The recent announcement in Singapore allowing employees to request four-day work weeks, more work-from-home (WFH) days, and staggered work timings has implications for employers in both Malaysia and Singapore. As Malaysia’s employers navigate this changing landscape, here are some strategies we can consider to attract and retain suitable talent:
Invest in Technology and Automation:
- Leverage technology to enhance productivity and reduce reliance on manual labor.
- Explore automation solutions for repetitive tasks, freeing up human resources for more strategic roles.
Outsource Certain Tasks:
- Consider outsourcing specific functions to external agencies or contractors.
- Outsourcing can provide flexibility and allow your core team to focus on critical tasks.
Implement Flexible Work Arrangements (FWAs):
- Embrace the trend toward flexible work options.
- Allow employees to request WFH days, staggered work hours, and other flexible arrangements.
- Balance business needs with employee preferences to create a conducive work environment.
Offer Competitive Wages and Benefits:
- Attract talent by providing competitive compensation packages.
- Highlight career growth opportunities, health benefits, and work-life balance.
Adapt Hiring Requirements:
- Challenge-Specific Hiring: The task of hiring specific industry experts or individuals based on particular gender, age, or race may become increasingly difficult, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). In light of this, employers should be prepared to groom candidates who may not be an exact fit but have the potential to learn and grow within the company.
- Flexibility in Hiring Criteria: Employers should remain flexible and open to adjusting their hiring requirements and expectations. Rather than rigidly adhering to predefined criteria, consider the candidate’s potential, adaptability, and willingness to learn.
Empathy and Market Awareness:
- Understand the Job Market: Before embarking on the hiring process, take the time to understand the current job market dynamics. Recognize the challenges faced by job seekers and the changing preferences of potential employees.
- Empathetic Approach: Show empathy towards candidates. Acknowledge the unique circumstances they may be facing and consider their needs and aspirations. A compassionate approach during interviews and negotiations can make a significant difference.
Remember that retaining local talent is crucial, but it’s essential to strike a balance between nurturing local talent and addressing immediate workforce needs. By adopting these strategies, Malaysian employers can navigate the talent shortage effectively and contribute to sustainable growth
