In a bid to boost the nation’s birth rate, the Singapore National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) has proposed paid maternity leave of 6 months for all female employees. The proposal however, has received mixed sentiments amongst the general public.

From 30 August to 21 September, 2012, a short poll was conducted by JobsCentral to find out what most Singapore workers think of an extended maternity leave. The poll gathered a total of 288 responses.

A Masters in Business Administration (or MBA) is an accredited post-graduate degree programme which imparts students with the knowledge and skills of business operations.

Admissions into most MBA programmes are often based on academic credentials, work experiences and performance in an admittance test. On top of the arduous admittance process, going through the programme itself requires a good amount of commitment and conviction. Despite this, MBA programmes continue to observe a growing popularity in Singapore.

What are the motivations behind enrolling for an MBA programme? According to a new short poll by JobsCentral, conducted between 18th July and 28th August 2012, most Singapore workers are driven to pursue an MBA with the intention of getting a salary increment upon completion.

As with any relationships, frequent engagements and communication often strengthen the bonds between individuals. Regular bonding sessions out of work, are usually the most effective platforms for co-workers to nurture closer work relationships and teamwork.

Even so, some may argue that the notion of socializing with co-workers should be kept within the time spent at work and that post-office hours should be reserved for private social circles. Undeniably, you and your colleagues do in fact spend just about 8 hours of every work day in the company of one another already.

Do most workers hang out with their colleagues after work and how often do they do so? Based on a poll conducted by JobsCentral from 23rd May to 12th June, 2012, more than three in five workers (64%) would engage in recreational activities with their co-workers after work.

Ever had one of those days when your urge to avoid work drove your temperature up, gave you a bad throat and led to the worst run you have experienced? The last poll conducted by Jobscentral from 9th April to 23rd May 2012, sought to shed some light on the common ailments compelling workers to call in sick when they are not.

To an employee, a job promotion is usually esteemed as a merit reserved only for the most deserving. It is an indication that one’s contribution to the company is valued and that he/she is ready to take on more responsibilities.

At times, however, most are slapped with the bitter truth that excellent work performance alone may not guarantee a move up the steps of the organizational ladder. In fact, factors affecting promotional opportunities may sometimes go beyond the context of work altogether.

What are the non-work related attributes, which would most affect an employer's decision of promoting someone? According to a short poll conducted by JobsCentral from 14 March to 9 April, 2012, most employees believe that besides on-the-job accomplishments, maintaining a good rapport with the boss would escalate their chances of getting that job promotion.

Against an ever-competitive job market, employment offers are often reserved not only for the finest candidates, but also for those who are willing to adjust their job expectations. What is the most essential consideration job seekers put before all others when deciding whether to accept or reject a job offer?

According to a recent poll conducted by JobsCentral from, 24 Feb 2012 to 14 Mar 2012, most employees would measure salary above all other aspects when contemplating on a job offer.

Running at the relentless pace of the indifferent urban jungle, what are the most common remedies to recharging a toiling body, mind and soul? According to a short poll conducted by JobsCentral, the most popular solution to dealing with a burnt out, would be to put away the mundane stress from work and go on an overseas trip.

The poll which was conducted between 3 January to 26 January, 2012, garnered a total of 186 votes.