The survey fund that Hong Kong employees benefited the most from the upswing, with more than half (56 per cent) receiving a pay increase.

It said: "Following a series of pay freezes during the downturn, employees are now feeling restless and those that are unsatisfied with their pay will begin to explore other options. Employers are recognising this too, with 70 per cent concerned about losing top performers to other job opportunities in the next year."

After a turbulent period, the Robert Half research found that Hong Kong's technology employment market is rebounding, with the majority (79 per cent) of employers planning to hire in the next six months.

Of all employees across the Asia Pacific region, those in Hong Kong are the most likely to leave their current employer, as 86 per cent of the respondents believe it is necessary to switch jobs in order to gain greater bargaining power in salary negotiations.

The research found that attracting and retaining talent are key business concerns for the Singapore technology industry and that Lion City companies are focusing on increasing staff levels with more than three quarters (78 per cent) planning to hire in the next six months.