<p>In an episode of the <i>Hello Mentor</i> podcast, content creator, TV host, and event MC Chris MJ shared his transition from corporate engineering to full-time media. He opened up about the pressure of pleasing Asian parents, working a corporate job at a global brand, and making the scary leap into the freelance entertainment market.</p><p>Here are three practical career lessons from Chris MJ's journey to help you pivot successfully.</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:50%;"><img src="https://assets.hiredly.com/cms/images_1_7691c3bcb9.jpg"></figure><h2>1. Balance Stability and Passion Early On</h2><p>When Chris graduated with his master's degree, his mother heavily emphasized entering a stable, professional field. He took a prestigious fresh graduate job as an optical design engineer at the Sony R&amp;D facility in Bangi, where he spent three years developing Bravia televisions. Even though he was doing highly technical engineering work during the week, he actively emceed events on the weekends to keep his mass communication dreams alive.</p><p><strong>Do not limit your options:</strong> You do not have to choose between a corporate salary and a creative outlet when starting your job search.</p><p><strong>Maximize your after-hours:</strong> Use your free time after your standard 9 to 5 schedule to test your creative hobbies and see if they can scale into a viable business.</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:50%;"><img src="https://assets.hiredly.com/cms/038d6e_fe6cc8d4235e425c92944abacd6b5f73_mv2_59936f2917.jpg"></figure><h2>2. Treat Social Media as Your Real CV</h2><p>Before entering full-time recruitment for media roles, Chris spent years behind the scenes practicing his skills. He secretly built his own website and launched a talk show on YouTube from his bedroom, teaching himself how to edit videos, hold a camera, and speak naturally to an audience.</p><p><strong>Build a digital portfolio:</strong> For modern creative roles, a polished social media presence serves as an authentic record of your true talent.</p><p><strong>Demonstrate consistency:</strong> Consistently uploading content helps potential clients and recruitment agencies easily evaluate your engagement metrics and unique presentation style.</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:50%;"><img src="https://assets.hiredly.com/cms/images_12bdfa4951.jpg"></figure><h2>3. Stop Overthinking and Choose "Day One"</h2><p>Executing a massive career change is terrifying, especially when navigating heavy family expectations. Chris actually resigned from his corporate engineering role without telling his parents first because he was afraid their practical fears would change his mind. His father ultimately surprised him with proud support, reminding him that the ball was now in his court.</p><p><strong>Decide your timeline:</strong> As Chris notes, you can either say "one day" or make today "day one" by choosing to start.</p><p><strong>Start with small actions:</strong> Apply simple job search tips and resume tips to refresh your profile, update your portfolio layout, and take calculated steps toward your full potential.</p><h2><strong>About Hello Mentor</strong></h2><h3>Hello Mentor is a podcast offering candid conversations on entrepreneurship, career growth, and ambition. Each episode features inspiring individuals who share personal experiences and actionable advice.</h3><h3>Catch all episodes on <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/3nxKilzRgDdZ3kiJLiMXHv?si=meY1bbL-QWG_wqAAzXXySA" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Spotify</strong></a> or <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=51o3H_c-6T0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>YouTube</strong></a> for more inspiration and career guidance from industry leaders!</h3>

Discover essential job search tips from engineer turned creator Chris MJ to unlock real career growth and land the best jobs in Malaysia.

Hello Mentor S3 E28 | From Sony Engineer to Top MC: 3 Career Growth Lessons From Chris MJ