In Pictures: These UAE organisations struck a bond with millennial staffers and it worked out just fine

Give ‘em a sense of belonging, the belief they are not just headcount numbers. If organisations do that, they have got most of the bases covered when it comes to their millennial staffers.

The consultancy Great Places to Work has brought out the companies in the UAE that scored best with millennials. The furniture retailer THE One, Dubai Police Academy and the financial services firm Century Financial came out as the Top 3. (The millennials or the Gen-Y are those born between 1981-96.)

“Despite the challenges we have faced during the pandemic, we are proud to witness even more continuous growth in employee culture awareness,” said Ibrahim Mougharbel, Managing Director for the UAE, Qatar, Oman and Kuwait, Great Place to Work Middle East.

So, what did these companies and the likes of McDonald’s, Hady Express Exchange and Pizza Express, which too figure in the Top 10, do different to attract/retain millennials?

They made sure ‘employee well-being does not need to be comprised to achieve growth’. They went beyond the bare minimum to instill confidence during the post-pandemic phase.

This brings us back to the subject or making them feel that they belong. “When everything seemed to be susceptible to the pandemic, employees were made to feel comfortable with choices they make,” said a statement from Great Places to Work on the rankings.

“The stability that was granted to them throughout the year provided them with the chance to get inspired and grow mentally and physically while seeking to uphold the success of their work/life balance.”

And as has become a regular feature, organisations also created upskilling prospects. “They made sure to provide their staff with learning opportunities to grow, as well as fun and engaging programs,” the report says. “A package that would not be complete without a simple ‘thank you’ note.”

Dubai Police Academy in second place showed a ‘governmental entity that sets as an example of how the governmental sector works towards giving employees the best work culture’. There was a Top 10 spot for a second police department, with Ajman Police at No. 8. Others with top rankings include Eva Interiors, Full Circle, RICC McDonald’s and OYO.

As talent retention becomes the next big challenge for organisations, some takeaways from the pandemic phase sure will be of help to get the most out of their best resources. And have them keep on giving.