An interesting read, I wanted to share with you guys
Letters to the Editor
Published: Thursday, 6 December, 2007, 02:45 AM Doha Time
Focus on retaining talent
Dear Sir,
Finally, changes to the sponsorship laws! (Legal Helpline, December 1) Not all expatriates are simply complainers, but rather some are in dire and devastating situations that cause personal pain and suffering for them and their families.
In the rest of the world people have a choice of whom they choose to work for! Qatar cannot continue to have contradicting laws. The sponsorship laws clearly contradict (as stated in chapter three, section six) the National Human Rights Committee which has adopted the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
Of course there will be some not happy with the changes but like the rest of the world use employer-employee contracts. Contracts are meant to outline the employer-employee relationship and responsibilities. If either party fails to comply then arbitration/mediation can be used and as a last resort court!
How will this create a volatile situation? International organisations know they must compete to recruit top talent and they understand that they must focus on retaining their talent. These organisations seem to be doing just fine and many are considered some of the best companies to work for. People do not accept jobs for compensation alone, but rather consider a number of factors for choosing their place of employment. If employees are satisfied in their work, they do not tend to look elsewhere.
I would much rather have an organisation of people that want to come to work as opposed to having to come to work because I am their sponsor and they have no choice.
Perhaps the greater question is what can Qatar companies do to recruit, develop and retain their talent? How can they become organisations that people want to work for?
Clearly, the responsibility of keeping your talent lies with the organisation and meeting and exceeding performance and satisfaction will not be shaped by sponsorship laws – that is a guaranteed fact. Time for us to grow up and start competing with the rest of the world for talent and opportunities!
Christine McPherson, General Manager, maXimus HRM, P O Box 10445, Doha
Thanks for the feedback on my article. I am happy to hear you see the need for HR Development. Sponsorship is not needed when you manage your company and people properly.
Christine
Angelo, I feel most of the companies need Human Resorces Development HRD and in a true sense. Not just a team to recruit cheap labour. The issues discussed in your article are more of HRD domain.