Young professionals say it’s only right to demand higher pay amid inflation and rising living costs after HR asks if fresh grads are ‘delulu’ for wanting S$4,800 to S$5,500

Singapore's young professionals took to social media to argue that they are justified in demanding salaries between S$4,800 and S$5,500, amid inflation and rising living costs. An HR professional on the NUSWhispers Facebook page questioned whether these salary expectations were delusional given the value fresh NUS graduates and those with 1-2 years of experience could bring to the role.

The HR noted that the position was an in-house HR role at a small to medium-sized enterprise, and the candidates' specialized experience was in a limited industry area, resulting in a significant gap in the value they could provide. Commenters pointed out the changing times and a tougher job market, stating that pressures from inflation and high living costs were driving them to aim for higher starting salaries.

One commenter noted that ten years ago, they were earning S$3,800 for a role with equivalent responsibilities, questioning why employers still pay the same. In June, job analysts warned that fresh graduates may need to lower their salary expectations or face delays in entering the workforce. Aslant Legal founder and recruiter Shulin Lee also compared Singaporeans to foreign workers, stating that locals were less aggressive in their pursuit of job opportunities.