Introduction

A Singaporean man who recently returned from the UK has voiced his frustrations about the difficulties of securing a job in Singapore compared to his two-year experience in London’s competitive financial sector.

Challenges Faced Upon Returning to Singapore

Posting on the Reddit forum r/askSingapore, the man, who specialized in compliance roles within asset management and broking, expressed his belief that his extensive experience would facilitate an easy transition back into the Singapore job market. However, since his return in August, driven primarily by family commitments, he has faced an uphill battle, remaining unemployed four months later.

Comparative Job Market Experiences

“I never faced unemployment for more than a month while in London,” he shared, indicating his surprise at the stark contrast in job-finding experiences between the two locations. He further noted the irony that Singapore reports lower unemployment rates than the UK, yet he is struggling to find a suitable role. “This is causing all sorts of depression, anxiety, and self-doubt,” he added, seeking advice from fellow Reddit users on how to improve his situation.

Underlying Complexity in Singapore's Job Market

The reality for many job seekers in Singapore can be more complex than statistics suggest. Singapore's low unemployment rates often mask the struggles of individuals who, unable to find jobs that reflect their qualifications, are forced to take on part-time or temporary roles in sectors unrelated to their career fields, such as driving for ride-sharing services or working in food and beverage positions.

Shared Experiences from Others

Many who responded to the man's post shared similar experiences, reinforcing that he was not alone in his predicament. Comments from fellow users revealed that some of their friends in the tech industry faced similar challenges, with one suggesting that it took up to 11 months for some to find new roles after being laid off. Others had chosen to pivot to freelance work due to the tough market conditions.

Hiring Sentiment and Economic Trends

Additionally, a recent survey by ManpowerGroup indicated a decline in hiring sentiment across Singapore, with many companies streamlining operations and offshoring jobs in a bid to cut costs. This trend is adding further pressure to job seekers, making the market increasingly competitive.

Alternative Employment Strategies

As Singaporeans confront these employment challenges, many are shifting towards side jobs to manage their finances. Activities like food delivery services and tutoring have become popular alternatives for individuals to stay afloat amidst a challenging job market.

Conclusion

While the man's situation is disheartening, it reflects a broader trend that many in Singapore are currently experiencing. It appears that despite the low unemployment statistics, the reality of finding a fulfilling job remains a considerable hurdle for many skilled professionals returning to their home country.