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Moving to a competitive city like Hong Kong can be daunting, especially when looking for your first job. Thomas, a Chief Human Resources Officer who relocated to Hong Kong in 2021, shares his practical, actionable advice to help newcomers find their first opportunity in this fast-paced market.
🔽 Here’s a guide based on his experience and insights for successfully navigating the job search in Hong Kong :
1. Start with Humility: Accept Opportunities even Below Your Skill Level
One of the first things Thomas advises is to leave your ego at the door. “Don’t hesitate to seek opportunities even below your current skill set to have a Hong Kong-based role on your CV,” he says. Getting that first local experience, even if it’s through a short-term contract or a lower-level position, is key to establishing yourself in the market. Employers often prioritize candidates with local experience, so getting your foot in the door is crucial.
Event Expand Your Search to Remote Jobs in Other Asian Countries: If your financial situation allows, Thomas recommends looking at remote opportunities in other Asian countries, such as Vietnam. “While the pay may be lower, it keeps you working and active while you continue to search locally in Hong Kong.” This approach gives you flexibility and helps you maintain professional momentum until you find the right local role.
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2. Leverage Networking and Recruitment Agencies
Building a strong network is critical in Hong Kong, where relationships often play a significant role in hiring. Thomas suggests reaching out to major recruitment and consulting firms, as they frequently need fresh profiles for various industries. In addition, attending networking events organized by business chambers—such as the Canadian, French, Italian, or Spanish chambers of commerce—can connect you with professionals across sectors. “Don’t limit yourself to a single network or industry. The more events you attend, the more people you meet, and the higher your chances of finding a good fit,” Thomas emphasizes.
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3. Use Smart Tools to Stand Out
To stand out in a competitive environment, Thomas suggests several practical steps:
- Prepare your elevator pitch: Have a clear, concise 30-second introduction about who you are and what you’re looking for.
- Always carry business cards: Include a QR code linking to your LinkedIn profile, WhatsApp, and even WeChat. This makes it easier for potential employers or contacts to stay connected.
- Send short LinkedIn messages: Reach out to potential employers or recruiters with short, direct messages stating the role you’re seeking, your current visa status, and your availability. This shows initiative and clarity.
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4. Create Momentum: Be Proactive and Persistent
Securing a job in Hong Kong can take time. Thomas emphasizes the importance of building momentum by continually seeking out and applying for new opportunities. “It’s essential to keep the ball rolling and create your own momentum. Recruitment processes can be long, so always have multiple opportunities in the pipeline” he advises.
Thomas also highlights the power of following up after every interaction. Aim to exchange at least 1 or 2 new contacts after every networking meeting, and don’t rely on others to get back to you—ask for their WhatsApp directly and take control of the follow-up process yourself.
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5. Tailor and Optimize Your CV for Success
To get noticed by recruiters and automated systems, Thomas recommends personalizing your CV for key job application. One trick he shares is to include job-specific keywords in white text on your CV, which are invisible to the reader but detectable by AI screening systems. This technique can increase the chances of your resume being flagged as a good match for the role. Additionally, ensure your CV highlights any local experience or international remote work to show versatility and adaptability.
However, also have a more standardized CV ready to use for jobs that may be somewhat less "ideal." Find a good balance between dedicating time to certain applications while quickly sending your CV to several others without spending too much time. This advice helps avoid falling into the "I only apply when my application is perfect" mindset. Sometimes great opportunities come from postings that don't seem perfect, and in those moments, you're glad you sent your CV.
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6. Stay Positive, Surround Yourself with Support, and Keep Networking
Finally, Thomas insists on the importance of maintaining a positive attitude and surrounding yourself with supportive individuals. "Always keep a smile, even during tough times," he says. Whether it’s family, friends, or fellow expats, having a network of people who can offer encouragement or assistance is crucial to navigating the job search. Persistence and optimism, combined with constant networking, will eventually pay off.
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Key Takeaways:
- Be willing to start small for your first opp’: Take any local opportunity to build a Hong Kong CV.
- Broaden your search: Consider remote work options in other Asian countries.
- Network relentlessly: Use recruitment firms and attend diverse business chamber events.
- Be strategic with your tools: Craft an elevator pitch, use business cards with QR codes, and send concise, targeted LinkedIn messages.
- Stay proactive: Build momentum with multiple opportunities, and always follow up directly with new contacts.
- Optimize your CV: Personalize it for each job and use tricks like hidden keywords to improve your chances.
- Keep your spirits up: Surround yourself with a support network and remain persistent.
Conclusion
Finding your first job in Hong Kong may seem challenging, but by taking a flexible, humble approach and maximizing your networking efforts, you can significantly increase your chances. Follow Thomas’s advice to not only find an initial opportunity but also to lay the groundwork for long-term success in this vibrant and dynamic city.