workforce
Flexible working has evolved into a buzz word within the business community and in many cases, has become a part of the way businesses organise workloads. The Business Quarter takes a look at how it could work for you...
How flexible are you?
A
few years ago there was less understanding about the benefits of flexible working. But nowadays, more and
more businesses are waking up to its benefits, and many have already implemented flexible working arrangement such as remote working, flexi-time and job-sharing. Larger businesses are often blessed
with the infrastructure and staff to be able to utlitise flexible working solutions in many parts of their operations. Some smaller employers, while
aware of the general business benefits, are not always using flexible working to its full potential. This could be due to employers feeling it will place a strain on their finances and internal resource. A study by PricewaterhouseCoopers
revealed that almost of half of employees surveyed, listed flexible working as the most valuable benefit, with performance-related bonuses in second place with 19 per cent. In addition to the benefits to
employees, flexible working can add considerable value to businesses and the customer base. Through its £12.5m European Social
Fund and Welsh Government funded project, Chwarae Teg, the agency which promotes the economic development of women in Wales, is working closely with SMEs across Convergence areas to explain the business benefits of flexible working as well as offering practical support to ensure it becomes a viable part of businesses’ strategy. Established in 2008 the project aims to work with 600 businesses. An element of the Agile Nation
project is aimed at reducing gender inequalities in the workplace and looks at how to close the gender pay gap through promoting flexible working
arrangements and showing businesses the benefits of embracing work-life balance. Hayley Dunne, the Agile Nation
project manager, said: “The workplace has evolved considerably over the years and with advances in technology, there are more options to work flexibly. “There are a number of diverse
reasons why staff may need more flexibility in the way they work as they attempt to juggle a number of other responsibilities in their lives. “A few years ago, it was seen as
working mothers who were the main beneficiaries of flexible working, however increasingly businesses understand and recognise that flexible working offers wider benefits to all employees and to the business itself. “There are a number of factors to
consider within the modern workforce. An ageing population means that more people in Wales have caring responsibilities for elderly relatives and there is an increase in the number of workers that fall into the ‘sandwich generation’ – meaning a person is caring for an elderly parent while simultaneously looking after a dependant child.
“The ability to work flexibly allows
employees to work effectively, despite added personal commitments. Employer flexibility can reduce stress in the workplace, which is conducive to a motivated and productive workforce. “In these difficult economic times,
there is a need to go a step further for clients and customers and work more efficiently. Staff may be required to work long hours on a particular project but a flexible employer will allow them to have time off in lieu. “Other options such as working
remotely can help save time and money:
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