My personal experience from trying to find a job in SG late last year. It's so true that its not good/easy now.
Just a bit of context, my job is in the communications sector. I've got over 10+ experience, and was looking at a senior position.
I updated my CV on Linkedin, and only got like maybe 2 people messaging me with not really great offers. Got maybe 2 responses from the jobs I applied from there as well. I did reach out to recruiters I knew from Linkedin and got more positive responses. Sadly, only had 3 real interviews that came out from it and that was really because the hiring managers from those companies knew me before this.
Things I learned from this process.
1. Not many senior positions available compared to mid and entry level ones. The job market is kinda soft in that aspect. Don't quote me on this, but its probably easier to try for senior execs to manager level jobs (3 to 5 years experience) it seems. At least according to headhunters I've talked to because all of them asked me if I have any people to recommend in those positions.
2. Be prepared to get offered less than market rate for any positions. I knew what the market rate were because I have friends in the industry, and the offers I got was way below the going rate. One hiring manager even insisted that this is their "standard offer" now, and try to hint that "this will be a lot more than your RM salary after conversion. Nice try. lol. I have an ex-colleague who just moved to SG in Feb and she is getting paid below market rate as well.
3. SG companies are being pressured by their govt to hire locals. Headhunters told me SG companies have to go through the proper process and its becoming a bit of hassle when they need talent urgently. Not saying that its not possible for non-SG folks to get a job there, but the process will take longer unless you work in a highly specialized field.
4. Applying through Linkedin jobs or any other SG job applications sites is hit or miss. I would say 90% of the time, you won't hear back from the jobs you applied. Maybe paying for Linkedin Premium will help but I didn't try that.
5. Reach out to headhunters or recruitment agencies to increase your rate of success. Add them as your contacts on Linkedin, and write a nice short intro about yourself. If they managed to find you a job, they will get a nice commission. They are highly motivated to get you a job if you're a good talent or fit the positions they are trying to fill. I had a headhunter shop me around a few companies within their database of client, jobs that are not on Linkedin and it's really nice of her to do so.
6. Network more to know more people that can intro you to good opportunities or even consider to hire you in the future. Nothing really beats that.
Agreeing to all the above statements. Tried all the above steps, and yet to find a fruitful interview session. I have resorted to reaching out to network with people, hence I am here. 😊
And again my question remains, anyone out there who could use fresh hands with their mid-level management team? Reason why I am looking for a senior level position is because I have gained enough experience from grassroots, and I am ready to contribute as an SME/manager now. I am still open for grassroots positions if the challenge (and salary) is good!