TDC course puts candidates to the test

A fortnightly column introducing key trainee programmes

Graduates hoping to join the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (TDC) as management trainees need something more than the usual academic achievements, drive to succeed and willingness to accept new challenges. They must also have a genuine love for the city and a deep-seated interest in promoting its advantages.

'We have a very unique culture,' said Rose Wai Wai-ling, the TDC's training and development manager for human resources. 'Our aim is not only to make a profit but also to do the best for Hong Kong.'

The organisation, which helps locally based small and medium-sized businesses to sell their products and services overseas, has run an executive trainee programme for the past 10 years. Candidates should have a university degree in any discipline, excellent language skills in Chinese and English and no more than three years of work experience.

'We like trainees to be open minded and have good communication skills,' said Ms Wai. 'And it is easier for us to coach them if they don't have much work experience.'

Each year, more than 3,000 people apply for the programme. Candidates must be prepared to take an online aptitude test to see if they have the right personality type. Then there are two written tests, a verbal reasoning exercise, and a numerical reasoning test.

Those who get past these initial hurdles are invited to attend a TDC event, which gives them a chance to understand more about the nature of the job. An experienced project manager explains the whole work process and arranges for them to look around and see exactly how things operate at a trade fair.