‘Work-life balance’ has topped the list of what Singaporeans want from their employers for the first time in 10 years.

Seven out of 10 Singaporeans have ranked work-life balance as the most important employee value proposition (EVP) they look for in an ideal employer, according to a survey by Randstad Singapore.

According to Randstad, this is the first time in its 10-year employer brand research history that ‘work-life balance’ is being ranked as the most important EVP factor that Singaporeans seek.

Commissioned by Randstad and independently conducted by Kantar TNS, the Randstad Employer Brand Research explores EVP factors that influence employees and job seekers in their search for a new career.

The survey also revealed that 74% of Singaporeans also want an attractive salary and benefits from employers. This is followed by job security (60%), career progression (59%), and pleasant work atmosphere (58%).

Going by the numbers, more female respondents (78%) prioritise work-life balance when looking for an ideal employer than male respondents (69%). Female respondents (51%) also favour remote work than male respondents (41%).

“In 2020, more respondents have also reportedly worked longer hours instead of having their working hours or salary reduced. As we continue to work from home amidst the pandemic, the line between work and life is blurred as many people still continue to work or reply to non-urgent work messages after hours. While it may take a mindset shift to consciously practise work-life harmony during such times, having HR provisions that define the parameters of remote work could help some employees understand their roles and set guidelines in their lives to strike a better balance,’ Jaya Dass, managing director for Randstad Malaysia and Singapore said.