Hewitt Associates launches 'Best Employers in Middle East' study

The study is designed to be the largest employee research project ever undertaken in Middle East.

The study is expected to provide a definitive benchmark for participants to measure their effectiveness in creating a workplace that engages the hearts and minds of their employees and that delivers value through people.

Through the initiative, Hewitt Associates aims to contribute to the ongoing efforts of regional governments to create an economic environment that is conducive to growth and yet meets the aspirations of individuals seeking positive work environments.

Debabrat Mishra, Consulting Business Leader Hewitt - Middle East, said, "With great pride we launch the Hewitt Best Employers in Middle East Study.

The region is in an unprecedented phase of economic development. Both local organizations and international companies need to gain a stronger insight into their employees' aspirations if they are to play an active role in the region's development. It is especially important if these organizations and companies are looking to develop a sustainable presence in the regional economy. At Hewitt, we realized this was an essential need that was not being met. We are, therefore, extremely pleased to extend our Best Employers Study to Middle East."

Highlighting the importance of the study, Mishra added,

"Hewitt's Best Employers Study has provided a definitive benchmark of how organizations measure their effectiveness in providing a working environment that engages their employees and delivers value. It provides clear insights into how organizations can achieve a real competitive advantage through their people."

Companies that have been in existence for over a year or more as on 1st September, 2008 and have more than 100 employees will be invited to participate in the study.

Organizations across industries will be eligible to participate.

Hewitt will start soliciting participation by August 2008 and start collating preliminary data by October 2008.

Based on the findings, Hewitt expects to announce the comprehensive results in March 2009.

The Best Employers in each market will be selected by an independent judging panel that will include prominent academics and business leaders.

Each judging panel will evaluate information on a 'blind' basis, whereby the judges are unaware of the identity of participating organizations until after the final decision is made.