My desk
my very bare desk. I am actualy looking for things to decorate it with. AKA a kobe poster ha.
this is the view from the office (in quarry bay). Note – this is not the view from my cubicle lol.
yah our fridge! gets fliled every day.
Anyways, the point of this blog is to talk about working in HK. As you know, I started work last week. I really like the company, and so far most aspects I enjoy.
Quite a lot of people have asked me what the culture is like in HK, and how different it is in toronto. As such, I will discuss a couple of things that I have noticed so far.
It is more fast paced
HK is a fast paced place (fast transit, fast restaurant deliveries etc) therefore the working culture is the same. However if you have gone through accounting firms or companies similar, I don’t think the transition will be that tough.
It’s still results oriented, as long as you get your work done I think you will be fine.
Longer hours
In general hours in HK is about 830 – 530 or 9 – 6. Of course, there are companies that work longer than this. It also depends on your role.
I tend to think the local companies will be longer as well.
Again though, the transition hasnt’ been too bad for me given I’ve gone through busy seasons before, working through weekends etc.
But for those that are used to 9 – 4 jobs, this may be a little tougher to get used to.
Salary payment
Salary comes end of the month. once. I miss the bi weely payments haha. But it’s not a make or break thing..
People
People I’ve been warned to be careful of people here because they are generally more cunning. I think this is because it’s more aggressive here that people always think they are at the wrong end of the stick.
Fortunately my colleagues have been nice and welcoming. Being in an international company is good as I can see there are hints of western culture mixed with HK. I really like the culture here. I think though in all companies there are politics, and that you always have to be on your toes.
So if you are already used to that then there is not much difference. Overall Overall, I don’t think it’s as bad as a lot of people make it out to be. If you are already used to a fast paced environment in Toronto, then the transition isn’t really that bad. Truthfully, there’s a couple of people that I know that have moved from Canada to HK. And we are not working till we die. We have a life outside of work, and generally do enjoy it here.
it’s really how you make the experience more enjoyable. Anyhow, that’s about it. I am going to india in January! will talk about that later! ciao!
Music
EAT SOME CHOI 