Janette Chiang and her son spending the weekend together
In honour of Mother’s Day, we speak to 4 working mothers (and grandmother!) in the By The Bay community. These super moms balance high preforming roles in some of the world’s most recognised brand names. Hear their stories of their journey managing the myriad of roles, their challenges and joys and what keeps them going.
Happy Mother’s Day to Janette Chiang, both a mother and grandmother! A Store Development Director at Starbucks Coffee Singapore, Janette shares her advice and experience on how she raises her child to be a fine young man, transcending to the next generation.
And a Happy Mother’s Day to all our mothers in Starbucks Coffee Singapore!
Do share with us some details of your role at Starbucks.
As the Store Development Director of Starbucks Coffee Singapore, my key role involves leading, guiding and coaching my team in meeting our goals and objectives that are aligned with the company’s long & short term goals and plans. My department handles leasing, project construction & renovation and facilities, hence we work behind the store’s scene to ensure we secure the idea sites with suitable leasing conditions for our brand.
What does the typical work day in a week look like for you?
Generally, it’s replying emails and these days its virtual meetings with cross functional team or with my department. Some days are planned for the outdoor, such as visiting new sites or our current stores and walking the ground to see the market conditions and its development. Connecting with our landlords is another important part of my work activities too.
We understand that you are grandmother. How many children and grandchildren do you have. Are there any practices that you’ve done with your own children that you see them passing down to your grandchildren?
I have one child who is in his thirties and one grandson who will be turning two this year. I could recall the days when my son was a toddler and I would read him story books and sing him nursery rhymes everyday. Now, both my son & daughter-in-law are also doing the same with my grandson, who enjoys singing his rhymes even before he has turned two.
Do share with us if there is an parenting advice that you’ve given to your children.
I would communicate regularly to my son to ensure that I instill the right values in him when he is growing up. I also make a point to prepare wholesome home cooked meals rather than having take-away meals. I am glad he has also adopted a similar style in bringing up my grandson.
What is the best part about being a mother?
I enjoyed the childhood in seeing him grow and learning things. I love seeing him smile and being happy, it always melts away any stress that I may have. As he grows up and manages his own life well and having his own family, it certainly makes me proud that I have done well as a mum and turning him into a fine young man.
What is one advice that has helped you in your journey as a parent?
Treat each other with respect, speak to each other like adults and not to treat their opinions lightly. This has certainly helped me in building great relationship and a strong bond with my son.
What do you think is key to being successful at home and at work?
I enjoy a harmonious relationship with my hubby at home by understanding each other. At work, I value being a good coach & mentor to my team, and at the same time be a team player.
What advice would you give to first time mothers-to-be who are preparing to embark on the journey of motherhood?
Be happy and be safe during the pregnancy period. Read up on baby care and be knowledgeable at each baby development stage. Have great conversations with the hubby on how to care for the baby especially in the 1st year. Be mentally prepared for the new bundle of joy which can also be a handful especially for working mums.
Describe what an ideal day off looks like to you.
It shall start with a good brisk walk/jog followed by a good breakfast. Then I’ll have a hot shower and slow down over a cup of hot coffee and the e-paper. For lunch, I’ll meet with some friends and head to the spa for a good massage. And to end the day over dinner with my hubby and head home for some TV time together.