Singapore workers value skills upgrading more than pay rise: HR survey

Showing an employee more money may no longer be enough to attract and retain staff here, according to a new survey by human resource consultant Kelly Services. -- PHOTO: ST FILE
Showing an employee more money may no longer be enough to attract and retain staff here, according to a new survey by human resource consultant Kelly Services. -- PHOTO: ST FILE

SINGAPORE - Showing an employee more money may no longer be enough to attract and retain staff here, according to a new survey by human resource consultant Kelly Services.

A 51 per cent majority of Singapore workers said they prefer to learn new skills than advancing to a higher level in their organisation.

The figure is below the global average of 57 per cent, but higher than in countries around the region, like Hong Kong (42 per cent), Malaysia (43 per cent), Thailand (37 per cent) and China (35 per cent).

Skills upgrading is such an important aspect for employees here that they are even willing to sacrifice higher pay for the chance to learn new skills at work.

Kelly Services Singapore country manager Mark Hall said in a statement: "Climbing the corporate ladder is clearly important to people, but frequently not as important as developing the skills that will give them the capability and confidence to realize their long term potential."

The survey involved some 230,000 people across 31 countries, including Singapore. More than 1,500 people were surveyed here.

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