9 in 10 Singaporean workers refuse immoral tactics for promotion

This is despite cut-throat competition amid the country's openness to foreign talent.

According to a survey conducted by JobStreet.com in June, 88% of Singaporean workers would not engage in unethical behaviour to advance in their career.

Here's more from JobStreet.com:

Most Singaporeans firmly indicated they would not use immoral or unethical tactics to boost their chances of getting a promotion. This is despite stiff competition among Singaporeans and the country’s open policy on foreign talent.

Ethics Run High in Singapore
• 97% would not steal credit for their colleague’s work
• 90% would not lie in their resume
• 83% would not flatter or compliment their boss to get a pay rise or promotion.
On whether they would cover up mistakes made at work, a total of 66% answered they would not whilst, 20% claimed they would cover up if they can get away with it.

65% of the respondents believed it is unethical to present a project to upper management without prior acknowledgement from their immediate superior. 23% indicated that they would not do so for fear of being ostracised by their colleagues and bosses.

On the topic of work-life balance, most workers had indicated priority for work over personal interests. 84% of respondents are willing to complete their work from home during weekends. 79% even forego annual leaves or holidays in order to complete project deadlines. However, managers surveyed were quick to say they expect staff to work on weekends only when the need arises.

“It is heartening to know that the majority of Singaporeans believe in working hard to succeed and would not compromise their work ethics for personal gains or gratification,” said Anthony Ung, country manager of JobStreet Singapore. “Equally important, employers can influence this by cultivating an open environment and through regular dialogue and activities that help strengthen the bonds between employees.” Ung added.

About 250 managers and executives participated in the survey.

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