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Singapore’s thriving economy faces a growing talent shortage, particularly in high-demand sectors like finance, technology, and healthcare. To bridge this gap, businesses increasingly rely on contract workers and seek individuals with range of diverse skills. As Singapore embraces digital transformation, developing digital skills and staying updated on industry trends are essential for career advancement.

Singapore’s economic landscape has flourished for many decades, whether in talent, resources, or infrastructure. However, change is imminent at the speed of rapid globalisation. Matters on the hiring and retention landscape are becoming more evident and require immediate intervention.

A whopping 79% of employers claim to experience difficulty filling roles in a 2024 report. In need of a quick fix, businesses are hiring contract workers to bridge the gap. This trend highlights the pressing need for a workforce equipped with the right skills to thrive in this dynamic environment.

The talent shortage in Singapore is trickling into various key industries. According to a survey, the hardest-hit sectors are financial and real estate, transport, logistics and automotive, followed by healthcare.

Figure 1: Data obtained from a survey by Manpowergroup Singapore

Employers have also found it rather challenging to seek out these soft and hard skills among talents:

Figure 2: Data collected from a survey by Manpowergroup Singapore

Hard and soft skills are deeply intertwined and enhance one another. While hard skills are measurable knowledge and abilities, soft skills are interpersonal (communication, collaboration, empathy) and intrapersonal (self-awareness, emotional intelligence, resilience) skills essential for success in any profession.

Why pick up Digital Skills?

By 2027, 43% of work tasks will be automated, making many roles obsolete. In an era of Industry 4.0, digital skills have become an indispensable asset; in Singapore, advanced technology has long begun integrating into business and economic infrastructure and will continue to scale bigger.

Digital Skills

Digital skills are increasingly steady in demand and also transferable in the era of Industry 4.0; these are some highly sought-after talents in the market today:

i. Big Data Analytics

What it is: Imagine you have a massive pile of data on your company products sold and various customer reviews Big data analytics is going through this pile to find patterns, trends, and insights to help businesses make informed decisions.

ii. Machine Learning:

What it is: Machine learning is teaching computers to learn from data and improve their performance over time. For example, a machine learning algorithm could learn to recognise dog pictures by analysing thousands of pictures of dogs.

iii. Programming and Coding

What it is Proficiency in programming languages like Python, Java, and C++ is essential for software development, data analysis, and automation. When a code is written, you tell the computer what to do through a series of steps.

iv. Data Protection Management:

What it is: Data privacy and security have become increasingly important. Professionals with expertise in data protection management must ensure compliance with regulations and protect sensitive information from unauthorised access.

Engineering

Singapore’s high demand for engineering skills is driven by the country’s focus on innovation and advanced infrastructural plans. This market alone contributes approximately 20% to the country’s gross domestic profit (GDP).

Process Engineering Design:

Involves designing efficient and optimised processes to streamline operations and improve productivity. These individuals are responsible for designing and implementing processes that transform raw materials into finished goods.

Material Management:

To ensure the right materials are readily available, optimising the supply chain and reducing and minimising waste.

Technical Writing:

Produce clear and concise technical communication to document processes, procedures, and specifications.

Equipment and Systems Testing:

Test and evaluate equipment and systems to ensure their quality and reliability.

Process Development Management:

Engineers with experience developing and implementing new processes to help organisations stay competitive and innovative.

Quality Systems:

Uphold quality systems and standards are essential for maintaining high-quality products and services.

Sustainability & Environmental-related

The Singapore Green Plan 2030 reflects its commitment to sustainable development. With its dense population and limited natural resources, the country champions sustainable practices to ensure long-term economic growth and quality of life.

46% say they are buying more sustainable products to reduce their impact on the environment.

Incorporating sustainability into corporate strategy is essential for any company to remain relevant in the coming years.

Under Singapore’s Industry 4.0, sought-after ‘green’ skills include:

Carbon footprint management:

Involves measuring, reducing and offsetting an organisation’s greenhouse gas emissions.

Sustainability risk management:

Skills include identifying, assessing and mitigating risks related to environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors.

Renewable energy system management and integration:

This skill involves planning, installing, operating, and maintaining various renewable energy systems, such as solar, wind, and hydropower.

As the country progresses,  its demand for skilled professionals will grow. Embrace the mindset of continuous learning and set yourself up for a future with greater possibilities.

For contract staffing enquiries, please get in touch with terence.teo@oaigroup.com

For general enquiries, please contact: nonaviationteam@oaigroup.com