Singapore employment trends highlight skills and workplace dynamics

In Singapore, the shift toward skills-based hiring is changing how candidates are assessed. According to a Ministry of Manpower report, academic qualifications were not the primary determinant in hiring for 79.6 per cent of vacancies in 2025. However, the Singapore Institute of Management notes that academic achievement and practical experience often coexist in recruitment frameworks. For example, OCBC’s Graduate Talent Programme requires specific academic honors while also valuing leadership and internship experience.

Separately, discussions regarding workplace culture in Singapore have surfaced on social media, where an employee reported difficulties with a manager described as “toxic” and “useless.” The individual alleged that the manager lacked technical competence, frequently missed meetings, and took credit for team work, creating a challenging environment for staff.