In Singapore, concerns over job security are palpable as a recent survey reveals that only 15% of workers feel secure in their positions. This figure is below the Asia-Pacific average of 18% and the global average of 22%. The data comes from ADP’s People at Work 2026 report, which highlights a rising anxiety about the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on employment.
Overview of Job Security in Singapore
Singapore ranks as one of the least confident markets in the region for job security, surpassing only South Korea (9%), Taiwan (11%), and Japan (5%). Jessica Zhang, ADP’s senior vice-president for the Asia-Pacific region, emphasized the mismatch between actual employment conditions and workers’ perceptions of their job security. She noted that employees are increasingly worried about the relevance of their roles in the future.
Younger Workers Show Optimism
Among Singaporean workers aged 18 to 26, 22% expressed confidence in their job security, marking the highest level of assurance among any age group surveyed. However, perceptions of job security varied significantly across different job types.
- Knowledge workers: 21% confident in job stability
- Skilled task workers: 12% confident
- Repetitive task workers: 10% confident
Globally, knowledge workers in sectors such as finance, education, and technology report the strongest confidence in their job security. In contrast, employees in transportation, agriculture, and manufacturing exhibit considerable uncertainty.
Impact on Engagement and Productivity
Job insecurity has notable implications for businesses. According to ADP, workers who feel secure are six times more likely to be fully engaged at work. Conversely, those who fear job loss tend to be less engaged and less productive. Dr. Nela Richardson, chief economist at ADP, emphasizes that job security is not merely a workforce sentiment issue; it directly affects business outcomes.
Strategies for Workforce Resilience
ADP identifies upskilling as a vital strategy to mitigate job insecurity. Workers who believe they possess the necessary skills for career advancement are five times more likely to feel secure in their roles. Furthermore, those who perceive their employers as committed to their professional growth are 5.3 times more confident in their job stability.
Concerns About Career Mobility
The report also highlights rising worries about career mobility amid technological advancements. Globally, only 26% of workers are confident in their ability to progress their careers. Many feel that changing jobs has become more challenging over the past year, although younger workers tend to feel less burdened by this issue.
Dr. Richardson noted that while AI holds promise for enhancing productivity, employers must invest in both technology and skill development to fully leverage its potential. Companies that prioritize their employees during transitions stand to benefit from a more engaged workforce in an AI-driven future.
The findings underscore the critical need for businesses to address worker anxiety regarding job security, especially as AI continues to transform workplaces across various sectors.
