Work-life balance emerges as 'crucial differentiator' in finding and keeping talent
Work-life balance has emerged as the top factor for talent attraction in Singapore, surpassing salary and benefits, according to a new report.
Randstad's 2025 Employer Brand Research showed that work-life balance retained its top spot among the most important employee value proposition (EVP) factors in Singapore.
It also surpassed salary and benefits for the third year in a row.
The report reveals that across all generations, work-life balance consistently stood out as the most important element of an EVP for Singaporean talent when considering their ideal workplace.
This is also the case for salary and benefits, which emerged as the second-highest EVP factor for Gen Z, millennials, and Gen X employees.
David Blasco, country director at Randstad Singapore, attributed the situation to talents' much broader range of expectations than before.
"With salary packages and benefits now highly competitive, work-life balance is emerging as a crucial differentiator for both attracting and keeping top talent," Blasco said in a statement.
"As flexible work options and alternative income sources become commonplace, prioritising work-life balance is what truly sets employers apart from their competitors in the market."
Motivation, engagement at work
Despite salary and benefits just placing second in employees' top priorities, it remains the top reason why they can disengage from their current employer.
According to the report, 18% of employees feel less engaged in 2025, with 60% of them more likely to consider quitting than those who feel engaged.
The desire to have a higher salary or better benefits was cited by 45% of the respondents for disengagement. This is followed by a lack of recognition or appreciation at work (41%).
Keeping employees motivated in the workplace can still be achieved by prioritising work-life balance, which ranked first among the factors that motivate Singaporean employees.
Having opportunities for growth, promotion, and development, as well as a manageable workload, also emerged as top motivating factors.
"It's the small moments, such as being comfortable sharing different viewpoints, having chances to develop new skills, or simply enjoying with teammates that truly enhance engagement," Blasco said.
"These moments not only foster a positive atmosphere but also reduce the likelihood of employees jumping ship to search for better workplaces."
