68% of youth are open to changing jobs, finds SUSS study

Financial gain, job stability top priorities, with work-life balance important as well

- Koh Ming Lun

A recent study has found that 68 per cent of youth in Singapore are open, actively or passively, to new job opportunities.

Financial gain and job stability ranked as their top two priorities, while flexible work arrangements and work-life balance were also important, according to the study by the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS).

Results from the study on youth employment were released on Oct 10 during a media briefing held at A Good Place, a community hub at One Holland Village.

The study’s principal investigator is Associate Professor Justina Tan, vice-president of strategic partnership and engagement at SUSS.

The findings were drawn from a survey conducted from June to July of over 1,000 young people — both Singaporeans and permanent residents - and more than 250 employers across sectors. Researchers also held 12 focus group discussions with about 90 participants.

The study, which was supported by funding from the Tote Board, also analysed findings by youth education levels and three age groups: 18 to 25, 26 to 30, and 31 to 35.

Among those in the 18 to 25 age group, 35 per cent are actively seeking new roles, compared with 20 per cent of those aged 26 to 30 and 19 per cent of those in the 31 to 35 age group.