Singapore’s workforce is grappling with a significant gap between the ideal of workplace happiness and the reality, according to a new study by Jobstreet by SEEK. The Workplace Happiness Index: Singapore, conducted with research agency Nature, surveyed 1,000 respondents aged 18 to 64. The findings reveal that only 56% of Singaporean workers describe themselves as happy at work, placing the country among the lowest in the Asia Pacific region.
The study highlights that whilst salary is a key factor, with 64% of respondents indicating higher pay would boost happiness, long-term satisfaction is more strongly influenced by purpose, growth, and recognition. Despite this, only half of the workers feel satisfied with their sense of purpose, and a mere 37% are positive about career progression.
Burnout is a critical issue, with nearly half of the respondents feeling exhausted by their jobs. Interestingly, even among those who report happiness, 41% still experience burnout, particularly those earning over S$6,000 monthly. The report also uncovers disparities in happiness levels across gender and age groups, with men and Baby Boomers reporting higher satisfaction than women and Millennials.
Esther Lee, Managing Director of Jobstreet by SEEK in Singapore, emphasised the need for systemic changes in workplace culture. “Employers need to focus on systems and culture, addressing purpose, progression, and recognition to combat burnout and improve retention,” she stated. The study suggests that aligning daily work with organisational missions and providing meaningful recognition could enhance workplace happiness and productivity.
