During the coronavirus pandemic and as the new generations are entering the workforce, flexible working practices are increasing in popularity. Over the past few years, there has been a notable shift from the traditional 9 to 5 working days towards a more open agreement.
Though many businesses are swapping to flexible working, some may not have even come across the phenomenon. Thus, we define the different types of flexible working, and how they can support businesses in London.
What is flexible working, and how does it work?
Flexible working is a way of working that suit’s an employee’s needs, including flexible start and finish times, or working from home. In the UK, all employees have the legal right to request flexible working – not just parents and carers.
If an employee requests flexible working, employers must deal with it in a ‘reasonable manner’. If you fail to do so, they have the right to take the employer to an employment tribunal.
Flexible working allows employees to choose
- Where they work from
- What times they start and finish
- Part time working
- Compressed work weeks
- Alternative scheduling
- And much more.
However, you could also implement and encourage flexible working practices from the get-go. Job applications might allow people to apply who can only work from home, or maybe flexible conditions are written into employee contracts.
You might also operate a hybrid office, where some work from home, but others can work in the office or choose to come in when they want.
How can you support flexible working practices?
Whether you have employees who have formally requested flexible working conditions, or operate flexibly as an organisation, this does not have to affect the quality of your workspace. Why not consider Flexible workplaces In London from BE Offices?
These fluid office solutions for modern businesses give your company the image, flexible terms, and connectivity that you need. With flexibility for 1 to 1000 desks, they are easily scalable no matter how much your in-person workforce fluctuates.
What are the benefits of flexible working for London businesses?
1. Employee retention
An estimated 30% of employees report having left their job because their company failed to offer flexible work options.
2. Productivity
One reason employers don’t like to offer flexible working is because they think that employees won’t work unless they keep a watchful eye on them. However, flexible working can actually increase employee productivity.
3. Access to the best talent
Allowing people to work from wherever they want means that you have the pick of the best talent from not only London, but across the UK and even the world.
4. Attracts new recruits
One study found that 80% of workers would choose a job that offers flexible scheduling over a job that did not.
5. Potential to extend opening hours
When employees are allowed to work outside of normal working hours, this gives your company the potential to extend their operating hours, potentially even towards offering 24/7 customer support.
Overall, flexible working can support London businesses to excel in terms of employee, customer, and employer satisfaction. With this guide, you will be able to become flexi and know it!
Ismail is a freelance tech writer with a passion for lifestyle, gadgets, apps, and cars. My writings carry a huge amount of different social aspects that may help to improve your lifestyle. Find him by email.