In the Singapore job market, are Singaporeans at a disadvantage when compared to foreign hires?

Right now with all the new government initiatives that highly encourage and reward local hires, I would say that Singaporeans have an edge over foreign hires in the current job market.... The studies have shown that the first group to be let go off recently are the non locals.

The only instances they may be at a disadvantage is when they don’t possess a certain skill or knowledge or network that foreign hires may have. Some examples could be certain disciplines or skills not offered at our local unis or experience managing a new MNC or overseas start up where the skills and knowledge and network from their home country or headquarters are critical.

Otherwise, it’s a good time to be Singaporean/PR now! :)

I believe we cannot speak for every Singaporean when we conclude whether Singaporeans are at a disadvantage in the job market compared to foreigners here. The competition for jobs between Singaporeans and FTs can vary from industry to industry and hence we can only evaluate a Singaporean's disadvantage when we look at it at an industry-specific level. However, Singaporeans are generally well-educated due to the robust education system and reputable educational institutions which churns out capable graduates. Hence, Singaporeans should not feel that they are at a disadvantage at all when it comes to emerging successful in the competitive job market with the FTs.

On the topic of NS, I can safely say that NS is only a liability when one chooses to waste his time clearing K-dramas or sleeping in bunk during down time. NS is actually a very good time to start nurturing new skills that will help boost your career portfolio and eventually improving your employability. The possibilities are endless. You can take up Python coding which will aid your studies or applications of data analytics in work, or pick up useful productivity skills such as efficient use of Excel or Access. The key is to spend your time wisely to avoid being sucked into a 2-year pithole of liabilities.​​​