Periscope
Fight for talent
"The choice is made by two parties. Not only that we are choosing the applicants, they are also selecting the suitable company for themselves," she said.
In its graduate trainee programme newly launched this year, the subway operator is looking for candidates who demonstrate strong potential to be future leaders of the company. "In 10 to 15 years, we wish they can reach the positions close to the senior management level, like department head and executive manager," Ms Cheng said.
Yet, employers also face fierce competition in getting the talents. "We are competing with other organisations for the top candidates," Ms Cheng said, adding there were many alternatives for the best candidates to choose from.
Janice Li Ngor-kwan, head of the staff training and development at Hang Seng Bank, said the bank found it difficult to hire about 10 people for its management programme although it received more than 2,000 applications every year. The bank will not take any unsuitable candidates because it invests heavily in the trainee progamme, she said.
"We are looking for someone who is self-driven, tough, adaptive and independent," Ms Li said, adding that the candidate should also have general commercial sense, interpersonal skills and leadership skills.
Yet, the bank has rejected some talented candidates because they are more interested in working at an investment bank rather than a commercial bank.
"We would not hire them because it might be a waste of time for both parties if the candidates did quit the programme at last. So, we emphasise on mutual understanding between our bank and the candidates," she said.
Samuel Li Chung-kwong
says a right match
is needed for job hunt.