Wah, so many of us Singaporeans are feeling the pressure of the job market these days, right? Remember the good old days when getting a job after graduation was almost guaranteed? Well, things have changed. A recent survey showed that the number of fresh grads finding jobs within six months has dropped. And with the rising cost of living, coupled with the high expectations of Singapore, this can be quite a headache.
The Job Market Today
- Grad Job Hunt Reality
“Job vs experience memes hits pretty hard. I was hired 2 years ago, but trying to get hired is humiliating af.”
The job market is not as rosy as it used to be. Recent reports indicate a dip in employment rates for both polytechnic and university graduates. Median salaries for fresh grads are around S$4,500, but the competition is fierce. The Straits Times recently highlighted the strength of the labor market, but many Singaporeans on Reddit are saying that the ground reality is worse.
The Experience Catch-22
- Experience Dilemma
“Well the irony is that these days companies even when hiring fresh grads still demand few years of experience in their CV. How do fresh grads get work experience if they aren’t even given a chance?”
One of the biggest frustrations is the “experience paradox.” Many companies demand a few years of experience, even for entry-level positions. This leaves fresh grads in a tough spot: how to get experience when no one will hire them without it? This can be especially demoralizing for those who spent a lot of money on their education, and the government is starting to wonder why Singaporeans are not starting families.
Finding Your Path to Success
- Actionable Solutions
“Stack multiple summer internships, sadly.”
So, what can you do? First, start early. Get those internships while you’re still in school, and build up your resume. Network like crazy. Talk to everyone, from your professors to your friends’ parents. Make sure you have a strong LinkedIn profile. Remember, many jobs aren’t even advertised, and the best way to find out about them is through your network. Also, tailor your applications. Don’t just send out a generic resume and cover letter; customize each one to the specific job and company. Lastly, consider upskilling. Take online courses or workshops to learn new skills that are in demand. The job market is competitive, but with the right approach, you can still find a good job in Singapore.
“Niche areas hard to find job, but general areas also hard to find when you’re competing with dk how many others who possibly have same degree + grade as you.”
