Attracting candidates

Many young Saudis are attracted to a job that includes a good salary and benefits, as well as opportunities to gain more responsibility and move up within the company. Upper-level managers may expect a paid family vacation, a maid and a driver, and reimbursement for their children's educational expenses.

What companies look for

The first thing a company looks for is the candidate's educational and work background. Next is the nationality. Saudis are given first preference, followed by other Arabs, North Americans, or Europeans. South and East Asians are usually given the lowest priority, often due to visa issues. Language skills are very important, as some companies will not hire without fluency in Arabic while others look for strong English skills. After this, grades, references, and technical skills are also considered.

Hiring practices

The hiring process may vary from company to company, but may include an interview or series of interviews, tests, and possibly a training or trial period. Saudi labor laws are quite strict, and companies should be careful about terminating employees.

Motivating Employees

Financial incentives

Minimum benefits provided by many companies in addition to a basic salary include health costs and a housing allowance. Bonuses, in addition to this basic package, are appreciated.

Certificates & cash prizes: Some companies use special days such as company picnics to hand out certificates to all the employees who have done exceptionally well. These are sometimes accompanied by cash prizes.

Incentives to move up: The higher an employee's level, the more access he/she has to certain incentives designed to motivate individuals to move up in the company.

Nonfinancial incentives

Promotion & time off: Although Saudis generally appreciate financial bonuses, they may be even more motivated by a promotion or an expansion of responsibilities — the type of recognition that confers status or authority. Being given time off for family vacations may also be a good incentive.

Open & direct manager: Saudi employees are generally motivated by a manager who has a friendly, open, and direct manner but does not cross the line and become too personal too soon.

Feedback: Saudis appreciate positive feedback, but some may be uncomfortable receiving the praise in person, especially in front of others. It may be best to give it in writing. When in doubt about appropriate ways to motivate employees, it is best to seek advice from someone who understands the Saudi work environment.

Recognition: A certificate or an official paper signed by the president or an upper-level officer acknowledging an employee's achievements can be highly motivating. A team should also be recognized for its members' joint efforts.

De-motivators

Saudi employees value family time and may be demotivated if work demands begin interfering with private time, for example, having to work late into the night or on weekends.

Diversity factors

Many non-Saudis, for example, Arabs from other Middle Eastern countries, may prefer financial incentives, as they often send money to their families back home.

Date: 2015-12-11; view: 833