Flexible work, top priority for employees in Singapore

As organisations and professionals navigate the challenges of 2024, marked by geopolitical tensions, rising operational costs, and economic uncertainty, employee expectations are evolving. While competitive compensation remains important, Singapore’s workforce is increasingly prioritising flexible work arrangements, a positive work culture and security.

According to the Robert Walters Global Salary Survey 2025, talent retention and attraction remain top challenges for employers, especially in securing professionals with in-demand skill sets. Professionals who stay in their current roles are keeping salary expectations low, with 53% unsure or pessimistic about receiving a salary increase.

Flexible working hours emerged as the top priority for 82% of professionals surveyed, followed by enhanced use of technology (46%) and a focus on wellbeing (43%). Benefits such as bonus schemes (76%) and flexible working hours (70%) were also deemed essential, while organisations are responding with similar offerings. Training and development opportunities, along with family leave benefits, are becoming increasingly important for employee satisfaction.

A shift towards skills-based hiring is gaining momentum, with 79% of HR professionals preferring skills assessments over traditional credential-based hiring processes. Organisations are particularly valuing soft skills, including problem solving (66%) and resilience (47%), as they look to secure top talent. In addition, contract employment is on the rise, with 46% of organisations hiring contract employees in 2024. However, sourcing skilled contractors remains a challenge for 70% of employers.

READ MORE: Is Singapore ready for a four-day workweek?

Monty Sujanani, Country Manager at Robert Walters Singapore, said, “To attract and retain top talent, organisations need to adopt a strategic approach to address the need for work-life balance, meaningful work and professional growth. Flexibility will be key to address diverse needs – across compensation options and work arrangements.”

“Organisations who create a positive and engaging work environment that fosters employee satisfaction and wellbeing, as well and provide opportunities for learning and career advancements, will have a competitive advantage.”