Dear VisaStucked,
These days, they recheck from several sources about the geniunity of application, let is be renwal application, they are checking with labor dept, IRD and other possible sources, as lot of firms are just getting employment visas for their staff , but not comlying with others rules like paying declare salary, MPF etc. So first you make sure, that your part or your sponsor company part dont have any present or past fault and all is clear from every angle.
If yes, then try to make some excuse to ID officer, that you have to apply the business visa or applying a loan from bank, to get some business finance or property finance, and that is not getting done, due to your hk resident status is pending or not clear. This might make them pressure to move you case faster than usual. remember , they might ask you some proof docs, so they can have excuse to process your app. fast or atleaset give you reply that your application is in positive or negative direction. So you can be relax or start getting some tension.
i am speaking from past and present cases exp.