As mentioned in our 2017 Asia Salary Snapshot, temporary and contract recruitment in Asia is no longer solely reserved for supporting or administration roles. Banks in Hong Kong and Singapore are increasingly appointing contract roles, mainly as a way to reduce permanent headcount.There are, however, a number of things to consider when looking into taking a contract role at a bank in Asia.
We were recently asked to comment on an article about contract staffing tips and trends on eFinancial Careers. You can read the full article below:
Contract jobs in Singapore and Hong Kong are booming as global banks in the cities keep a tight rein on headcount costs. But the contracting market in Asia is still less mature than in Western financial centres. Before you accept a contract, it pays to know what’s in store.
Don’t drop out
The Asian contract market is in its infancy, and too many candidates are accepting contracts while still waiting on permanent job offers, says Aily Foo, manager of temporary and contract recruitment at Links International in Hong Kong. And if perm offers come in, they’re quitting their contract assignments “after only a few days”, she adds. “It’s highly likely that these candidates will then be blacklisted by the bank for any future roles.”
Push for more pay
“Banks in Asia are now constantly under pressure to reduce permanent headcount, but work still needs doing, so the solution is to hire more contractors,” says Elliot Jackson, manager for contracting recruitment at Morgan McKinley in Singapore. “With this in mind, it’s now slowly becoming a market where candidates can request a slight increase in pay, because so many banks are competing for talent within a short timeframe.”
Assess the skills
You should ideally be looking to take on contracts that give you new skills. “Before accepting a temporary position, consider if the role itself will benefit your longer-term career path,” says Foo. “Look at whether you could develop a new skill set, which could be a stepping stone for your career.”
Get your references ready
“Banks in Asia have been tightening their on-boarding and reference checks for contractors over the past year, so you should be prepared to provide all necessary documents and fill out disclosure forms,” says Lim Chaileng, director of banking, finance and accounting at recruiters Randstad in Singapore.
Mind your hours
“Be careful to watch out for having to work overtime and during local public holidays, especially if you support regional Asian markets, which may not have the same holiday calendars,” says Lim.
Pick a bank with the best benefits
“Historically, contractors in Singapore have had limited social benefits,” says Kate Silaeva, manager of banking and financial services at recruiters Hudson in Singapore. “But now some of the international banks provide contractors with a completion or conversion bonus, as well as benefits like a wider medical insurance package.”
Don’t expect an extension
“We’re seeing more and more roles being offshored to cost effective locations such as India and the Philippines, especially in finance and operations,” says Jackson from Morgan McKinley. “So there’s a risk that contracts won’t be extended beyond the agreed tenure. That said, for strong performers, banks will still try to accommodate an internal move.”
Links was voted Best Contract Staffing Solutions Agency at the HR Vendors of the Year Awards 2016. If you’re looking for a contract role in Hong Kong or Singapore, whether it be because you’re looking to develop a new skill set, or because you’re waiting for a permanent role, we can help! Please get in touch and we can help you develop your career.