SINGAPORE: A Job Offering That Raised Eyebrows

A job advertisement that has surfaced on Reddit is generating significant backlash among Singaporeans, primarily for its high demands paired with an uncompetitive salary. The post, titled 'Company Wants It All, But Won't Pay for It,' appeared on the Singapore subreddit on November 4, detailing the role of a graphic designer with additional administrative responsibilities.

Job Requirements Overload

The company, which is not named in the post, seeks candidates with a bachelor's degree, along with experience in marketing and user experience (UX) or public relations (PR). Notably, applicants are required to have a minimum of six months of graphic design and communications experience, specifically mentioning a proficiency in design tools like Photoshop, Illustrator, and notably 'Canvas.'

Uncompetitive Salary Compared to Market

In stark contrast to Singapore's median monthly salary of S$5,197, the offered payment of S$2,980 for what appears to be a multifaceted role has left many local Redditors questioning the practicality of the expectations set by the employer. Comments flooded in with users noting their astonishment at the low compensation. One user pointed out that a job at an Old Town restaurant in Changi Airport offered S$3,500 per month without requiring a university degree, highlighting the discrepancy in the labor market for skilled positions.

Creative Roles and Industry Challenges

Discussions around underpayment in creative roles quickly emerged, with several users lamenting that many professionals in the design and creative fields face similar challenges. This growing concern has led many in the industry to shift towards freelancing in pursuit of better compensation and more flexible working arrangements.

The NGO Behind the Job Posting

Further fueling the conversation, users expressed that beyond the low salary, the combination of job functions requested in the advertisement raises red flags. One user characterized the company’s expectations as 'delusional,' questioning the feasibility of finding qualified applicants willing to accept such terms. In response to the sentiment that potential candidates would be hard to find, another noted, 'Bills do not pay themselves,' suggesting that economic necessity drives individuals to apply for less-than-ideal positions.

Conclusion: A Reflection on Singapore's Job Market

The situation took an interesting turn when it was revealed that a non-governmental organization (NGO) was behind the job posting. While some users speculated that this might help explain the lower salary offer, many argued that the demanded skill set still far exceeds what the compensation offers. 'This sounds more like an HR wishlist rather than mandatory requirements,' one user remarked, summarizing the collective frustration with the mismatch between expectations and pay.

Ongoing Conversation

As discussions continue, the incident shines a light on broader trends in Singapore's job market, particularly concerning creative positions. As the cost of living remains a pressing issue, the struggle for fair wages in fulfilling roles remains an ongoing challenge for many industries. Would you accept such a deal? Share your thoughts!