Singapore has been ranked among the most popular global destinations for relocation.
According to the Global Professionals on the Move Report 2011, commissioned by the Hydrogen Group, which surveyed 2,637 professionals from 85 countries, Singapore joined Canada in fifth place as one of the most popular destinations globally, behind the US, UK, Australia and Switzerland.
Hong Kong followed in sixth place, along with France and the UAE.
Simon Walker, Managing Director of Hydrogen Asia Regional, said, “94 percent of the overall survey respondents who’d moved to Asia said their living conditions had improved with the move and 86 percent had improved their salary as a result of moving here.”
He explained that many global firms were setting up headquarters in Singapore, or expanding their operations to include branch offices in Southeast Asia.
Meanwhile, 100 percent of professional women surveyed said they would recommend working in Singapore to others.
“We’ve noticed an increase in the number of women from overseas taking advantage of the career opportunities offered here. Banking sectors in particular are looking to source experienced female professionals from a global talent pool,” said Mr.Walker.
With 42 percent of Singapore’s population made up of expats and foreign students, it was hardly surprising that 80 percent of the professionals surveyed found it easy to settle in and make new friends.
“The culture of inclusion is strong here and new global recruits are warmly welcomed,” said Abigail Waudby, Director of Hydrogen Asia.
Tim Smeaton, Chief Executive Officer of the Hydrogen Group, also said, “We are increasingly seeing that our client companies in South-East Asia are planning their workforces strategically to incorporate the new global culture of working. The survey also shows that professional women and men are actively embracing the chance to work all over the world. South-East Asia will continue to attract the best international talent because of the benefits it offers in terms of lifestyle, pay and career advancement.”