Pack Your Bags for the Right Opportunity

Advancing your career can be realized in your present company, or by changing jobs. More and more skilled professionals may even choose to relocate to other countries or regions if local opportunities are not available.

More Choices Outside
Emma Charnock, Regional Director of Hays Hong Kong and China, commented, “During the economic downturn more people than ever were flexible in the locations where they would consider working. But even though the global financial crisis is behind us, people are still willing to relocate in order to revitalise and advance their career in opportunities that simply aren’t available to them in their present location.”

Charnock pointed out that relocation also benefits employers who will be in the war for talent as more jobs are going to be available in the career market in Hong Kong. “We can see high demand for professionals within accountancy and finance, and employers are looking to attract candidates from overseas. Strong prospects are also available within construction, engineering and property.”

Chances in Mainland
In fact, more and more job seekers in Hong Kong are willing to relocate to work in mainland China. Charnock said that since the economy in the mainland is still in a growth phase, working in China offers faster career advancement to job seekers in Hong Kong. She added that there is abundance of job opportunities in major cities such as Beijing and Shanghai. “Most China employers welcome Hong Kong professionals, and the demand is high in IT, construction, property and banking.”

Be Aware of Differences
To relocate to work in the mainland, job seekers have to be aware of the differences in recruitment markets and work cultures between Hong Kong and China. Charnock pointed out that in terms of pay, the average salary in the mainland is still relatively lower than in Hong Kong, but the annual salary growth is faster. “In recent years, higher level executives are enjoying similar benefits and compensation to their peers in Hong Kong.” She also mentioned that most people working in state-owned enterprises are usually more laid-back whereas privately-owned enterprises are more aggressive.

Research & Prepare
Charnock advised job seekers to have good preparation before deciding to relocate to any places. “Research into the lifestyle, climate, accommodation and recreational activities is just as important as researching the employment market,” she said. “For example, if you want to move from a regional centre to a large city, it is likely you will spend a considerable amount of time commuting to and from work. How will this impact you? What is the public transport like? Have you considered parking costs?” She reminded job seekers to be aware of typical market rates since salaries differ by location. “Cost of living also varies and needs to be taken into consideration.” She suggested that job seekers may take a one to two-week trip to the intended destination to get to know the place before committing to relocate there.

Photo source: Hays