Is Flexible Working the Way of the Future?
Research, carried out by HSBC after the company introduced their Flexible Working Policy, showed that the flexi-time was the top motivator for boosting productivity in 89% of employees. Flexible working is the term used to describe any pattern of work that breaks away from the traditional 9 to 5. This can include working your total hours over 4 days instead of the usual 5, or starting your standard work day at anytime you wish.
Over the last few years, it has been gaining popularity due to the demands of modern life and technological advancements that have made remote working easier. As a result, HSBC is not the only large company to offer the option to its employees. Vodafone, Unilever, and Google are among the many who have also adopted the working model. So, is flexible working the way of the future and why should your company consider it?
There is currently a skills shortage in some industries such as IT, finance and customer services with up to 84% of organisations saying they are struggling to fill vacancies. However, 92% of millennials listed flexible working as the most important factor when considering a new job, yet it is only offered by 1 in 10 jobs currently advertised. Giving your company a competitive edge when recruiting is key. Using a recruitment company can help you compete and win the best employees.
Flexible working patterns also helps widen the pool of talent available to your business. Adjustable hours have been found hugely beneficial to parents, who can mold their day around the school run and childcare. It also allows more time to be spent with family and friends. A total of 12.7% of all sickness days taken in the UK attributed to mental health. Therefore, helping your employees achieve a more positive work-life balance could help reduce these and boost productivity.
Legally, an employee in the UK must have been in the same employment for a minimum of 26 weeks before they have the right to request flexible working. It is important to note that employers must consider seriously every application.
For more advice on how Juice can help you recruit the best employees, give us a call on 01924 377500 or email us at [email protected]
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