5. This is the story of Po, a SPM fresh graduate. He decides against furthering his studies and instead applies for a
job through an interview. During the interview, the interviewer doubts Po’s credentials as a good employee due
to his low qualification. But Po is ultimately hired.
-
In his new job, Po originally works hard to impress everyone. He dresses well, works overtime and tries to be
friendly, which works at the start. But over time, he realises that not only are his efforts not appreciated, but his
colleagues are even doubting his abilities due to his low qualification. This is regardless of Po’s actual
performance.
-
Po remembers that he had an uncle who once climbed the social ladder by buttering up those around him . Po
got envious and decides that he needed to change his approach if he was to achieve his goals. Thus, Po
changes his outlook. He cared less for those around him, and instead focused his effort on buttering up to his
boss. This causes his boss to favor him.
-
Po also became lazy as he felt his efforts won’t be fully appreciated seeing that it was done in a group. This
further enforces the dislike his colleagues felt towards Po. But ultimately, due to his close relationship with the
boss, Po got his dream promotion.
-
By this time, Po was known as the “Butter-up King”in the office, and no one wanted help from him even when he
was being sincere as they couldn’t trust his intentions. It was at this point when Po wonders whether it was really
THE STORYLINE
8. #02. FIRST
IMPRESSIONDefinition
- When one person first encounters another
person and forms a mental image of that
person
How Po’s colleagues formed
impression of Po
- Judging his outfit / physical appearance
Effects
- Po became a likeable person
9. #03. SOCIAL
LEARNINGDefinition
- Social behavior (any type of
behavior that we display
socially) is learned primarily
by observing and imitating
the actions of others.
What Po learned from
his uncle?
- Buttering up his boss
10. #04.
INGRATIATIONDefinition
- a psychological technique in which an
individual attempts to become more
attractive or likeable to their target.
How Po attempted to adulate his
boss?
- He flattered Mr Tan
Effects
- Po got the promotion he wanted
11. #05. CONFIRMATION
BIASDefinition
- A confirmation bias is a type of
cognitive bias that involves
favoring information that
confirms previously existing
beliefs or biases.
Why Po’s colleagues
misunderstood him until the
end?
- Strengthen belief in Po’s
preconception behavior.
