Employers and the Government advised to pull their socks up if they want to retain creative talent in the region.
Hong Kong is failing to foster the correct climate to nurture and retain talent for the design industry. Hong Kong is amass with Business graduates well versed in the value of the marketing mix, but given its service-led economy and market place hungry for designer labels, gadgets and gizmos; the key to differentiation lies in keeping talent who can help build strong brand identity.
HR Magazine interviewed world-renowned jewellery designer Kai Yin Lo, who sits on the Board of Directors for the Hong Kong Design Centre at the kick off for the Business of Design Week (BODW) annual event, which Hong Kong is hosting this year.
Despite the existence of an estimated 400 design-based education programmes across China and Hong Kong, Kai feels that the current approach adopted by educational establishments is not appropriate for students of these disciplines. The strong emphasis placed on traditional education leaves little room for self-expression and non-lateral thinking. she explained, “Traditional design education is theoretical, learning design should be about exposure not theory. Creativity and individuality are to be applauded in industry as well as in education, I have no formal design training but I have been innovative. Industries should demand more. You have to provide the conditions to train and groom potential design employees.”
In a climate already ripe with confusion generated by the average Gen-Y employee, creative talents tend to lie at the extreme end of the confusion spectrum. Kai explained, “Creative people do not just go where the money is—they need to have the desire to stay, in the right environment for them.”
This year’s partner country for the BODW is Germany, renowned for its engineering brilliance and iconic design ability. Unlike most of its European counterparts the German economy remains healthy, not least because it has retained a strong industrial base. According to Werner Hans Lauk, German Consul General for Hong Kong and Macau, almost 3% of GDP is spent on investment and research and development—a figure far above the European average.
Referring to the excellent relations which exist between Hong Kong and Germany Lauk commended, “In terms of German products many are re-branded by Hong Kong people where language, culture and marketplace for German goods are understood—the countries come together operationally and create successful business models.” Despite this, creative industries account for only 4% of GDP compared to 7% and 8% in the UK and US respectively. Hong Kong must gather momentum and the Government needs to recognise the importance of design both culturally and economically.
Paul Arkwright
Publisher
