In this series, manpower reporter Tay Hong Yi offers practical answers to candid questions on navigating workplace challenges and getting ahead in your career. Get more tips by signing up toIn Singapore, workers can see how their skills and salaries measure up to the market through several avenues, says Mr Nilay Khandelwal, managing director of recruitment firm Michael Page Singapore and Indonesia.
Mr Sachet Sethi, a senior manager with recruitment firm Robert Walters Singapore, says benchmarking is important for employees as it helps them know the cachet they possess in their specific field. Mr Khandelwal says that while it is useful in some cases, the practice is not always recommended in Singapore’s job market.
“This approach allows them to benchmark themselves without making premature commitments or creating misunderstandings with potential employers,” Mr Khandelwal notes.Mr Sethi cautions that if a prospective employer figures out that an applicant is just testing the market, it may not consider the worker, or may even blacklist him for future opportunities.
“Having this leverage allows these individuals to negotiate better salaries, benefits and flexible working arrangements.” He also suggests that after benchmarking, workers should take note of any gaps between their current skills or compensation and the market standards.