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Success for professionals in UAE means 'being happy'

A large majority of resident professionals in the UAE who took part in a survey by LinkedIn defined success as  "being happy."
The research study by the world's largest professional network has disclosed that while 66 per cent of those surveyed in the UAE said that success means "being happy," while another top choice was "being healthy" (63 per cent). "Maintaining a work-life balance" was the third most popular answer (53 per cent).
The research study, in unison with the local roll-out of its global "In It Together" campaign, showed that nearly 45 per cent (44.9) believe they are "very successful" in the UAE work environment in comparison to their experiences in their home countries, while another 35.9 per cent describe themselves as "fairly successful".
An earlier survey by the professional network showed the UAE professionals ranked first in feeling successful, followed by Brazil in the second spot and the UAE in the third place.  In all three countries, the survey respondents had prioritised happiness and health over money with a majority defining success as  "being happy."
In the latest survey by LinkedIn, some 57.3 per cent of the respondents credit being exposed to different cultures for making them more creative, and 59 per cent said they have learned more thanks to that exposure. The study also disclosed that nearly 61 per cent of UAE professionals have a workplace best friend, or 'bestie', who helps them better get through the day (50.8 per cent), makes them feel more confident (35.8 per cent), and plays a part in their career progression (32.8 per cent).
Ali Matar, Head of LinkedIn Mena, said the study conveys intriguing insights into the UAE's labour force, revealing how a significant number believe themselves to have attained professional success already. "In addition, it highlights the impact of diversity in the workplace, confirming that people learn and evolve when surrounded by unique perspectives and skill sets."
Matar said the results also break down the perception that success happens within a vacuum.
"Each of us have entire communities to thank for our careers - from our families and friends, to our colleagues and mentors - and as the world's leading networking platform for professionals, we hope to be an integral part of this community. Through our tools, we aim to continue connecting people to the right opportunities, while leading them to the next step in their journey to professional success."
LinkedIn's 'In It Together' campaign seeks to find out what drives the ambitions of the world's workforce. The local campaign launch and research findings come during a period in which the UAE is well on its way to achieve the objectives laid out in its National Agenda, one of which is to rank amongst the top five happiest countries in the world by 2021. - issacjohn@khaleejtimes.com