The relationship between employees and their direct managers has emerged as a key driver of workplace stability, in the face of market volatility. According to Randstad Singapore’s 2026 Workmonitor, 69% of talent in Singapore look to their managers as a source of guidance and support, with Baby Boomers and Gen X employees being the most likely to do so.
Based on local insights from 800 individuals and employers in Singapore, the 2026 Workmonitor report highlights how managers are now the "stability anchors" for a workforce navigating the "Great Workforce Adaptation".
bridging the gap between employees and the organisation
Besides being a primary source of stability to employees in Singapore, managers are also increasingly seen as a key driver of trust and belonging in the workplace. Overall, respondents feel that their managers have their best interests in mind, and trust them with their career progression.
The survey also found that 74% of employees in Singapore reported having a strong relationship with their direct manager, marking a 5% increase from 69% in 2025. 70% also mentioned that they felt more connected to their manager than to the company as a whole.
how employees relate to their manager at work
Yet, despite having a strong relationship with their managers, over 6 in 10 employees mentioned that they use AI for work advice instead. While employers need to be aware that AI is becoming a “go-to” for employees, the greatest opportunity lies in developing managers' roles as “trust architects” for the workforce.
Organisations can do this by providing managers with the training and tools to give personalised guidance and facilitate meaningful conversations. They can also establish clearer structures for regular one-on-ones and cross-team collaboration, enabling managers to proactively support their teams.
By leveraging this opportunity, employers can create a competitive advantage even amidst market volatility by ensuring that their employees feel seen and supported, making their organisation a place where people want to stay and grow.
collaboration as a productivity lever
Another key factor driving belonging and engagement at work is the continued focus on collaboration among individuals, teams, and different generations.
83% of respondents believe that they are more productive when collaborating with others and considering different perspectives. This is especially true for cross-generational collaboration, with 79% of employees saying that they rely on colleagues from different generations to broaden their perspectives.
leveraging on the multigenerational advantage
Employers are highly aware of the value of cross-generational learning, with 98% highlighting generational diversity as a productivity lever. However, room for improvement still remains, with 29% saying that they’ve quit a job because of a lack of collaboration.
When managed effectively, multigenerational teams can become a strong organisational asset. Employees with years of industry experience can teach industry knowledge and soft skills, while younger professionals add strengths in digital tools and emerging technologies, creating a dynamic that drives learning and productivity.
collaboration within the workplace
Employers who bring together diverse perspectives can create a supportive environment where employees feel valued and connected. When collaboration is treated as a practical, everyday practice rather than just a buzzword, it fosters a stronger sense of belonging and loyalty among employees.
download the randstad singapore 2026 workmonitor report
In an environment marked by change and uncertainty, meaningful relationships at work matter more than ever. Employees are placing greater trust in their managers as anchors of support and connection, even as they turn to AI for guidance.
Employers who prioritise human connection as a core part of the employee experience and empower managers to build trust at scale will benefit from stronger engagement, higher talent retention, and a more productive workforce.
Download the Randstad Singapore 2026 Workmonitor report to discover how you can build more inclusive workplaces and position your organisation as a place where talent thrives.
partner with randstad
Turn these workforce insights into actionable strategies that can drive real business outcomes for your organisation. At Randstad, our expertise and market intelligence helps you understand talent expectations, navigate organisational dynamics, and optimise your talent strategies to attract and retain the right talent effectively.
Partner with our recruitment specialists to get access to more industry trends and find your next key hire.