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Omanisation – At The Crossroads! Reply

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Between Us Only!

Omanisation  -  At The Crossroads!

I have to admit in writing this I was very much perturbed and disturbed by one ‘friend’ telling me to stop writing any further because you are ‘just exposing yourself to unnecessary situations’ – and besides ‘you have said it yourself that you are tired banging your head against brick walls – and just having your head swollen and red in the whole process per se’!

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But then there were others encouraging me not to despair – surrender and give up – because we need people like you to still be able to speak out and say the truth – however bitter and ugly that we do not want to hear and or accept! Please continue to act as our ‘Conscience-Keeper’ – and keeping things from sliding down further in ‘this dark alley’ – and then we all end as Losers. If you have heard of the story of The Father, The Son and The Donkey – they were going to sell! – you will probably get the gist of the meaning of what I am trying to say here – so please bear with me – and as a citizen I think I have the right to say what I feel and what my views are!

 First of there is need to say this thing that has come out in The Society now! We are part of the global village and whatever happens in other parts of the world – especially nearer the home – we cannot isolate ourselves from the rest of the world in things and events catching up with us! We still have the ‘Old Guards’ in our midst that want no changes – and even if they are a few – but still are powerful and influential – especially when ‘the element of fear the change, unknown and untested’ still crops in and overrides!

 I have written so many articles on all the above and even in a desperate and last attempt in writing the book A Cry For Help! – published in September 2009 – well before all the troubles hit us in The Arab World. But I was branded all types of names and colours – and I never ever again got a HR job that lasted more than 3 months – because being already a sick person with acute diabetic case – high blood pressures and eyes problems it was not worth me continuing to tag and struggle along – because as the Brits say ‘ ‘if you cannot stand the heat – quit whilst you still can’!.

 And to quit I have done – even if it was just as quick as 18 minutes to pack my things – and leave the Offices in that time! Even if this time are fellow Omanis as my Top Bosses – but then they are unsure of themselves – and have many Advisors – many of them anti-me expatriates – with long elephant memories!

 Recently, I have again been perturbed and greatly disturbed to read articles talking about grand generalizations of The Omani Youth and The Applicant. Forget me that was born outside – but my parents and elders were all born in Oman – including grandparents! Including my children and grandchildren! I do not know of any other place that is home except this one – that took me in as a refugee under United Nations – returning home to our family ancestry – and giving me a passport that I am very proud and esteemed of. His Majesty Accession was the silver lining in the storm – after our families lost heavily in the bloody revolution – and the massacres and ethnic cleansing that followed!

 You will, therefore, no doubt appreciate why I am a keen advocate and pusher from day one for Omanisation – Youth Recruitment – Training and Development!

 Though my future prospects and career were much tarnished and damaged by not ‘towing the line’ – like others did – but frankly I have no regrets to date – and even if my life were represented – I would still do ‘the very same things – all over again’!

 In one of the funerals I had attended some 30 years ago – I wrote about this! – There were these people from one Office cursing the boss who had just died – and still warm and not buried yet! It made my flesh crawl – and I could not believe my ears! When I queried them – then why did you come to the funeral – they retorted something about being forced by the Management to come – but if they had their say – they would rather go home – and watch television!

 I wondered to myself why there would be so much hatred and animosity – to the extent ‘that he is now going to burn in his grave to eternal damnation’! As a HR Professional – that made me so scared – but it was a great learning point and lesson to me on life – and life’s aspects!!

 In another funeral gathering some years later -  I saw men over forties actually crying – because ‘the good boss had died – and who will look after us now? I was then so elated and felt great that though I was losing money heavily in my job career and future – but Thank God – I was in the right track – at least!. I would prefer this – than being cursed -  even at death!

 You may well ask why I am worried – again? From what I can read of people making generalized statements – and branding everything under one colour – rather than the rainbow and other colours – it is very scary and frightening! I have this fear that what people are writing is for the particular interests and welfare of ‘some die-hard old guards’ that do not want to change with the times – even if they would plummet us all into this decadence, malaise and decay of darkness and uncertainties – and we have still not learnt from what we see live being played out in the Television and Media news!

 Admittedly it is true that even in each basket there are bad eggs (fish) – but unfair, unethical, unprofessional and unprincipled generalizations of the whole lot is unjustified and unfair!

 Like I have also said many times before – the expatriate here is under natural pressures to outdo and outperform the adversary competition in local recruitment – otherwise there are no considerations, sympathy or patience for him – but the same guy can easily disappoint you easily – when he is back at his home relaxed environment.

 Besides, the point also that we are a young nation – just 50 years old – and still evolving and changing to catch up with the rest of the world – and even our own neighbours. Trust me – I am not an Apologist for lower standards, quality and complacency – and I do not also believe in window dressing – patch-up repair works either.

 But there sure is far more room for so much further changes and improvements – and further calculated risk taking. I was really scared to hear why the Teenagers prefer public jobs than private – but the ‘real excuses give’ are just doubtful and do not hold any credible evidence and proof – because there is far more than meets the eye here!

Admittedly it is true we have some issues and problems still – but I believe they are exaggerated and blown out of proportions!

Maybe some people should read (again?) my two books in Arab Management – Psychology of Arab Management Thinking and A Cry For Help! I think it is all in there! But I still stand corrected – with provided credible proof and evidence! See www.myown-ebooks.com – with sincere apologies!

 The future belongs to these youth – and for their destiny, legacy and destiny – even if there will be a lot of errors and mistakes – before we reach our final destination – goals, targets and focuses – Amin Amen The time to do that is now – not after! History and future generations will judge us by what we do now – not do or even any inaction.

Take Care!

By Majid Al Suleimany

Posted at: www.majidall.com and at www.majidwrite.com

www.majidwrite.com – My New Website. Reply

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www.majidwrite.com – My New Website.

Dear All & After Compliments;

Created today this more simpler version will also accommodate all my twice weekly columns in The Oman Daily Observer. The Columns appear every Sunday and Wednesday!

Happy Surfing!

Best Wishes and Regards,

Majid Al Suleimany

a-cry-for-help-first-lady-photo[1]

The Aftermath! By – Majid Al Suleimany Reply

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For Wednesday August 1st 2012

My Website – http://www.majidall.com

At My Workplace (Outlook)!

The Aftermath!

After my last week article titled “Living together as one in peace and harmony!” – I had received considerable responses in my websites – including some personal Emails and Messages. Overall, there was support and allegiances in what was written. I found very encouraging some responses sympathizing and in support coming also from broad minded objective pragmatic and secular foreigners too! Oman was indicated as an example and a ‘beacon of hope’ for mankind of how people can live together as one in peace, love and harmony – and the respects and esteem given to foreigners in the country!

However, like in most cases, there were some dissenting forces and I find the following as one of the strongest. As an Administrator of my own blogs, I do accept that the names given are ‘perhaps not that real’ – but this does not bother me at all – as I look more on content than who is sending it!

One of the contributors had said – Quote – Message: I have read some of the articles. The best part I mostly enjoy is that you write from the bottom of your heart. All the information is based on your 35 years of experience and not from stories told by friends or read from books.

Your writing skills are excellent. I pray to ALLAH INSHALLAH you succeed in your dreams and that day where all positions are filled with qualified Omanis only. Your are one of the very few Omanis who disclose the pain we Omanis endure because of the expatriates – unquote.

In my book A Cry For Help! – http://www.myown-ebooks.com – see above image – I have highlighted the problems and issues being faced by especially qualified and educated young Omanis – especially when they want to join – or are accepted in ‘by a pointing barrel of a gun’ to take them in’ so to speak – excuse the melodrama! Even qualified and fully experienced Omanis for that matter too!

That is why I wrote the book – so my conscience can be clear and clean that I have done my part in saying it ‘as it is’! The rest is not upto me!

After the book was published – it was the last time that I received any job offers – even temporary and or consultancy – and any that I received after that did not last much longer – and I was a victim of my own situation and circumstances. Sadly and tragically from even fellow Omanis GMs and others – because they are susceptible to receive the advices and counsels of the ‘active foreign hands’ – so to speak!

It is a double-edged sword that cuts both ways – but the future for sure is for the young Omanis in their destiny, legacy and future – whether this is accepted or not – does not matter!

In one well known case what I thought was a friend and whom I had confided on my misgivings – was God Forgive me in this Holy Month of Fasting – perhaps instrumental after him meeting with this GM I knew well before – and as already said in my columns to leave within half an hour with the ultimatum given to continue in that place. I need money for sure – but respects and esteem more!

Though truthfully only some of the ‘bad eggs (fish)’ are only few expatriates – but the majority are also indifferent and may even be supportive on the sidelines – as they seem to think this will work for them to their advantages. Let us not forget also the die-hards old guards in Top Management – and Owners – especially family-run – but sadly can even go across to bigger and National places – that these things should not happen – or allow to happen!

In one of the places where a family member was looking for a visa for even business travel – not holidays – an Official sarcastically asked him if ‘you belong to that guy who seems to write a lot in newspapers? Actually it is only one newspaper – but people can be free to say what they want – especially when they think they are in-charge and in-control! I had a good mind to go and meet him – but then I remembered I had better things to do – than bang my head against brick walls!

I am still that much sure and convinced that a time will still yet to come and to pass when people will wish they had been more fair, professional and ethical towards me. Hopefully before I die! But after my books – and seeing all the things happening around us – when one or two send me messages like above – I believe my work has been done – and my conscience is now clear.

Even the book on Road Safety – Behind The Wheel! – with just few exceptions – took a beating. Yet we all know how bad the state of driving has become – and the increased road accidents, tragedies and fatalities – yet a noble and National worthy cause too – but still targeted and singled out for sure! Simply because if this book will be a success – people might want to read my other books – where they are most targeted!

What more I can say now?

Take Care!

By:

Majid Al Suleimany

majidalsulaimani@gmail.com – majid@majidalsuleimany.com

majidalsuleimany@gmail.com – majidsnalsuleimany@hotmail.com

majid@mas-trac.com – majid@majidsuleimany.com

Words – 781

The Month of Forgiveness! By Majid Al Suleimany Reply

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Wednesday July 25th  2012

 At The Workplace! – Outlook!

The Month of Forgiveness! 

  • Indeed the most honoured of you in the sight of Allah (God) is the one with the most Taqwa (Righteousness/God Consciousness) – Surah Hujaraat – 49.13.
  • Allah’s special mercy comes on the families (nation) that are united, harmonious and peaceful – especially in Taqwa and in the Fasting Month – The Hadith.

This Ramadhan I got a nice message for the month from one person. The number was not registered in my Mobile – but I decided to accept the nice message and send one back in reciprocity! Unfortunately, the person decided ‘to spoil it all’ by asking me if I really knew from whom the message came from? And asking me to ‘keep trying to guess’! I politely declined ‘the offer’ – and had decided to just register the person as ‘Sender Good Ramadhan Message’!

That was not enough for the person – because he did not give up! I guess the reason was ‘he or she thought I would be very much surprised to receive this kind of message from him! It seemed to me that the person ‘was keen to be found out’ – so we can take it off from that level! But if you are not telling – who am I to push you to come forward and tell me?

It dawned on me that this could be a person that I had crossed with and upset in the past – and he is making a subtle move to come forward – and say it in his own ways and styles!

The day before Ramadhan we had a family get together – because it was a long time since we had one together as one whole family – and also to celebrate some of the children finalists good examination results – and one or two who had got promoted – and of course with a new car to show the rest of us too – with the old bangers going over 7 years now – and cannot afford a new one still yet!

Frankly, I try to be ‘my level best’ in these types of social gatherings nowadays – and just to show you how bad things have now become in society – because definitely there will be one or two determined to get you pissed off and upset – for just some rice and morsels – and make the rest of your day to be upset and to be annoyed!

 

The thing that they can easily find fault to upset and annoy you is in your passion of writing – and nitpicking minor things to be made mountains from molehills on a driving pursuit and purpose to do their bit. They like to call it as ‘constructive criticism and feedback’ – but if you ask him to explain himself clearly in more details – than just the one sentence or two he picked out of context – he fails miserably!.

But then he will say to you that you are now becoming over sensitive – and the age element has definitely kicked in – for you to behave like this way! The question to ask here – if this can come within – who needs enemies outside? A famous Arabic expression says – rightly too! – A thousand enemies outside the house are better than one within! 

Things have gone so bad nowadays – because at Family get-together times even – you get people – after years and years of being sidelined and being marginalized – have now received promotions that have gone to their heads – being contemptuous, cynical, satirical and pompous! Looking down on others the lesser lucky and fortunate in life! 

Like I always like to say – a few more Baizas has changed the person completely – in an adverse – and negative way! That is why if I am not invited to any social gathering nowadays – it is not ‘sour apples’ – but honestly – I feel that the person has done me a good deed indeed! 

A friend of mine had sent me this saying – which I will share with you! The most testing time for a woman is when her husband has gone poor and broke – and for a man is when he has become rich and famous! He gives me his own life story as proof of what he is saying here – when he became astute poor –and with losing his position and job! With children even – and or no children either! 

So I messaged to the person – There is something that you perhaps do not know about me! I always try my level best to avoid conflicts as much as I possibly can! I also can promise you that I never cast (throw) the first stone either! But after cautioning you after several trespass and interferences – I can turn nasty to even shock you! I then come down charging – like a bull in a glass shop! Admittedly, some may even say – his reactions outdo his silence and patience at the outset. Taking it from the 90/10 principle of reacting to situations! 

As a Writer, Author and Columnist – I will be naïve and stupid not to realise that I have upset and annoyed people – and will continue to do so – so long as I keep writing on in my life! Even if I decide to stop – I will upset those who want me to continue – and even write much more than before! Like Louis IV had said – Whichever side I take or whatever I will do, I will still be blamed by the other side! 

In all my life and in my pursuits – I have always aimed to change the things I can do so by myself if I can do so – and if not – speak or write about it! In weak moments – yes – I have gone to the lowest levels in Religion – of saying – I am against this – but I am afraid – and have now joined in silence the Silent Majority! 

Like the unfairness and injustice being faced now by me – but there is nothing that I can do on my own – though have talked about it several times in my columns here!

In the spirit, graciousness and kindness of the Holy Month – I ask for forgiveness for those that I may have upset and annoyed – and even by default and inadvertently! I still believe to speak the truth always as I see it – and ready to change my mind if shown and or convinced otherwise! 

But I also feel deep in my heart and in conviction – body and spirit – that only a person that really cares, feels and does not want ‘things to go bad and or wrong’ – will tell you exactly what he thinks – for the general good, remedy, corrections, peace, harmony and for future generations, history, legacy – and for our destiny too. In that way you will forgive me too – for I will hardly change! 

Ramadhan Kareem! Take Care! 

By:- 

Majid Al Suleimany 

www.majidalsuleimany.com

The Family Feuds – And In-Fights! Reply

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Outlook – The Oman Daily Observer – Sunday May 20th 2012

Between Us Only! – Outlook!

 The Family In-Fights And Feuds!

  • I must say that quite a number of your articles do hit the nail hard right on the head – and I really enjoyed reading them! – A Fan from Germany.
  • Please do not give up writing. Take a break – take a deep breath and rediscover your passion. Love your passion as you did the first day – as passion is a part of you – and you need it – From an European Fan (in Oman)

Like everything in life – there are two sides of the same story – same just like in a coin! The situation becomes more confusing if a third dimension or perspective crops in – rendering the whole situation more perplexing and confusing! So please bear with me whilst I try to make my points across. Because I have seen this in real life!

The best example was last Eid when my article had appeared on the same day. I had bought extra copies hoping that it would turn out to be a great conversation piece! Apart from two or three avowed enthusiastic always family members who were keen to read the articles – the rest were not.

They were more interested in passing around the latest rumours and ‘hot spicy news’ than engage in constructive well meaning discussions. One or two just scanned the newspaper – and put it down when they came to my column! I guess this happens in many families – not only in our own!

Images All About Writing!

This I found in discussions across my fans listings that includes more expatriates on a rough count than fellow Omanis. Though I have been proud and elated at one social gathering when even some Public VIPs complimented me by saying that they only buy the newspaper on those two days my columns appear – though they may say the same to other Columnists does not bother me – at least it got said to me!

So you can see the point that I want to try to make here. If you have read about The Good Samaritan then you know what I mean. Or to bring the message more clearly – as The East Africans say – That which bites your skin is the same fabric that you are wearing – though supposed to protect you – but unknown to you it is also doing the biting (scratching) your own skin!

Images – It Is All About Writing!

I do not know about some others – but I know for sure that I have supposed to be ‘family members – and even friends’ too that are dead against everything that I write! They just do not want me to write. These elements were exposed when I had stopped writing for sometime – with the congratulations and compliments ‘that you did the right thing (decision)’ – sic!

 

 Image – My Books and I!

Look at these:-

  • I do not like his writings – because he drags us the family into his explanations. He can write about himself only – if he wants! – Family Member.
  • Are you related to this guy who likes to write a lot? – A supposed-to-be Engineer to a family member.
  • Strangely and interestingly – those who cannot even write a decent sentence in any language – let alone in English – are the biggest critics! Typical!
  • You know – Between Us Only! – A sarcastic and always cynical family member every time he feels like opening his mouth in making others laugh!
  • Hey – did you know you are all open below? – A baboon on the ground to one up the tree!
  •   The point is – as also the East Africans say – why should your mouth feel hot – when it is the other person eating the chillies?

This is a fact of life. Frankly sometimes I do not feel to go to social and family gatherings – because there will always be someone to annoy and upset you – to make him feel good – and those around in! That is our envious and jealous streaks in our blood!

Frankly – if my career had really taken off – and or my consultancy business had taken off – then in most likelihood I would not have stumbled into writing – which was in my blood and ambition since I was 12 – and winning a National Writing Contest when I was just 14 with the topic – My Most Vivid Dream!

In my article last week I also narrated about Tina Turner and how her own husband was becoming increasingly jealous and envious of her – because she was stripping and overtaking his own popularity and with the fans! Just imagine! Your own spouse even! One time a friend of mine was lamenting about the time away from home that his wife was taking to do her business!

She comes from work – and straight goes on to do her business – and it is the housemaid that does the house chores and works till Madam returns late home at night – and then straight to bed. The routine would repeat itself even on Thursdays – and even Fridays sometimes. The man was pointing to his chin – I have had it up to here! Even if the business was a great earner to his own family!

He even proudly and meanly boasts that he had gone to pick Madam at the shop – but he simply refused to go in – despite the pleas from the Office girls ‘for at least for him to have a look inside! When the business collapsed – and Madam was in great stress and depressions – it secretly and sadistically pleased him to see she is back in the house – even though she lost her public job because of the business problems!

He felt that she is now back in the house – where she ‘rightly belongs’ – even though they had now bigger financial problems – and the man was the only bread earner – and even if his salary was far lower than that of Madam! So you can just see how mean, dastardly and vicious some people can get! Even to their own spouse – and family!

One time another ‘friend’ was so upset and agitated that I had sent my article email to his wife. That was the time that I did not have a website to record store and write-in – though the wife was number 75 in the To list. He spent all the time to check who else the email was sent to – instead of doing his job that he was paid to do in his office. Even though I told him it was her that wanted to be included to receive my article – but he would not have it.

Hearing the commotions my HR Assistant – a nice decent boy – also IT buff – designed and gave me my first website as a gift on my birthday – www.alsuleimany.com I then stopped sending out my articles – unless personally requested now! I learnt my lesson the hard way! Thank God what I sent was all decent – otherwise I would have ended in more dire straits and trouble! Could even a parent be jealous and envious of one’s own sibling? Or conversely? I think enough shocks for today!

As our good Indian friends say – that is how the world goes around – so be ready for both pleasant and unpleasant surprises – whether you make it – do not make it – in life!

Take Care!

 

By: -

 

Majid Al Suleimany

 

The Committee Has Not Met Yet! At My Workplace! Reply

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At My Workplace!

The Committee Has Not Met Yet!

http://main.omanobserver.om/node/92399

 See also scanned copy here as has appeared in The Oman Daily Observer of April 25th 2012

  •  Still Nothing Has Changed Much – Despite All The Rhetoric!
  • If Moses were a Committee – The Israelites would still be in Egypt today!
  • Nothing you tell these people will have any effect on them – Ali Fazari – Syrian Artist.

 In hindsight and again speaking from my own personal experiences and in retrospect – I wish to reiterate this point – that though we have seen some initiations and improvements in the citizens’ rights and freedom – still nothing has changed much on the grounds and in reality.

 The problems are the same in pushing them forward into action, reality and into practice – rather than them being minutes of meetings – and if even filed for records first of all in the first instance. There is need for real movement into action, propelling, push, dynamism and pragmatism in moving them forward – into practice and into reality. Time is not in our side – in essence and or in favour – before we all get bogged down into being reactive ‘fire fighting’ – and further ‘red tape, bureaucracy and inaction’!

 It is alright to put news of improvements and changes for the better in the media – but what is the use of all of them – if they are still not practiced – or excuses given for delays and procrastinations – as is the usual case? I hope that Readers can remember of what I wrote before of those working within the system – the ‘old guards syndrome’ – to prevent and or delay changes. These peoples need to be exposed – and kicked out – and as lessons to others.

 This is also the real truth still! The citizen cannot still win – or very few isolated cases in success – against the public departments and bodies. This is even if you have a case where if things were really practiced and put in action – the citizen SHOULD win in case of dispute scenario. But he will simply not win. Adversely, the same public body can take you for action – and or sue you in courts for the ‘same case and situation’ – for as many times as they want – and the case will still be heard – and nothing can stop them! Even if you cannot draw blood from a stone! 

You go to the Public Officials that you know to hope for solace and intervention – and they are obligated to do so by their authorities, power, control and auspices dominion – if not that you know them well and hope Wastah will kick in – but does not! Simply no one will ever lift a finger to help you – or they turn away from you as if you do not exist- and even if you try to contact then face to face – let alone by emails and by phone? Even if you want to fight against the Big Cats for your rights or that company of yours that is closing down – you end yet again as The Loser!

 How long these things will go on – before something breaks up – or blows up in front of our faces?  The truth and in actual fact – the things at stake and at issue are in reality not really big unsolvable issues – but involve the usual uncaring, care-free, no-interest, cannot-be-bothered-the least approaches and attitudes. What if really big things were at stake? One shudders -  and does not want even want to start thinking on this! Heads need to roll – before things can really improve – otherwise it is a lost cause – and everyone will end as the loser!

 Even if you have given up and do not want to fight your case – because you know you will lose again as the citizen – and complied by what ‘as has been thought as fair and equitable – does not matter if you think differently – who cares? If you follow up your case – so you can be in the clear – and restore your personal freedom and rights – you get the same excuse – The Committee has still not met yet to discuss and or finalise your situation. You are not the only one – so just wait! This is said to you more in annoyance and in anger – rather than in trying to cool you down – or making you understand about the situation – and in letting you know about the results.

 There are things I said in 1980s that now have really happened in reality and on the grounds too. Yet I was given all the labels – including having chips on his shoulders! – A big mouth – a trouble-maker – needs to be stopped! – and so on!

 My problems are that I care and feel a lot – and want things to work out – and not go bad! Instead, I always end up as the victim of circumstances of my own making for speaking up and making a stand – and the usual at the end loser! Whilst those who do not care or bother get rewarded – and acknowledged – and given more and more – because of their lack of caring and in indifference.

 Twice I have given up writing anymore – only to persuaded to come back in again. Of course, I cannot deny that I need the money – if even after 35 years of dedicated services, loyalty and feelings of caring are simply wasted – because I cannot touch much my own pension for the very same aforementioned reasons.

 I can now understand and appreciate why people turn to Religion in despair and in giving up hope – instead of the few like Mohamed Buazizi of Tunisia in self-immolation. I simply cannot understand and comprehend why people are so mean and dastardly to each other – and not wanting to change – despite all the changes around us now!

 I am really tired now in continuing writing about these same issues – and I am still in the tunnel – and no hopes for to see the light at the end of the tunnel – if ever that will be so!

 TAKE CARE!

By: -

Majid Al Suleimany.

The Workplace Issues – Polarisation Syndrome! At My Workplace! Reply

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At My Workplace!

The Workplace Issues – Polarisation Syndrome!

Starting from this week and at fortnightly sequence – I will be writing about issues that some may consider as enigma and taboo – and ‘washing our dirty linen in public’ – and should not be discussed in public – especially in English – because foreigners will read about us – as if writing in Arabic there are no foreigners there! In actual fact, my own personal outlook is that the latter category there is more danger – because they know us deep well inside and out.

Tell that to the Palestinians in their meeting those from the other side – who are fluent Arabic speakers and born also in Arab countries too! Of course people would like to push the ‘dirt under the carpet too for the very same reasons!

As those that are my Readers and Fans will know me well – I always write from my own experiences and exposures – as personal references and in support in what I am writing about.

Incident One. A long time ago when I was working in my last oil company there was a meeting that was going to be attended by one prominent high profile public official together with the rest of us from the Company. After the usual polite courtesies and welcome – our European boss with the usual axe to grind of ‘divide and rule (conquer!)’ – started asking - In which language are we going to hold this meeting – as if he was able to speak Arabic in the first instance! Though his history that he was proud of as an ex Army of the bad things he ‘did to Arabs’ in Palestine! You can tell this man was carrying ‘a lot of excess baggage’ with him!

My colleagues and I were just silent because we needed the money to feed our families and ourselves too! But then the shock was on us when the Public Official (PO) retorted and sarcastically said – In any language so long as it is not Swahili! To this the British boss broke up in great laughter and mirth – it seemed clear to us that there was a meeting of minds here. Yet still the rest of us kept quiet – because of our upbringing more – and our culture, customs, tradition and heritage of respecting guests and visitors – though the speaker was also Omani – and should have known better!

PO thought he will make his foreign new found friend laugh the more – so he repeated what he said before. To which M being M retorted – You will be very lucky if you were able to speak that language! To which PO was angered ‘because I broke his respect’ and went off without the meeting taking place. My boss asked me to apologise in writing to PO – though ‘lucky for me’ English was accepted in my doing so! The unfairness and injustices in life! A few months later down the line PO was kicked out unceremoniously – so the system works!

Incident No. 2 – The Boss – fellow Omani – quickly first scans the job applicants. He is looking at the place of birth more. The rest of the CV Resume did not interest him! Despite his Wastah and connections he too lost his job – though he was able to kick me out first! This story is in both my Arab Management books – www.myown-ebooks.com

Incident No. 3 – I hinted this in my last week article titled There Is Need For More Realism! So it is still recent and new. This Omani GM of a National Prestigious Project called me to his Office – so we can chat. Then he handed me a bombshell that exploded in my face. Remember this Project is National – and supported too! Initially I was at home quietly doing my own business – when he almost begged me ‘ to set us up the Human Resources’ system in this new Company. He offered me a 6 months temporary contract.

This after 7 weeks he calls me to ‘cancel the contract’ because he says – The Board is against me being recruited – even for temporary basis – because ‘I do not come from The Region’ where the Company is going to operate! There is a Manager who is a Foreigner in another function – but that is alright for The Board (TB). TB do not see any issue in that – only to a fellow Omani – even though he is a Manager – and or Consultant – and temporarily employed even!

The GM (Omani) is a very sharp and rude person I ever saw in my life – and cannot handle pressures! I bitterly complain to the Oil Company – Top Management Officials that supports and backs this project – and the place that I had worked for 25 years.

Nobody bothers or care – even the Public Officials involved too! Nobody bothers or cares – because I am a trouble-maker with a big mouth. It would have been okay if it was only me – but than 2 other Omanis too resigned or were terminated! They too ‘did not come from the Region’ to the company was going to operate in!

Can these things happen now in our country after all the troubles that we had gone through – and still going on now? I leave that to you the Reader to decide – though I surely did complain in writing – perhaps because it was in English! I leave the rest to Allah (God) because He is The Best Judge – Amin Amen

Take Care!

By: -

Majid Al Suleimany

Arab Management: Far More In Troubled Waters! New Book – (Under Preparation) – By Majid Al Suleimany Reply

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 We defend the things that we should attack – and attack the things that we should defend!- Majid Al Suleimany

Arab Management:Far Deeper In Troubled Waters! – New Arab Management Book – By Majid Al Suleimany

New Book 7th – Arab Management – Book Three –

By Majid Al Suleimany

www.myown-ebooks.com

www.majidbooks.com

Arab Management: Far Deeper In Troubled Waters!

The Book Theme:-

1 A frank, honest, open and call-a-spade-a-spade no punch-spared, no barrels held stuff and no frills play book exposing

2 Still the ever increasing lack of ethics, principles, professionalism and tolerance in the workplaces.

3 With now ever more increased radicalisation, extremism and fundamentalising of the Offices environment and in similar to the overall similar fast changing facts of the ground in the region.

4 A Tell All As It Is in outlooks, approaches and focuses still prevalent and dominant.

5 It looks into the future in Prophecy and Prediction of what is expected and what is to come – immediately now, in the short term and in the future.

6 Others – Please see below

Addressing the increased extremism, fundamentalism, and still the ever increasing now lack of tolerance and forbearance in the Arab workforce, Author Majid Al Suleimany presents Arab Management: Far Deeper In Troubled Waters! - Context and Perspectives – Arabian Management Series.

 In three parts, the book concentrates on the management styles and aspects of the companies located in the Arabian Gulf Cooperation Council that encompasses Oman, UAE – United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.

 In deep self-analysis and in consciousness, it critically looks into and assesses any changes in particular – if any – in Arab Management – post The Arab Spring Uprisings that shook the countries in the region post January 2011 – after the First Arab Spring Uprisings in Tunisia with the self immolation of Mohamed Buazizi in Tunisia.

 The book critically reviews, analyses, evaluates  and discusses the:-

 v Changes in the Arab Management aspects (if any!) – post the Arab Spring Uprisings from January 2011 onwards.

v The far more and ever increased and widening divide between The Old Guards and The New Younger Graduates Intakes and Generation

v Lessons that have still not been learnt despite all the changes in the MENA Region in Arab Spring Uprisings.

v Still the ever ‘Ostrich Head in the ground’ – ‘Hard of Hearing’ and Push The Dirt under the carpet’ Management approaches – especially from the local environments, focuses and outlooks!

v The ever faster growing radicalization of the local staff – especially The Youth and in particular.

v Still some misbehaving expatriates – and the old guards locals!

v Unhappy, dissatisfied local staff

v Still more poor treatment of staff, especially by some Expatriate Management

v The ever more increasing extremism and fundamentalism in the offices

v Other sensitive and related issues

 In Arab Management: Far Deeper In Troubled Waters! Majid Al Suleimany – an Arab Management Consultant, Advisor and Expert – focuses on what is particular about the type of Arab Management, its context and perspectives, and what is peculiar, special, or particular to that work in the context and in comparison to management styles of other nations.

 Using personal experiences, examples, and illustrations, Al Suleimany exposes the new reality and truth and moves away from the trend and approach of hiding exposes the new reality and truth – and moves away from the trend and approach of hiding issues and problems.

 “It is a unique book, written in a unique style. It is a soul searching and critical evaluation of one’s own people in the field. He extols the culture and importance of work in his religion and the pitfalls and lackluster attitude of the Managers in position about the Principles and Process of Management.” - Editor Features, The Observer

 “Someone must have the guts and courage to write about this growing danger and phenomena with us here now – before it is too late for everyone!” - American CEO

 “The book is critical but objective—and portrays the Arab mind and focus in its proper perspectives.” - Senior Omani Public Official

 “Your writing is quite exceptional, informative, and gripping.”

- Omani High Official

 “There is a great need for improvements and achievements in this particular arena —your book has tried well to cover all these to a very successful extent.” - British CEO

 “Part of the problem of Arab Management is the inherited autocratic society we live in, and confronted by new Management concepts and innovation believing in freedom of expression, empowerment, delegation, transparency, ethics and accountabilities – and the clash between the two.” - Indian CEO

 “Despite everything that has happened so far since the troubles started last year – nothing has changed much at the workplaces – if not for the worse in divisions between locals and expatriates – and in rivalries, polarisation, jealousies, envies – and lack of ethics, transparencies and professionalism” – A VP HR (Omani).

 Even after some Public Officials have lost their jobs, nothing has changed much even in the Public Arena – Retired Public Official

 And so many others.

 This will be a Tell-All – at whatever repercussions and consequences. Enough is Enough! Things cannot be allowed to go on like this – too many lies and deceptions already!

 I am looking for partial sponsorship, financial backing and support especially from those who can – and believe in me – and in this planned new book!

 Allah God be with you all – Amin Amen

 Majid Al Suleimany – Muscat – Oman

April 10, 2012

majid@majidsuleimany.com

majid@mas-trac.com

majidalsuleimany@gmail.com

majidsnalsuleimany@hotmail.com

malsuleimany@yahoo.com

 

The Hard Sale! Between Us Only! Reply

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FOR APRIL 8th 2012

Between Us Only!

 The Hard Sale!

 In all my working and career life,  I have always not liked and despised this element of some of the Sales people just dropping in at my workplace – at random, uninvited and ‘no appointments earlier made’ basis. Particularly pretty tall girls (foreigners more) who think because of their appeal presence – you will not send them away – but will try to find time in your busy schedule to fit them in – and to pay attention to them! It is so irritating to a busting point!

 

When I was still working, I had such a pretty sales girl (foreign) that though the business to her firm was already regular – but one day she even went so far ahead as to ask what my feelings for her were – because she really liked and admired me as a person! Even the girls in my office were asking her – why do you always come at lunch break – when everyone is going out – with exception of our boss who brings in his sandwich – and stays back. The joke and tease was – do you want him to share his sandwich with you?

The real truth is that people are taking undue advantage of especially our Omani customs, traditions and culture of generally being nice, forthcoming, receptive and being respectful to foreigners especially – and the ladies more! Some may even see us as docile and weak – and easily to be taken advantage of.

Sadly, tragically and pathetically – the same treatment is not vetted out on especially our younger Omani Sales people that are also trying hard to copy and emulate – without the usual same success – unless it is on Wastah basis – and or a very pretty head that drops in! There are some countries’ espionage agencies that use very pretty girls for entrapment purposes – and it can be understood well why they do this!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The sad bitter and unfortunate thing also is that we bend backwards to try to be seen nice and accommodating to the foreigners to a greater extent. This same level of tolerance and patience is not extended to our own – nor do we extend them any breaks – even if the poor youngsters are trying their best to get noticed too. And then at the end of the Sales period we judge unmercifully the young our own ‘as not being that successful compared to their expatriate peers’.

 For one the culture is working against them too in addition. Add to that the lack of patience, tolerance and forthcoming from their very own – though advertantly in a few rare cases you may get people with ‘nationalistic and tender feelings’ that may be willing to give them time, patience and breaks too. Or they may fare totally better with foreigners than with their own peoples – sadly the more senior in age and positions that should know better too – as part of their Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR) – if not the Nation first and foremost!

Please do not get me wrong1 I am not against expatriates in particular – but more in their behaviours, attitudes, focuses and approaches – especially the few truant weird ones that aim to discredit and disadvantage our own youth in particular. In actual fact, we know very well that the troubles in our own country started off small by these kinds of things I am writing about today – even if many people would prefer not to know – and or acknowledge – or wish to put the dirt under the carpet – that has so much dirt already there!

Our Youth are also disorganized and even polarized to such an extent that it is working out badly against their positioning, favour and advantage! They lack the correlation and the networking that their expatriate peers have – and that are denied to be shared with or shown to! Admittedly. some few bad fish and eggs in the basket also give a good ruse and excuse to boldly generalize against our own Youth.

There are also some gimmicks that you cannot use against the locals – that you can use against the expatriates – like giving reduced salary perks – but more on sales commissions. Our youth prefer a steady regular payment than to go for high and low peaks in incomes and in achievements per se! Also, you can set sales targets for anyone you wish – locals included – but once the national cadre has completed his or her probation period – there is nothing you can do to him – unless in a serious violation registered, recorded and witnessed!

That is why I am particularly not that much keen with Family run businesses – and even SMEs too – because in many cases and generally – their main concentration is to get maximum profits at minimal costs and investments – and Omanisation and higher salaries are something they dread and fear – especially as it ties their hands to ‘hire and fire’ at will! There is a need to know and recognize that such attitudes, focuses and approaches are or can work against them too one day – and is actually a double edged sword too!

Take Care!

By: -

Majid Said Nasser Al Suleimany.

P.S. There are not even images of Sales Persons locals or even GCC I could find! The theme – the message and theme – jobs not for them!

The Scared Managers! At My Workplace! Reply

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At My Workplace!

The Scared Managers!

For the last 18 months or so I have been at home with no sort of any Human Resources Management job (temporary and or part time) or project-wise. Being bored stiff and having my car back now after it was hijacked by Madam – who finally hit the ceiling to call in retirement benefits (did you notice how sensitive ladies get when they have to tell people their true age and why they are now at home!) – I decided to visit a few of my peers in their offices! Uninvited and unprepared they were for me in my visits!

There are some places I know that I will be most welcomed in and be well treated – whilst I am not naïve not to know that in some places I will be not welcomed – and if I tried entry I would be asked to leave – and or escorted out if I still resisted! This does not bother me the least – because these are places where my good Indian friends have said – he first gave Aaacha Boloo (AB – plain true straight forward hit back talk to the boss!) before he abruptly quit with short or no notice at all!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

So I met these good friends of mine. In some of the places the offices provided for the last day of the week samosas and snacks were still continuing (I missed these and the chats!) – but in others they were no longer there. The excuse was of course ‘budget’ – but I personally think it was more ‘sinister and covered up’ than that! In one of the places my peer friend decided to take me to introduce me to the new Top Guy (TG – Omani also) – and as I sat chatting with him the subject moved over to requirement of filling in the position of one HR position – the incumbent who had interrupted a meeting the TG was giving – and had quitted on the spot after getting AB from him.

So the peer was suggesting to promote the Assistant of the resigned incumbent – but the TG would not hear about it! He just said – if we could not ‘control’ the other guy – how can we be able to control this one – he is worse than him (resigned incumbent)! This scared me to my wits that the desire ‘to control, dominate and manipulate’ was still there – despite all the things that have happened – and in some places still happening! Things in the offices will never change – whether it was locally or expatriate run like in the past!

Why are the Managers so scared that they still want to control their staff? It looks to me like conscripted workers that need to be put in their places like in the military or prison arenas with unruly vagabond rebellious units – and inactive and on the run! Actually the scariest part was not this one but the approaches, attitudes and focuses now of not upsetting the staff – especially the latest entrants younger local staff including the graduates too. The fear is that they do not want to be ‘in the news’ again of slowdowns or work stoppages – so the Management is driving a clear safe distance of dealings and inter relationships – and even if the talks of ‘control management’ aspects are also going on in line and in parallel!

It reminded me of one company that I used to work for in one of the neigbouring countries where they laughed their heads off when being in HR I wanted to see a few of the new entrants in the lists! The mockery and tease was – wait for payday when they come to collect their salaries – we make it a point that at least on pay day they come in to sign in for the cheques – though we could as well transfer their salaries through the bank too if we wanted.

But just to keep minimal contacts – because ‘they are not workers – and we are forced to take them in being nationals’! This plus the interviewee who wanted first to see how his office would look first before sitting down and agreeing to be interviewed by me – though albeit admittedly a local by default too!

Frankly if these things are really going on of not wanting ‘to bother and disturb the staff and let peace reign supreme’ then there are more troubled waters ahead – and MORE dangers than if not action and discipline is not taken for the few offenders and miscreants – localization or not? Why are the Managers now so scared – even the locals too?

We really do need to really self-analyse ourselves and deep consciousness review and research – before we build up lazy bones and uncaring unethical and unprofessional staff for the future!

Take Care!

By: -

Majid Al Suleimany