02 February 2019
Speaking at a forum on employability organised by the Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Students’ Union, leading employers have said that companies are still drawn to candidates with good grades as they are a strong marker of capability.
For instance, Economic Development Board managing director Chng Kai Fong said: “Everyone is trying to shift away from an emphasis on grades but there is no substitute.”
Chief executive of DBS Group Piyush Gupta, who delivered a keynote speech, said that grades still provide the easiest way to shortlist candidates.
Other employers said they look for different character traits such as curiosity, humility and a willingness to learn.
Mr Danny Yong, chief investment officer and founding partner of Dymon Asia Capital, said: “A lot of learning is done on the job and not in school. So the most important ingredient for success is opportunity.”