Making Big Strides with AI: The Counto Multi-Agent Compliance Model At Counto, we constantly innovate to simplify complex compliance tasks for our small business clients. Our latest breakthrough? A multi-agent AI model revolutionising document processing. Forget old-fashioned, sluggish methods—welcome to a smarter, faster solution that truly delivers. Simplifying Your Workday We all know the drill: piles of documents, tedious extraction, and then checking each one by hand. Well, we thought it was time for a change. Our new AI system uses several smart AI agents that work together seamlessly. T ..read more

How Small Businesses Can Thrive Under Singapore’s New Flexible Work Arrangements (FWA) As of December 1, 2024, all employers in Singapore, including small businesses, will be required to fairly consider formal requests for flexible work arrangements (FWAs) as per the new Tripartite Guidelines. This significant update aims to enhance work-life balance but brings several challenges for small business owners. Here’s a detailed look at these challenges and strategies to effectively manage them. Understanding the New Flexible Work Arrangement Guidelines The introduction of the Tripartite Guidelines ..read more

Mastering Remote Employee Onboarding: A Strategic Guide for SMEs Remote work has transformed how we onboard new employees, making it essential for businesses, especially SMEs, to adapt their onboarding processes effectively.  At Counto, we’re committed to helping small businesses thrive by equipping them with the strategies needed for successful remote employee integration.  Understanding Remote Employee Onboarding Remote employee onboarding is designed to welcome new hires into your company without the need for physical presence. This process involves using digital tools and platfor ..read more

A Guide to New FWA Guidelines for Singapore SMEs from Dec 2024  Starting December 1, 2024, Singapore will see a significant shift towards supporting flexible work arrangements (FWAs), as mandated by the newly established Tripartite Guidelines. At Counto, we understand the intricacies these changes bring, particularly for SMEs, and are here to help you navigate through them effectively. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know: Understanding the Scope of FWAs The definition of FWAs has broadened considerably beyond the commonly known remote or hybrid models, which gained popularity duri ..read more

Effective Interview Techniques for SME Employers For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the interview process is a critical gateway to securing top talent. A strategic, well-executed interview can differentiate your business from competitors and ensure you capture the interest of the best candidates. At Counto, we specialise in empowering SMEs with the tools and knowledge to refine their business strategies. This guide provides comprehensive steps and innovative techniques to enhance your interviewing approach. Optimising the Interview Process Step 1: Role Definition Begin by clearly d ..read more

Candidate Engagement: Transform Your Recruitment Strategy At Counto, we recognise the pivotal role of candidate engagement in the recruitment process. Engaging candidates effectively not only enhances your employee hiring success but also boosts your brand reputation. This guide offers practical strategies for small business owners and entrepreneurs to optimise their recruitment process, ensuring a smooth and engaging experience for potential hires. Understanding Candidate Drop-off Points Identifying and Addressing Recruitment Challenges: Diverse Job Titles: Candidates often search for positi ..read more

CPF Guide for Employers in Singapore At Counto, we understand that as a small business owner or entrepreneur in Singapore, navigating the complexities of the Central Provident Fund (CPF) contributions for your employees can be a daunting task. It’s crucial to get it right, not only to comply with the law but to ensure the financial well-being of your employees. This guide is designed to simplify the CPF obligations for employers and provide actionable insights to manage these responsibilities effectively. Understanding Your Role as an Employer Who is an Employer? Under the CPF Act, an employer ..read more

Choosing the Best Business Structure for Freelancers and Self-Employed Professionals in Singapore At Counto, we know that setting up your business correctly is crucial, especially for freelancers and self-employed professionals looking to establish themselves in Singapore. The business structure you choose has significant implications for your liability, tax obligations, and ability to attract investment. In this guide, we’ll compare two popular structures for freelancers: Sole Proprietorship and Private Limited Company. We’ll help you understand each option’s benefits, drawbacks, and key diff ..read more

Do I Need a Nominee Director For My Business in Singapore? And Who Can Be One.  At Counto, we understand that establishing a robust foundation for your business in Singapore is paramount. A crucial part of this foundation involves appointing a nominee director, especially for foreign entities aiming to comply with local regulations while managing their operations remotely. This detailed guide explains the role of a nominee director, their responsibilities, eligibility criteria, and the process of appointment to ensure your business thrives in Singapore’s dynamic market. Understanding the ..read more

Decoding COMPASS: Enhancing Your Employment Pass Strategy in Singapore At Counto, we are dedicated to guiding SMEs, small business owners, and entrepreneurs through Singapore’s Employment Pass (EP) framework, particularly the Comprehensive Assessment Framework (COMPASS). Understanding how to navigate COMPASS can significantly impact your success rate in securing EPs for your prospective hires. What is COMPASS? ​​COMPASS is a critical element in the process of securing an Employment Pass (EP) in Singapore. It introduces a structured and holistic method to assess both potential and current forei ..read more