In the competitive business landscape of Singapore, companies are increasingly turning to recruitment agencies to streamline their hiring processes. As employment continues to grow in various sectors, leveraging the expertise of recruiters can provide numerous advantages. 

Based on the latest labour market data, total employment grew by 11,300 in 2Q 2024, more than double the increase in 1Q 2024 (4,700). This growth highlights the ongoing demand for skilled workers, and recruitment agencies play a pivotal role in fulfilling this need. Here are the top five reasons why companies in Singapore use recruitment agencies:

1. Access to a Wider Talent Pool

Recruitment agencies have extensive networks and databases that provide companies with access to a broader range of candidates than their internal resources might reach. With the number of job vacancies holding steady at 81,200 in June 2024, companies are competing for top talent. Recruiters can connect businesses with both local and global candidates, including non-residents, who accounted for a significant portion of employment growth in the construction and manufacturing sectors in 2Q 2024.

2. Expertise and Industry Knowledge

Recruiters specialise in various industries, offering expert insights and an understanding of the current job market. As sectors like Financial & Insurance Services, Information & Communications, and Professional Services continue to drive resident employment growth, having a recruiter with specialised knowledge helps companies find the right fit for specific roles.

3. Time Efficiency

The hiring process can be time-consuming, particularly in a tight labour market. As of June 2024, the ratio of job vacancies to unemployed persons rose to 1.67, indicating that there are more job vacancies than available workers. Recruitment agencies manage the screening, interviews, and assessments, allowing companies to focus on their core business activities while ensuring that the best talent is hired swiftly.

4. Confidentiality

Recruitment agencies can discreetly handle sensitive hiring processes, ensuring that current employees or competitors are not aware of the company’s hiring activities. This is especially useful for businesses undergoing internal restructuring, as evidenced by 3,270 retrenchments in 2Q 2024, with most firms citing business reorganisation as the reason for layoffs.

5. Cost-Effective

Although there is a cost involved in using recruiters, the long-term benefits of finding the right candidate quickly and efficiently can lead to significant cost savings. With more than 55% of retrenched residents securing jobs within six months post-retrenchment, recruitment agencies help connect companies with candidates who are eager to return to the workforce, ensuring businesses remain competitive in a challenging job market.

 

5 Top Tips on How to Select a Good Recruiter

1. Check Their Industry Specialisation

Ensure the recruiter has expertise in your specific industry. This knowledge helps them understand the nuances of the roles and the type of candidates you need.

2. Evaluate Their Network and Reach

A good recruiter should have a vast and active network. Ask about their database and how they source candidates.

3. Review Testimonials and Track Record

Look for reviews, case studies, and testimonials from other clients. A proven track record of successful placements is a strong indicator of a recruiter’s effectiveness.

4. Assess Their Communication Skills

Effective communication is crucial. The recruiter should be responsive, transparent, and keep you updated throughout the hiring process.

5. Understand Their Screening Process

Inquire about how they screen and evaluate candidates. A thorough and rigorous process ensures that only the most suitable candidates are presented to you.

 

Popular Recruiters in Singapore

Reeracoen Singapore Pte Ltd

Reeracoen is a leading recruitment force in Asia, known for connecting top-tier talent with leading organisations. Leveraging expansive networks and deep industry insights, we deliver exceptional recruitment solutions tailored to the evolving needs of our partners. As part of the Neo-career Group, we uphold Japanese standards of professionalism and service excellence across nine offices in six major Asian countries, offering unparalleled service quality and cross-border talent solutions. 

Robert Half

Robert Half is a global leader in specialised staffing, particularly in accounting, finance, and IT. Known for their industry-specific expertise and deep understanding of the Singaporean job market, Robert Half has a strong track record of connecting businesses with high-calibre professionals.

Pasona

Pasona is a well-established recruitment agency, with a particular focus on Japanese and bilingual talent. They offer comprehensive HR services, from temporary staffing to executive search, and are known for their deep expertise in the Asia-Pacific region, making them a popular choice for companies looking for Japanese-speaking professionals in Singapore.

Randstad

Randstad is a global leader in HR services and recruitment. They provide a comprehensive range of services, including permanent and temporary staffing, executive search, and HR solutions. Randstad is known for its innovative approach and extensive industry knowledge.

Michael Page

Michael Page is a renowned recruitment firm specialising in mid to senior-level professional placements. They cover various sectors, including finance, technology, healthcare, and more. Michael Page is recognized for its rigorous candidate screening and personalised service.

Robert Walters Singapore

Robert Walters Singapore focuses on specialist professional recruitment. They offer expertise in placing high-calibre professionals in various fields such as accounting, finance, engineering, and IT. Their consultants have deep industry knowledge and a strong network of candidates.

Conclusion

By partnering with the right recruitment agency, companies in Singapore can enhance their hiring processes, find the best talent, and stay competitive in their respective industries.

 

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Reference Links:

https://www.mom.gov.sg/newsroom/press-releases/2024/0917-labour-market-in-2q-2024

https://www.humanresourcesonline.net/total-employment-in-singapore-more-than-doubled-in-q2-2024-compared-to-q1-mom