From first job to being a seasoned member of the account team, our Account Manager Gabriele Cascapera has come a long way, and from Italy no less. In this interview, we talk to him about his first client meeting, work culture differences between Italy and Singapore, and learn from him the importance of perseverance and keeping an open mind when facing the unknown – no matter if it is connecting with a new client, or making the move to a whole new country (what his father who is also his role model did).

1. What drew you to working at V3 Smart Technologies?

Gabriele: I find it interesting how technology around the world is evolving at a rapid pace and was drawn to the potential that V3 Smart Technologies has in tech development. As this is my first job, I applied with the intention of gaining experience in the corporate world and felt that V3 Smart Technologies was a good fit.  

2. How long have you been with V3 Smart Technologies?

Gabriele: I have been with V3 Smart Technologies for almost 1 year and a half. I enjoy working here as the office environment is pleasant and my colleagues are friendly and amiable to work with. Overall, it’s a great place where I can grow my career and I feel encouraged to learn more on the job.

3. What’s your proudest moment at your job?

Gabriele: That would be my first time presenting V3 Smart Technologies’ solutions to a potential client. Although I was excited to put my training into action, I was nervous during the meeting and apprehensive about making a mistake and failing to close the deal. Fortunately, I was able to control my nerves and do my best with a clear goal in mind. By the end of the meeting, I felt relieved and a sense of accomplishment when the client was keen to partner with V3 Smart Technologies.

4. What’s something invaluable you learned while working at V3 Smart Technologies?

Gabriele: I have learned many things, but the most invaluable lesson I have learnt is adapting to any circumstance when I am meeting people from diverse cultures or industry backgrounds. I find this skill useful for communicating well with clients and building rapport with them, and also in project management where I’m constantly working with companies from all kinds of industries, ranging from SMEs to MNCs.

5. How do you like the company culture here?

Gabriele: It’s great, everyone is super patient and understanding, even if I’ve made a mistake or am asking questions, which I find helpful as this is my first job after graduating. It is also an encouraging and transparent environment when it comes to communication and my colleagues are always willing to help one another.

Other than the environment and colleagues, I find that the company purpose also helps to keep our team united, motivated, and gives meaning to our work. I’m glad to be part of a team that is dedicated to helping businesses optimise themselves and in turn, benefit people by improving work efficiency and quality of life in our society.

6. How do you like working and living in Singapore? How’s the city life and food here?

Gabriele: It’s one of the best places to be right now, especially for the younger generation, since in Europe most countries’ economies are suffering and there is a lack of job opportunities. At the same time, Singapore has lots of working professionals from different cultures, ethnicities and countries here, so I enjoy meeting new people and connecting with them. The city life is amazing here with a wide variety of things to do. The food is also the best as you can have anything you want, being in a multi-cultural city.

7. What do you miss about Italy?

Gabriele: What I miss most is spending time with my family and having family lunches and dinners together. Though I have family in Singapore, I haven’t been able to see my nonna (grandmother), siblings and cousins for more than a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Before, I was able to see them at least twice a year, in the summer and during the Christmas holidays. Back in Italy, I could also spend time at the beach with my cousins and old classmates, and meet old friends for a catch up over coffee or aperitivo (happy hour). Besides the people, I also miss the cold weather and the changing of seasons – being able to sit in front of the fire and cook steak in the fireplace.

8. What’s the biggest cultural or work culture difference between Italy and Singapore you noticed when you first came here?

Gabriele: In Singapore the pace of work is 10x faster compared to Italy where work life is more laid-back. Despite that, I find this a positive aspect as it teaches the value of discipline and hard work, which are both necessary in a person as they journey to success. On the other hand, the Italian culture has taught me the importance of keeping a balance between work and my personal life.

9. Name something off your bucket list

Gabriele: Travelling to South America to experience the culture. The people there are said to be warm and passionate and I’ve always been attracted to the happy vibes from pictures of people holidaying in the country. What I love most is getting to know the locals and their unique way of life.

10. What do you do to unwind after work on the weekends?

Gabriele: I play football and go out for some drinks with friends. I have learnt how to balance my work and my social life by making it a point to set aside time for myself on weekends to destress and to rest before taking on the challenges of the week ahead. This allows me to put my best foot forward during work, so that when it’s time to rest, I can do so fully.

11. Do you have a role model you look up to? If you could pick anyone who would it be?

Gabriele: My role model is my dad as he came to Singapore at the age of 19 knowing little about the city, yet had the courage to open his own business without any previous experience. It was difficult for him as he was far away from his family in a completely new environment and culture, and was barely able to speak the language. However, by working hard every day and keeping an open mind, he was able to adapt to the life in Singapore with the support of my mother (who is a Singaporean), and raise a family of 5 children here, as well as juggle between work and family time.

I am definitely very close to my father as he is a cheerful and supportive presence throughout my entire life. Till today, he will still give me advice on work and share with me ways to cope with challenges based on his past experience.