HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – September 29, 2023 – A recent survey conducted by Robert Walters Hong Kong, the global specialist professional recruitment consultancy, revealed that more than half of professionals in Hong Kong are considering or considering leaving the city . Of those surveyed, 15.6% expressed a desire to move as quickly as possible, while 36.7% planned to move within the next 3 to 5 years.
Among those considering working abroad, 51% are between 27 and 42 years old (Millennials) and 38% are between 43 and 58 years old (Generation X).
John Mullally, Managing Director of Robert Walters Hong Kong, comments: “The desire to work abroad and gain international experience is not new, particularly among young people, but it is worrying to see such a high percentage of Hong Kong professionals considering leaving the city.
“As employers, we need to ensure we are doing everything we can to retain our best talent, and that means providing opportunities for growth and development, as well as competitive compensation and benefits. ”
Professionals seeking opportunities in multinationals
According to the survey, 96% of professionals considering moving abroad have already implemented tactics to prepare for working abroad. The most popular tactic among these professionals was to seek a position with a multinational company, with 60% of respondents opting for this option.
On the other hand, 40% of respondents who are considering leaving the city are already applying for a job abroad. 31% had started their project by improving their skills, training or studying. Others are looking for internal mobility opportunities (27%) and a career change (27%).
» added John. “On the positive side, it is impressive to see the desire of professionals to gain international exposure in today’s globalized and competitive world. This can help them develop a broader vision, stronger determination and a richer network, which are valuable assets for any business. ”
Retaining talent in times of economic uncertainty
Interestingly, when asked what they valued most about their career, 31% of respondents considering working abroad chose job security over pay and benefits ( 29%) as the first priority. In addition to job security and compensation and benefits, professionals are most concerned about career development, team culture and then internal mobility, which are essential to their personal and professional growth.
It is important for employers to understand the expectations of their employees in order to retain their best talent, especially during times of economic uncertainty. “Moving abroad is not an easy decision. If what professionals want is to gain international experience to grow in their career or broaden their mind, there are employers who can facilitate this,” said John.
The survey was conducted among 107 Hong Kong professionals in various specializations: accounting and finance, engineering and real estate, financial services, healthcare, human resources, law and compliance, sales and marketing, supply chain, logistics and purchasing , and technology and transformation.
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