Flexible working is becoming increasingly popular in companies across the UK, and it’s also changing the way businesses operate. From increasing employee productivity to having an edge over rival competitors when it comes to recruitment, there are many reasons as to why it’s being introduced across the country.

So why should more businesses offer flexible working, and what are the benefits?

What is Flexible Working?

Flexible work policies differ from company to company. These can include full-time, part-time and career flexibility arrangements to name a few. The most popular form of flexible working is ‘flexitime.’ This involves core working hours that employees are required to work, but outside of that, workers are free to come and go as they please.

Another popular form is ‘remote working,’ which allows employees to work and do their jobs from the comfort of their own home. Both these types of flexible working are designed to ensure that workers have a better work/life balance.

What are the Benefits for Employers?

Employee wellbeing and satisfaction is key to recruitment and retention. Offering flexible working strengthens employee loyalty to a company, meaning workers are more likely to stay in that role for a longer. As a result, this enhances the company culture within a business, as well as reducing costs when it comes to hiring new staff.

This also increases employee productivity, as stressed workers are more likely to take sick days than ones who aren’t. It helps to reduce employee stress by helping workers manage their work/life balance. Less stress = more productivity!

Likewise, flexible working gives a company the opportunity to extend their business hours. If you allow your employees to work outside of normal operating hours, this can result in greater customer satisfaction!

What are the Benefits for Employees?

As mentioned above, overworked and stressed employees benefit from having flexible working options. 

When left unaddressed, stress can develop into other mental health issues. By offering flexible working, this gives workers the option to manage their time effectively and reduce their stress levels. It also allows them to balance commitments in their personal lives with the demand of their career life.

Likewise, it increases employee job satisfaction. Giving workers the freedom to manage their tasks gives them a sense of belonging within the company. Each employee is different – flexible working allows individual employees to play to their strengths in order to ensure maximum productivity!

Flexible working is beneficial to both parties. Employees have more freedom and as a result increase their productivity and work rate, while employers can benefit from a happier workforce.

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