International recruitment specialist Randstad says Hong Kong’s luxury retail sector is recruiting staff from outside of its companies.
It says the retailers are re-examining their business strategies amid falling retail sales coupled with softer economic conditions in China and Hong Kong, reports StaffingIndustry.com.
“After a challenging year, many luxury brands are diversifying their hiring criteria to candidates who can offer fresh eyes and strategic thinking to shift their business direction,” says Randstad associate director for luxury, retail and consumer goods Paul Shelton.
“In particular, candidates with a background in FMCG fit this bill. These candidates bring with them a tactical and process-driven way of thinking, which retail businesses need to cope with the Hong Kong slowdown.”
Candidates with customer relationship management experience are also in high demand.
“In luxury retail, it’s imperative that employees are well-equipped with both the ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ skills required to look after their customers’ needs. Experience in monitoring customer trends, analysing data, and using data to drive marketing strategies will continue to be among the most sought-after skills in the sector,” says Shelton.
Candidates with eCommerce skills will also be in high demand as companies ramp up their efforts to move on line.
“The eCommerce scene in Hong Kong lags behind countries like the US, but we expect employers will begin to hunt for local candidates as the sector matures here.”
Shelton says the salary outlook for luxury retailer employees will probably remain stagnant despite the high demand.
“Employers should look at a range of methods, including flexible work hours, training and development opportunities, and non-monetary incentives to maintain employee motivation.”