Some insights gained from over 20 years in the workplace

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1. Those in human resources don’t understand the business, let alone technology. So what do they use to make their judgment? Do they rely on the applicant’s grandiose statements and elaborate talks, a bunch of news stories and examples, as well as a plethora of technical terms? They have no way of knowing how capable these people are or how many problems they have solved. With that, it’s no surprise that those in charge of human resources end up hiring a mix of good and poor quality employees. 2. Where there are people, there will be cliques, especially among Chinese people. Therefore, when existing management and technical staff are invited by the human resources department to participate in the recruitment process, those they know tend to be approved of and favored. Towards outsiders and talented people, especially those who might threaten their position, they show strong resistance and raise negative opinions; as a result, in a new company, the new employees come from just a few such companies. 3. When it comes to choosing management, investors are very cautious; unless there is a standout figure in the industry or someone who knows them personally, it’s difficult to get involved in a new company. Judging whether a person is suitable for a senior management role based on their resume and interview is a requirement that is too high for bosses, and it carries too much risk; this is understandable. 4. Skills are merely a stepping stone; once you are no longer indispensable to the company, it’s inevitable that you will be dismissed. For private enterprises, capital is driven by profit motives; owners seek to reduce labor costs – hiring a newcomer who can perform the same tasks will allow for lower expenses. In state-owned enterprises, character is more important than skills; if you cannot fit in with a certain group, you will surely be regarded as an outsider and eliminated. 5. As for the future of coal chemical industry, I firmly believe that there are only companies that suffer losses, but no entire industry that does so. The waves sift through the sand, and what remains is gold. But to stay, one needs to do well in every aspect. But to be eliminated, it may be enough if just a few aspects are not done well.