As the covid pandemic started, few could envision the dramatic aftermath it would have on every aspect of our daily lives, and most would agree, that work was the aspect most affected by this.
While the impact of covid in Egypt was not as severe as some other countries, many workplaces had to adapt by being more flexible than they usually are, yet being strict in other aspects that people usually ignored altogether…
Hygiene and Personal Space:
A short Metro ride on a hot summer day would tell you all you need to know about everyday attitude to general cleanliness but many businesses made an effort to include hand sanitizer dispensers and masks available for everyone.
Stricter hygiene rules ended up saving lives by decreasing common touchy-feely practices such as handshakes, hugs, and kisses that were a big part of our local culture…
Home Office and Working Hours:
The reality of having a huge portion of the global workforce working from home and remaining productive would have been unimaginable 5 years ago but attitudes changed with many companies making hybrid work the new norm.
However with some firms returning to full office hours a number of employees don’t wish to give up their newfound freedom and flexibility as the stress on a better work-life balance becomes the new priority for countless employees.
Prioritizing Mental Wellbeing:
Mental health issues from isolation and exhaustion are on the rise globally and business owners took note because of how it negatively impacted productivity with certain individuals.
In Egypt this is a rarely discussed issue and was more of a taboo to some, but global trends have led to better handling of employee concerns and needs paving the way for a brighter future for those working the private sector here.