Despite a rather slow start to 2010, the hiring strategies of many of our clients appear to be in full-swing; probably due to the fact that for many of us, we are also nearing the end of the financial year.

The budgets set in the darkness of 2009 have certainly been reviewed and revamped several times, leaving many of our clients eagerly looking for new staff. As we all know, the working populous of Hong Kong tends to await their end of year bonuses before thinking of looking for a new opportunity.

It is no surprise that for many firms the bonus period tends to be joyous in that we receive a reward for the last years loyalty, yet for human resources it can lead to a new year full of hiring headaches as staff who have waited months to get to this point, turn around and say thanks for the money, here is my resignation letter!
 
There is very little we can do to stop staff from seeing the bonus time as a suitable juncture to review their career aspirations, although perhaps getting closer to our colleagues and understanding what motivates them may be one avenue that shows the company cares and not purely on a carrot and stick level of remuneration equals loyalty. I have added an article on that very issue below. The 'warm and fuzzy' aspect of reaching out may not appeal to all, but certainly making a point of talking to your staff at other times of the year and not just during appraisal may curtail the sudden rush to the door when the bonus cheque is paid!

It only leaves me to wish you a very Happy New Year of the Tiger. Kung Hei Fat Choi!

Callan Anderson
Group General Manager
callan@gemini.com.hk