Dilemma: a China Bank or a Global Bank?
Q: Hi Helpline, I am working as a marketing manager in the card marketing division of a local bank in Hong Kong. In the meantime, I have two job opportunities in hand: the first one is to work for a China bank in Shanghai, in which I will be in charge of the card marketing department for the bank; the second one is to work for a global bank here in Hong Kong, but remaining with the same title and a similar package. The fact that my husband is going to relocate to Shanghai within the next two years becomes a key factor for my consideration. Do you think I should gain some experience in a global bank before looking for a China bank two years later? Or do you think I should grasp the chance of working in Shanghai before it is too late to get on "the last train" for the China market? Would you give me your professional advice so that I could make a more thorough consideration?
Thanks in advance.
A: Gemma Sze, senior consultant, MRI WorldWide, answered: "As your husband is still working in Hong Kong now, more essentially, I think you should focus on your career development instead. First of all, you should ask yourself the following questions in comparison to your existing position at your existing organisation.
The core value of an organisation is important for your development.
Apart from profit making, what else does this organisation contribute to society? The people within the management team ought to believe in investing in people and have vision. Even though you are offered the same title and same remuneration package, we believe that the responsibility and the exposure of a global bank will be very different from a local bank. This is because "title" is not that important for a future employer considering your application, they are only interested in your responsibilities and accomplishments within an organisation. Current employers are more interested in understanding your capability of overcoming obstacles and dealing with problems. Finally, if you accept this offer, what will you gain? If not, what will you lose?
It seems that you put your husband as your first priority. However, if you are concerned about your career, you ought to ask yourself: Am I genuinely ready to relocate to Shanghai? Despite the market in Shanghai booming and everyone desperately chasing after the last train, in reality, most Hong Kong Chinese ought to equip themselves with sufficient market insights and intercultural skills, as well as people management skills. What you have learnt in Hong Kong card marketing may not be suitable for the Shanghai market. Besides, card marketing in China is at an infant stage. Please prepare at least 70% of your time for education with the people as well as the market. The opportunity to relocate to Shanghai will give you on-the-ground market insight as well as the local mentalities, but it will cost you relocation as well as a separation from your family for at least two years. However intercultural skills and people management skills, which take us at least three to six months to adapt to this marketplace, are critical and essential. Cheers and good luck!
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