Google tops the list of the most sought-after companies in Hong Kong, as per a survey by YouGov BrandIndex. Google received a score of 40.9, based on a reputational score gathered over 12 months, way ahead of its nearest rival with 29.1.

Next in place was Apple, followed by luxury watchmaker Rolex, possibly boosted by its long association with golfer Tiger Woods, who had a heroic victory at the US Masters earlier this month.

Meanwhile, popular chat messenger WhatsApp came in 6th and social media platform Facebook stood at 7th position.

In terms of the big improvers for employee desirability, airlines dominated with no less than five appearing in the top 10. Cathay Pacific was the highest, ranking third – with Cathay Dragon, Emirates, Singapore Airlines and Hong Kong Express also featuring.

Interestingly, the only firm to make both lists was financial giant HSBC, which came in 10th in the popularity stakes and fifth for most improved.

The 350 brands in YouGov BrandIndex were ranked using the Reputation score, which asks respondents “Imagine you (or your friend) were applying for the same sort of role at the following brand that you currently have or would apply for?” and “Which of the following brands would you be proud to work for ? & "Which of the following brands would you be embarrassed to work for?” Only respondents who are aware of a given brand are interviewed.

The Workforce Rankings chart shows the brands with the highest average Reputation scores between April 1, 2018 and March 31, 2019. 

The fact that tech brands dominated in the top ten clearly points out that many Hongkongers want to work for innovative and forward-thinking employers – given the fact that Google took the top spot.