Hiring sentiment steady for Q3 2025

Over 2 in 5 companies have plans to hire whilst nearly 1 in 5 will cut jobs.

Hiring sentiment in Singapore remains relatively steady for the third quarter of 2025, although nearly 1 in 5 expect a decrease in staffing levels.

Out of 525 employers surveyed, 43% have plans to hire, whilst 19% anticipate a decrease in their headcount, according to the latest ManpowerGroup Employment Outlook Survey.

The net employment outlook (NEO) of +24% represents a 3-percentage point weakening from Q2 2025 but is 4 ppt higher than in Q3 2024.

This indicates sustained confidence in Singapore’s labour market, the ManpowerGroup said in a press release.

Healthcare and Life Sciences recorded the strongest hiring sentiment, with a +43% outlook.

Company expansion (43%) continues to be the primary driver of staffing increases, followed by the need for skills to stay competitive (30%).

Economic challenges (42%) and the need to adapt to market changes (30%) are the top reasons for workforce reductions.

“Singapore’s employers are demonstrating foresight—not merely reacting, but
strategically preparing for the future of work,” said Linda Teo, country manager of ManpowerGroup Singapore.

This is reflected in a dual focus: managing demographic shifts and accelerating investment in automation, Teo said.

“While the overall outlook has softened, a closer look reveals a more nuanced picture. Employers are holding on to their talent while strategically investing in future-proofing their workforces, adopting a wait-and-see approach to the global trade environment,” she said.

“This underscores a shift toward greater workforce agility—aligning talent investments with evolving market dynamics,” Teo added.