Ms Caroline Mak’s journey from a typist to the chief executive officer of a large corporation has inspired many teenagers. Though her daily schedules are tight and full, Caroline allocated her time to serve as a mentor of Career Challenge and share her unique experiences on the way to success. Caroline said she had to earn a living from a very young age and started working full-time after graduating from Form 5. In a pursuit for higher education, she attended evening schools continuously after work. Caroline is glad that she was able to work for many growing companies, which allowed her talent to flourish and provided her with opportunities to get promoted. Caroline said her motto of success came not from any famous person but her mother. Her mother said, “Life is like making a door –make sure you can go through the door and so can others”. It means we have to be considerate and objective and we need to put ourselves in other people’s shoes.

Caroline mentioned that no one can take up all the tasks at work and advised everyone to prioritize work according to the importance and learn to delegate. No wonder she admires the former US President Ronald Reagan who is well known for identifying the right persons for the right jobs.

Caroline feels happy because her husband is also an administrator and they can share their work experiences and advise to each other. Caroline strives for work-life balance. She tries to go overseas twice a year to get “re-charged” and rejuvenated. After taking a break, she becomes more energetic at work.

Some students seek advice from Caroline on attending job interviews. With extensive experience in interviewing, Caroline mentions two major points. First, a job applicant must obtain some background information about the firm before attending the interview. Second, during the interview, an applicant must show his/her confidence, maintain eye contact with the interviewer and keep smiling. Caroline cautions the teenagers to not give up their jobs easily, adding, even if they want to get a new job, they should know and plan which direction to go.