More Singaporeans want to work for Singapore Airlines than any other local or international company.
For the fourth time, the annual Randstad survey revealed that SIA was deemed the “Most Attractive Employer” by a plurality of respondents.
Last year, Changi Airport Group (Singapore’s international airport) took the top honors. This year it came in second, with the Marina Bay Sands taking the third spot. The survey ranks the top 75 large-scale employers who operate in Singapore.
2,502 employees and job seekers were surveyed. The raw data will be posted here (it has not yet been posted), where you can also find an explanation of the survey’s methodology.
Is Singapore Airlines A Great Place To Work?
Is Singapore truly the “most attractive” employer in the terms of the metrics that really matter to employees, or just attractive on the basis of the beautiful women working onboard?
It would be unfair to dismiss the results merely as a popularity contest or the simple allure of being paid to travel around the globe. Most jobs at SIA are not in the air, but on the ground. A vast support staff ensure that the SIA “machine” remains well-oiled at all stages.
Singapore employees, like most airline employees around the world, do not become wealthy on the basis of their work for SIA. Bosses can be demanding, which can simultaneously be both a blessing and curse. Controversy remains over how women are passed over for promotions and held to different physical appearance standards than men.
But the work culture at SIA is generally well-respected. Programs like encouraging employees to seek innovation with no penalty for failing help foster a collegial environment in a society that is still fairly hierarchical.
CONCLUSION
Perhaps it is no surprise that SIA, one of the most visible brands in the world, would be so well-regarded among survey respondents. But I also suspect there is some truth to the survey results.
Would you consider working for Singapore Airlines?
image: Singapore Airlines
A cousin of mine was once a stewardess for SQ. She only lasted about 2 years. She said the work environment as a stewardess was tough because of their very high standards. She said that it felt like she was in the army, where she had to be totally obedient to everyone above her rank/position. She said that if anyone made a mistake they would get chewed out by their superior behind the curtain. The inflight crew leaders were very demanding and that is why the service experience is so good. The inflight leaders were like drill sergeants who watch the crew underneath them like a hawk.
I’ve flown SQ countless times and every time I press the call button (not often), I don’t ever recall them not coming to my seat within 30-40 seconds. I know why.
Who wants to work with little or no “non-rev” flight benefits? I understand they get almost nothing in the way of free travel even on their own airline and no reciprocal reduced or non-rev rates with other airlines. Might do them some good if they apply to other airlines, in which case their having worked for SQ would be a definite plus.