Ramadan at the Workplace

By Shukry Rashid

It’s the Ramadan month but it’s business as usual in the office. Here are a few tips on how to make the workplace a better one for all during this period.

1. If you have Muslim staff working during office hours, consider flexible work arrangement for them where they can start and finish work early. Most Muslims prefer to break their fast in a communal setting, with their family and friends instead of at the office.
2. But if it is sunset and they are still working, give time off for Muslim workers to take a break. They need ample time to break their fast and eat properly.
3. Your Muslim colleagues probably won’t mind if you eat in the office during lunch time. After all, dealing with temptation is what Ramadan is all about. But it would be nice if you can show some discretion when you indulge in that bowl of piping hot noodles.
4. Attending a lunch meeting is going to demand a lot from your Muslim colleagues. Why not throw an iftar, a break-fasting session, instead where you can share a part of their lives? It can also be a platform for greater understanding and improving team dynamics.
5. Try to avoid meetings in the afternoon. If the meeting is going to be intensive and high concentration is needed, consider holding them in the morning when everyone is still fresh and alert.

Source: NTUC This Week