In this series, manpower reporter Tay Hong Yi offers practical answers to candid questions on navigating workplace challenges and getting ahead in your career. Get more tips by signing up to The Straits Times’ HeadSTart newsletter.
Q: Is it better to apply for a job as soon as it is listed, or only when it has remained open for some time?
A: In Singapore’s competitive job market, knowing whether to apply early or wait can make a significant difference to the outcome of the job search, says Mr Nilay Khandelwal, senior managing director of recruitment firm Michael Page Singapore & India.
“Applying early gives you a distinct edge, especially in fast-moving industries like technology, banking front office and finance in Singapore.
“Recruiters often review applications as they come in, and being one of the first candidates can make you more visible.”
This is because there are fewer applications jostling for the limited attention of hiring managers and recruiters, says Ms Evan Loke, director of the permanent division at recruitment firm Persolkelly Singapore.
Applying early allows someone to potentially secure an interview before the process becomes saturated, giving prospective employers more time to deeply consider each applicant’s merits.
Additionally, applying early demonstrates the desirable traits of enthusiasm and decisiveness, Ms Loke says.
Still, there are situations where holding off could be a good strategy, both experts say.
Job requirements can evolve even during the hiring process, especially if a broad or seemingly incomplete job description is listed.
Such descriptions are most often attached to roles with complex and high skill requirements, especially in fast-changing industries, such as technology, some areas of financial services like risk management, life sciences and strategy consulting.
Mr Khandelwal says: “Companies may start with a vague idea of the ideal candidate, refining their criteria as applications come
