Thailand’s employment arena are undergoing a dramatic change. As per a recent nationwide survey, nearly half (46%) of Thais are on the active lookout for a fresh job, and an additional 10% are set to embark on this quest in the ensuing six months. This shift symbolizes a burgeoning job market that not only displays unparalleled flexibility but also reveals a heightened appetite among individuals to navigate diverse career paths.
A closer look at the data from specialist recruitment firm Michael Page Thailand, which surveyed 942 Thai professionals, unravels an intriguing facet: every second employee has transitioned roles since the onset of the pandemic. Such findings are indicative of a pivotal transition in how the workforce resonates with their professional commitments. This has given rise to what is now termed the “Invisible Revolution”, typified by a pronounced transactional attitude towards employment.
Delving deeper into the Talent Trends 2023 report by Michael Page Thailand, aptly titled “The Invisible Revolution”, it’s evident that the tempo of this change is not slowing down. A striking insight reveals that 90% of Thais who embarked on a new job venture last year remain receptive to further opportunities. Adaptability in career trajectories is emerging as the prevailing sentiment, with a lion’s share of professionals perceiving job transitions as an integral juncture of their work journey.
In light of this ongoing observation, Kristoffer Paludan, Regional Director of Michael Page Thailand says, “89% of all employees in Thailand are open to considering new opportunities. Even generally happy employees will explore new career prospects. Thai employees are now seeking a more comprehensive package – attractive salaries, flexibility, career growth, frequent recognition and a work culture that aligns with their values in a range of areas, including sustainability, and diversity, equity and inclusion.”
Economic conditions, unsurprisingly, play a crucial role in influencing these employment tendencies. With 67% of individuals more inclined to job hunt amidst an economic slump, the correlation is unmistakable. Yet, it’s noteworthy that such willingness doesn’t unequivocally translate into job submissions. The post-pandemic era, marked by significant career migrations, now sees individuals pivoting towards roles that resonate more with their personal aspirations and the quest for a harmonious work-life balance.
Nicholas Kirk, CEO at PageGroup, said, “The trends in Thailand mirror the sentiment of the global talent market – every region has seen a transformative change across all age groups, markets, and industries.
“These are not fleeting trends or reactionary responses to a period of turbulence. Rather, they are reshaping the workplace in a way that will subtly yet fundamentally change the way businesses attract and retain their talent.”
The latest findings have brought forth a pressing need for corporations in Thailand to reassess their talent strategies, as the job market experiences a profound transformation. To attract and retain the best talent, employers must do more than just adapt to these shifting dynamics. By aligning their approaches with the evolving workforce, businesses can position themselves as desirable employers and foster a competitive advantage in the ever-changing job landscape.
