Five strategies for cross-border talent management

The dynamic landscape of Southeast Asian business demands innovative approaches to talent management that transcend national boundaries. As organisations in the region continue to expand and integrate across markets, the ability to effectively manage and mobilise talent becomes a critical competitive advantage. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) economic community has significantly reduced barriers […]
Five ways organisations enhance employee benefits

Employee benefits have become a critical differentiator in the competitive talent landscape of Southeast Asia. As the region experiences rapid economic growth and workforce transformation, organisations are reimagining their approach to employee compensation and support. The traditional model of standard salary packages is evolving, with forward-thinking companies recognising that comprehensive, thoughtful benefits can significantly impact […]
Five essential frameworks for achieving gender equity

Achieving gender equity in the workplace requires a strategic approach beyond traditional diversity initiatives. While many organisations have taken steps toward inclusion, systemic barriers still hinder progress. Implementing structured frameworks can create lasting change by embedding equity into organisational policies and practices. In this last installment of our 4-part “women series,” let’s dig deeper into […]
Five behaviours cultivating women’s professional growth

Creating an inclusive workplace that supports women’s professional growth requires more than policies; it demands a cultural shift in behaviour. While many organisations focus on structural changes, everyday interactions and attitudes significantly impact career advancement for women. Encouraging positive workplace behaviours can help break barriers and foster an environment where women can thrive. This is […]
Five organisational blind spots hampering gender equality

Despite ongoing efforts to promote workplace gender equality across Southeast Asia, many organisations still struggle to create truly inclusive environments where women can thrive professionally. Unconscious biases, outdated policies, and deeply rooted systemic barriers continue to limit opportunities for women at all career stages. Addressing these persistent issues is essential for fostering meaningful diversity and […]
The First Word: How pet ownership is shaping workplace policies

Singapore has witnessed a steady rise in pet ownership over the years. According to a survey on pet ownership conducted by Rakuten Insight in early 2022, 33 percent of respondents in Singapore stated that they owned at least one pet. With the dog and cat populations growing at Compound Annual Growth Rates (CAGRs) of 1.9% […]
Five initiatives advancing women’s careers in Southeast Asia

The professional landscape in Southeast Asia is evolving rapidly, with a growing focus on gender inclusivity and empowerment in the workforce. Despite significant progress in recent years, women across the region still face substantial barriers to career advancement, including unequal pay, limited leadership opportunities, and persistent cultural biases. To address these multifaceted challenges, forward-thinking organisations […]
Five emerging benefits trends shaping Southeast Asian workplaces

The rapidly evolving economic landscape across Southeast Asia is significantly reshaping workplace benefits packages as organisations strive to attract and retain top talent in increasingly competitive markets. This evolution reflects broader societal shifts occurring throughout the region, including changing family structures, technological integration, and evolving employee expectations around work-life harmony. HR professionals across ASEAN countries […]
Five innovative employee recognition ideas for 2025

Employee recognition has always been a cornerstone of good management, but in 2024, it’s more important than ever to find creative ways to celebrate success. This Chief of Staff Five explores five innovative approaches to recognising employees, focusing on examples from leading companies in Southeast Asia. 1. Personalised Rewards Companies like Bukalapak are personalising employee […]
Five key considerations for crafting a Remote Work policy

Creating a robust remote work policy is essential for companies that want to ensure both flexibility and productivity in their distributed teams. In Southeast Asia, where remote work is becoming a standard option for many businesses, it’s important to have clear guidelines in place that address the needs of both employers and employees. A well-crafted […]