Novartis Gulf | نوفارتس الخليج’s Post

In today’s dynamic professional landscape, companies in the UAE are increasingly recognizing the importance of supporting working parents. As the workforce becomes more diverse and inclusive, organizations are taking proactive steps to create workplace environments that cater to the unique needs of parents, fostering both professional growth and personal wellbeing. These initiatives are not only beneficial for employees but also contribute to a more engaged and productive workforce. One of the most significant efforts is the implementation of flexible work policies. Many companies now offer flexible working hours, remote work options, and hybrid work models, allowing parents to better manage their time and responsibilities. These policies help parents balance their professional commitments with their family duties, reducing stress and increasing job satisfaction. By providing daycare centers within the workplace, organizations ensure that parents can stay close to their children during working hours. This reduces the logistical challenges of childcare and enhances employees' peace of mind, ultimately boosting productivity. In this virtual announcement, we reveal the list of companies that made it to the list of Best Workplaces for Parents™️ in UAE 2024. Date: Dec 12th 2024 Time: 05:00 PM UAE/OM time | 04:00 PM KSA/QA/KW/BH time #WorkplaceCulture #ParentingAtWork #FlexibilityMatters #BestWorkplaces #GPTW

School start on Monday reminded me that the quiet roads dream during the holiday period comes to an end. 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗨𝗔𝗘 𝗶𝘀 𝗴𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗱.   The government’s new push for hybrid working hours and staggered school start timings is a smart and a much needed move.   It’s great to see such proactive initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for everyone.   But here’s the thing – for these changes to truly work, alignment is key.   - 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗴𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 needs to set clear policies.   - 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗲𝘀 need to adopt flexible practices.   - 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗱𝘂𝗮𝗹𝘀 need to adjust their routines and expectations.   This kind of collaboration isn’t easy. We saw it during COVID with work-from-home setups.   But it's so worth it.   And as a working parent, let me just say - staggered school timings? Genius! Less traffic on the roads and fewer chaotic school drop-offs in the morning.   But it isn't that simple.   I think it's a great initiative. At the same time, companies need to align with it as well.   Cavendish Maxwell does and I'm lucky to work at an organisation that thoroughly supports working women.   There are many others that do that too. However, in the UAE, we still have a fair way to go.   The government is moving in the right direction when it comes to employee flexibility, but the corporates need to follow suit.   Here’s hoping this balance gives us all more sanity...   And maybe even a second cup of hot coffee! #dubaidriving #mydubai #dubailife #thoughtoftheday

The recent changes to flexible working rules in the UK are long overdue. But they’re only the beginning of a larger culture shift we need to see. There are so many reasons why people might be more comfortable working from home. Included, but not limited to: - Being a parent who needs to work flexibly around childcare - Being a carer who needs to work around care responsibilities - Being neurodivergent and finding an office environment overstimulating - Having a condition that means travelling or sitting a desk all day is difficult - Having social anxiety and finding an office overwhelming Everyone’s different and has different life experiences. Why should we all be expected to work in the exact same way? I welcome the fact that people can now put in two flexible working requests per year, without having to give a reason. But I also look forward to the day when our work culture is one where the first question from employers is: “what set-up do you need to be able to work well and thrive”? #FlexibleWorking #WorkCulture #WorkingCulture #WorkingFromHome

Last month Olive Branch Recruitment reached out to our #CBT Therapist network and asked what are your working pattern preferences❓ The results suggest that 55% want #remote working opportunities with the remaining 45% preferring #Hybrid options. Its seems clear that the message to perspective employers is the full time office job is no longer an attractive option. 📊 The dilemma for organisations, for example a Prison or a Hospice, is how do they adapt to this when remote seems to be the preference. #olivebranchrecruitment #mentalhealth #therapies #remoteworking #hybridworking #officeworking

At together, we understand that supporting parents isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s essential for a thriving, productive workplace. As our CEO and founder Lucy d'Abo reflects, “In 2004, I missed so much of my children’s lives because the work environment didn’t enable me to get home in time. Virtual work back then would have been transformative, not just for my career but for my children’s growth and mental health.” Today, we’re committed to creating workplaces where flexibility and family support are integral. Real flexibility isn’t just about hours; it’s about recognising the value of family well-being to professional success. It’s a pleasure to see the UAE’s new Parent-Friendly Label scheme promoting flexible working, a true benefit for families and the firms that support them. pfl_uae #People #Purpose #Culture

In Pakistan, working 13–14 hours a day has become the norm and is often glorified as a sign of dedication and loyalty. However, working extra hours shouldn’t be seen as a badge of honor. We’re not machines; we deserve time to recharge and enjoy life outside of work. Sadly, in many large firms, employees are expected to take on more and more responsibilities without considering  their well-being. #WorkLifeBalance #EmployeeWellbeing #MentalHealthMatters #CorporateLife #BalanceOverBurnout

What is the most important factor for you in a workplace accommodation? Chime in below. Let's hear from the #ProFoundCommunity and beyond. #Accessibility #DisabilityEmployment #WorkplaceAccommodation #DisabilityInclusion #DEI #DEIA

Is Your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Future-Proof? Employee well-being is critical for business success, and a strong EAP is a key piece of the puzzle. #EAP #employeeassistance #workplacewellness #wellbeing https://lnkd.in/gywCHH8y

One paycheck is not enough. The need for second incomes is mounting. Hamza Khan, Co-Founder and CEO at Letswork, says that “the flexibility of remote work and the simplicity with which one can start side businesses via digital platforms are leading more people to take on multiple jobs, projects, or businesses.” The founders of Prana House Dubai, Gitanjali Diwan and Rupali Tanna Jaiswal, who juggle full-time jobs alongside their wellness venture, emphasize the rewarding nature of their dual commitments. According to Lucy Melville, Associate – Employment at Addleshaw Goddard, the Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021 recognizes part-time work as a legitimate employment model in the UAE. Rachel Hill, Partner – Employment at Addleshaw Goddard, stresses that prior documented consent from the existing employer is imperative before taking on a second job. Read the full story here: https://lnkd.in/g3DSHKXt

🌍🏖️ Workation = Paid Vacation 🌴💼 Does your employer still think this is what WFA looks like? Honestly, have you ever tried working on a laptop in the sun? Yep – it sucks! 🌞💻 So can we please start understanding that working temporarily from abroad is not sitting by the pool drinking a cocktail (most of the time 😉)? Here is why you should offer work from abroad officially: 🚨 The number of unreported cases, i.e., the number of (possibly) unauthorized workations, is still relatively high. This harbors liability and other risks for companies. 📉 More than 3 out of 10 talents will not take a job if the company does not allow TWFA. 🌍 Mobile working abroad is the fourth most favored additional benefit. 📊 Two-thirds of employees have an affinity for workation in principle. Among 18 to 29-year-olds, the figure is as high as 80%. 📈 Greater flexibility in the organization brings the number of high-performers up by 40%. Can you name me more? #RemoteWork #WorkFromAnywhere #EmployeeBenefits #WorkLifeBalance