our traditional banks. Syfe Cash+ Guaranteed isn't technically a fixed deposit, but invests your funds into fixed deposits by with banks that are regulated by MAS. Their rates are generally higher than traditional banks, and there's also no minimum or maximum amount. As of 5 June 2025, Syfe Cash+ Guaranteed is offering up to 2.15 per cent p.a. with a 3-month tenure. It's taken a huge hit since last year, when it was offering up to 3.8 per cent. Still, 2.15 per cent is one of the highest rates this month on our list. MoneySmart Take What we like: Higher rates than traditional banks, no minimum or maximum deposit amount. What we don't like: No liquidity. You cannot withdraw the funds prematurely even if you're willing to pay a penalty. With traditional banks, you can prematurely withdraw your fixed deposit funds by paying an early withdrawal fee StashAway Simple Guaranteed rate Period StashAway Simple Guaranteed rate (no min. or max. deposit amount) 1 month 2.10% p.a. 3 months 2.20% p.a. 6 months 2.05% p.a. 12 months 1.90% p.a. Rates accurate as of 5 June 2025. Do check StashAway's Simple Guaranteed page for the latest rates. StashAway offers a cash management solution called Simple Guaranteed that earns you interest on your money. StashAway Simple Guaranteed places funds in fixed deposits with MAS-regulated banks, and you get an interest rate that's slightly higher than what you'd get with a fixed deposit at a bank. As of 5 June 2025, the highest StashAway Simple Guaranteed interest is 2.20 per cent p.a. for a 3-month period, with no minimum or maximum deposit amounts. It's just a little higher than Syfe's highest rates this month. MoneySmart Take What we like: Relatively high rates compared to traditional fixed deposits. Plus, no minimum or maximum deposit amount. What we don't like: Like Syfe's Cash+ Guaranteed, there's no way for you to withdraw your funds early, penalty fee or not. Once locked in, your cash is locked in tight. ICBC fixed deposit rates Deposit amount Period $20,000 to <$200,000 (over the counter) $500 to <$200,000 (via e-banking) 1 month 1.90% p.a. 2.00% p.a. 3 months 2.05% p.a. 2.15% p.a. 6 months 2.00% p.a. 2.10% p.a. 9 months 2.00% p.a. 2.10% p.a. 12 months 1.95% p.a. 2.05% p.a. Rates accurate as of 5 June 2025. The rates above are promotional rates subject to change at any time by ICBC. Do check ICBC's website for the latest rates. There are a few fixed deposits which have pretty low barriers to entry on this list, but Chinese bank ICBC takes the cake. If you set up your fixed deposit via e-banking, their minimum deposit is just $500 — nope, we didn't miss a zero there! Even if you only have $500 to invest, you can still get a rate of 2.15 per cent p.a. with a commitment period of three months. You have to do this via e-banking to get this rate. Set on doing it the old school way over the counter? Firstly, you'll have to hit a minimum deposit requirement of $20,000. And secondly, the highest interest rate you can get is slightly lower, at 2.05 per cent p.a. for a 3-month period. There is a plus point for ICBC's fixed deposit-there's no penalty for early withdrawal. That means you fixed deposit isn't as fixed as you might think. MoneySmart Take What we like: Ultra low minimum deposit amount of just $500 via e-banking and a low commitment period of anywhere between a month to a year, making ICBC very accessible. ICBC also doesn't penalise you for early withdrawals. What we don't like: Rates are only slightly above average. And for older folk who want to open a fixed deposit account in person, their minimum deposit amount shoots up to $20,000 while the fixed deposit rates drop slightly. Citibank fixed deposit rates Deposit amount Period $10,000 to $5 million 3 months 2.10% p.a. 6 months 2.10% p.a. Note: The promotional rates above are stated as valid until June 30, 2025. Do check Citibank's fixed deposit promotion page for the latest rates in case Citibank makes changes. The best Citibank fixed deposit rate you can currently get is 2.10 per cent p.a. for a minimum deposit amount of $10,000 and a commitment period of three or six months. That's up by 0.10 per cent since their promotional rates in May 2025. Citibank's minimum deposit is $10,000, which is fairly accessible. This amount is lowered from the previous $50,000, which is a markedly much larger sum of money. MoneySmart Take What we like: Short commitment period of just three months. For those with a lot of money to park in a fixed deposit account, there's also a high upper limit of $3 million. What we don't like: High minimum deposit amount. Not everyone has $50,000 just lying around. HSBC fixed deposit rates Deposit period Personal Banking customers Premier and Premier Elite customers without wealth holdings Premier and Premier Elite customers with wealth holdings 1 month 1.55% p.a. 1.60% p.a. 2.00% p.a. 3 months 1.40% p.a. 1.45% p.a. 1.85% p.a. 6 months 1.40% p.a. 1.45% p.a. 1.85% p.a. 12 months 1.25% p.a. 1.30% p.a. 1.70% p.a. Promotional rates valid until June 30, 2025. Do check HSBC's website for the latest rates. HSBC is offering anything from 1.25 per cent to 2.00 per cent p.a., depending on your banking relationship with them. For the bulk of us who are regular banking customers, the highest fixed deposit rate you can get with HSBC this month is just 1.60 per cent p.a. The best case scenario is if you are a Premier or Premier Elite customer who also has investments with HSBC. If you fit the bill, HSBC will give you 2.00 per cent p.a. for a deposit period of one month. No matter your banking relationship with HSBC, the minimum sum you have to put in is a hefty $30,000. Compared to other banks, it's a rather large sum for an average at best fixed deposit interest rate. MoneySmart Take What we like: Short commitment period of just three months available. What we don't like: High minimum sum. You're going to need at least $30,000 to place a fixed deposit with HSBC. Bank of China fixed deposit rates Period Fixed deposit interest rates Over the counter placement ($20,000 and above) Mobile banking placement 1 month 1.85% p.a. 2.05% p.a. (minimum amount: $500 and above) 3 months 1.85% p.a. 2.10% p.a. (minimum amount: $500 and above) 6 months 1.80% p.a. 2.00% p.a. (minimum amount: $20,000 and above) 1.95% p.a. (minimum amount: $500 and above) 9 months 1.80% p.a. 2.00% p.a. (minimum amount: $500 and above) 12 months 1.80% p.a. 2.00% p.a. (minimum amount: $20,000 and above) 1.95% p.a. (minimum amount: $500 and above) The rates above were set on June 2, 2025 and are subject to change any time by the Bank of China. We noticed they change rates every few weeks or so. Check their website for the latest rates. The Bank of China is currently offering 2.10 per cent p.a. for a placement of $500 for a period of three months — surprisingly easy to do, in terms of the minimum deposit amount and deposit period. Do note that you need to make this deposit via mobile banking to enjoy this rate. Rates aside, the best part about the Bank of China's fixed deposit rates is the low minimum deposit and tenor period. Currently, even if you only have $500 to spare for only 1 month, you can still get a pretty decent interest rate of 2.05 per cent p.a. MoneySmart Take What we like: Short commitment period of three months, and very low minimum deposit amount of $500. What we don't like: Like ICBC, the Bank of China offers different rates depending on how you place your funds — online rates are better than rates at the bank branch. This may disadvantage older folks who want to open a fixed deposit account over the counter and find that their fixed deposit rates become 0.10 per cent p.a. lower. Best fixed deposit rates for a 6-month and 12-month commitment periods Looking to stash your cash in a fixed deposit account for six months or one year? Here's a summary of the best fixed deposit rates in Singapore in 2025 for 6-month and 12-month commitment periods: Best fixed deposit rates in Singapore for 6 and 12 months (Jun 2025) Min. deposit amount 6 months 12 months No minimum 2.05% p.a. ( Syfe ); 2.05% p.a. ( StashAway ) 1.90% p.a. (Syfe); 1.90% p.a. (StashAway) $500 2.25% p.a ( ICBC ); 1.95% p.a. ( Bank of China ) 2.25% p.a. (ICBC); 1.95% p.a. (Bank of China) $1,000 2.15% p.a ( DBS ) 2.45% p.a ( DBS ) $10,000 2.05 – 2.10% p.a. ( CIMB ) 1.85 – 1.90% p.a. (CIMB) $20,000 2.05% p.a. ( Maybank ); 2.00 – 2.10% p.a. ( RHB ) 2.05% p.a. (Maybank); 2.00 – 2.10% p.a. (RHB) $30,000 – 1.85% p.a. ( OCBC ) $50,000 2.35% p.a. ( State Bank of India ) 2.25% p.a. (State Bank of India) $100,000 2.35% p.a. (HL Bank) – CIMB fixed deposit rates Deposit amount: $10,000 and above Period Personal Banking (For regular CIMB customers) Preferred Banking 3 months 2.15% p.a. 2.20% p.a. 6 months 2.00% p.a. 2.10% p.a. 9 months 1.85% p.a. 1.90% p.a. 12 months 1.85% p.a. 1.90% p.a. Promotional rates valid from June 1, 2025, subject to change anytime by CIMB. Do check CIMB's website for the latest rates. Malaysian bank CIMB is offering relatively good fixed deposit rates in Singapore this month, at up to 2.15 per cent p.a. for regular CIMB customers and 2.20 per cent p.a. if you're a CIMB Preferred Banking customer. This promo is for deposits of at least $10,000. To enjoy the highest rates, you need to lock up your money for three months and must apply and deposit your money online. If you're looking to deposit smaller amounts of your savings into a fixed deposit account, CIMB's board rates apply from deposits of $1,000 and up. However, they are a measly 0.2 per cent to 0.3 per cent p.a. or so. In this instance, you would be better off placing your money almost anywhere else. ICBC (2.15 per cent p.a. with a minimum deposit of $500 for three months) and the Bank of China (2.10 per cent p.a. with a minimum deposit of $500 for three months) are good options for small deposit amounts and small time frames. MoneySmart Take What we like: Relatively short commitment periods of three and six months. What we don't like: CIMB's best rates are reserved for their Preferred Banking customers — these are 0.05 per cent p.a. higher than the rates for regular Personal Banking customers. So if they advertise their rates as up to a certain rate, know that those rates may not apply to you. RHB fixed deposit rates Deposit amount: $20,000 and above Period Personal banking Premier banking 3 months 2.00% p.a. 2.10% p.a. 6 months 2.00% p.a. 2.10% p.a. 12 months 2.00% p.a. 2.10% p.a. Note: The rates above are correct as of 5 June 2025. They are promotional rates subject to change at any time by RHB. Do check RHB's website for the latest rates. The easiest way to place your fixed deposit with RHB is on your phone via the RHB Mobile SG App. However, if that isn't possible for you, RHB's fixed deposit rates are the same whether you use mobile banking or head down to one of their branches. The highest rate personal banking customers can get is 2.00 per cent p.a. with a minimum deposit requirement of $20,000 — slightly on the high side compared to other banks. Currently, this rate applies to two of the three available tenors — three or six months. A big advantage to RHB's fixed deposit is that they don't charge you any penalty fee for early withdrawal. That means you can take your cash out early with no penalty in the event of an emergency. MoneySmart Take What we like: No premature penalty fee if you want to withdraw your funds early! What we don't like: RHB's minimum deposit amount of $20,000 is higher than that for other banks. HL Bank fixed deposit rates Minimum placement amount Tenure Promotional rate $100,000 6 months 2.35% p.a. Do check HL Bank's latest fixed deposit promotion; HL Bank may revise rates at any time at their discretion. A member of the Hong Leong group, HL Bank's current fixed deposit promotion is for a minimum placement of $100,000. Stash this sum away with them for six months, and you'll be rewarded with an interest rate of 2.35 per cent. It's a large sum, but 2.35 per cent is a relatively high rate compared to other banks' fixed deposit promotions this month. MoneySmart Take What we like: High promotional fixed deposit rates — we've seen HL Bank hit four per cent p.a. at its peak in 2023. This month, HL Bank's 2.8 per cent is — in relative terms — also one of the highest. What we don't like: Their promotional rates require a very high minimum deposit amount of $100,000. Maybank fixed deposit rates Deposit amount: $20,000 and above Period iSAVvy Time Deposit Promotion (Online Placement) Deposit Bundle Promotion (Placement in Branch) 6 months 1.80% p.a. 2.05% p.a. 9 months 1.85% p.a. 2.15% p.a. 12 months 1.80% p.a. 2.05% p.a. Note: The rates above are promotional rates subject to change at any time by Maybank. Check the Maybank fixed deposit rate page for the latest rates. Maybank is among one of the higher fixed deposit rates this month with up to 2.15 per cent p.a. (nine months) under a deposit bundle promotion. Without the bundle, it's 1.85 per cent p.a. (nine months). To unlock the highest rate that's available under the deposit bundle promotion, you must have an eligible Maybank savings accounts or current account. For every $1,000 in the account (minimum of $2,000), you can put $10,000 into your fixed deposit (minimum $20,000). For example, if I have $3,000 in my Maybank savings account, I can do a $30,000 fixed deposit and earn 2.15 per cent p.a. on it over six months. While that's a relatively high rate this month, don't forget that you need to leave money in your current or savings account to unlock this rate. This sum of money you stash away will come with an opportunity cost. In the example above, I face the opportunity cost of the interest I would be able to earn on the $3,000 even while I earn interest on the $30,000 fixed deposit. MoneySmart Take What we like: We like that both online placements and placements in branch enjoy the same rates-those who can't access one or the other for whatever reason aren't disadvantaged. Their deposit bundle promotions also work well if you already have or intend to get a Maybank savings account. What we don't like: Low rates, longer commitment periods, and quite a large deposit amount relative to other banks on this list. OCBC fixed deposit rates Period Deposit amount of $30,000 and above 9 months 1.80% p.a. (placement in branch) / 1.90% p.a. (online banking) 12 months 1.75% p.a. (placement in branch) / 1.85% p.a. (online banking) Note: The rates above are promotional rates subject to change at any time by OCBC. See OCBC's fixed deposit rates for the latest. OCBC's highest fixed deposit rate this month is 1.90 per cent p.a. for a 9-month deposit period. That's if you use internet banking. Going down to an OCBC branch to set up your fixed deposit account is going to yield an even lower rate of 1.80 per cent p.a. While 1.90 per cent p.a. is not high, OCBC has maintained relatively low fixed deposit rates for the past few months anyway. Now that other banks have slashed theirs, OCBC's has gone from low to kinda average. MoneySmart Take What we like: Short commitment period of six months. What we don't like: Relatively high minimum deposit amount of $30,000. OCBC also has a pretty significant disparity in its in-branch rates versus online banking rates, which makes me think older folks who only can only access banking services in person are disadvantaged. Fixed deposit rates by minimum deposit amount Is cash your limiting factor? Good news — the minimum amount for a fixed deposit account starts from as low as $500! Here are the best fixed deposit rates for deposits of the following amounts: $10,000 and under $20,000 - $49,999 $50,000 and above Best fixed deposit rates for deposits $10,000 and under These are the best fixed deposit rates in Singapore 2025 for deposits $10,000 and under: DBS (2.45 per cent p.a. - min. $1,000 for 12 months) ICBC (2.15 per cent p.a. - $500 for three months) CIMB (2.15 per cent p.a. - min. $10,000 for three months) Bank of China (2.10 per cent p.a. - min. $500 for three months) UOB (2.00 per cent p.a. - min. $10,000 for six months) DBS fixed deposit rates Deposit amount Period $1,000 – $19,999 $20,000 – $999,999 1 month 0.30% p.a. 0.05% p.a. 3 months 1.00% p.a. 6 months 2.15% p.a. 9 months 2.35% p.a. 12 months – 60 months 2.45% p.a. DBS kept their fixed deposit rates consistent throughout 2024, with rates of up to 3.20 per cent p.a. But in 2025, they took a big hit. Currently, the best DBS fixed deposit rate is 2.45 per cent p.a. for those who put $1,000 to $19,999 into a fixed deposit for 12, 18, 24, 36, 48 or 60 months. That's decent compared to other promotional fixed deposit rates this month from other banks, and of course is still miles better than having your cash parked in a regular savings account. Additionally, one thing I have always liked about the DBS fixed deposit rates is their low minimum deposit amount of $1,000. Additionally, they're also pretty flexible with the deposit period. If you can only afford to lock in your cash for less than 12 months, DBS will let you choose any deposit period at 1-month intervals, from 1 - 12 months. Most other banks limit this to 3-month intervals. However, if you're looking to put $20,000 or more into a fixed deposit, the current DBS rates are a flat, unimpressive 0.05 per cent p.a. for all lock-in periods. You'd be better off investing your money almost anywhere else. MoneySmart Take What we like: Low minimum amount of just $1,000. We also like that you get so much flexibility in terms of how long you want to leave it in for — DBS offers deposit periods in 1-month intervals from 1 -12 months. What we don't like: DBS doesn't have very high fixed deposit rates (and rarely change them too). Their rates only become worth looking at from deposit periods of 12 months onwards, and even then are only relatively attractive if other banks drop their rates. Also, DBS is a poor option for investing larger sums. If you want to put in $20,000 or more, DBS fixed deposit rates plummet to just 0.05 per cent p.a. UOB fixed deposit rates UOB fixed deposit rates Period Minimum deposit amount: $10,000 6 months 2.00% p.a. 10 months 1.70% p.a. Promotion valid until: June 30, 2025, subject to change by UOB. Do check UOB's website for the latest rates. UOB's fixed deposit rate is currently 2-tiered-2.00 per cent p.a. for a deposit period of 6 months and 1.70 per cent p.a. for a deposit period of 10 months. This rate applies as long as you deposit a minimum of $10,000. If you want higher rates, consider the Bank of China (2.10 per cent p.a.) or ICBC (2.15 per cent p.a.) with just $500 for a 3-month tenor. MoneySmart Take What we like: Commitment periods start from a relatively short six months. What we don't like: UOB's current rate is below average. As aforementioned, you'd do better at other banks for the same deposit amount and period. Best fixed deposit rates for deposits $20,000–$49,999 If you have over $20,000 you want to stash away, here are your best fixed deposit rates in Singapore this month: Maybank (2.15 per cent p.a. - min. $20,000 for nine months) Bank of China (2.10 per cent p.a. - min. $500 for three months) Hong Leong Finance (1.83 per cent p.a. - min. $20,000 for nine months) ICBC (2.15 per cent p.a. - $500 for three months) CIMB (2.15 per cent p.a. - min. $10,000 for three months) RHB (2.00 per cent p.a. - min. $20,000 for three, six, or 12 months) OCBC (1.90 per cent p.a. - min. $30,000 for nine months) Standard Chartered (1.80 per cent p.a. - min. $25,000 for five months) Standard Chartered fixed deposit rates Deposit amount: $25,000 and above Period Personal Banking customers Priority Banking customers Priority Private Banking customers 5 months 1.80% p.a. 1.85% p.a. 1.90% p.a. Promotional rates valid until: June 10, 2025, subject to change by Standard Chartered. Do check Standard Chartered's fixed deposit rates for the latest figures. With interest rates from 1.80 per cent p.a. to 1.90 per cent p.a., Standard Chartered's fixed deposit rates are on the lower end this month. Plus, you only get the higher rates if you're a priority private banking customer, i.e. with a certain high net worth. If you're a regular customer, you'll only be able to get a rate of 1.80 per cent p.a. with a 5-month tenor at their current promotional rates. In any case, you can get a better rate with the Bank of China with a smaller minimum sum-deposit $500 or more to lock in 2.10 per cent p.a. over three months. MoneySmart Take What we like: Relatively short commitment period of six months. What we don't like: Standard Chartered doesn't have very high rates for the average Joe — you only get a decent one if you're a priority private banking customer. Best fixed deposit rates for deposits $50,000 and above Have a fairly sizeable sum of money? If you have $50,000 or more that you want to put into a fixed deposit account, you've got a few good options. Here are the best fixed deposit rates in Singapore 2025 for deposits $50,000 and above: State Bank of India (2.35 per cent p.a. - min. $50,000 for six months) Bank of China (2.10 per cent p.a. - min. $500 for three months) ICBC (2.15 per cent p.a. - $500 for three months) RHB (2.00 per cent p.a. - min. $20,000 for three, six, or 12 months) CIMB (2.15 per cent p.a. - min. $10,000 for three months) Hong Leong Finance (1.83 per cent p.a. - min. $20,000 for nine months) Citibank (2.10 per cent p.a. - $10,000 for three or six months) State Bank of India Singapore fixed deposit rates The State Bank of India is currently offering just two fixed deposit promotions with a minimum deposit of $50,000: Tenor Promotional interest rate Minimum deposit 6-month 2.35% p.a. $50,000 12-month 2.25% p.a. $50,000 These rates are quite high this month compared to other banks. However, so is their minimum sum you need to deposit. If we're looking at smaller sums, we're left with the board rates that only require a minimum of $5,000: SBI Singapore board rates Period Deposit amount: $5,000 to $1,000,000 1 month 0.35% p.a. 3 months 1.75% p.a. 6 months 2.25% p.a. 12 months 2.00% p.a. 24 months 1.50% p.a. The highest board rate you'll get to enjoy is 2.25 per cent p.a., which is actually comparable to some promotional rates this month from other banks. However, if you're planning to leave your $5,000 in a fixed deposit, you can still find better rates elsewhere. For just $500, you can enjoy 2.15 per cent p.a. with ICBC or 2.10 per cent p.a. with the Bank of China for a 3-month period. MoneySmart Take What we like: Relatively short commitment periods available, with decent interest rates. What we don't like: SBI asks for a high minimum deposit sum. Hong Leong Finance fixed deposit rates Deposit amount 9 months 11 months 13 months $5,000 to < $20,000 1.78% 1.73% 1.73% $20,000 and above 1.83% 1.78% 1.78% The rates above are as of 5 June 2025 and are subject to change any time at the discretion of Hong Leong Finance. See Hong Leong Finance's fixed deposit rates for the latest. Besides putting your money with banks, it's also worthwhile looking into other financial institutions which also offer competitive fixed deposit rates. Hong Leong Finance is one such institution. Don't get it confused with HL Bank, though. While the twp share the same name, they offer entirely different fixed deposit rates. With a lock-in period of nine months, Hong Leong Finance is currently offering a fixed deposit rate of 1.83 per cent p.a. for a $20,000 minimum deposit. For slightly longer tenors of 11 or 13 months, you earn 1.78 per cent p.a. instead. These rates are low this month; you'd be able to find better rates almost anywhere else. MoneySmart Take What we like: Short tenor periods for which you have to stash your cash with them. What we don't like: Hong Leong Finance isn't coming out super strong in terms of their fixed deposit rates — average at best. They also require a minimum deposit of $20,000, which is not the most beginner-friendly. Fixed deposit vs savings account - what's the difference? Anyone looking for a better alternative to their basic savings account will be faced with the same decision: fixed deposit or high-interest savings account? Both options beat the measly 0.05 per cent p.a. interest on a regular savings account, but looking at interest rate alone isn't enough to compare the two. Here are the differences between fixed deposits and savings accounts at a glance: Fixed deposit Savings account Tenure As low as 1 month, but go for at least 6 months for better rates None Interest rate Usually, the longer the tenure, the better the interest rate Usually the same regardless of tenure Deposit amount Fixed amount, usually at least $5,000, but promotional offers can go as low as $500 with ICBC and the Bank of China Smaller initial deposit and minimum monthly balance ($500 to $3,000) Currency SGD by default, but some banks offer higher interest rates for foreign currency SGD by default. There are a few multi-currency accounts, but no difference in interest rate Can you withdraw? Contrary to popular belief, yes, you can withdraw prematurely. However, you lose the interest and may have to pay a penalty. Yes, no impact on interest, but don't fall below the minimum balance Interest payments Quarterly or annually Monthly Risk level Virtually risk-free, insured up to $75,000 by Singapore Deposit Insurance Corporation (SDIC) Compare fixed deposit vs Singapore Savings Bonds (SSB) vs T-bills If you're looking for a virtually risk-free investment vehicle, you're bound to have come across fixed deposits, Singapore Savings Bonds (SSB) and Treasury bills (T-bills). Which is the right one for you? Here are some key differences you should consider. Fixed deposit SSB T-bills Tenure As low as 1 month, but go for at least 6 months for better rates 10 years 6 months / 1 year Current interest rate Up to 3.35% p.a. 2.49% p.a. ( June 2025 SSB's 10-year average return) 2.05% p.a. (cut-off yield for 5 Jun 2025 6-month T-bill ) Deposit amount Usually at least $5,000, but promotional offers can go as low as $500 with ICBC and the Bank of China $500-$200,000 $1,000, with a cap of $1 million in non-competitive bids at each auction. Currency SGD by default, but some banks offer higher interest rates for foreign currency SGD SGD Can you withdraw? Contrary to popular belief, yes—you can withdraw prematurely. However, you lose the interest and may have to pay a penalty. Yes, with no penalty. However, you must pay a $2 transaction fee each time you buy/redeem a bond. No, you cannot redeem T-bills early. Instead, you can try to sell it on the secondary market. Interest payments Quarterly or annually Every 6 months Upon maturity, full value of T-Bill refunded following initial sale at a discount Risk level Virtually risk-free, insured up to $75,000 by Singapore Deposit Insurance Corporation (SDIC) Virtually risk-free, backed by the Singapore government Virtually risk-free, backed by the Singapore government [[nid:717809]] This article was first published in MoneySmart .
Straits Times
a day ago
- Straits Times
Oversharing, AI posts and other faux pas: Why you're using LinkedIn wrong
Be mindful of the pitfalls of posting on LinkedIn, or it could lead to cringeworthy content. PHOTO: ISTOCKPHOTO Oversharing, AI posts and other faux pas: Why you're using LinkedIn wrong SINGAPORE – A widely circulated meme mocking LinkedIn entries goes like this: 'When I was a little girl, I always dreamed of growing up to satisfy user needs in a way that meets business goals for transformative outcomes.' While the post is satirical, its virality hints at how it captures the unique – and often cringeworthy – way that people write on LinkedIn. The professional networking platform, which launched in 2003, is where humble-bragging routinely meets oversharing . U sers find ways to draw leadership life lesson s from the most mundane of daily activities, such as conversations with a taxi driver or doing a presentation. Such oversharing is not without consequences. In May, Singaporean LinkedIn user Janney Hujic, who runs tour agency Elysian Expeditions, posted about a life lesson learnt from meeting former DBS Group chief executive Piyush Gupta – only for Mr Gupta to later comment: 'Sorry to disillusion you. That isn't me!' I f not for the mistaken identity, Ms Hujic's post would probably have gone unnoticed on the platform. LinkedIn has over one billion users worldwide – more than four million of whom are based in Singapore – all plugging their own professional and personal pursuits. Many of the initial comments lauded her for writing about this fortuitous 'chance encounter'. Even after Mr Gupta weighed in to dispute the account , some commenters suggested that the post , left up for a week, could draw attention to Ms Hujic's tour company. But at the end of May, her LinkedIn account was gone. What is the line between authenticity and misreading the room? Between clout-chasing and networking? Being vulnerable and oversharing? The Straits Times spoke to recruiters, public relations experts and LinkedIn's 'top voices' to find out why you are likely using LinkedIn wrong. Here are five questions to ask before you post. 1. Is it cringe or 'context collapse'? When you post on LinkedIn, for whom should you be writing ? Y our future boss? A potential recruiter or hiring manager? Your current colleagues? Perhaps your old schoolmates or industry acquaintances? While you might imagine a particular audience, the answer is really: 'All of the above.' Internet researchers have coined the term 'context collapse' to refer to how social media creates a form of communication that collapses many distinct social contexts into one. Offline, it is an easy feat to change your tone and language when schmoozing with your boss, sharing workplace gossip with a confidant or impressing a recruiter. Online, these contexts are flattened into a single feed that all of these potential audiences – and your mum and mother-in-law – can access. This partly explains why many LinkedIn posts feel 'cringe'. Users often post to impress future hiring managers or build a specific follower base, which is perhaps an expectation that current colleagues or general audiences might not share. It also explains why certain posts land their creators in hot water. Posts on LinkedIn are visible not only to one's target audience, but also to the public. PHOTO: LINKEDINLUNATICS Ms Bethany Bloch, managing editor at public relations firm Mutant Communications, says leaders need to be mindful of the opinions they share, as well as prevailing public sentiment. 'We saw what happened with the now former vice-president of the Law Society of Singapore , which is a classic example of oversharing that led to a PR crisis for them and a personal crisis for him ,' she says, referring to Mr Chia Boon Teck, who resigned from his position after he penned a LinkedIn post in March which was seen as casting blame on a rape survivor. Mr Chia likely expected his post to stay within a small circle of friends in the legal fraternity. However, context collapse meant that strangers – including those on Facebook and Instagram – who held divergent viewpoints became his audience, judge and jury. Recruitment experts speaking to ST affirm the importance of being wary about one's LinkedIn activity, noting that it is now common practice for recruiters to look through a candidate's posts to assess his or her personality and values , and identify potential red flags . 2. Are you authentic enough? Nearly all experts speaking to ST identified 'authenticity' as an important trait to project on LinkedIn , but it is an amorphous concept that defies definition. 'Beyond qualifications, cultural and personality fit are critical factors in the hiring process,' says Ms Jaya Dass, Asia-Pacific managing director at human resources firm Randstad Enterprise, who notes that she sees inappropriate jokes and personal rants as red flags. On the other hand, insightful content about personal takeaways – instead of merely posting often – and posts showing appreciation for colleagues are her green flags. Content that drives the most engagement on LinkedIn includes business news – earnings, mergers and organisational changes – as well as career advice and industry trend perspectives, says Ms Serla Rusli, a LinkedIn career expert and senior editor at LinkedIn News. Who is posting matters. She notes that more business leaders are using LinkedIn to explain the how and why behind major professional decisions, citing a 52 per cent increase in posts from chief executives over the past two years. These average eight times more impressions and four times more engagement than posts from others. There has been a 52 per cent increase in posts from chief executives in recent years, though engagement may not always be positive. PHOTO: LINKEDINLUNATICS Sharing videos is another approach to consider. Ms Rusli notes that video is a fast-growing format on LinkedIn, with time spent watching videos up by 36 per cent as at April. Ms Christel Goh, chief executive of local public relations agency Grow Public Relations, warns against overusing personal stories , a common trope on LinkedIn. 'There's a fine line between meaningful sharing and oversharing. When every moment becomes a 'teachable lesson', it can feel forced, cringey or overly dramatic,' she adds. An overemphasis on achievements, using the platform to shame and blame others, and an excessive dependence on artificial intelligence (AI) to generate content are other common mistakes on the platform . LinkedIn users' frequent overemphasis on achievements and 'teachable' moments is often satirised. PHOTO: LINKEDINLUNATICS 'LinkedIn is a professional networking space, and because of its nature, many users feel compelled to present a highly polished, positive image of themselves,' Ms Goh says. 'While this might seem appropriate for a professional platform, the overly curated and idealised tone can come across as unrealistic. People don't typically communicate in such a polished manner in everyday life. ' The key is setting editorial guidelines for yourself, says Dr Juliana Chan, a LinkedIn Top Voice with more than 100,000 followers, and former Massachusetts Institute of Technology scientist-turned-branding-coach who prides herself on speaking 'fluent LinkedInese' . ''Does this story serve my professional audience? Does it add value or context to my expertise and job as a branding coach?' If yes, I'll share it authentically. If it's just unnecessary personal drama or random life updates, it stays private,' she says. She points to a post she made in November about her father's death in 2024 because she had written about him on LinkedIn in the past. She sees this as professionally relevant context because it 'helped people see that I am only human and not some digital avatar'. The challenge lies in where to draw these lines. What constitutes oversharing versus insight? Bluntness versus offence? The inherent risk of using LinkedIn as a platform is that not everyone agrees on boundaries. Unfortunately, any misjudgments are linked to your employer and a detailed resume. For another LinkedIn Top Voice and founder of career development organisation The Mindgem, Ms Ratna Juita, the answer lies in understanding that you cannot please everyone. 'In today's attention economy, appealing to everybody means appealing to nobody,' she says. ' Embrace strategic polarisation. Take clear stands on industry issues, share your unique perspectives and don't be afraid to repel the wrong audience while attracting the right one.' 3. How are you using your connections? One of LinkedIn's most important functions is the ability to connect with others. But this, too, can be a potential source of networking faux pas. Ms Yeo Sha-En, a professional speaker and LinkedIn Top Voice, considers immediately asking for something upon reaching out to be a networking red flag. 'In the case of networking or mentorship, this is equivalent to meeting someone for the first time and expecting him or her to give you something,' she says. 'People need time to get to know you before they can mentor you.' Similarly, Dr Chan thinks it is a common networking mistake to send connection requests without adding a custom note. 'If I receive 100 connection requests, often only two to three of them have a thoughtfully written custom note attached to it,' she says. ' Every single time, I consider these requests first.' Ms Juita says: 'Strategic networking isn't about collecting contacts. It's about building a community of mutual support and shared professional growth.' She highlights the importance of finding ways to turn online connections into offline ones and setting healthy boundaries on what you should share . Being retrenched in 2018, she adds, taught her a hard lesson on the importance of establishing a personal brand that extends beyond a single company or employer . 'The traditional employment contract where loyalty guaranteed job security no longer exists,' she says. 'Companies restructure, industries evolve and even the most dedicated employees can find themselves unexpectedly looking for new opportunities. 'When that happens, your LinkedIn network isn't just helpful, but it can also be your lifeline.' 4. Is sharing your layoff a good idea? Posting about being #opentowork or a recent layoff has become a common LinkedIn trope, but is sharing such news online a good idea? Nearly all recruitment experts who spoke to ST say being open about a layoff is a useful way to put yourself on the radar of recruiters – and get some much-needed support from others . 'From a recruiter's perspective, layoffs are rarely seen as a negative mark, especially given today's economic climate,' says Ms Kris Tan, an associate partner at recruitment firm Page Executive. 'Authenticity is a valued quality in candidates, and many employers appreciate when individuals are transparent about their job search efforts.' Recruiters say it often comes down to discoverability. 'Recruiters monitor these posts, and such announcements can increase visibility and encourage referrals,' says Ms Ilse Clement, senior consultant for human resources and business support at recruitment agency Robert Walters Singapore. ' Be tactful and forward-looking. Frame it as a transition rather than a setback,' she adds. Ms Clement also notes that active LinkedIn users who post regularly and engage with others are more likely to appear in search results due to the platform's algorithm. As recruiters use keywords to find candidates, it is important that your profile includes relevant industry terms, skills and certifications. Candidates can also use LinkedIn's built-in 'Open to Work' feature to discreetly signal to recruiters that they are open to opportunities. Not everyone agrees with this approach. Dr Leon Qiu, a PhD graduate from the Singapore Management University and prolific LinkedIn poster , believes that signalling you are #opentowork – using the platform's built-in profile frame – can be 'self-sabotage '. 'It hurts your chances and negotiating power. It signals to the job market you are of poorer labour quality,' he says. ' Conversely, if you are open to hire, you have greater power and are perceived to be more capable. But it's just my hypothesis.' 5. Falling for the 'thought leadership' trap? Considering the effort required and the many reputational risks, why post on LinkedIn at all? The answer usually revolves around 'thought leadership', one of LinkedIn's most persistent buzzwords. The term refers to establishing oneself as an authority in a field. Advocates see it as genuine expertise that influences industries and drives change. Sceptics argue it is little more than dressed-up self-promotion, recycled ideas and meaningless business jargon. The desire for 'thought leadership' has created a lucrative industry around it , where it has become common practice for public relations agencies to sell thought leadership as a service – meaning the creation of op-eds and, at times, LinkedIn posts for a tidy sum . Ms Charu Srivastava, co-founder of communications consultancy firm TriOn & Co, says her firm works with clients on LinkedIn strategy and thought leadership content development. 'The main reason they come to us is to ensure quality, authenticity and a consistency of LinkedIn engagement,' she says. 'The clients have full oversight of the content, and we incorporate their personal voice and nuances in the content development process. This provides our clients with the balance of strategy and guidance with full ownership of their profiles.' But AI also adds a new dimension to this , with many users turning to generative AI tools like ChatGPT to create posts and insights. Nearly all experts ST spoke to highlighted mindlessly using AI without supervision to create a flood of generic content as a flaming red flag. 'One of the biggest mistakes is posting content just for the sake of it,' says Ms Srivastava. 'There is more of this happening on LinkedIn these days, due to the increasing use of GenAI to create content.' 'There is a running joke about how people post about the most mundane professional developments with a 'LinkedIn flair',' she adds, noting that many users inflate achievements, and conflate their personal and professional lives. Recognising the reality that many posts are not written by users themselves – the platform has even introduced a feature to use AI-generated responses as comments – is key to understanding that not all engagement on the platform is meaningful. As such, the quest for engagement on the platform can sometimes be a performative trap, reinforcing that virality is far from the equivalent of becoming a thought leader. This is especially true for those who create generic listicles and inspirational quotes without a clear point of view, say experts. Dr Chan says 'not everyone needs to build an audience on LinkedIn'. For entrepreneurs, consultants and executive coaches – as well as those seeking speaking opportunities or board positions, or being headhunted – active engagement makes sense. For others, it may not. Her advice: Focus on 'signature content' that stems from your unique experience and cannot be replicated by others . 'Likes on LinkedIn don't pay the bills,' she says. 'It is more financially productive to attract people who want to collaborate with you. Every post should increase your 'surface area of luck' if done correctly.' Check out the Headstart chatbot for answers to your questions on careers and work trends.
