Employers are hiring based on candidates' soft skills and not necessarily academic results, according to survey data by the National University of Singapore's Career Centre.

Speaking at the university's annual career fair Tuesday morning, provost Tan Eng Chye said the institution has rolled out several measures including two career preparatory modules, HeadStart and StepUp, and career portal TalentConnect to better equip students with the soft skills necessary for the working world.

The HeadStart module for freshmen and year two students, and the StepUp module for graduating students, teach undergraduates resume writing, interview and networking skills.

Some 217 employers, a 20 per cent increase from last year, are participating at the two-day fair. More than 90 employers including Groupon, Robinsons and Estee Lauder are participating for the first time.

Provost Tan urged graduating students to be flexible and stay open to various job options.

"Sometimes, this involves pursuing an unconventional path, or an adjustment in one's expectations. Some contract jobs for example, may offer opportunities for exposure to certain industries, which you may in time to come, discover a passion for," he said.