Retaining valued employees in the Middle East

In the current economic environment, recent data from the UAE suggests a profound change in people’s attitudes toward their jobs. An increasing number of people, even those in long-term positions, are becoming more open to exploring new jobs than ever.?

So why is this happening??

Research shows that a poor work-life balance, a lack of opportunity for growth, learning and career progression, poor management or leadership practices, and dysfunctional workplace culture are all factors that employees are considering when weighing up job options.

How Can Employers Retain Employees??

Despite many quick fixes being available to try and stop an employee from leaving, employers need to think long-term if there are high turnover rates. A raise or promotion can only do so much for an employee who has been unhappy for months or even years.

Encourage Balance?

One of the biggest aspects of work culture that pushes employees to seek new opportunities is the “on-call” approach that many leaders expect. This drives poor work-life balance and results in higher overall stress, impacting the employee’s willingness and motivation to learn and grow.?

Leaders should model disconnection in the evenings, weekends, and vacations and call out employees who do not follow this example. If appropriate, offer flexible working models. Current data suggests that most employees will not choose to work from home more than three days per week, but having the option gives a sense of autonomy.?

Create Meaning

Research has also shown that finding meaning in our work increases employee engagement, motivation, job satisfaction, and better performance, particularly among Gen-Z and millennials. Besides salary, employees seek recognition; a feeling of belonging that comes from an inclusive work culture, flexibility that allows them to integrate their work and life satisfactorily, and opportunities to grow and develop.

Explaining the “why” behind tasks can show a team member how much value they are bringing to the project, and providing positive feedback and acknowledgement can increase motivation. Share information about company strategies and policies to help employees do their jobs with greater insights and to feel valued as contributors to the company’s success.?

Allow Growth

Ensure access to high-quality coaching, mentorship, and shadowing opportunities is available. Allow employees to step outside of their comfort zone and attend meetings, conferences, or seminars that challenge them, even if it is not explicitly part of their role. This can be a time investment for leaders, but it pays off in the long run. If employees are growing, they are generally more motivated and engaged.?

Create a Positive Culture

Establish strong values that guide the organization’s behavior, decisions, and interactions. Communicate these values to all team members to create a shared understanding of what the company stands for. Enable employees to feel like they belong so that they can visualize a future within the organization.?

Dr. Robert Chandler

Clinical Psychologist

June 15th 2023

Fast Company Middle East