Heavier workloads push Singapore workers to consider quitting: survey

Yet 86% say they are satisfied with their current jobs.

More than 7 in 10 workers in Singapore said they have considered leaving their current workplace due to increased workloads as organisations navigate AI, automation and evolving skills requirements.

Top Employers Institute said in its new report that 71% of workers surveyed in Singapore have considered leaving because of increased workloads. This comes as 77% report that staff shortages have increased over the past year.

There were also 54% who are considering leaving or actively looking for another opportunity. This includes those actively job-seeking (14%) or considering leaving due to better opportunities elsewhere (15%), restructuring or job cuts (15%), or concerns about AI and automation (10%).

“Singapore’s workforce is navigating significant change. Employees are being asked to develop new skills, embrace AI and adapt to evolving roles, often while managing increasing workloads,” said Billy Elliott, regional director for Asia at Top Employers Institute.

Elliott said building a future-ready workforce is not just about providing more training. Employers must create the conditions for employees to develop, including manageable workloads, supportive managers and genuine opportunities for career mobility.

Meanwhile, 86% said they are satisfied with their current jobs, with 72% feeling confident developing skills for future roles, whilst 72% believe their employer would provide opportunities to move between hands-on and office-based work.

“These findings suggest that job satisfaction does not necessarily translate into long-term career security. Employees may value their current roles while remaining concerned about future opportunities, organisational changes or technological disruption,” the report said.

“Ultimately, workforce resilience depends on helping employees see a future within their organisation, rather than simply keeping them in their current roles,” Elliott said.

Top Employers Institute recommends three priorities: creating conditions for adaptation, building employability and enabling mobility through clearer career pathways across traditional blue- and white-collar boundaries.

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