Michael Page discounts US impact on HK job market

<p>HONG KONG: Despite a slowing US economy and the technology gloom, </p><p>recruitment and salaries of sales and marketing professionals in Hong </p><p>Kong are tipped to rise, according to a new survey. </p><p><BR><BR> </p><p>The 2001 Sales and Marketing Salary Survey by recruitment consultancy </p><p>Michael Page International found sales and marketing professionals are </p><p>still attracted by the beleaguered technology sector, but candidates are </p><p>now demanding higher basic salaries instead of stock options. </p><p><BR><BR> </p><p>The consultancy warned that strong demand will push salaries </p><p>upwards. </p><p><BR><BR> </p><p>Dan Chavasse, director of Michael Page International, said: "This could </p><p>have an impact on Hong Kong's regional competitiveness, so companies </p><p>should see this trend as an early warning sign and plan </p><p>accordingly." </p><p><BR><BR> </p><p>The survey found a greater focus on e-strategy and interactive marketing </p><p>are driving demand for both internet and traditional marketing skills </p><p>across all sectors. </p><p><BR><BR> </p><p>"Traditional brick and mortar companies to rushing to internet-enable </p><p>their businesses. Consequently, talented sales and marketing </p><p>professionals with a broad range of skills and tangible achievements are </p><p>in demand. </p><p><BR><BR> </p><p>While the traditional marketer and the e-marketer are perceived as poles </p><p>apart, the overlapping of skills and knowledge can be a huge value-add </p><p>for a business," said Chavasse. </p><p><BR><BR> </p><p>Not surprisingly, with the dotcom gloom persisting, higher base salaries </p><p>have taken precedence over stocks. </p><p><BR><BR> </p><p>In other findings, the FMCG sector is "still viewed as the best training </p><p>ground for the aspiring marketer". </p><p><BR><BR> </p><p>However, a shortage of skilled professionals continue to dog the sector, </p><p>with the recruitment of key account and brand management positions on </p><p>the rise, said Chavasse. </p><p><BR><BR> </p><p>"Despite some fears of a knock-on effect from a slowing of the US </p><p>economy, the outlook for the Hong Kong market is optimistic, with </p><p>overall recruitment in the sales and marketing industry set to grow," he </p><p>commented. </p><p><BR><BR> </p>