In the face of the changes that are affecting the society around us I wonder whether we need a review on how business is run and the values we hold? Don’t get me wrong: I am tough when I need to be in negotiations, I value my profession and very much enjoy doing business. I am grateful as it sustains my way of life. I particularly like serving those who may have a need to sell items of Jewellery, to turn things they do not wear into cash-flow, where possible. It is a nice way to recycle within the market of supply and demand.
The recent global pandemic, and the tension between the US and China this past year, have led to a harder market than ever before, especially in the luxury mid-sector.
Behavioral Patterns in many people’s lives have changed rapidly, resulting in less demand to dress-up, or to attend functions in person. People fear job-cuts, therefore many spend less on non-essentials. Having said that, I must add that we had a phenomenal sale result last Friday in Hong Kong from the Jewellery online sale, and from the Wine and Whiskey sale the week before. The team had to work extra harder though, on reaching out to buyers on every lot in order to sell-well.
I noticed, demands from local grass-root restaurants, food deliveries and the sales of daily-fundamentals, selectively, appear to be on the rise. On the opposite side of the spectrum, extremely rare items that are sought-after, still fetch record-breaking prices in auctions, with a lot of interest. I think people are looking for investment opportunities in order to spread risks.
Sometimes I wonder if it were possible or thinkable for companies to dial back on the need for huge growths, concentrate on sustainability, even with business intent?
‘Where there are challenges, there are opportunities’
As a specialist and an evaluator, my challenge to myself is how to be responsible in what I take-in and sell on behalf of my client? What is fair in my eyes, does it tax the earth less, what brings joy, how to work with others without over compr omising or taking over, how to listen, when to speak-up, what is being true to myself, what is the definition of being professional?
These are ideals, and I cannot say I have fully lived-up to each phrase, but these questions keep me going and, periodically, continue to exhilarate me, making it worthwhile to carry on.
Personally (which is nonetheless linked to me professionally), these testing times have brought occasional depression, a feeling of being trapped on a forever running wheel, especially during times that business results are not meeting expectations, and having worked hard to make a living, however, only being able to afford a miniature home (perhaps relatable to many who live in big cities). The downward spiral in my thinking can come as a whirlwind.
Yet I truly love my job.
This then leads to an opportunity to practice, often after some emotional struggle, what has been learnt through great mentors. Observing my mind, being in the now – literally, feeling the body through the energy, taking a step back to gain a perspective on how we can serve our clients and work in a more efficient and effective way.