One day you own the latest, sleekest, most multi-functional mobile phone you've seen, only to find a few weeks later that the 'next generation' has already arrived. And in a world where the pace of technical innovation and product development is often staggering, that is becoming a common phenomenon.
The same thing is happening with digital cameras, handheld devices and home entertainment systems, as advanced technology continuously creates a range of new functions that keep consumers coming back for more.
Much of the success of these products is down to companies such as Avnet Electronics Marketing, which supply the electronic components that are such a vital element in the design and manufacturing process. Now, with demand for electronic products continuing to soar, particularly in the mainland, the company is planning to expand its workforce in Hong Kong and extend its regional presence.
'We cover Greater China and the growth is double-digit, so we need new people to help capture the business opportunities out there,' said James Tan Shui-hai, senior director for human resources in the Asia-Pacific region for Avnet Electronics Marketing.
In the current financial year, the company intends to add 25 employees a quarter to its existing headcount of about 1,900. Most of the vacancies will be for executive positions such as field sales managers, engineers, designers and IT specialists. There will also be a need for managers in procurement, branding, human resources and finance.
More immediately, the company will be hiring a new regional marketing manager, product marketing managers and a general manager to oversee technical marketing.