Indeed’s latest Smarter Hiring Report reveals a growing trend among Singaporean employers towards skills-first hiring, with 59% planning to prioritise competencies over traditional credentials. However, a significant gap remains, as only 36% of job seekers are familiar with this approach, compared to 67% of managers.
The report underscores the importance of soft skills, with 70% of employers valuing attributes such as teamwork, communication, and critical thinking over hard skills. This shift reflects a broader move away from evaluating candidates solely on academic qualifications, with many employers now favouring candidates with practical experience over those with degrees.
Rachael Townsley, Marketing Director at Indeed APAC, emphasised the need for alignment in the hiring ecosystem to fully realise the benefits of skills-first hiring. “Without alignment, employers lose access to a diverse talent pool, and job seekers miss out on career opportunities that match their strengths,” she stated.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is also playing a pivotal role in the recruitment process, with 41% of employers using AI tools to identify suitable candidates. The technology is expected to streamline recruitment processes and reduce bias, creating a fairer hiring experience.
As Singapore continues to embrace skills-first hiring, the focus on diverse skills and experiences is poised to enhance the resilience and adaptability of the workforce, paving the way for a more innovative and inclusive job market.
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