There is a need to change the Arab workforce's mindset to make them more productive, according to a Jordan-based regional training consultant.
"Corporate cultures are influenced by company values and the work ethic and culture of the workforce. We notice that in the Arab world, Arabs usually have the mentality that they always have to get something rather than give to the company. This is what needs to be changed," said Better Business Founder and Director Abeer Qumsieh.
Her company, Better Business, is located in Jordan and performs training services for companies around the region specialising in corporate culture and employee attitudes. Ms. Qumsieh was also a speaker in yesterday's session.
"The way we are brought up is of course very different from the west or in other parts of Asia. Therefore our attitudes to different thing, including, work, are different. We were brought up thinking that we always have to receive something from the company. Doing something for the company is secondary," she explained adding that this affects company cultures in the Arab world greatly.
Despite this, Ms. Qumsieh says there are ways to change the mindset. She says that the various management levels will play a key role in setting the standards for the organisation.
"Firstly, the top-level management has to be an example which can be followed by the employees. If they can be a role model, then the employees will follow them. The second key and more important, is the middle management," she said.
While top management is usually well synchronised with company goals it is the middle management that lacks in this area. This results in leaving the employees disconnected from the top leadership's goals, she explained.
Ms. Qumsieh also explained that the gap between the level of education of the top management and the middle management is an issue adding that the top management is usually well versed in the market, going around in international conferences or are confident and driven entrepreneurs.
