Amid a cautious hiring market outlook for 2026, analysts expect companies to adopt a more selective approach to recruitment, focusing on roles and skills that support digitalisation and structural transformation. This shift towards skills-based hiring – which prioritises proficiency over qualifications – carries implications for both jobseekers and employers.
“Individuals need to be more proactive in identifying gaps in their capabilities and taking steps to address them,” said Mr Lim. “Especially in digital and AI-related jobs, requirements evolve quickly and there is a growing emphasis on demonstrating applied competencies, not just theoretical knowledge.”
