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