Singapore, 13 May 2025 – Singapore's job market is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the rise of "new-collar" roles prioritising industry-specific skills over traditional qualifications. According to the latest Michael Page Singapore Talent Trends 2025 report, this shift is reshaping employment practices and addressing ongoing challenges in distinguishing top talent.
Nilay Khandelwal, Senior Managing Director of Michael Page Singapore & India, observes, “As rapid technological advancements and automation reshape industries like technology, fintech, and advanced manufacturing, we’re seeing a fundamental shift in hiring priorities. Employers are now placing greater value on hands-on experience over traditional qualifications. This move towards skills-first hiring isn’t just a temporary fix for talent shortages - it’s a lasting transformation in how we future-proof Singapore's workforce.”
As digital transformation accelerates, these roles offer faster career mobility through certifications and practical experience, making them highly attractive to employers and job seekers. This approach is crucial for Singapore to maintain its competitive edge in high-growth sectors amidst global economic uncertainties.
Despite the focus on new-collar roles, 34% of employers report difficulties in recruiting talent, down from 41% in 2024 but still above the APAC average. Of which 36% cited “required skills not available” as their top hiring hurdle. Retention metrics have improved, with 26% of employers facing challenges in retaining staff, matching the regional benchmark.
The ongoing global trade uncertainties have led to cautious hiring practices, impacting employment growth. The emphasis on new-collar roles is seen as a strategic response to these challenges, enabling companies to tap into a broader talent pool.
GenAI tools are firmly embedded in the workplace, with 58% of professionals using them regularly. However, support systems lag, with 31% of employees feeling unprepared due to unclear policies or tech illiteracy. As businesses adapt to technological advancements, clear communication and training are essential to harness the full potential of GenAI.
"To successfully navigate the evolving talent landscape in Singapore, companies must recognise that this new-collar approach and strategy to hiring not only broadens the talent pool but also addresses challenges by tapping into a diverse range of skilled professionals. In addition, fostering transparency, providing robust support for technological adoption, and promoting work-life balance are essential to attract and retain top talent in these dynamic times." Concludes, Nilay Khandelwal, Senior Managing Director of Michael Page Singapore & India
Methodology:
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from an online survey conducted by PageGroup and UNLIMITED. Talent Trends 2025 is a 20 minute, quantitative online survey, conducted by UNLIMITED on behalf of PageGroup between 4th November 2024 and 19th December 2024. A total of 49,396 surveys were completed with candidates of which 15,726 were also clients. This includes 38,202 through PageGroup’s database, and a further 11,194 via a research panel partner. Data has been weighted by country to the known proportion of each country based on PageGroup’s database.
For more information, please contact:
James Chin
E: jameschin@michaelpage.com.sg
T: +65 8186 7708