Singaporeans optimistic about introduction of new tech at work
Employees across Singapore feel prepared for changes coming to workplaces in the next five years, according to a new report from Indeed, which also highlighted the ongoing transformation to the world of work.
Nishita Lalvani, Marketing Director, Indeed Singapore, India and SEA, said the global workforce and work environment have gone through significant transformations in the past five years.
"These changes have been influenced by various factors, including a pandemic and economic disruptions," Lalvani said in a statement.
In the wake of these changes, 69% of Singapore's workforce said they are prepared for further transformation in workplaces in the next five years.
Singapore's Budget 2024 also encourages upskilling with the introduction of $4,000 top-up in the SkillsFuture Credit for mid-career workers.
Change due to artificial intelligence
The rise of artificial intelligence is seen as a major driving force for these upcoming changes, according to the report.
"The introduction of AI is bringing us closer to a workforce revolution that will have a significant impact on the future of work," Lalvani said.
And even with AI, Singapore's workforce is optimistic - with 48% believing that an increase in workplace technology will have a positive impact on their productivity.
Another 60% also feel fairly confident that they can work alongside automation and technology in their upcoming role. In fact, employees said the following tasks are better performed by AI than people:
- Data analysis (63%)
- Routine tasks (59%)
- Attention to detail (49%)
- Unbiased decision-making (47%)
Upskilling in the face of change
This level of optimism from Singapore's employees likely stems from their willingness to accept that change is coming to their roles, and how they're preparing for it. According to Indeed's report, 81% of Singapore's workforce believe the skills needed in their current role will change either significantly or moderately.
To prepare, 49% of respondents said they have upskilled in the past three years to develop longer-term skills and training.
In fact, 43% said they upskilled in the past three years due to immediate business needs, with employees from IT and telecom sectors undertaking the most career learning and development.
Despite this willingness to upskill, Singapore's workforce said only 30% of their employer offers regular training, with the respondents split over who should be providing training opportunities.
A majority of them (37%) said it should come from employers, while others said it should be undertaken by individuals (32%) or the government (13%).
Recent research state that upskilling will be a major trend in workplaces due to the rise of rapidly developing technology.
