More than seven in 10 (72 percent) of respondents in Singapore want to work in a role that allows them to travel internationally. Having overseas exposure is important to workers as they can gain different perspectives, learn new skills from their global counterparts and build a global network of connections.

Singaporeans drawn to jobs with global and regional remit

According to Randstad Workmonitor’s 2019 Q3 results, having the opportunity to work in another country is an important factor for employees. Close to eight in 10 respondents (78 percent) aged between 18 and 34 are even willing to relocate to pursue a meaningful career.

Managing Director of Randstad Singapore and Malaysia, Ms. Jaya Dass said, “Many multinationals and large local firms are establishing or expanding their regional teams to drive global innovation and increase their global market share from Singapore. As a result, we have observed an increasing number of global and regional-level roles based in Singapore, particularly in the areas of business development, sales and marketing, accounting and finance, and even software development. Employees in regional roles tend to get more opportunities to travel to other markets to spearhead pilots or facilitate operations and campaigns. These jobs are also particularly attractive to the local talent as they get to manage a larger team, connect with and learn from their global counterparts as well as gain new exposure and experiences.”

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Workers are willing to move if they can get higher pay and live a healthier life

Seventy-nine per cent of respondents are open to the idea of relocating if they can have both a meaningful career and good work-life balance. Close to three in four (74 percent) would move for a substantially higher salary and 66 percent will do so if it means that they can keep their jobs with their current employers.

The top three choices for locally-based respondents to relocate to are Australia, Japan and the US, respectively. Companies based in these markets are known to spearhead global initiatives, use more advanced technologies and have a relatively high-skilled workforce. The opportunity to be a part of a larger team and have more access to resources are considered appealing to the local workforce.

Respondents want to continue calling Singapore home 

Across the three markets, respondents in Singapore are seen to be the most grounded. Close to six in 10 respondents (58 percent) would rather switch career than move to another country.

Dass shares, “A majority of the locals would choose to stay in Singapore to remain close to their friends and family because of its relatively stable and safe environment. However, as employees progress in their careers, they will eventually take on regional responsibilities and may be required to travel to another country or even move abroad for a short period of time to work. Some senior professionals will also get to travel to attend conferences and trainings. Workers with overseas exposure are more attractive to companies, as they have an extensive global network to leverage on and could potentially improve productivity and efficiencies by bringing best practices and learnings into the firm.”

Work mobility and job satisfaction in Singapore

Twenty-two per cent of respondents in Singapore had changed employers in the past six months and 40 percent have showed interest in looking for a job. Two in five (40 percent) said that while they are not actively looking for a job, they will be interested if an opportunity comes by.

“While workers are drawn to a higher salary when changing employers, they would also consider other factors such as work-life balance, work atmosphere and leadership capabilities. Companies that want to attract and retain good talent should invest time into understanding the elements that contribute to an employee’s job satisfaction, and how they can help make their employees feel more comfortable and confident at work. When companies invest in creating a wholesome and positive employee experience, workers will be less likely to explore other options, even if they come knocking,” Dass adds.

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