Landing Your First Job in Singapore: Graduate Guide for the Class of 2025

Graduating in 2025? Congratulations — and welcome to one of the most dynamic job markets in Southeast Asia. Singapore’s hiring landscape is stable, digital-first, and full of opportunity. But standing out as a fresh graduate takes more than just submitting your CV.​

Whether you’re looking for your first full-time role or a stepping-stone internship, this guide will help you navigate the job search with confidence and clarity — from finding the right opportunities to understanding your first payslip and how payroll and accounting services affect your take-home salary.

What to Expect from the Job Market in 2025

Singapore’s workforce has bounced back post-pandemic, but the hiring environment has changed:​

• Hybrid roles are common: Many employers now expect a mix of remote and in-office work.
  
• Digital literacy is essential: Even non-tech roles require software confidence — Excel, payroll tools, cloud-based platforms.
  
• SMEs are hiring smart: Smaller companies value versatility and fresh ideas, offering broad exposure in lean teams.
  
• Awareness of employment basics sets you apart: Knowing how CPF, leave, and probation work signals that you’re job-ready.​
  

Where to Look for Jobs as a Fresh Grad

Start here:

• MyCareersFuture – Singapore’s official portal, with filters for entry-level jobs and internships.
  
• LinkedIn – Still the go-to for full-time roles, especially in tech, finance, and marketing.
  
• University career platforms – Connect directly with employers offering graduate schemes.
  
• SME job boards – Platforms like Glints, FastJobs, and startup communities often list early-career roles.​
  

Pro tip: Don’t ignore smaller firms. You’ll often gain more hands-on experience and grow faster.​

✅Don’t risk costly payroll penalties. Let our experts manage your payroll compliance end-to-end. Learn about our service here.

What Employers Want from Graduates

No one expects you to have a long work history. But they do look for:​

• Clear communication and teamwork
  
• Confidence using basic tech tools
  
• A willingness to learn and adapt
  
• An understanding of how the workplace works (leave, CPF, probation, etc.)​
  

These soft skills and awareness can tip the balance in your favour.

Understand the Basics Before You Start

CPF Contributions

• As an employee, 20% of your salary goes into your CPF account.
  
• Your employer contributes an additional 17%.
  
• CPF affects your take-home pay, so understand your payslip breakdown from day one.​
  

Leave Entitlements

• After three months, you’re entitled to:
  
  • Paid annual leave
    
  • Sick leave
    
  • Government-supported leave schemes (e.g. NS, maternity/paternity)​
    

Probation Periods

• Most jobs begin with a 3–6 month probation.
  
• During this time, you’re assessed for performance and fit — it’s a critical period to build good habits and show initiative.​
  

Apply Intentionally, Not Broadly

A few well-written applications will outperform dozens of generic ones. Always:​

• Tailor your CV to the role
  
• Use keywords from the job ad
  
• Write a short, focused cover note or email that shows interest
  
• Highlight relevant school projects, internships, or freelance work​
  

Be Interview-Ready

Employers don’t expect perfection — they want self-awareness and curiosity. Prepare to talk about:​

• What motivates you
  
• How you’ve handled group work, deadlines, or setbacks
  
• Why you’re interested in their company​
  

Keep answers short, genuine, and structured. Use real-life examples — even from school or part-time jobs.​

After You Land the Job: Start Strong

Success doesn’t stop at the offer letter. Here’s how to stand out early:​

• Be reliable: show up on time, meet deadlines, ask smart questions
  
• Understand your salary structure and CPF deductions
  
• Learn how your team tracks hours, leave, and bonuses
  
• Read your contract and payslip carefully — know what’s being contributed, deducted, and credited.

The grads who grow the fastest are the ones who treat their first job like a launchpad, not just a paycheck.

Summary

Singapore’s Class of 2025 is entering a workforce shaped by change, but full of potential. Landing your first job is about more than getting hired — it’s about being ready to contribute, grow, and learn.​

When you understand the basics — from CPF and leave to performance expectations — you not only impress employers, you build the foundation for a confident, successful career.​

Expert Payroll Services, Zero Hassle

Running payroll shouldn’t keep you up at night. Our in-house payroll team handles all the complexities—from withholding calculations to tax deposits. We ensure compliance, manage deadlines, and keep your books updated automatically.

Get comprehensive payroll support without the need for multiple providers. Your dedicated Customer Success Manager is just a message away for any questions.

Ready to get started? Chat with us now, email [email protected], or use our  contact form.

Here are some articles you might find helpful:

How to Build a Gender-Inclusive Skills Development Plan

How SMEs Can Address the Women’s Skills Gap and Build Inclusive Growth

How to Build an FWA Policy for SMEs in Singapore