Towers Watson Data Services - Middle East - Blog

“Keeping an eye on the future” HR-Flash survey in Europe and Middle East | July 5, 2009

The survey focused on the changes companies were planning to implement in 2009 in the context of the economic climate.  Nearly 200 organisations participated in the surey which was conducted in June this year.

In general, companies have employed cost cutting actions, including pay freezes, hiring freezes and headcount reduction of temporary employees, and are planning to emphasise their EVPs (employee value proposition) and step up their focus on engaging key talent (although few have targeted reward spend on key talent).

The survey results are presented by region (and sector) and show some interesting variations between each.  For example:

• Expected pay review budgets in the Middle East average 4.1%, whereas in Europe they average 1.6%;
• Companies in the Middle East have been less inclined to lay off permanent workers than those in Europe;
• A higher proportion of companies in the Middle East are increasing communication through an EVP when compared to Europe;
• A higher proportion of companies in the Middle East are targeting reward spend on key talent when compared to Europe.

If you want to learn more about the survey and/or would like to receive a free copy please contact:

Robert Richter
Compensation Consultant 
Watson Wyatt Middle East
Premises No.1, 8th Floor, Block 10
Dubai International Academic City
00971 44363513 (direct)
00971 43640096 (office)
00971 501895816 (mobile)