Andrew Blake
Manager - Commerce Finance Division, Robert Walters Hong Kong

"We have seen an increasing focus on career progression as a motivator for a career move. However, salary remains a fundamental concern for all jobseekers in the current economy. While we have not seen widespread cutbacks in organisational headcount, recruitment activity is principally centred on replacing departing talent as opposed to achieving net growth in staffing levels via the creation of new positions.

"Cost control is of paramount importance to most international companies, and this is manifesting itself in offers being made at below market level. While there may be perceivable immediate benefits, there is an opportunity cost of missing out on the ideal talent, as competitors make more realistic offers or, alternatively, the candidate is hired yet feels undervalued and demotivated."