More than half of professionals are considering leaving Hong Kong, according to a Robert Walters survey, with a desire for greater job security as the top driver.
More than 50 percent of Hong Kong professionals across various sectors are considering leaving the city, according to a survey by executive search firm Robert Walters. Of those surveyed, 16 percent expressed a desire to move as soon as possible while 37 percent were considering a move in the next three to five years.
Amongst those who plan to work abroad, the 27-42 year old bracket and the 43-58 year old bracket accounted for 51 percent and 38 percent, respectively. Overall, 48 percent had no departure plans.
Moving Plans
96 percent of those considering moving abroad have already taken various steps to prepare, such as seeking a position in a multinational company (60 percent), applying for overseas jobs (40 percent) as well as upscaling, training or studying (31 percent). Others are also looking for internal mobility opportunities (27 percent) or switching careers (27 percent).
«The desire to work overseas and gain international experience is not new, especially among young people, but it's concerning to see such a large percentage of Hong Kong professionals considering leaving the city,» said Robert Walters Hong Kong managing director John Mullally.
Job Security
Of the respondents who are considering working abroad, they chose job security (31 percent) as their first priority, ahead of compensation and benefits (29 percent). Other factors considered include career progression, team culture and internal mobility.
«As employers, we need to ensure that we are doing everything we can to retain our top talent, and this means offering opportunities for growth and development, as well as competitive compensation and benefits packages,» Mullally added.
The survey was based on responses from 107 Hong Kong professionals across various sectors and functions including accounting & finance, engineering & property, financial services, healthcare, human resources, legal & compliance, sales & marketing, supply chain, logistics & procurement and tech & transformation.
