Since the global financial crisis descended, unemployment has been rising sharply, particularly after Form 7 and university graduates joined the labour market. Many of those graduates remain unemployed.

Apart from providing internship positions as usual, Hong Kong Institute of Marketing (HKIM) showed its support for job seekers by organizing the 'Talents Hunting Convention - HKIM Career and Education Expo 09' from 29 to 30 June. The convention at Kowloon Tong InnoCenter to offered over 1,000 full time and part time positions for job seekers. Mr. K.M. Yim, Chairperson of HKIM said, "Understanding the jobs seekers are facing the hard time, we also encourage studying as another alternative way out."

Led by Mr Yim, dressed as a barrister, with staff costumed in the garb of various occupations, the Expo started with a buzz of excitement and plaudits at the grand opening ceremony. Attendees were warmly received with hundreds of balloons decorated with cheerful phrases and lively lion dancing.

With the enthusiastic encouragement of HKIM, over 10,000 people showed up at the expo during the two days. Job vacancies ranging from marketing and sales, public relations, property management, media, retail shop management and catering were offered. Onsite interviews and applications were arranged by some exhibitors. Various study opportunities were offered by education organizations at the Expo. These offered high school graduates and executives opportunities to pursue further studies.

In addition to Mr. Donald Tsang Yum-kuen's support, HKIM invited more than 10 entrepreneurs and celebrities to share their keys to success with the audience. Guest speakers from corporations, universities and creative industries shared their valuable expertise experience in person and participants seized many golden opportunities to talk to them for career advice.

(HK Edition 07/30/2009 page3)