69% of Singapore workers turn to managers for support amid economic uncertainty

As economic uncertainty continues to shape workplace dynamics, employees in Singapore are increasingly turning to their direct managers for reassurance, guidance and stability, according to the latest Workmonitor 2026 report by Randstad Singapore.

The study found that 69% of talent in Singapore look to their managers as a key source of support in navigating a volatile macroeconomic environment. This reliance is particularly pronounced among older generations, with Baby Boomers and Gen X employees most likely to seek reassurance from their immediate supervisors.

Despite broader organisational shifts, the manager-employee relationship appears to be strengthening. Around 74% of respondents reported having a strong relationship with their manager, up from 69% in 2025, while 70% said they feel more connected to their manager than to the organisation as a whole.

At the same time, overall workplace belonging, though still high, is showing signs of softening. About 74% of employees said they feel a sense of belonging at work, down from 82% a year ago, indicating a gradual shift in how employees relate to their employers.

The findings suggest that managers are increasingly acting as “trust architects,” bridging the gap between employees and organisations. Most respondents said they trust their managers with their career progression and believe their leaders have their best interests in mind.

However, this growing reliance on managers is accompanied by a paradox. While relationships with managers remain strong, 63% of employees said they turn to artificial intelligence tools for work advice instead of approaching their supervisors. The trend is particularly evident among younger employees, with Gen Z leading in the use of AI for workplace guidance.

Job insecurity also appears to be shaping workplace communication. More than two-thirds (67%) of respondents admitted they avoid raising issues with their managers due to concerns about job stability, highlighting an undercurrent of caution despite high levels of trust.

Beyond manager relationships, collaboration continues to play a central role in employee engagement and productivity. The report found that 83% of workers feel more productive when collaborating with others and incorporating multiple perspectives. Cross-generational collaboration is especially valued, with 79% of employees relying on colleagues from different age groups to broaden their perspectives.

Employers are largely aligned with this view, with 98% recognising generational diversity as a key productivity driver. Still, gaps remain, 29% of employees said they have left a job due to a lack of collaboration, underscoring the importance of fostering inclusive and interactive work environments.

The report, based on insights from over 800 respondents in Singapore and part of a broader global study spanning multiple regions, highlights a shifting workplace dynamic where trust, proximity and human connection, particularly through managers, are becoming critical in maintaining engagement during uncertain times.