The Advantages of Utilising Flexible Working Patterns in Your Company

The Advantages of Utilising Flexible Working Patterns in Your Company

A flexible work pattern within a company allows employees the freedom of an alternate work schedule that better fits their lives. The ability for an employee to effectively and efficiently fulfil the duties of a job while also managing home and other responsibilities has many advantages for both employers and employees. When looking toward future productivity and employee retention, the advantages of utilising one or more flexible working patterns within your company should not be overlooked.

Flexible working patterns can take many forms. Staggering work hours to provide flexibility for employees, while also ensuring adequate coverage at the work-site, is common. Giving an employee the option to adjust start and finish times each day, or to work longer hours but over fewer days each week, are two examples. Offering reduced hours, or allowing two employees to create their own part time schedules by sharing a single job, are other options. The ability to work longer hours some days, with the time taken off on another day within the same week, is appreciated by employees who may have appointments or other obligations that cannot be scheduled outside normal work hours. In some cases, thanks to the easy availability of computer and telephone contact, working from home may even be an option.

While the advantages for employees are obvious, utilising flexible working patterns may be even more advantageous for the employer. Allowing a flexible work schedule demonstrates that a company cares about the employees, which leads to an increase in employee productivity and loyalty, while at the same time reducing absenteeism and turnover. Offering a flexible working pattern also aids with recruitment efforts. Organisations can better serve their customers through the ability to be open longer hours while avoiding the expense of overtime. Busy periods can be easily accommodated, with employees taking off those extra hours when things are slow.

There is no doubt that the opportunity to choose a flexible work schedule is appreciated by employees. The option to travel during non-peak hours or complete work during quiet times is invaluable from an employee's point of view. Allowing employees to manage their lives while remaining productive and valuable assets for the company, however, is of even greater significance. While utilising flexible working patterns is obviously of mutual benefit, the greater advantage rests clearly on the side of the employer.