It is safe to say that the way in which employees work will change as a result of the pandemic. Working from home has been the norm this past couple of months and many expect this model of working to become the new reality in business. Another change comes alongside this new reality – the idea that the 9 to 5 model will be replaced by flexible working. Here we discuss the benefits of flexible working.
Flexible working: not a new idea
A 2018 study by YouGov commissioned by MacDonald’s, found that only 6% of the UK’s population worked from 9 to 5 and that 37% of people surveyed preferred to work from 8 to 4 instead. Research has consistently shown that flexible working, whether that means working part-time, working from home, working remotely, job sharing, or flexitime has tremendous benefits for businesses and employees alike.
Flexible working attracts talent, boosts productivity and increases well-being
A study by the Government Flexible Working Task Force found that 92% of young people want to work flexibly. Young people are not the only ones who want or need flexible working, however, people with long-term health illnesses also require this. There are 1.3 billion people in the world with a disability that form a huge talent pool that companies can tap into, but who often need flexible working conditions. Making flexible work part of the new normal in the workplace can help businesses create more inclusive and diverse cultures. The ability to choose when and how to work, the fact that there is no need to commute, and a better life-work balance can increase mental wellbeing.
Many managers and leaders are worried that flexible working can reduce productivity but 9 in 10 employees consider flexible working to be a key motivator to their productivity, according to a study by the Government Flexible Working Task Force. People worldwide now have the experience of WFH and many have learned how to stay motivated and productive, despite working remotely.
Common flexible working arrangements
This list was compiled by UK’s Government Flexible Working Task Force, find here the link to the entire Megatrends report: flexible working
