Generations differ in workplace priorities in Singapore – survey
SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE — A new survey by Singaporean human resources firm Reeracoen and Rakuten Insight Global unveils a generational divide in workplace priorities.
Conducted among 304 participants of various generations and industries in Singapore, the “Future of Work” study aimed to capture a holistic view of employee sentiments towards automation, artificial intelligence (AI), remote work, and the gig economy.
The results reveal that 21.4% of younger workers like Gen Zs and Ys (Millennials) value remote work opportunities more highly, while older generations – Gen Xs and Baby Boomers – are more focused on navigating technological advancements, with 22.4%.
Despite these differences, there’s a broad agreement on the appeal of hybrid work models. Close to half, or 45.8% of Gen Zs and Ys, while 42.7% of Gen Xs and Baby Boomers, prefer a blend of in-office and remote work as the future standard.
In terms of automation, 48.4% of the younger generation and 52.5% of older employees admit it poses a threat to job security, while there’s a strong consensus on the importance of upskilling (33.3% and 30.3%, respectively).
Technical skills are deemed crucial for future employment, yet all respondents agree on the value of lifelong learning. The survey also reflects generational differences in expectations around work-life balance and leadership styles, with younger workers anticipating more empathetic leadership, contrary to older generations’ expectations of a diminished role for leaders.
Kenji Naito, CEO of Reeracoen Group, emphasized the necessity for organizations to adapt to these changes. “The insights underscore the workplace shifts occurring and the need for [organizations] to embrace agility, innovation, and inclusivity to thrive.”
