20-30% Pay Rise Is Must For Professionals In Malaysia To Switch Jobs

19 Feb 2014

According to a global headhunting firm, professionals in Malaysia are only considering job switch for a raise in the salary of 20 to 30 percent. Referring to the 2014 salary survey of international recruiters, Sally Raj, the country manager of Robert Walters, said that good candidates in Malaysia are always in demand.

Based on the observations gathered from 53 global offices, the survey forecast also found that factors like good corporate reputation, global exposure and a clear career path, and a track record of successful employee management, are being considered by job applicants.

Sally said that employees, who have strong skill sets and are commercial-minded, will be headhunted. She said, to enhance their marketability, professionals in Malaysia must look at getting a second degree in economics or business.

She added that in-house IT and legal professionals, accounting and finance specialists, and human resource practitioners focused on benefits and talent acquisition and compensation are the jobs in Malaysia that are in high demand.

Non-monetary incentives and rewards and regular salary reviews are important to retain staff. Sally said that professionals in Malaysia who stay back in their present employment can expect an annual increment of 5%-7%.

Shamsuddin Bardan, the executive director of Malaysian Employers Federation commented on the survey by saying that in terms of attracting and retaining talent, work-life balance plays a prominent role.

He added that higher pay is not the only reason for professionals in Malaysia to leave, and lack of opportunities in career advancement and management that does not appreciate talent, are among other reasons for employees to switch jobs.