The first quarter of 2015 saw a considerable increase in recruitment demand for smartphone engineers. — Photo Navigos

According to a report by Navigos Search, the first quarter of 2015 saw a considerable increase in recruitment demand for smartphone engineers, which made up 14 per cent of the total demand for senior staff, and is forecast to increase in the second quarter. This has been led by investment from several of the world's biggest smartphone manufacturers in Vietnam, and their employment of local people as an alternative to foreign professionals.

The textile & garment sector was the runner-up, accounting for 13 per cent. Major projects have been implemented since the end of last year, followed by a considerable increase in recruitment demand in the first quarter of this year. Manufacturing ranked third with 12 per cent, followed by FMCG/Retail and Information Technology with 7 per cent each, and Finance – Banking with 5 percent.

Despite the enormous recruitment demand for electrical engineers for smartphone manufacturing plants in Vietnam, acquiring a sufficient number of high-level employees remains tricky. "The reasons for clients' rejection of candidates include poor command of foreign language (English), substandard soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, initiative and creativity. While the employers require employees to start immediately, our candidate supply is inadequate to meet this requirement. However, we are determined to continue seeking top talent for our clients, no matter how hard it is," said Nguyen Thi Van Anh, managing director of Navigos Search. 

Source: Navigos Search