Top 7 On-Demand Skills for Fresh Grads Looking for Jobs in Singapore

If you are a fresh grad out of school, currently living or planning to relocate to Singapore soon, then here are some things you should know about the country’s job market outlook and the economic condition. In an era defined by economic uncertainties, college students and fresh grads are grappling with change to grab even the slightest opportunity presented to get started in the industry.

Additionally, you should also possess both soft skills and hard skills that will boost your employability.

In 2016, it was reported that layoffs in Singapore reached the highest level in a seven-year period after massive downturn that hit global economy throughout the year. However, despite country’s weak economic condition, SMU (Singapore Management University) provides a list of jobs that will be hot in 2020.

If you want to stay on the top ranks and get noticed among the swarming talent pool, then having necessary skills to meet job demands is imperative. To stay abreast of the changing job market, here are seven on-demand skills in Singapore you should master:

1. IT skills

Machine and technology have brought us to the modern age where digitalisation becomes the new black. Be it programming, coding, web design, security, or even hacking, IT skills are highly in demand across all industries.

Along with the rapid growth of startup ecosystem in Singapore, fresh grads who demonstrate strong IT skills will stand better chance of qualifying  for coveted and specialised job roles, with attractive remuneration in the years to come.

2. Digital marketing skills

Internet and advanced mobile technology has enabled people to rely on their mobile devices more than ever. While digital marketing has grown fast in the last few years, it is not balanced with sufficient digitally skilled talents in the area. Hence, core digital marketing skills such as SEO, SEM, CRM, and digital analytics are extremely sought after to meet demands of the digital consumerist economy.

3. Data analysis

Not only in Singapore, but data analysts are in high demand all over the world. This skill is vital for companies, who wish to make better and prudent business decisions. Fresh grads with strong data analysis skills, expertise in data mining and big data will lead the ranks at reputed employer brands.

4. Compliance

Singapore being the leading financial hub in Southeast Asia and home to many reputed global banking institutions from all over the world, regulatory and compliance professionals will be in demand in the sector.

With digitalisation and many new financial product launches experienced by the industry in recent times, fresh graduates with sound in-depth knowledge of commercial loans, broking and financial investments will be required to provide assistance regards funding and analysing business risks.

5. Life sciences and healthcare

In the next few years, Singapore with a rapidly ageing population need more up-to-date healthcare professionals to cater to the aged. Committee on the Future Economy (CFE) reports increase in the number of professionals soon to be retired.

Baby boomers entering the retirement phase of life has doubled over the last two years. Considering this workforce trends shift, life sciences and healthcare space will see need for more caregivers and digitally aware specialists for conducting detailed health examinations.  

If you are passionate about caring and helping people, then you should consider making a career in the healthcare sector, such as nursing and physiology.  

6. Foreign language skills

As the barriers between countries becomes almost invisible, you need to be strong with language skills. Dealing with partners and clients across various backgrounds, geographies and nationalities, requires foreign language skills. Organisations are now emphasising on training their sales professionals and mobile business leaders with crucial language skills to help them easily adapt with new cultures, develop new relationship and network with clients during business travel.

7. Engineering and project management

According to a report by CFE, mega projects such as the new terminal at Changi Airport and the new MRT lines are expected to generate more job opportunities in the engineering and project management sector. In 2020, it is projected that 3,000 jobs will be created in the field of precision engineering.

In these changing times, competition for jobs and hunt for the best talent by companies will only get fiercer. Thus, to stay relevant with the current demands of the job market, you have to make sure that you have already have the skills to thrive in the game.

However, if you need additional education to sharpen your skills there are SkillsFuture intiatives, by the Singapore government to train and develop future-ready workforce. So, are you ready to face this new-age of business and ace with a competitive zest?

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