TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Being a public servant has become less appealing for job seekers and even current employees for several reasons: prolonged working hours, increased work-related stress, and unattractive compensation plans.
Many used to consider a career in public service equivalent to job security; however, data from the New Taipei City Government painted a different picture, revealing that 298 public servants resigned in 2022.
Chang Feng-i, executive director of the Taiwan Labor and Social Policy Research Association (TLSA), explained that "The role of a public servant is typically a full-time position, and the job description is highly routine, making it less attractive to the youth."
"Furthermore, today's public servants do not hold the same authoritative titles as during authoritarian times, as they face considerable administrative pressure when dealing with elected officials," Chang noted.
Government data uncovered that Taiwan had a total of 363,000 public servants by the end of 2021, marking a decrease of 3,000 people from the previous year, a 0.9% reduction.
Conversely, four major state-owned enterprises—CPC Corporation, Taiwan Sugar Corporation, Taiwan Water Corporation, and Taipower—opened up 1,145 roles combined, reaching a new record in recent years.
Starting salaries ranged from around NT＄41,000 to NT＄42,000, with the potential to reach close to NT＄60,000 within five years.
Huang Jo-wei, a spokesperson for a job bank, suggested: “Local government agencies should consider providing better wages and benefits, although it can be challenging to match the packages offered by the private sector."
In an effort to retain talent, Huang pointed out that an "improved work environment or opportunities for professional growth" could potentially reduce the employee turnover rate in the public sector.
Various other factors contribute to leaving a public servant role, including a dislike of remaining in one position for too long, dissatisfaction with the job itself, the necessity to deal with rule-violating citizens or even gang members on occasion, and better compensation packages offered by state-owned enterprises or companies.
Experts emphasized that with advanced technology, some supervisors even assign tasks during evenings or weekends. Hence, reconsidering methods to enhance work-life balance has become more critical for employers in recent times.