Attract a diverse pool of candidates to help grow your business
It doesn’t seem so long ago that working from home, for all or part of the week, was for the privileged few – often viewed with scepticism, as an excuse for an ‘easy’ day at home rather than making the effort to get into the office.
The pandemic changed all that and employers came to realise that there were definite benefits to offering flexible working during the months when being in the office was either not allowed or later, when social distancing was advised.
Now over 4.4 million people in the UK are on flexi-time employment contracts and there are plenty of reasons why flexible work from home jobs should be made available to more employees. Possibly the most important is that now that it is more commonplace, and if your competitors are offering it, that could put you at a disadvantage when it comes to finding the right people.
There’s also an argument that flexible work arrangements can lead to happier and more productive employees, which is always better for a company and its bottom line.
And the benefits of flexible working practices extend far beyond how they directly impact your employees – there are several factors regarding working from home that can positively impact a business’s success.
So, if you’ve already embraced change, or if you’re thinking about introducing new, more flexible work-from-home opportunities, here are just some of the areas that might benefit:
In a competitive job market, attracting and retaining top talent is crucial. Offering variable working arrangements is a powerful tool for employers. Many skilled professionals prioritise work-life balance, and by providing flexibility, employers can attract a diverse pool of candidates. In addition, retaining experienced employees becomes more manageable when they have some flexibility to balance their professional and personal lives.
Flexible working arrangements can lead to substantial cost savings for employers. With a portion of the workforce operating remotely, companies can reduce expenses related to office space, utilities and other overheads. They may no longer need large office spaces, which gives them a chance to allocate resources more efficiently. Additionally, employers can save on regular expenses such as travel allowances and mileage payments.
This is one of the primary advantages of flexible working for employers. When employees have the flexibility to choose their working hours and environment, they are more likely to align their tasks with their peak productivity periods, leading to increased job satisfaction. Additionally, the reduction of commuting time and the ability to work in a comfortable setting can lead to increased focus and efficiency, ultimately contributing to higher output and quality of work.
Flexible working can lead to a sense of trust among employees, improving their engagement levels and job satisfaction. When individuals feel trusted to manage their own schedules and work independently, they often become more invested in their roles. Working from home leads to increased engagement which in turn can lead to a positive work culture, improved collaboration and a commitment to the organisation's goals.
Variable working arrangements can contribute to a more resilient business model. In times of unforeseen events, the COVID-19 pandemic is a prime example, companies with established flexible work policies are in a better position to maintain operations. Remote work capabilities ensure that essential tasks can continue, minimising disruptions and ensuring the continuity of processes.
The modern workforce is becoming increasingly diverse in terms of age, lifestyle and personal circumstances. Flexible working accommodates diverse needs, catering to employees at various life stages. Whether that is parents seeking a better work-life balance, millennials valuing experiences over traditional work settings, or individuals with health concerns requiring flexible schedules, accommodating everyone’s needs is beneficial to the workplace.
Allowing flexibility allows employees to create customised work environments that suit their individual preferences and needs. Some people thrive and find it easier to get work completed when they are in a quiet home office. Others may prefer collaborative coworking spaces. By creating both and allowing employees to choose where and how they work best, employers contribute to helping create a positive environment for creativity and innovation.
The reduction of travel by reducing the need to commute, along with the decrease in the need for large office spaces, contributes to a positive environmental impact. Embracing flexible working plays a role in reducing carbon footprints and promoting sustainability. This is not only demonstrably beneficial, but also enhances the company's brand image and helps it appeal to environmentally conscious employees and consumers.
Adjustable working brings benefits for employers from increased productivity and talent attraction to cost savings and environmental responsibility, which is why it has emerged as a strategic imperative for modern businesses. Embracing flexible work arrangements not only positions employers as progressive and employee-focused but also equips them with the tools to thrive, resulting in benefits for both the company as a whole and the individuals within it.
To find out more or discuss what you can do as an employer to introduce or enhance a flexible working option, contact us or call the ACS Staffing Solutions team on 01604 704058.
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