As Singapore's job market evolves, understanding what non-executive talent values is crucial for your business's success. In 2025, attracting and retaining skilled professionals goes beyond offering competitive salaries. This article delves into the key factors shaping job seekers' decisions in Singapore's dynamic landscape. Through case studies and insights from local businesses, you'll gain a comprehensive view of what matters most to potential hires. From company culture and growth opportunities to work-life balance and brand reputation, discover how to position your organization as an employer of choice. Stay ahead of the curve and learn how to meet the evolving expectations of Singapore's workforce in 2025 and beyond.

What Do Job Seekers In Singapore Value Most in a Job?

Job Security and Career Advancement

In Singapore's competitive job market, non-executive job seekers highly value job security and opportunities for career advancement. According to a study, employees are increasingly seeking roles that offer clear hierarchical structures and pathways for professional growth. This desire for stability is particularly evident in technology roles, which are in high demand across sectors like tech and healthcare.

Work-Life Balance

What do job seekers value most? Work-life balance has emerged as a top priority, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Singaporean professionals are looking for employers who offer flexible work arrangements and respect personal time. This shift reflects a growing awareness of the importance of maintaining a healthy equilibrium between professional and personal life.

Competitive Compensation and Benefits

While not the sole factor, attractive salary and benefits packages remain crucial for job seekers in Singapore. Employers are now focusing on offering comprehensive benefits that include health coverage, retirement plans, and other perks to attract and retain top talent in the non-executive job market.

Competitive Compensation and Benefits

Rising Salary Expectations

In 2025, what do job seekers value most? Competitive compensation tops the list. Employers in Singapore are planning substantial wage increases, with projections ranging from 3% to 10%. Job movers can expect even higher gains, with salary increments of 12-15%. Ambitious Singaporean workers are aiming to boost their earnings by a whopping 24%.

Industry-Specific Trends

The tech sector is seeing particularly dramatic increases. Roles in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and cybersecurity are commanding pay hikes between 12-20%. In high-demand areas like AI and data analytics, salary jumps may reach up to 20%.

Beyond the Paycheck

While compensation is crucial, 31% of Singaporeans prioritize better overall benefits packages. Employers are responding by offering attractive perks such as flexible work arrangements, wellness programs, and career development opportunities to attract and retain top talent in this competitive job market.

Positive Company Culture and Values

Fostering Teamwork and Open Communication

In Singapore's dynamic work environment, a positive company culture is essential for attracting and retaining top talent. According to Culture Amp, 68% of employees in Singapore are engaged in their organizations, demonstrating a strong commitment to positive workplace cultures. This engagement leads to improved performance and job satisfaction, as employees feel valued and inspired in their roles.

Investing in Employee Well-being

Companies are advised to invest in employee well-being to create a positive work environment. Robert Walters Singapore emphasizes the importance of promoting a flexible work culture, offering remote and hybrid work models as key benefits. These initiatives not only attract talent but also contribute to a more engaged workforce.

Balancing Asian Values and Modern Practices

The work culture in Singapore is uniquely influenced by Asian values, emphasizing hierarchy and discipline. However, as noted by Vantage Lens, there is also space for constructive disagreement in multinational companies. This balance creates an environment where employees can thrive, fostering innovation while respecting traditional values. Understanding what do job seekers value in this context is crucial for businesses aiming to build a strong, positive culture in Singapore's competitive job market.

Opportunities for Career Growth and Development

In Singapore's competitive job market, what do job seekers value most? For non-executive positions, career growth and development opportunities are paramount. A staggering 32% of employees resign due to lack of career progression, highlighting the critical importance of this factor.

Upskilling for the Future

Singaporean workers are prioritizing upskilling, particularly in AI, IT, and management. This aligns with the growing demand for professionals with expertise in AI, data analytics, and digital infrastructure. Companies that invest in employee development through upskilling programs are more likely to attract and retain top talent.

Internal Promotion Opportunities

Employers are focusing on internal promotions to address skills shortages and retain valuable employees. For instance, at Randstad, 80% of promotions are internal, demonstrating a strong commitment to employee growth. This approach not only motivates staff but also helps companies cultivate a skilled workforce aligned with their evolving needs.

Work-Life Balance and Flexibility

The Rise of Hybrid Work

In Singapore's evolving job market, work-life balance and flexibility have become paramount for non-executive job seekers. A staggering 88% of Gen Z workers in Singapore prefer hybrid work arrangements, highlighting the importance of flexibility in attracting young talent. This preference is not limited to Gen Z; 49% of Singapore's overall workforce would consider leaving jobs that require more office presence.

Balancing Career and Family

For working parents, flexible arrangements are crucial. 81% find flexible work options essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Companies are responding by offering remote work options, flexible hours, and even four-day workweeks to prevent burnout and improve employee satisfaction.

The Future of Work

As we approach 2025, businesses must adapt to these changing preferences to remain competitive in attracting top talent. Employers are increasingly focusing on enhancing the overall employee experience, recognizing that what job seekers value extends beyond just compensation to include work-life balance and flexibility.

Strong Employer Brand and Reputation

The Power of Branding in Talent Acquisition

As Singapore's job market heats up, with nearly half of employers planning to increase headcount in 2025, a strong employer brand becomes crucial for attracting top talent. What do job seekers value? A company's reputation and brand image play a significant role. A well-established employer brand can reduce turnover rates by 28% and lower cost per hire by 50%, making it a powerful tool for both recruitment and retention.

Authenticity: The Key to Effective Branding

In 2025, authenticity in employer branding will be paramount. Job seekers are increasingly savvy, seeking employers whose values align with their own. Companies must showcase their culture, values, and unique opportunities transparently across various platforms. This authenticity not only attracts talent but also improves retention, as engaged employees who experience the promised workplace culture are more likely to remain loyal to the organization.

Conclusion

As we look ahead to 2025, it's clear that what do job seekers value in Singapore is evolving rapidly. Non-executive professionals are placing increased emphasis on holistic compensation packages, work-life balance, and opportunities for growth. According to recent salary guides, over 200 non-executive roles in Singapore now offer monthly salaries of S$10,000 or more, highlighting the competitive landscape for talent.

Adapting to changing priorities

To attract and retain top talent, employers must adapt their strategies. This includes:

• Offering competitive salaries and benefits

• Fostering a positive company culture

• Providing clear career progression paths

• Embracing flexible work arrangements

The implementation of new employment laws, such as the Platform Workers Act, further underscores the importance of prioritizing worker protections and benefits. By staying attuned to these evolving preferences and regulatory changes, businesses can position themselves as employers of choice in Singapore's dynamic job market.

Conclusion

As you prepare your company for the evolving job market in Singapore, remember that non-executive job seekers in 2025 will prioritize a holistic package. While competitive compensation remains crucial, factors like company culture, growth opportunities, and work-life balance will play increasingly significant roles. By understanding and addressing these diverse needs, you'll position your business to attract and retain top talent in a competitive landscape. Stay attuned to emerging trends, leverage insights from successful local companies, and continually refine your employment offerings. With a comprehensive approach to talent acquisition and retention, your organization will be well-equipped to thrive in Singapore's dynamic job market of 2025 and beyond.