LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional network, 
announced the results of its new research study, in unison with the local roll-out of its global “In It Together” campaign.
The study asked people in the UAE and across the world how they define professional success, and who or what have been the reasons behind their career trajectories. Findings from the report have revealed a strong correlation between success and happiness, with 66 per cent of those surveyed in the UAE saying that success means “being happy”. Another top choice was “being healthy” (63 per cent), while “maintaining a work-life balance” was the third most popular answer (53 per cent).
Among the UAE’s expatriate professional community, nearly 45 per cent (44.9) say 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”. Additionally, 57.3 per cent credit being exposed to different cultures for making them more creative, and 59 per cent say they have learned more thanks to that exposure.
Other findings revealed that nearly 61 per cent (60.9) 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).
Commenting on the findings, Ali Matar, Head of LinkedIn MENA, said: “Our latest 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.”
He added: “These 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.”
Following the theme of professional fulfilment, 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.
