Working With Recruiters in Singapore: What Actually Works (2025 Guide)

Working With Recruiters in Singapore: What Actually Works

You’ve sent out your CV. You’ve applied on job boards. You’ve messaged a few recruiters on LinkedIn.

But... crickets.

If you're job hunting in Singapore, you’ve probably realized something:
Working with recruiters can be hit or miss — and often, it’s a mystery why.

Here’s what actually works when it comes to getting noticed, getting calls, and building real relationships with recruiters in Singapore’s job market.

1. Understand How Recruiters Actually Work

Not all recruiters are the same — and many job seekers waste time approaching the wrong ones.

There are two main types:

• In-house (corporate) recruiters
  → They hire only for their own company
  → They usually post public roles on job boards or LinkedIn

• Agency (external) recruiters
  → They work for recruitment firms
  → They place candidates across multiple companies
  → This is where most job seekers get traction

Pro tip: If you're not speaking to an agency recruiter in Singapore, you're likely missing out on 80% of the market’s hidden jobs.

2. Be Strategic — Don’t Spam 50 Recruiters

You don’t need to reach out to every recruiter on LinkedIn.

You need to find 5–10 who specialize in your field and are active in the Singapore market.

Here’s how to filter the right ones:

• Look at their job posts — are they hiring in Singapore now?

• Check their focus: Tech? Finance? Creative?

• Do they mention client names or industries you’re targeting?

Approach them with a clear, tailored message — not a mass-blasted CV.

3. Make It Easy for Them to Help You

Recruiters are busy. Most handle 20+ roles at once.

If you want a response, make it easy for them to understand:

• Who you are

• What you do best

• What you’re looking for

Example message:

“Hi [Name], I’m a digital marketer with 6 years in B2C e-commerce, currently based in Singapore. I’m exploring new roles in CRM and paid media, ideally with consumer brands. Would love to know if anything on your desk could be a fit.”

Attach your CV — and make sure your LinkedIn headline and summary are up to date.

4. Be Honest About Your Visa Status and Expectations

Singapore recruiters need to know:

• Are you eligible to work in SG? (EP, DP, PR, etc.)

• Are you already in Singapore or relocating?

• What’s your expected salary and notice period?

Transparency here makes you easier to work with — not harder.

If you're relocating, say so clearly:

“I’m currently in the UK but open to relocating to Singapore. I’m on a dependent visa and can work legally without sponsorship.”

5. Follow Up — Without Being Pushy

If a recruiter doesn’t reply right away, it’s not always personal.

Give it a few days, then follow up politely:

“Just checking in to see if my profile might be a fit for any current openings. Happy to connect or keep in touch for future roles.”

Avoid:
❌ “Did you read my CV?”
❌ “Why aren’t you replying?”
❌ Copy-pasting the same message again

6. Build a Long-Term Relationship

The best recruiters don’t just help you get this job — they can help you grow your entire career in Singapore.

If a recruiter gives you feedback or offers advice, stay in touch — even if the first opportunity doesn’t work out.

✔ Like their posts
✔ Refer candidates to them
✔ Update them when you land a new role

When you’re top of mind, you’re first in line when the next great role comes up.

Final Thoughts

Working with recruiters in Singapore can absolutely help you land better jobs faster — if you do it the right way.

✔ Focus on the right recruiters
✔ Be clear, concise, and respectful
✔ Make it easy for them to help you
✔ Keep the relationship warm — even if there’s no role right now

Want to get matched with recruiters who actually place candidates like you?

HelloRecruiters connects job seekers with 5–10 recruiters in Singapore based on:

• Your industry

• Your job function

• Your work eligibility

• Your target roles

No guessing. No ghosting. Just real connections.

👉 Get matched now at hellorecruiters.co/singapore