Older PMETs can still contribute

I agree that the hiring of older professionals is as important as their re-employment ("Older execs may get union help on re-employment"; last Friday).

Senior professionals, managers, executives and technicians (PMETs) should have a fair shot at finding jobs through better matching of their qualifications, skills, experience and personal preferences by a centralised agency.

At the very least, we should ensure that they get to the interview stage if the requirements are met.

Senior PMETs are a valuable resource that is not optimally deployed.

We must recognise that many of them want a slower pace of life and do not mind lower wages for a shorter work week and fewer responsibilities.

They can be deployed in lower management positions or as mentors to junior PMETs.

Many senior PMETs want to continue being gainfully employed as long as their health permits, to provide for themselves and their families, and not be dependent on their children in their golden years.

If the Government and employers recognise and factor in this preference, and take advantage of the large pool of senior PMETs, it will be a win-win situation for all.

Yeow Hwee Ming

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