If you’re on the fence about whether or not you should offer flexible working options for your employees, there are many things to consider. Flexible working isn’t for every business, but there are certain many options of using a different office desking system or a completely new way of working altogether. Change is sometimes a positive thing if you want to improve your business!
Firstly, let’s stick with the positive and talk about the pros. Check out this infographic by the Olson Group on why flexible working is a plus point for businesses.
Source: www.theolsongroup.com/5-reasons-business-will-love-flexible-work
As you can see, improved retention of employees and higher productivity are two of the biggest reasons, as well as creating a greener working situation. There is also the cost savings on office equipment, such as modular office seating. Nothing to argue about there, but every subject has two sides, so what are the possible downsides of offering flexible working?
This mainly comes down to a lack of control and supervision of employees, and there has to be a large amount of trust that when employees are away from their regular office desks, they’re doing exactly what they’re supposed to be doing, i.e. working. Communication can also be an issue when employees are working remotely, so regular check ins are required to overcome that potential problem. There may also need to be a specific number of employees within the actual office at any one time, so arranging staffing levels could be a headache.
Overall, flexible working is a positive option for businesses, provided appropriate planning is done beforehand.
Does your business offer flexible working choices?