What brings you here today?

Every career journey has its moments. We support PMEs in navigating at least 6 different situations, and we can help you too.

You're joining a community

They’re real people who’ve faced what you’re facing — and come out stronger.

MICHAEL*, 40s Michael

My supervisor made me practise smiling for 30 minutes in front of her.

Apparently she thought I had a "very condescending smile". I felt helpless and alone. NTUC's career coach didn't just validate my experience—they equipped me with knowledge, built my confidence, and helped me land a better role with 25% more pay. I didn't have to suffer in silence.

OUTCOME
25% pay increment
Career-aligned new role secured
SANDRA TEO, 39 Sandra Teo

I was terminated without proper notice and denied my leave encashment.

The company claimed they'd 'overpaid' me. NTUC PME consultant didn't just believe me—she did the math, drafted a formal letter and got me my $1,500 back. I want more professionals to know: you don't have to accept unfair treatment.

OUTCOME
$1,500 salary balance recovered
Fairer settlement achieved
ARULNATHAN JOHN, 58 Arulnathan John

After nearly 20 years in journalism, I was retrenched at 58 during the pandemic.

I felt lost. NTUC's career coach Herjeet didn't just help tailor my resume—he stayed through rejections and uncertainty. He taught me new media skills, kept me motivated, and helped me see my experience as strength. Today, I'm working as a corporate communications professional.

OUTCOME
Career pivot to education sector
Union ensured fair retrenchment package

Find what you are looking for

Here are the most common questions PMEs ask us. Whatever you’re facing, you’re not alone.

We understand the anxieties surrounding retrenchment exercises. Here’s what you need to know:


  1. Check in with your employer/HR Check if retrenchment is the last resort, and you can request not to sign the retrenchment letter immediately if you deem the terms unfair.
  2. Understand Your Rights Clarify all entitlements and benefits stated in the letter. Do not sign any document stating that the payment is a full and final settlement if you deem it questionable.
  3. Document Everything Keep all emails, letters, and records of what your employer told you. Contact NTUC PME pme@ntuc.org.sg if further assistance is required.
  4. Download Our Guide Our Retrenchment Guide here covers everything from retrenchment benefit to bouncing back from a retrenchment.

You deserve to be paid for your work. Here’s the process to claim what’s rightfully yours:


  1. Under Employment Act: Your employer must pay your salary within 7 days after the end of the salary period. Delays beyond this violate the law.
  2. Document Everything: Keep records of your employment contract, work performed, communication about payment.
  3. Talk to Your Employer First: Send a formal email requesting payment with a deadline. Keep it professional.
  4. Get NTUC Support: We’ll help you understand your rights, and if needed, represent you in your salary disputes.

This happens more often than you think. Know your rights:

No, they cannot force you to resign. If the company is downsizing and your position is redundant, it should be a retrenchment—not resignation.

Why This Matters:

  • Retrenchment: You get retrenchment benefits, notice pay, compensation.
  • Resignation: You get nothing. You're leaving "voluntarily".

If your employer is pressuring you to resign:

  1. Don't sign anything immediately – Take time to review.
  2. Document all conversations – Emails, meetings, verbal discussions.

Contact TADM or NTUC (for NTUC members) immediately – We'll advise on your next steps.


Have more questions?

We’ve got answers to questions ranging from unfair dismissals to retrenchments.
Learn more >

We're here to help you

I've been retrenched

"I've been retrenched"

You're not alone in this

Immediate support

Talk to career coaches who've walked this path with hundreds of PMEs.

Retrenchment guide

Step-by-step guide on your benefits, rights, and what to do.

Job matching with NTUC's e2i

17,000 PMEs placed in 2024. Direct connections to employers who value experience.

I'm worried about AI

"I'm worried about AI"

Stay ahead, not behind

AI Career Coach

A simple, smart, and secure platform, designed to support your career success.

AI for non-tech professionals

Visit NTUC LearningHub for AI courses. No tech background needed—start where you are.

Union Training Assistance Programme

UTAP grants up to $500/year. Learning doesn't have to break your budget.

I feel too old to be relevant

"I feel less relevant as I get older"

Experience is your strength

NTUC LearningHub Career Mentorship Programme

Match with experienced industry professionals at the top of their game. Gain meaningful advice and resources to make strategic decisions to propel your career forward.

Mid-Career Pathways Programme

Earn while you train (up to $3,800/month allowance). Upon completion of programme, host company must hire you if performance is deemed satisfactory.

My career feels stagnant

"My career feels stagnant"

Let's get you moving again

1-on-1 mentorship matching

Connect with industry professionals and experts who've been where you are with our NTUC LearningHub Career Mentorship Programme.

Networking opportunities

Join us for dedicated events for PMEs. Sometimes who you know opens doors.
Follow NTUC PME LinkedIn to stay updated on upcoming sessions.

I'm facing workplace issues

"I’m being treated unfairly at work"

You're not powerless

TADM@NTUC

A safe space to ask for advice and guidance on disputes, discrimination and contracts.

Legal guidance

NTUC union members facing legal issues on employment may obtain assistance through Legal Assistance Panel (LAP).

I'm starting my career

"I'm starting my career"

Everyone starts somewhere

NTUC AI Career Coach

AI-powered job matches, guided resume writing, and a safe space to practice interviews.

Youth Career Mentorship

Meet career mentors across 23 industries and get your burning questions answered.

NTUC Youth Excel

2-day workshop to support your job search while nurturing leadership skills.

Sometimes you just need someone to talk to

Feel free to reach out to us if you’ve any questions.

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