SINGAPORE: A recent social media post by an HR professional has ignited a lively debate regarding the salary expectations of fresh graduates in Singapore.

On October 2, she expressed her astonishment over the financial demands of candidates she interviewed, which included National University of Singapore (NUS) grads or those with 1-2 years of specialized experience seeking salaries between S$4,800 to S$5,500 for an in-house HR role at a small to medium-sized enterprise (SME).

The HR expert clarified that despite their niche experience, these candidates would still need substantial training to meet the demands of a senior executive role. She highlighted that the salary range they desired is typically reserved for positions like Assistant Managers or even Managers in smaller organizations.

Critical Questions Raised

The post has raised critical questions: Have salary expectations skyrocketed in recent years, or are these graduates lacking a realistic view of the current job market?

Netizens Weigh In

In the ensuing comments, many netizens weighed in on the situation. The ongoing inflation and rising living costs were frequently cited as factors influencing the salary demands of younger professionals.

One user humorously pointed out the rampant housing market, stating, “A 4-room flat costs $1 million now. How can one afford to work for less?”

Others echoed sentiments of frustration, noting that it is unrealistic for companies to maintain outdated salary offers in such an evolving economy. “Ten years ago, I was earning $3.8k, and now ten years later, you’re still offering the same?” lamented one commenter, while another added, 'This is why SMEs struggle to hire good local talent—intense job demands combined with low pay.'

Financial Pressures on Fresh Graduates

As the job market becomes increasingly competitive, fresh graduates are finding themselves navigating financial pressures that were less pronounced for earlier generations. With rising living costs and inflation as pressing concerns, many young professionals feel compelled to negotiate higher salaries, even in entry-level positions.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Salary Expectations

This discussion raises an important question: How will the job market adapt to meet the evolving expectations of the new workforce? As companies grapple with attracting talent while managing budgets, the gap between what fresh graduates want and what employers are willing to pay is widening, prompting a necessary reevaluation of salary offerings across industries.

The debate continues, leaving many to wonder if this is merely the beginning of a significant shift in the employment landscape in Singapore.