Despite a slow 2015, growth is expected across Taiwan in 2016. Taipei, in particular, is especially attractive to job seekers since salaries tend to be higher and there is a greater concentration of businesses headquartered in the capital than in other Taiwanese cities.
Digital remains a very important industry to the island’s economy, representing faster growth than many other sectors; digital specialists therefore remain in high demand in Taipei. Digital marketers and e-commerce experts are especially sought after. The island’s thriving start-up culture is also driving demand for IT professionals.
The general Taiwanese employment landscape is looking positive: in the recent 2016 Michael Page Greater China Salary & Employment Outlook, 81% of employers1 reported that they would either maintain or increase headcount in the following year. Employers were forecasting an increase in salaries of 1-5%. However, many professionals are looking to mainland China for higher salaries and greater opportunities.
The Taipei job market
As Taiwan’s largest city, Taipei has been the centre of the city’s rapid economic expansion since the 1960s. The city is Taiwan’s financial and currency markets hub, and it holds one of the world’s largest foreign exchange reserves in the world.
Beyond finance, Taipei has many dynamic industries, including manufacturing, textiles and apparel, shipbuilding, tourism, printed materials, electrical equipment manufacture, and food and beverage production. Services relating to commerce, transport, and logistics have also become increasingly important to the city’s economy, particularly for those with leadership experience and English language skills.
Experienced professionals in Taipei will be in a strong position to find employment, with companies seeking the best candidates to step in and help grow the business. Taiwan is the fifth-largest economy in Asia, and many companies require skilled employees to help them reach their targets and goals for continued growth – Taipei salary packages reflect this growth.
Job search advice
When looking for a Taipei job opportunity, no matter what your industry or role type, you’ll want to review our tips:
- Carefully review your resume, making sure it features your work experience and lists your key skills and experience, has no errors, and is clearly laid out.
- Research the Taipei job market ahead of time, so you can negotiate competitive wages when it comes time to accept a job offer.
- Seek expert advice from a recruiter in your field—they can keep you up-to-date on the latest job openings.
- Before attending the interview, thoroughly research the company on their website and social media channels to ensure that you know their business well.
- Prepare a list of questions to ask during the interview to show you have researched both the company and the industry itself. Try to ask at least two or three of these questions during the course of an interview.
- Before accepting a job offer, consider what matters to you in a role. If you’re looking for flexibility, a good work/life balance, or specific benefits, it’s best to know this beforehand to help you narrow your choice.
1. Based on the Michael Page 2016 Michael Page Salary & Employment Outlook