Walid Dafallah is an HR professional with over 10 years of experience in the education industry with a focus on Talent Management. Before joining Ajman University of Science & Technology (AUST) as Assistant Recruitment Manager, Walid worked as the Recruiter In Charge at the American University of Sharjah. In addition to HR, Walid has experience in marketing and teaching soft skills and basic computer courses. His academic record includes a Master’s degree in Human Resources Management and a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. Walid is preparing for a Certificate in HR Practice (CHRP) from The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) which he will obtain – hopefully! – by early 2014. We asked Walid about his career and life in the UAE, as well as his advice for professionals in the region, and here's what he had to say: 1. How do you like living and working in the UAE? I’m proud to say that I’ve been living in the UAE since the 1980's and I’m truly enjoying it. The UAE is supporting the business sector and because of this, there are many career opportunities in the job market. Also, the UAE has set laws to secure a healthy environment for both employers and employees. In addition, it has been supporting nationals to find suitable placement within the government and public sectors. AUST, specifically, has set several initiatives to attract locals (graduates and professionals) as a great place to maintain a good work-life balance. From a living prospective, there is no doubt that the UAE is one of the best countries in the world to live in due its quality of life, the various cultural and religious activities available, and the excellent infrastructure it provides. 2. What is the most important thing AUST looks for in new hires? AUST strives to hire talented nationals, both graduates and professionals, who have the required abilities to contribute to the university's mission. As a leader in the education sector, we look for team members who are innovative, hard workers, enthusiastic and service-oriented. Our competency-based interviews are driven from our mission which is committed to producing globally competitive graduates who are equipped with the highest sense of professionalism and social responsibility by continually enhancing the quality of its core functions: Teaching, Research, Training, Expertise, and Practice - all exercised in an innovative environment. 3. What is the biggest challenge recruiters face in hiring talent in your industry? There is high competition in the region. However, our university has excellent facilities to attract candidates from all over the world as we immensely support a diverse community. Specifically, our recruiters are committed to search for quality faculty members from all over the globe. On the other hand, we always seek development in our Emiratization plans and strategies to attract locals efficiently and effectively, but also to retain them. 4. What is your top tip for fresh graduates who are about to enter the job market? We always encourage our fresh graduates to attend our career workshops and seminars. We also advise them to stay in touch with our Career Counseling Center that aims to educate and serve AUST students and alumni to successfully identify, plan and pursue their career goals. 5. What do you read to keep abreast of industry developments? I use social media where I can get connected with other experts and professionals in order to keep myself up-to-date with the latest developments in the industry. Of course, I also read books, magazines and specialized HR websites. 6. What advice do you have for companies wishing to retain top talent? The best practice is to set a human resources plan where organizations can distinguish their stars. Identifying them is the starting point. Stars should be introduced as key players and role models to other colleagues, and should be continuously rewarded and motivated. 7. Can you tell us about your experience with Bayt.com? I started using Bayt.com over a year ago. We've hired many candidates through Bayt.com. The system interface is very easy to use. Additionally, Bayt.com dedicated team is very supportive and professional in attending our needs. I think having Bayt.com as a business partner is one of our recruitment success stories, I advise all companies to subscribe and use its excellent services. 8. What is your favourite feature on Bayt.com? Its search engine. Because it's very easy to use and very effective too; you can have thousands of results with a few simple clicks.
