If you’re an office worker, you might spend most of your day glued to a chair, typing away at your desk. Sound familiar? While sitting seems harmless, long-term sitting can sneakily affect your body in negative ways. In this short article, Cryo's in-house physiotherapist - Wesley Ma, breaks down what happens when we sit for too long, and share's some practical tips to keep you feeling great and performing at your best. What’s the Deal with Sitting All Day? Picture this: your body is like a well-oiled machine, designed to move. When you sit for a while, it might take some time to warm up the cogs to function well again. This is what happens to your body when you stay in one position for too long. Tight Muscles: Your body adapts quickly without stimulus. If you stay in the same position, your muscles will tighten up to that length because it thinks it doesn't need to be any longer. Muscle Fatigue : Sitting in a certain posture for long periods of time requires your muscles to maintain contraction for however long you're sitting. This strain on the muscles can build up and cause pain or headaches. Reduced Circulation : Less movement means sluggish blood flow, which can contribute to fatigue and reduced productivity. For those juggling meetings, big projects, and deadlines, these effects can make those long workdays feel even longer. How Can You Fight Back? Good news: you don’t need a dramatic lifestyle change to counteract sitting’s effects. Here are three tips. #1. Move Regularly : This is key. It doesn't actually matter how straight or "perfect" you sit. Change positions as often as you can, shuffle around in your chair or lean from one side to the other. Keep moving! #2. Optimise Your Workstation : Sometimes you really don't have a choice, especially when you're focused. If that's the case, the next best thing you can do is to make sure your setup is right. Laptop Users: Try to at least use an external mouse and keyboard. Prop up your laptop and use it as a monitor. Desk Setup Tips: The 90 degree rule is pretty safe to follow, where your shoulders should be relaxed and your elbows resting at 90 degrees. Both your hips, knees and ankles should all rest at right angles too, so adjust your seat accordingly. #3. Exercise : Going to the gym is great, but what if you don't have the time or energy? Try to go for a 15-20 minute (minimum) walk after work without looking at your phone. Just you walking and reflecting on your day. It doesn't count if you're walking to the train station or to your next meeting. Take some time just for yourself and exercise with purpose!

Mid-2025 finds Hong Kong's financial and professional services sector in a challenging, yet evolving, phase. For job seekers, particularly in the critical areas of Accounting, Audit, Risk, and Compliance, understanding this dynamic landscape is essential. The market is constantly evolving, influenced by various global and local factors, and success hinges on informed strategies and adaptability. This article offers insights into Hong Kong's financial and professional services market shifts, aiming to help you understand and capitalise on them. Why Companies in Are Being Cautious. While Hong Kong remains a global financial hub, businesses are operating with a heightened sense of caution. This is often influenced by broader global economic shifts and geopolitical landscapes, which can lead to more conservative hiring strategies. Key reasons for this cautious approach include: Cost Optimisation & Tight Budgets: Current global economic uncertainties and local market conditions are leading firms to carefully examine expenditures. This results in more deliberate, often leaner, hiring decisions, with a preference for replacement roles rather than significant new headcount expansion. Companies are prioritising cost control and operational efficiency. Talent Shortages (for Specialised Skills): Despite a competitive market with many job seekers, companies are facing a challenge : a persistent difficulty in finding candidates with very specific, niche skill sets required for rapidly evolving roles. This isn't a general scarcity of professionals, but rather a gap between existing talent capabilities and the advanced, integrated skills (e.g., in digital finance, ESG reporting, advanced analytics) that businesses increasingly need. Furthermore, some highly experienced candidates are prioritising job security, making them less inclined to switch roles, which exacerbates the challenge of finding top talent. Rapid Technological Advancements: The accelerated integration of technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), automation, and data analytics means companies are actively seeking professionals who can not only adapt to these new tools but also leverage them to drive efficiency and innovation. This shift can slow down general hiring as organisations re-evaluate job functions and prioritise candidates who can contribute to digital transformation. Intensified Regulatory Scrutiny: Hong Kong's position as a robust financial center means a continuous stream of new and evolving regulatory demands, particularly in areas like digital assets, anti-money laundering (AML), and ESG reporting. This drives a foundational need for effective Risk and Compliance functions, but also requires highly specific expertise, leading to careful and targeted hiring to ensure full adherence and avoid penalties. Focus on Value & Efficiency: In the current economic climate, every new hire is expected to demonstrate clear, immediate value and contribute directly to the company's bottom line, whether through cost savings, risk mitigation, or revenue generation. Hiring decisions are heavily weighted towards roles that can directly enhance operational efficiency or support strategic growth objectives with a demonstrable return on investment. Hiring Trends in HK Financial & Professional Services. Despite the cautious sentiment and the overall slower hiring pace, certain areas within Accounting, Audit, Risk, and Compliance continue to be important focuses for hiring. Understanding these critical areas is crucial for positioning yourself effectively: Areas of Ongoing Importance for Specialised Skills: Risk & Compliance: This sector remains a fundamental part of financial operations due to ongoing regulatory demands. We're observing an ongoing requirement for skilled professionals in areas like Credit Risk, Enterprise Risk Management, Anti-Money Laundering (AML), Fraud, Sanctions, and Know-Your-Customer (KYC). With the growing digital asset landscape, professionals skilled in digital assets compliance and ESG risk management are also receiving focused attention. Internal Audit: There is a continued operational need for professionals who can conduct thorough internal audits, especially those with an understanding of technology and data analytics in audit processes, as firms seek to ensure oversight and control. Financial Crime & Regulatory Compliance: These areas remain a priority due to heightened regulatory scrutiny and the necessity to mitigate financial crime risks. Data & Analytics Integration: Proficiency in data visualisation tools like Power BI and Tableau, coupled with strong analytical thinking, is becoming increasingly important. These skills are critical for professionals in Accounting, Audit, Risk, and Compliance to drive insights and enhance efficiency within their functions, making them valuable even in a tighter market. Rise of Contract & Project-Based Roles: A notable trend in 2025 is the increasing adoption of contract and project-based positions. Research indicates that in 2025, 18% of Hong Kong employers are focusing on expanding their contract workforce. This trend is particularly evident in Accounting & Finance , offering valuable opportunities to gain experience and expand your network without immediate long-term headcount commitments from employers. Emphasis on Cross-Functional & Hybrid Skills: The market increasingly values professionals who can bridge technical knowledge with technological implementation, such as automating accounting processes or using data for risk assessment. These integrated skill sets allow companies to achieve more with existing resources. Frustrations: The Reality of the Job Search. We understand that the current job market can be incredibly frustrating for candidates. Here are some common pain points we hear: Intense Competition: With a significant number of professionals actively seeking new roles, the volume of applications for each advertised position remains high. A recent report notes a 122% surge in the number of job applications received in 2024 , indicating a sustained, high level of job-seeking activity that carries into 2025. Unrealistic Salary Expectations vs. Market Reality: While candidates often hope for substantial increments when changing roles, the current market reality for many positions in Accounting, Audit, Risk, and Compliance typically sees salary adjustments for new hires in the range of 4-6% on average . This disconnect can be a major source of disappointment. Lack of Feedback & "Ghosting": A pervasive frustration is the silence after submitting applications or even attending interviews. Companies are taking longer to make hiring decisions, leading to prolonged waiting times and a lack of communication that leaves candidates in the dark. Job Security Concerns: Many professionals are prioritising stability, making the decision to change jobs a higher-stakes consideration. Navigating AI's Impact on Roles & Skills: While not necessarily "anxiety" about job loss, people feel pressure to understand how AI and automation will reshape their roles and what new skills are required. They may lack clear pathways or opportunities to acquire this up-skilling. Solutions for J ob Seekers : Your Strategic Playbook for 2025 . To stand out and secure your desired role in Hong Kong's Financial and Professional Services sector, a strategic and proactive approach is essential: Up-skill & Re-skill Strategically in Your Core Areas: Accounting: Deepen your knowledge of advanced financial reporting standards (IFRS/HKFRS), gain exposure to ESG reporting frameworks, and build skills in using data analytics tools for financial insights. Audit: Focus on data analytics for audit, forensic accounting principles, and understanding the role of AI in audit automation and risk assessment. Risk: Enhance your expertise in specific risk types (credit, operational, market), stay updated on regulatory compliance (e.g., HKMA, SFC circulars), and explore emerging risks like cyber security or digital assets. Compliance: Specialise in niche areas such as Anti-Money Laundering (AML), Know-Your-Customer (KYC), sanctions compliance, data privacy regulations, and the evolving regulatory landscape for digital assets. Embrace AI as an Enabler: Instead of fearing AI, learn how it can enhance your daily tasks. Explore online courses or self-study on how AI tools can improve efficiency in data analysis for audit, automate compliance checks, or streamline financial reporting. Network Effectively & Strategically: Connect with professionals in your field through LinkedIn, attend industry webinars or conferences (even virtual ones), and engage with professional associations like the HKICPA or relevant compliance bodies. Focus on building genuine relationships. Tailor Your CV for Impact (Leveraging AI Smartly): A generic CV won't suffice. Customise your CV for every single application, highlighting keywords from the job description and explicitly demonstrating how your experience aligns with their specific needs. Tip: You can use AI tools like ChatGPT as a starting point to brainstorm relevant keywords or rephrase bullet points to be more impactful, but always human-review and refine the content to ensure accuracy, relevance, and a personal touch. Master the Interview: Prepare thoroughly by researching the company and the role. Practice articulating your value proposition, demonstrating your problem-solving skills with concrete examples, and showcasing your adaptability and eagerness for continuous learning. Be Realistic on Compensation & Consider the Total Package: Understand current market benchmarks for your experience level and specialisation. While a significant jump might be challenging, focus on total compensation, including bonuses, benefits, growth opportunities, and long-term career progression, rather than solely focusing on the initial base salary. Explore Contract & Project-Based Opportunities: Given the rise in contract hiring, consider these roles as excellent pathways to gain new experience, diversify your skill set, expand your professional network, and potentially secure a permanent position later. Navigating Hong Kong's financial and professional services job market in 2025 requires more than just a strong resume; it demands a strategic, informed, and proactive approach. By continuously upskilling in important areas, networking effectively, tailoring your applications, and understanding the market's nuances, you can significantly enhance your job search. 

Navigating lunch in Central can often lead to a delicious but heavy meal. If you're looking for lighter, more nutritious options that don't compromise on flavour or convenience, Hong Kong's bustling financial district has you covered. Here are seven great spots for a 'healthier' bite, perfect for a busy workday.

Applying for jobs in Hong Kong's competitive Financial Services world can feel like a constant puzzle. You perfect your CV, highlight your degrees and past roles, and hope it's enough. But have you noticed some companies starting to look for something a little different? Perhaps you've heard the term "skill-based hiring" floating around, or maybe it's completely new to you. It's an approach some forward-thinking firms are starting to explore when looking for talent – focusing less on traditional boxes and more on what you can actually do. For you, as a job seeker, understanding this trend could transform your job search, potentially opening doors you never thought possible , especially if you're looking to change careers or bring unique expertise from diverse backgrounds into areas like Accounting, Audit, Risk, Compliance, or Actuarial. So, what exactly is skill-based hiring, how can you spot if a company is using it, and most importantly, how can you make sure your unique abilities shine through in this evolving landscape? Let's dive into an honest look at this approach and how you can prepare, with practical tips and AI tools. What Exactly is Skill-Based Hiring (for You)? At its heart, skill-based hiring is when companies focus mostly on what you can actually do, your core abilities, and your potential to learn and grow. They pay less attention to just your university name or how many years you've spent in a very specific role. Think of it this way: companies are becoming more interested in how you apply your knowledge and experience to solve problems, rather than just seeing a list of qualifications. It’s about understanding if you can effectively: For Audit/Risk: identify complex fraud patterns or analyse financial risks within a portfolio. For Compliance: interpret new regulatory guidelines and design practical implementation frameworks. For Accounting/Actuarial: build robust financial models, interpret new IFRS standards, or perform complex actuarial valuations. Across all FS: communicate complex information clearly, lead a project, or solve a tricky problem under pressure. This approach often means: Understanding the Job by Skills: Companies break down a job into the specific skills (like critical analysis, data interpretation, stakeholder communication) needed for success. Testing What You Can Do: Interviews might include practical exercises or challenges to see your skills in action. Looking for Potential: They value your ability to learn quickly and adapt, even if your past experience isn't an exact match. The Opportunity & The Reality. Skill-based hiring offers exciting possibilities for job seekers, but it's also important to understand the full picture. The Potential opportunity for You : Wider Access to Roles: This is the big one. You might be considered for roles where your degree or specific previous job title wasn't an exact match, but your skills are highly relevant. This is a game-changer for career changers, professionals from different industries (e.g., data scientists from tech moving to Financial Risk), or those looking to pivot within FS (e.g., from Operations to Compliance). Fairer Evaluation: Your genuine abilities and potential can be seen more clearly, which can help reduce biases based on your background. Your demonstrable skills become your strongest advocate. Focus on Growth & Adaptability: Companies are keen to see if you can learn and adapt. This means your willingness to grow is a valuable skill in itself, crucial in a constantly evolving sector like FS. The Reality (What You Need to Know): It's Not Everywhere, yet: This approach is an emerging trend , but it's not the main way most companies in Hong Kong are hiring , especially for every role in Financial Services. Many still rely heavily on traditional methods. Key Rules Still Apply: For many FS jobs (e.g., licensed traders, qualified actuaries, senior compliance officers, audit partners), specific certifications, legal qualifications, or deep regulatory experience are must-haves . Skill-based hiring doesn't usually change these basic requirements. You Still Need to Stand Out: Even with a focus on skills, competition is high. You need to clearly show how your skills connect to the job and why they make you the right fit. Less Traditional Might Mean More Support Needed: If you get a job with a less traditional background, you might need more support or training at the start. It's good to think about if the company is ready to offer that. Is a Company Exploring Skill-Based Hiring? Clues to Look For. How can you tell if a company might be using a skill-based approach? Here are some simple clues: Job Descriptions (JDs): Look for words that focus on what you'll achieve, your abilities, problem-solving, learning quickly, or potential to grow , rather than just long lists of "years of experience" or very specific degrees (unless they are regulatory requirements). They might use phrases like "ability to..." or "proven experience in..." Specific to FS: A JD for an Audit role might emphasise "data analytics skills for identifying anomalies" rather than just "audited X number of clients." For Compliance, it could be "ability to translate complex regulations into actionable policy" rather than just "familiar with SFC guidelines." Application Process: If the job post or first steps ask you to do a short online test, a mini case study, or a practical challenge (like analysing a risk scenario for a Risk role, or drafting a response to a regulatory query for Compliance). Company Culture: Check their career page. Do they talk about helping staff move to different roles internally, offering training for new skills, or valuing people from different backgrounds? These are good signs. Showcasing Your True Abilities: Adapting Your CV for Skill-Focused Roles. You should always keep your main, traditional CV ready. It's still the most common way to apply for most jobs in Hong Kong's Financial Services sector. However, for roles where you might not have all the traditional boxes checked but you think you have the right skills (like changing careers, or moving into a new tech area), a skill-focused approach for your CV can be a powerful tool to truly represent your capabilities. How to Make Your CV Shine (Strategically & Honestly): Add a Strong "Skills" Section: Put this near the top. List your technical tools (e.g., specific accounting software, programming languages like Python for data analysis, GRC platforms), any industry rules you know (e.g., IFRS, Basel III), and key soft skills (like critical thinking, stakeholder communication, ethical judgment). Transform "Duties" into "Achievements & Skill Application": For every relevant role, move beyond just listing responsibilities. Show how you used your skills to achieve quantifiable results, specifically tailored to the skills mentioned in the job description. This isn't about simply copying words, but about translating your genuine experience into the language of the role. For an Auditor: Instead of : "Performed financial audits." Try : " Utilised advanced Excel and data visualisation tools to identify control deficiencies and analyse complex financial transactions, leading to 10% more efficient audit cycles . " For a Compliance Officer: Instead of : "Advised on regulations." Try : " Developed and delivered training on new AML regulations to 50+ staff members, ensuring firm-wide adherence and reducing potential compliance breaches. " For a Risk Analyst: Instead of : "Monitored market risk." Try : " Built Python-based scripts to automate daily market risk reporting, improving accuracy by 12% and providing real-time insights for traders." Highlight Projects & Other Experiences: Did you complete a significant personal project, volunteer work, or even an internal task that clearly demonstrates a relevant skill? Feature it! This is where you prove practical application, even if it's not from a formal job title. Your Toolkit - Manual & AI Assistance. Manual Approach: Deep Self-Reflection: Truly identify your strongest, most transferable skills. Thorough JD Analysis: Carefully read job descriptions to understand the specific skills and outcomes they are looking for, not just the usual requirements. Purposeful Customisation: Manually adjust your CV for each application. Focus on how your actual skills align with the role's needs, and use language that clearly shows this. Practice Your Stories: Think of detailed examples for each key skill you have. AI-Powered Assistance (as a helpful guide, not a replacement): CV Review: Use AI (Chat GPT, Gemini, Deep seek) to analyse your CV against a target job description. It can suggest ways to rephrase bullet points to highlight skills or identify areas where your language could be stronger to match the job's focus - DO NOT ask AI to rewrite your CV to match the JD. Behavioural Question Brainstorming: Prompt AI to generate common "tell me about a time when..." questions for specific skills (e.g., "collaboration skills in a compliance team"). You can then practice your STAR method answers. Skill Spotter: Ask AI to analyse a job description and list the key skills it thinks are most important. This helps you focus your CV and interview preparation - Again, DO NOT add AI generated skills to your CV, or prepare answers to interview questions, if you don't have the real transferable experience. IT WON'T GET YOU FAR. Excelling in Skill-Based Interviews. If you think a company is using a skill-based approach, your interview preparation needs to be smart. Get Ready for "Tell Me About a Time When..." Questions, these are called behavioural questions. They want to hear real stories about how you used skills like problem-solving, teamwork, or leadership. Practice using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to tell clear, impactful stories that showcase your abilities. For Audit: "Tell me about a time you had to challenge a senior manager's view based on your analytical findings." For Risk: "Describe a situation where you had to quickly assess a new market risk and recommend a mitigation strategy." Expect "What Would You Do If..." questions, these are Situational questions. This might come as a question, be part of a case study, or a hypothetical problem. Don't just give an answer; explain how you would think through the problem and what steps you would take. For Compliance: "You discover a new regulatory breach. Walk us through your immediate steps and who you would inform." For Actuarial: "How would you explain a complex actuarial model to a non-technical executive?" Be Ready for Practical Tests: For some roles, prepare for small coding challenges (e.g., Python for quantitative roles), data analysis tasks, or even short presentations on a specific topic. Practice these types of hands-on problems. Other areas you should consider; Show you can learn., t alk about times you learned a new skill quickly, adapted to a big change, or proactively sought new knowledge. This proves your potential to grow with the company. You should also ask smart questions, s how your curiosity and engagement with the skills required for the role and the team's challenges. Your Investment: Continuous Learning is Key. In today's fast-changing world, continuously learning new skills is always a smart move. Companies value people who show they can keep growing. Ways to Up-skill: Think about online courses, industry workshops, certifications (like CFA, FRM, specific software/coding certs for data/quant roles, or new regulatory certifications for Compliance/Risk), or even personal projects that build real skills. Show Your Drive: Highlight how you've actively learned new things, even if it's outside formal education. This demonstrates your "learning agility." The Path Ahead: Be Smart, Be Ready, Be You. Understanding skill-based hiring gives you a powerful extra layer in your job search strategy. It’s not about ditching your traditional CV entirely, but about knowing when and how to truly show off your capabilities to open up new and exciting paths in Financial Services. By taking a smart look at job openings and preparing strategically, you can make sure your skills are your biggest advantage.

In Hong Kong's competitive Financial Services landscape, the search for top talent is constant, meaning forward-thinking companies are always looking to improve their hiring strategies. Increasingly, we hear buzz around "skill-based hiring" – a promise of unlocking diverse talent pools and finding truly capable individuals. But for busy hiring managers and Talent Acquisition professionals grappling with immediate needs, tight deadlines, and stringent regulatory demands, the question isn't just "What is it?" but, more importantly, "Is it truly a viable path for my team, and what are the honest realities of adopting it?" Let's cut through the hype and explore skill-based hiring with a realistic lens, acknowledging both its potential and the very real complexities it introduces for Financial Services organisations. What Exactly is Skill-Based Hiring? (Beyond the Buzzwords) At its core, skill-based hiring is an approach that emphasises a candidate's demonstrable abilities, core competencies, and inherent potential over solely relying on traditional proxies like specific degrees, rigid years of experience, or a highly conventional career path. It focuses on objectively assessing the critical skills (both technical and soft) a role truly demands, and how a candidate can apply their knowledge and experience. It’s about complimenting essential questions like : "Where did they gain their experience, and what specific qualifications do they hold?" with : "Can they effectively [manage a complex derivatives portfolio / interpret new regulatory guidelines / build robust fraud detection models]?" This approach typically involves: Deconstructing Roles: Breaking down a job into the specific, measurable skills and competencies needed for success, rather than just a list of responsibilities. Objective Assessment: Designing interview questions, practical exercises, or assessments that directly test those identified skills. Considering Potential & Learning Agility: Looking for candidates who demonstrate an ability to learn and adapt quickly, even if they lack an exact match in traditional experience. The Attraction vs. The Unvarnished Truth. While skill-based hiring holds significant promise, it's crucial to weigh those aspirations against the very real operational and strategic challenges it presents, particularly in highly regulated sectors in Financial Services. The Potential Attraction (Why the Industry is Talking About It): Access to Broader Talent Pools: It can open doors to candidates from non-traditional backgrounds, or those with highly transferable skills, potentially addressing talent shortages in niche areas. Improved Quality of Hire (Potentially): If executed well, assessing actual capability can lead to hires who are a better functional fit and add a diverse perspective. Reduced Bias: Focusing on objective, demonstrable skills can, in theory, mitigate unconscious biases that might creep into traditional, unstructured interviews. Future-Proofing: Identifying learning agility might help build a workforce more adaptable to rapidly evolving industry demands (e.g., AI integration, new FinTech). It can also improve employee retention. The Unvarnished Truth (The Realities & Obstacles): The Mindset Shift Isn't To Be Ignored: This isn't a small tweak; it challenges decades of ingrained hiring habits. Hiring managers are accustomed to leveraging pedigree and direct experience as initial filters. Moving away from this comfort zone involves real perceived risk, especially when the stakes are high. Regulatory & Compliance Non-Negotiables: For many roles in FS (e.g., licensed traders, qualified actuaries, senior compliance officers, audit partners), specific certifications, legal qualifications, or direct regulatory experience are not just "preferences" but mandatory requirements . Skill-based hiring cannot, and should not, circumvent these legal and ethical obligations. Perceived Workload & Risk for TA's / Hiring Managers: Increased Screening Complexity: Without traditional filters (university, years), the initial application volume might seem overwhelming, fearing it will swamp already busy TA teams and hiring managers with unqualified resumes. Assessment Design & Execution: Creating truly objective, valid, and efficient skill assessments (e.g., case studies, simulations) is time-consuming and requires real consideration and planning. Risk of "Getting It Wrong": The fear of making a costly mis-hire on a less traditional candidate can be a significant deterrent. This might seem small, but it's a genuine barrier. Remuneration & Internal Equity: This is a real concern. How do you fairly compensate a highly skilled individual with a less traditional background when they're working alongside colleagues with extensive, recognised experience at the same level? This can create significant internal friction and salary band challenges. Onboarding & Development Burden: If you hire someone with high potential but "less traditional" experience, are hiring managers and their teams genuinely prepared and resourced to provide the necessary onboarding, up-skilling, and mentorship? This requires a significant time investment that current team structures might not easily absorb. Devaluing Proven Paths: For many roles in FS, graduating from a reputable university with a relevant degree, and accumulating experience at established firms, provides a strong, reliable indicator of foundational knowledge, discipline, and industry understanding. Dismissing these entirely would be a disservice to valuable talent pipelines. Finding the Fit: When (and If) Skill-Based Hiring Makes Sense for Your Roles. Given these realities, skill-based hiring is most valuable when applied strategically and selectively . It's about identifying where its benefits genuinely outweigh the implementation challenges, rather than a universal adoption. Assessing Which Business Functions & Roles Are "Skill-Basable" for Your Firm: You can evaluate roles by deconstructing job requirements and differentiating between non-negotiable foundations and assessable skills. Category A: High Skill-Based Potential (Where demonstrated skills lead): Roles where core abilities (analytical, technical, problem-solving, behavioural) are highly transferable, and where deep financial services-specific regulatory knowledge can be quickly acquired or up-skilled. Examples in FS: Technology roles (FinTech, RegTech): Data Analysts, AI/ML Engineers, Cyber Security Analysts, Software Developers. Operational & Process-Oriented roles: Process Improvement Specialists, Junior Business Analysts (focused on process), Change Managers. Category B: Hybrid Approach (Credentials + Skills are equally critical): Roles where specific licenses, certifications, or core domain knowledge are essential foundations, but success heavily relies on how those are applied, along with critical soft skills (e.g., communication, leadership, problem-solving). Examples in FS: Mid-to-Senior Compliance Officers (must have regulatory knowledge, but also strong application, communication, and influencing skills), Experienced Auditors (CPA/ACCA required, but ability to critically analyse, identify discrepancies, and manage teams is key). Category C: Predominantly Credential/Experience Driven (Where skill-based is supplementary): Very senior, highly specialised, or legally mandated roles where a long track record, specific licenses, and deep, context-specific industry knowledge are often non-negotiable prerequisites. For these, skill-based assessment can still help differentiate top candidates among those who meet the strict traditional criteria. Examples in FS: Chief Compliance Officer, Appointed Actuary, certain highly specialised front-office trading roles requiring very specific market access experience. Taking the First Steps: Practical Pilot Approaches (If It's Right for You). If, after a pragmatic assessment, you believe skill-based hiring could offer a strategic advantage for specific roles, here are some smaller, practical steps to begin exploring its potential without a full-scale overhaul: Identify a Pilot Role: Choose one or two roles in Category A or B where you face consistent talent shortages, or where you suspect traditional filters might be unnecessarily limiting your options. Collaborative Role Deconstruction: Work closely with the hiring manager and a top performer in that pilot role. Instead of just reviewing the existing JD, engage in a focused discussion: "What are the top 3-5 things someone must be able to achieve or do to succeed here, regardless of their specific background?" Refine Your Job Descriptions for Clarity: Based on these core skills and outcomes, re-craft the JD for your pilot role. Focus on what the person will achieve and contribute. While still clearly stating essential credentials (e.g., "CPA qualification required"), emphasise the skills needed to perform the job effectively. This helps filter out inaccurate applications by clearly defining expectations. Pilot a Targeted Screening Question: For your chosen pilot role, include 2-3 brief, mandatory application questions that directly assess a critical skill or foundational knowledge point. For example, for a Junior Risk Analyst: "Describe a real-world scenario where you used data to identify a potential financial risk. What was the outcome?" (short text response). This can be a highly effective, low-effort filter that provides early insight. Designing the Gateway: Accurate JDs & Smart Initial Screening. Optimising your initial application gateway is crucial to ensure you're attracting the right talent for skill-based roles without overwhelming your teams. DIY (Human-Led) Approach for JDs & Screening: Focused JD Review: Conduct internal sessions with hiring managers to strategically rewrite JDs for pilot roles, emphasising outcomes and core skills. Manual Screening Grids: Develop clear, skills-based metrics for initial resume reviews. This allows TAs to efficiently assess candidates against identified core skills and non-negotiable credentials. Standardised Phone Screens: Implement brief, skill-focused questions for initial phone screens by TA, ensuring consistency and a quick check for key competencies. AI-Enhanced Approach for JDs & Screening (as a Supporting Tool): AI can provide analytical support for these initial steps, but human oversight is a must. Use AI to optimise your Job Description in line with a Skill-Based hiring approach, and for generating initial screen questions as part of the application process and screening calls, as a first and second line of filtering.

Crafting job descriptions that genuinely attract relevant top talent can feel like a significant drain of time. But what if you, as a recruiter you could streamline the entire process, improving the quality of the description and the candidates applying, effortlessly? In this blog we'll provide you with an editable, copy-and-paste AI prompt and show you exactly how AI can transform your approach, making it faster and easier to engage high-quality applicants.

Looking to break free from the office (or home) for your next meeting in Central?

In-House Vs Consulting: What’s the Right Move for You? If you’ve worked in a professional services firm — whether in Audit, Risk, Tax, or broader advisory work — chances are you’ve considered going in-house at some point. For many, especially those who’ve qualified in the Big 4, the natural question after a few years is: “What’s next?” Having spent over a decade helping professionals transition across both sides — from consulting into industry, and sometimes back again — I’ve had hundreds of these conversations. There’s no single right answer, but there are consistent themes that come up when professionals weigh the trade-offs between the two worlds. Whether you’re still progressing through the ranks of a professional services firm or already testing the waters for an in-house move. This is a candid, experience-based look at the differences — not the clichés, but the realities I’ve seen play out in real careers. Big 4 & Professional Services Firms: High Standards, Diverse Exposure, & Navigating the System Working in a professional services firm — whether one of the Big 4 or a similar consultancy — gives you a foundation that’s hard to match. The expectations are high, the learning curve is steep, and the exposure to clients, industries, and senior stakeholders happens earlier than in most in-house roles. What draws people in — and keeps many there: High-calibre environment and strong brand equity These firms attract smart, driven professionals. You’re part of a high-performing peer group, working with complex businesses on real problems. The brand recognition opens doors, both internally and externally, and gives clients confidence in your work. Variety, pace, and intellectual challenge The range of client work — whether across sectors, business functions, or issue types — means you're rarely standing still. The work can feel repetitive in some areas (especially annual audits or recurring engagements), but the client personalities, internal politics, technical nuances and pressure points vary just enough to keep things engaging. You develop strong muscle memory for problem solving and communication under pressure. Structured progression and investment in development Promotions, pay bands, and learning paths are generally clear and well-communicated. Formal training, access to leadership, and mentoring are all part of the model. That said, internal mobility — such as moving from audit to advisory — often depends on factors outside your control: timing, staffing capacity, or how difficult you are to replace. It’s well known in the industry that Audit Partners are often hesitant to lose CPAs to other teams, as replacing an experienced auditor can be much harder than hiring for advisory roles. As a result, many professionals who want to shift focus find they need to leave their firm entirely to do so. Client exposure and executive interaction Even at Manager level, it’s not unusual to be sitting across from CFOs, CROs or business heads. You learn to communicate, influence, and manage expectations — skills that are essential for future leadership roles, wherever your career takes you. In-House Roles: Depth, Ownership, and Strategic Perspective Moving in-house — into a financial institution or a company you once advised — is about shifting from external influence to internal accountability. You become part of the fabric of the business, with a seat at the table for decisions that shape its direction. What people often value most: End-to-end ownership You're not just assessing or advising anymore — you’re responsible for making it work. Whether that’s a financial control, a risk framework, a compliance policy or a transformation initiative, you see the full cycle through: planning, execution, iteration, and business impact. Many professionals describe this as finally being able to “finish the job” they once only reviewed. Functional depth and commercial understanding Over time, you gain deeper knowledge of how your function integrates with the business. You learn how strategy is formed, how risk and finance influence decision-making, and how resources are prioritised. You see where the friction lies and how different teams — front office, ops, legal, finance, risk — come together in practice. It gives you context that consulting rarely offers, because you're inside the machine rather than observing it. Strategic involvement In-house roles can offer genuine influence over business direction, especially in mid-sized or growing firms. You may find yourself shaping product development, market entry strategies, internal controls, or regulatory approaches — particularly as you rise through the ranks. Work-life balance — but not guaranteed Many professionals move in-house expecting more predictable hours, and in many cases, that’s true. But it’s not universal. Larger or more innovative firms — especially those going through change — can demand just as much time and energy as consulting. Culture, leadership, and internal expectations often matter more than job description alone. So, Which Is Better? That depends on what you're looking for. Some professionals thrive in the dynamic, multi-client pace of consulting. Others crave deeper influence, stability, or the chance to own something long-term. Some eventually come full circle: spending time in-house before returning to consulting with sharper insight and greater empathy for their clients. Others build long, fulfilling careers on either side. Whatever you’re considering, the most important thing is to ask the right questions — of yourself and of the roles in front of you. Don’t get caught chasing a title, a brand, or a vague idea of “better work-life balance.” Every role has trade-offs. The key is to understand them upfront.

The Reality of Switching Big 4 Firms When people think about their next career move after joining a Big 4 firm, the most common path is out—not across. Most professionals use the Big 4 as a launchpad before moving into industry roles, in-house positions, or even outside the financial world. While many professionals take that route, switching between firms is a fairly common step for those looking for a change without leaving the Big 4 environment. As a recruiter who works closely with professionals and teams across the Big 4—particularly within Financial Services—I’ve had a front-row seat to these kinds of moves. So here’s a balanced, honest take on what it really looks like to switch from one Big 4 firm to another. Why Do People Consider Switching? The reasons vary, but here are some of the most common motivations: Promotion Opportunity – Sometimes people feel they’ve hit a ceiling in their current team and believe another firm might offer a faster path to manager, director or Partner. Culture or Team Fit – Not all Big 4 environments are the same. A team’s culture, leadership style, or even just personalities can have a big impact on your day-to-day life. Location or Visa Needs – A move might be driven by a desire (or need) to relocate, and another firm may be more supportive or flexible with international transfers or sponsorship. Frustration with Current Role or Manager – It’s not always about the firm itself, but the dynamics of the current team or reporting line that make someone look elsewhere. Client Exposure or Project Variety – Some candidates perceive another Big 4 firm as having more interesting clients or a broader range of projects in a specific sector. What Are the Potential Benefits? Switching firms can offer a valuable refresh: A Clean Slate – If you’ve been stuck doing the same kind of work or feel overlooked, a new environment can help reset perceptions and open new opportunities. Broader Experience – Each Big 4 firm has its own methodologies, client portfolios, and internal structures. Exposure to multiple can strengthen your CV and experience. Expanded Network – New firm, new relationships, new mentors—this can matter more than people realise. Promotion Leverage – Sometimes, moving firms can fast-track a promotion, especially if you’re already operating at the next level but blocked internally. What Should You Watch Out For? It’s not always the right choice, and expectations should be realistic: High Expectations from Day One – You’re not treated like a graduate hire. You’re expected to ramp up quickly, often without much handholding. Not That Different – The Big 4 are more alike than different in many ways. If you’re expecting a totally new lifestyle or culture, you might be disappointed. Culture Fit Is Still a Gamble – Even within the same service line, culture can vary between firms—or even between teams in the same office. Burnout Can Follow You – If you’re switching to escape long hours or high pressure, those challenges may exist at the next firm too. So, Is It Worth It? The honest answer: It depends. If your goal is to reposition yourself, break out of a box, or align with a team that better fits your personality and career goals, switching can absolutely make sense. But if you're hoping for a radically different experience or relief from the usual pressures of Big 4 life, a switch might not deliver what you're looking for. If You're Considering a Move… Here are a few thoughts before making the leap: Get Clear on Your "Why" – Is this a strategic move or an emotional one? What do you hope will be different? Do Your Research – Speak to people who’ve made the move. Ask real questions. Culture isn’t just a buzzword. Be Realistic – No job is perfect. Every firm has internal challenges, politics, and pressures. Think Long-Term – Will this move help you get where you want to be in 3–5 years? Final Thoughts Switching from one Big 4 firm to another isn’t a bad move—but it’s also not a magic fix. It’s one of many options, and for the right person, at the right time, it can be the right next step. Whatever you choose—whether it’s staying, switching, or stepping out of Big 4 altogether—the key is being intentional about your path.