Companies navigate new labor landscape

Over the past few years, the global workforce has undergone a seismic shift, redefining priorities, work preferences and the very nature of employment.

Job seekers and employees are no longer focused solely on salary and benefits.

Instead, they value factors such as work-life balance, career growth opportunities, company culture, and flexibility. These emerging priorities are now central to decisions about joining or staying with an organization.

As businesses enter the new year, they face a dual challenge: Attracting top talent to drive growth and retaining high-performing employees in an increasingly complex and competitive environment.

Online job platform Jobstreet by SEEK has equipped Filipino employers with innovative solutions tailored to the evolving needs of today’s workforce.

Investing in skill building

A learning culture has emerged as a cornerstone of the Filipino workforce. According to Jobstreet by SEEK’s Decoding Global Talent Report: GenAI Edition, 40 percent of Filipino employees are willing to dedicate time to learning new skills at least once a week. This underscores the importance of skill-building initiatives in the workplace. Key areas of interest for employees include analytical and job-specific skills, creativity and project management.

Filipino professionals prefer diverse training methods such as videos, online tutorials, workshops, seminars and learning from professional networks. By offering personalized upskilling and reskilling opportunities aligned with these preferences, employers can cultivate a motivated, future-ready workforce. These initiatives not only enhance employee capabilities but also foster loyalty and long-term commitment.

Balancing stability, flexibility

Flexibility and stability remain top priorities for Filipino employees. The Decoding Global Talent Report reveals that 67 percent of Filipino talent prefer stable jobs that offer a good work-life balance. Flexible working arrangements, such as work-from-home or hybrid setups, are also highly valued, making them critical for employee retention.

Interestingly, Filipino professionals show a preference for conventional full-time roles with a five-day workweek, and many are more inclined to take on multiple full-time jobs rather than part-time positions. Beyond flexibility, clear career growth opportunities and pathways to leadership roles are essential factors that attract and retain top talent.

Job satisfaction plays a pivotal role in employee retention. Employees who find fulfillment in their work are 49 percent less likely to consider leaving their jobs compared to those who don’t. Beyond compensation, employees value work-life balance, meaningful workplace relationships, and the chance to contribute to organizations that positively impact society.

Mental health and well-being have also become critical workplace priorities. Employers are expected to foster a supportive environment that addresses these needs. Initiatives such as stress management programs, psychological safety training and cultural sensitivity workshops can make a significant difference. Additionally, managers trained in unconscious bias and inclusivity can ensure that all employees feel respected and valued.

“The Filipino workforce’s dedication to learning is a tremendous asset that drives innovation and long-term success,” Joey Yusingco, Head of Marketing for Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines said. “Moreover, the commitment to growth and adaptability is essential for retaining talent and equipping individuals to adjust and thrive in an ever-changing work environment.”

Preparing for the future

As the Filipino workforce continues to evolve, the role of employers in adapting to these changes is more important than ever.

‘The Filipino workforce’s dedication to learning is a tremendous asset that drives innovation and long-term success.’

By investing in employee growth, offering flexible yet stable work environments, and fostering a culture of well-being, organizations can position themselves as employers of choice in this dynamic landscape.

With the support of platforms like Jobstreet by SEEK, Filipino businesses are better equipped to navigate these shifts and build a resilient, thriving workforce for the future.