A recent survey by Robert Walters reveals that only 10% of professionals in Singapore feel more positive about their roles following their latest performance review. Conducted in April 2026, the survey included nearly 200 respondents and highlighted that 27% felt less positive post-review. This underscores the growing pressure on businesses to maintain workforce confidence and engagement as the year progresses.
Andrew Powell, Chief Commercial Officer at Robert Walters, emphasised the importance of performance reviews as critical management moments. He noted, “Performance reviews are becoming increasingly important management moments, particularly as organisations look to balance worker needs whilst continuing to manage budgets.”
The survey also found that 42% of professionals received a pay increase in 2026, with 15% attributing it to inflation. Despite this, 79% of respondents are either actively seeking new roles or open to opportunities, a significant increase from the previous year’s findings.
Kirsty Poltock, Country Manager for Robert Walters Singapore, highlighted the dual nature of performance reviews, stating, “Performance reviews are a two-way conversation and an important opportunity for professionals to understand how their individual goals align with the organisation’s priorities.”
The findings suggest that performance and salary reviews are gaining importance in today’s market. Organisations are advised to adopt a strategic approach to compensation management, using market data to remain competitive. As the work environment evolves, understanding shifting workforce expectations will be crucial for maintaining engagement and competitiveness.
