LOOKING FOR WORK

Moving to Hong Kong opens so many professional opportunities – it could be a great time to advance your career or even start a new one! Here are a few things to know about the job hunt.

The first thing to check is that you have permission to work. Fortunately, if you’re on a dependant visa, you’re automatically allowed to apply for work, with no extra visa required. If you’re not on a dependant visa, you’ll need to find an employer to sponsor you to work here legally. This can be challenging, but it’s not impossible.

You might decide to further your present career or perhaps to explore something new. English teachers, for example, are in perennial demand, and a short course in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) can start you on that path. Depending on the industry you work in, you may have trouble having your qualifications recognised, so it’s worth doing some research before you start applying

Recruitment agencies, online sources such as LinkedIn and expat associations can all be helpful when it comes to finding work, although many jobs are found through networking – even Facebook groups can be very useful for this!

5 HK websites for the work search

fleximums.com indeed.hk monster.com.hk jobsdb.com.hk hongkong.recruit.net

STARTING YOU OWN BUSINESS

Many expats come to Hong Kong with a host of fresh business ideas; others discover an entrepreneurial streak once they’ve settled in. If you do have a great business idea, how do you turn it into a real-life proposition?

# STEP 1

Depending on the nature of your business, you will need to establish whether or not you require special licences or permits to conduct your business. The Department of Trade and Industry can help with this through their Business Licence Information Service.

# STEP 2

Next, decide whether you want to be a sole-proprietor, a partnership or a limited company. To register as a sole proprietor is surprisingly easy: visit the Business Registration office at the Inland Revenue Department building, fill in the forms and pay the fee. You will receive a business registration certificate, which needs to be displayed in your place of business. Business registration costs HK$2,250 a year, and you need to renew it annually.

# STEP 3

It’s also a good idea to hire an accountant who understands small businesses and tax, and ensure you notify the IRD of any changes to your contact details.

You’re now ready to succeed!

Useful websites

ird.gov.hk startitup.hk investhk.gov.hk

THE ABC OF A GREAT CV

Five pointers for ensuring you look like the best candidate for the job.

1

Make sure your LinkedIn and résumé is up-to-date, and tailor your references to suit the job you’re going for. These should reassure the hiring manager that you truly have the right skills for the role. It’s common to be asked to submit a photograph with your résumé.

2

Get out and start networking. Many expats find jobs through their networks rather than applying for jobs blindly.

3

Be realistic about your salary. Remember that Hong Kong’s low tax rate will often offset a lower base salary. And be prepared to suggest a figure at the interview!

4

Don’t be surprised if you’re asked personal questions, including your religion and whether you have children, at interviews.

5

Don’t be put off by jobs that require the ability to speak Cantonese. Many companies are flexible on this.