A former CEO of a company once told me that money helps to satisfy an employee, but it does not motivate (Workers prefer pat on the back over pay, June 16).
However, I believe that money does both and companies must strike a balance between the two.
It has been proved that companies that have introduced bonus programmes as part of a reward and recognition scheme see a marked improvement in productivity.
However, it’s important that bonuses are directly linked to performance, which are, in turn, linked to corporate and personal objectives. After all, we are rewarded for performance and not effort.
Equally, companies that have introduced recognition strategies have seen a marked improvement in morale. What I call the “Gotcha award” could be implemented quickly and at minimal cost. When you see an employee doing something extraordinary, you shake hands with him or pat him on the back. A small token or gift voucher could be given by the manager.
Randall Mohammed, Dubai
Charity must continue after Ramadan
The article How and where to give during Ramadan 2015 in the UAE (June 17), highlighting 30 charitable and non-profit organisations to which to donate, was wonderful. Many a time, people want to give but are unable to do so as they are not aware of the proper channels. This report will help people to find the right places to make their charitable donations.
Fatima Suhail, Sharjah
Giving is important, but responsible, well-informed giving is even more important.
Annina Mattsson, Dubai
We should donate throughout the year. Only then can we make a difference.
Brigitte von Bulow, Abu Dhabi
Flying BA wasn’t very pleasant
I refer to the article British Airways premium economy: A flight that's far from a poor man's business (June 8). In my opinion, British Airways is overrated and overpriced and many of their attendants are rude and grumpy.
Jen Bishop, Abu Dhabi
I flew British Airways business class and it wasn’t a pleasant experience. The check-in front desk staff looked disgusted as I wasn’t all dressed up. The cabin crew tried to send me to economy when I asked for some wine, not recognising that had I paid for business class.
Chris Reid, Dubai
Housing scene is confusing
The housing situation here is very confusing (Exchange rates and rents lift cost of living in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, June 18). Property prices are dropping, yet landlords and property agents think they can increase rents to cover the drop in asset value/ commission. What's happening?
Simon Buckerfield, UK
US needs clear antiterror plan
News that the Libyan Al Qaeda leader Mokhtar Belmokhtar has been killed in a US air strike is touted as a major victory against the terrorist group (Libya air strike kills top militant, June 16).
But I think this is merely a symbolic victory. Killing Belmokhtar will not weaken Al Qaeda just as killing Osama bin Laden did not affect the group. That said, both events have great significance for the US, as these people targeted US interests.
The battle against Al Qaeda and ISIL cannot be won by taking out one or two leaders. These groups are well organised and have other people in line to take over.
The US needs a comprehensive strategy to counter these groups and destabilise them from within rather than pursuing individuals such as Belmoktar, whom it sees as its enemy.
To that extent, his absence will not affect any one.
