SINGAPORE: A recent job advertisement has ignited a storm of discussion among Reddit users in Singapore, with many labeling it an unrealistic offer.

The post, which surfaced on the popular forum on November 4, provocatively titled "Company Wants It All, But Won’t Pay for It," highlights a role that requires extensive skills and qualifications while offering a meager monthly salary of just S$2,980.

The Position and Its Requirements

The position is for a graphic designer, but the responsibilities extend beyond that, requiring the individual to also take on administrative duties. Candidates need to be well-versed in design software like Photoshop, Illustrator, and notably, "Canvas." They must hold a bachelor’s degree along with experience in marketing and public relations or UX, with at least six months of relevant work history.

Temporary Role and Salary Context

This role is temporary, set for six months with the possibility of renewal, and intriguingly, it is restricted to Singaporeans only, which raises questions about the inclusivity of the hiring process. Despite the rigorous requirements, the salary being offered stands out—considerably lower than the median income in Singapore, which is approximately S$5,197 per month.

Reactions from Reddit Users

Many Reddit users expressed their disbelief at the discrepancy between the expectations and the compensation. One user compared this offer to a position at an Old Town restaurant in Changi Airport that pays S$3,500 and does not require a degree, pointing out the increasing gap between creative job offers and what the market demands.

Another user noted that restaurant positions often come with the bonus of free meals, estimating an additional S$300 to S$400 monthly savings. This commentary highlights the preference of many job seekers for roles that not only offer better pay but also essential benefits.

Industry-Wide Issues

One commenter lamented the ongoing issue of underpayment in the creative industry, which sparked a broader discussion on how this trend is pushing many creatives toward freelancing instead of traditional employment routes. The original poster echoed this sentiment, stating, "Low pay is one thing. It’s the multiple job roles requested that is the real issue."

A particularly scathing remark directed at the hiring company called them "delusional," underlining the perception that they are asking for too much for too little in return. However, a counterpoint was made: there will always be individuals willing to take such positions, driven by financial necessity—"Bills do not pay themselves," another user remarked.

NGO Involvement and Industry Standards

The twist in this unfolding story came when it was discovered that a non-governmental organization (NGO) was behind the job posting. This revelation prompted commenters to connect the dots, suggesting that the low pay might be an expected standard in the nonprofit sector.

Despite the reality of financial constraints in many sectors, a poignant observation remained: "The skillset being asked for is too much for that kind of pay. It should be seen as an HR wishlist rather than hard requirements," one user argued, calling out the disconnection between job demands and compensation.

Conclusion

As the discourse continues online, this job advertisement serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities faced by workers in Singapore's evolving job market. Will companies reconsider their approaches to compensation, especially in sectors that historically undervalue talent? It seems like many are hoping for change as they voice their frustrations.