Overseas demand and investment can create work locally and widen access to jobs or clients abroad.
A translation business gains overseas clients and hires people who can adapt their materials for local audiences. A multinational company opens a research centre and recruits staff with the required skills. Global links can create demand for work in different ways.
Individuals may find jobs in expanding export businesses or foreign-owned operations at home. They may also work overseas or provide services to foreign clients remotely. Relevant experience can open further opportunities, and some roles may offer better pay or progression.
An opportunity is not a guaranteed job for every applicant. Skills, qualifications, vacancies, permission to work abroad, family responsibilities and the cost of moving can affect access. Compare the actual role and working conditions before assuming an overseas job is better.
Worked example: Translation work for an overseas client
Mei is a translator in Singapore. An overseas education company hires her on a six-month contract to adapt training videos for Singapore audiences, using her language skills and knowledge of local expressions.
- The company's demand from abroad creates paid work that is not limited to Mei's local customers.
- Her relevant knowledge lets her provide the service without relocating. Global employment opportunities can involve remote work as well as overseas travel.
- The contract provides work for six months. It does not establish permanent employment, a future pay rise or the same opportunity for everyone.
Watch out for this
More overseas investment guarantees every unemployed person a better-paid job.
Investment can create roles, but people still need access to suitable vacancies. Hiring requirements, pay and working conditions vary.
Check your understanding
A foreign company opens a laboratory in Singapore and advertises 20 roles requiring specialist laboratory skills. What does this show?
- New local job opportunities exist, but access depends on applicants meeting the roles' requirements.
- Every resident's wages will rise.
- Singapore residents can benefit only by moving overseas.