Over the past couple of months, I have been working on some very specific hiring mandates which have required targeting candidates from similar industry backgrounds. As a result, many of the people I am speaking to are not actively looking for a new role, but are open to a move for the right opportunity.

So what does the right opportunity look like ? 

Usually, for mid–senior level professionals looking to advance in their career the right opportunity will offer some kind of increased scope of responsibilities, genuine ownership of projects and prospects to grow long term.

Besides discussing the criteria for what the role needs to involve, we then move on to salary expectations and any non-negotiable benefits to ensure alignment before progressing with an application. In some cases, there are benefits that are more of a "nice to have", but they often still play a part in the overall decision-making process.

As the market becomes increasingly competitive, and certain sectors continue to grow, many organisations are competing for the same talent, giving those candidates in demand more choice. 

Here are three benefits currently coming up regularly in discussions: 

𝟭. Hybrid work options 

Traffic in Dubai can add up to two hours a day for a round-trip commute, with parking often adding further stress and expense. Candidates understand the need for office presence, but many are now looking for at least one WFH day per week or flexible hours that help them avoid peak travel times. In cases where this isn't possible, parking spaces provided by the employer could be an alternative.