With the summer holidays just around the corner, many employees may be considering requesting flexible working arrangements.
Now, more than ever, flexible working is becoming a significant part of the employment landscape.
Employees now have the right from day one to make two requests per year for flexible working arrangements, and employers have two months to handle a request, including any appeals, fully. Employers must provide a robust justification if they reject these requests in line with the statutory reasons.
Kathryn Rodgers at face2faceHR is a seasoned expert in helping businesses navigate these changes. She understands the benefits of flexible working and how to implement it effectively within an organisation.
Flexible working arrangements, such as reducing hours or working from home, might initially seem like a headache for small employers. However, if handled correctly, these arrangements can bring serious business benefits.
Recruitment and Retention
Flexible working arrangements can make a company more attractive to potential employees. By showing openness to reduced hours or homeworking, employers can attract talented individuals seeking a good work-life balance. Flexible working can help retain valuable staff, who might otherwise look elsewhere as their circumstances change.
Employee Relations
Employees in an environment where worklife balance is encouraged to feel more valued and empowered. This feeling can lead to increased motivation, commitment, and loyalty.
Productivity and Efficiency
Flexible working arrangements can significantly improve productivity and efficiency. Many employees work more effectively from home, and those who reduce their work hours often become more efficient in managing their workload.
Reducing Absenteeism
Flexible working arrangements can help reduce absenteeism by allowing employees to better manage the demands of their family lives.
Saving Money
Flexible working can also present costsaving opportunities. For example, if several staff members are away from the office full time, you can save on office space by using a hot-desking arrangement. Additionally, if staff reduce their hours, their salaries usually decrease proportionately, reducing your overall salary bill, provided the work can be managed in shorter hours.
It is essential not to be shortsighted when considering flexible working requests. If you can agree to these requests where possible and foster a culture where flexible working is encouraged and supported, it can significantly improve your bottom line.
Kathryn Rodgers at face2faceHR can help you navigate these changes to make the most of flexible working arrangements for your business.
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