15th Dec 2023
Competencies VS Traditional
Qualifications
The handbook comes at a time when the demand for tech professionals in Singapore is on the rise, with the number of tech professionals increasing from approximately 155,500 in 2017 to 201,100 in 2022. The approach advocated by the handbook is seen as a progressive way to tap into a wider pool of talent, including graduates from polytechnics and the Institute of Technical Education (ITE).
One of the key highlights of this initiative is the commitment from around 100 companies, including industry giants like PayPal, HSBC, Cisco, and Singapore-based start-up Accredify, to adopt a skills-based hiring approach. These companies have pledged not only to evaluate candidates based on their tech skills and potential but also to provide practical opportunities for skill development, such as internships, apprenticeships, and work-study programs.
According to Mr. Tan, this approach benefits not only companies but also workers and the overall economy. It allows companies to find candidates with the specific skills needed for the job, reducing the time to hire significantly. Accenture, for instance, saw a 75% reduction in the time to hire by adopting a skills-based approach, emphasizing the efficiency gains associated with this strategy.
The Skills-Based Hiring Handbook encourages employers to identify and define core skills and competencies for tech roles, aligning them with the company’s objectives and future needs. During the selection process, employers are encouraged to use skills-based assessments to evaluate candidates accurately.
Furthermore, the handbook emphasizes the importance of providing training and development opportunities to help employees acquire new skills and grow in their roles. This holistic approach ensures that not only are candidates selected based on their current skill set, but they are also supported in continuous learning and skill enhancement.
To support this initiative, companies are encouraged to take the pledge for skills-based hiring through the Infocomm Media Development Authority’s (IMDA) website. The government has played a proactive role in building a stable pipeline of tech talent by increasing the local intake of information and digital technologies courses across universities, polytechnics, and ITE.
Here’s how recruiters can actively contribute:
Understanding and Advocacy
– Thoroughly understand the principles outlined in the Skills-Based Hiring Handbook.
– Act as advocates for skills-based hiring when engaging with clients, educating them on its benefits.
Candidate Assessment and Guidance
– Develop expertise in skills-based assessments to accurately evaluate candidates.
– Provide guidance to candidates on showcasing skills through practical examples.
Collaboration with Employers
– Assist in defining core skills for tech roles in collaboration with client companies.
– Support employers in implementing skills-based assessments during recruitment.
Skill Development Opportunities
– Identify opportunities for skill development and training.
– Coordinate internships, apprenticeships, and work-study programs.
Promotion of the Skills-Based Hiring Pledge
– Actively promote the skills-based hiring pledge among client companies.
– Facilitate the pledge process through the IMDA website.
Monitoring and Reporting
– Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of skills-based hiring initiatives.
– Provide feedback and share success stories with employers.
Stay Informed and Adaptive
– Stay updated on industry trends and emerging skills.
– Be flexible in adjusting recruitment processes to align with tech sector needs.
Partnerships and Collaboration
– Collaborate with educational institutions and government agencies.
– Explore partnerships with organizations specializing in skill development.
In conclusion, Singapore’s innovative move towards skills-based hiring signifies a transformative shift in the tech talent acquisition landscape. By prioritizing competencies over traditional qualifications, this approach not only fosters diversity in candidate selection but also ensures a workforce equipped with the skills demanded by the evolving tech industry. The Skills-Based Hiring Handbook is poised to become a valuable resource, contributing significantly to the growth and dynamism of Singapore’s tech sector.
Reference: https://www.straitstimes.com/business/new-handbook-to-help-s-pore-employers-hire-tech-workers-based-on-skills-not-academics?utm_medium=social&utm_source=linkedin&utm_campaign=stli
