Feeling like you’re stuck in a job search Kopi-O kosong – bitter and seemingly endless? If the Singapore job market has you feeling down, know this: you’re not walking this path alone. Many Singaporeans are facing the same headwinds, but there’s support and practical ways to navigate these choppy waters.
SG Job Market Now
The current job landscape in Singapore can feel challenging, with many sharing similar experiences of uncertainty. Here’s a look at what many are facing:
- Recent trends indicate a more competitive market, particularly in sectors like tech. Job searches might take longer than expected, and it’s common to hear about multiple interview rounds.
“As someone who is also looking for jobs, it is very tough now. But I just wanna give you some moral support… For jobs wise, the market is bad now, so it is harder to get jobs.”
- Many job seekers, like the original Reddit poster, find themselves reaching the 2nd, 3rd, or even final interview rounds only to face rejection. This recurring experience can be incredibly disheartening.
- Contract positions are sometimes the first available door. One Redditor shared their experience: “jobless from Nov but got one in March. contract job but still job is a iob. tech area too… After Chinese new year job market got a bit better but I only got 2 interviews. almost 20 years in tech industry.” This shows that even experienced professionals are finding it tough, but opportunities, even contract ones, do exist.
Why It Feels So Tough
The journey of job hunting, especially during an economic downturn, comes with a unique set of challenges that can weigh heavily on individuals and their families.
- The emotional toll of prolonged unemployment or a difficult job search is significant. The feeling of uncertainty, coupled with repeated rejections, can lead to immense stress and self-doubt. As one user bravely shared about their experience:
“I’ve applied to countless roles and attended many interviews. I’ve made it to 2nd, 3rd or final round before getting rejected. I can’t do this anymore.”
- Financial pressures, especially with family responsibilities like supporting children or managing unexpected health crises, can amplify the stress. In Singapore, where the cost of living is a constant consideration, the fear of not being able to provide can be overwhelming.
- It’s important to remember, as many in the Reddit community emphasized, your job status does not define your worth. One commenter beautifully put it:
“Never once did I think my dad was a burden. NOT ONCE. On the contrary, his determination to find a job to provide for us kids, his emotional strength in shielding us from his struggles made me feel so lucky and so loved that I have such an awesome father like him.”
Steps to Move Forward
While the situation can feel daunting, there are actionable steps and resources available to help you regain your footing and move forward. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength.
- Prioritize your mental well-being. It’s okay to not be okay. Speak to someone you trust, or reach out to professional services. As a Redditor advised, “Please speak to someone because you don’t have to carry this alone.” Resources include IMH’s 24h emergency service, Family Service Centres, or getting a referral from a polyclinic/GP. Samaritans of Singapore also offers a 24-hour hotline at 1800 221 4000.
- Consider practical short-term solutions to ease financial strain. This might involve looking at your budget, or as suggested:
“please consider getting some sort of gig work or short-term work to plug the gap while looking for full-time employment. Will help lessen the ‘burden’.”
- Explore reskilling or pivoting to different industries. The job market is always evolving, and your skills might be transferable to new fields. Some have found success by making a change:
“The only thing I can recommend to people who are in similar situations is to reskill and jump ship… I’m just fortunate that I managed to change careers before that had to happen but I did have to take some random crappy admin job in god knows where for a while before that happened.”
- Don’t underestimate the power of your network and community. Reach out to your MP for assistance if needed, connect with ex-colleagues, or look for referrals. Sometimes, an unexpected connection can open a new door.
- Remember, your value isn’t tied to your employment status. This period is challenging, but it doesn’t define you. Take small, manageable steps each day. You got this, lah!
