With the positive economic sentiment in Asia, we expect the demand for frontline candidates to remain strong, as organisations look to build their talent pipeline and gain market share.

Professionals with strong existing client networks, Putonghua-speaking abilities, solid sales track records and sound product development knowledge will be highly sought-after.

We also expect a significant demand for candidates with experience of multinational corporations and large local companies.

As most financial institutions hired quite intensively last year, there is pressure for them to perform this year. They will also be more cost conscious this year.

Hence, while there is a constant demand for experienced frontline professionals, the financial institutions will be more stringent in their selection criteria to ensure that they recruit the right people who can bring in new business and add value.

We will also see more financial organisations promoting their employees and offering internal job opportunities. They will also be actively doing their best to retain staff.

T.Y. Lee, manager for front office division, Robert Walters Hong Kong