Through the twists and turns of corporate life, individuals often find themselves positioned in the middle of the professional ladder. Here are some insights to help you ascend further and strategies to handle setbacks in your career journey.
The challenges mid-career professionals face, especially those falling under the professional, managerial, executive, and technical (PMET) or middle management categories, can be daunting. However, it’s important to remember that PMETs and middle managers are resilient individuals who can balance the responsibilities of managing both superiors and subordinates. They can also adapt to technological advancements, ensuring their relevance in the job market. Even in the face of retrenchment, they can take up temporary positions or gig work, demonstrating their ability to navigate through challenging situations.
As Dr. Tan Khay Boon, a senior lecturer at SIM Global Education, affirmed, the Singaporean job market has historically posed significant challenges for PMETs. According to Dr. Tan, the displacement of mature PMETs, leading to structural unemployment, has long been a persistent issue in the Singaporean job market.
Moreover, the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, with over 196,400 job losses in the third quarter of 2021, has been significant in industries such as tourism, aviation, retail, food and beverage, construction, and maritime. The National Trades Union Congress has highlighted that middle-career workers, exceptionally highly skilled, middle-aged PMEs, have been the most adversely affected by reductions.
Despite the challenges, the Singaporean government has implemented initiatives that have proven effective in supporting professionals impacted by the pandemic. Minister for Manpower Josephine Teo revealed that over 60% of unemployed locals had secured permanent employment through government career schemes like Workforce Singapore (WSG) and the SGUnited traineeship and mid-career pathway programs. This demonstrates the government’s commitment to the workforce and provides PMETs and middle managers with a sense of hope and reassurance.
Developing and honing digital skills has become increasingly crucial for staying competitive as the job landscape evolves. Upskilling is essential, with a particular emphasis on digital proficiency, as modern employers have higher expectations of their employees. Professor Jochen Wirtz of NUS Business School highlighted the democratization of intelligent automation, emphasizing that low-coding or coding platforms and digital proficiencies are becoming indispensable skills in the workforce.
Reskilling is essential for those considering transitioning to new industries. Career Conversion Programmes (CCPs) offered by Workforce Singapore (WSG) provide opportunities for mid-career individuals to gain industry-recognized training, fostering job readiness for new roles.
In summary, the journey for PMETs and middle managers is rife with challenges and opportunities. However, by embracing lifelong learning, they can stay ahead of evolving skill requirements and remain competitive in Singapore’s dynamic job landscape. This proactive approach, coupled with the availability of government support programs, empowers PMETs and middle managers to navigate and thrive in their careers.
