Staffing Resource Center

Wood Personnel Services provides the support you need to deliver greater work flex -- and reduce turnover. Contact us today to learn more

The Flex Work Employee Revolution
So just how far are talented employees willing to go in order to achieve the flexibility they desire?

Research shows that the vast majority of our working population cites flexibility as a top factor in determining the attractiveness of new career opportunities. Many would also concede a portion of their salaries for greater flexibility in their work schedules.

Flex work isn't a fad -- it's a fundamental shift in our world of work.

The True Business Value of Virtual Work Options
The facts are clear. Employees want to be able to work from home, at least on occasion.

But just how does this benefit the company?

Melissa Mayer of Yahoo famously banned telework options a few years ago because she felt it stifled collaboration and creativity. However, Mayer also experienced a great deal of backlash over that decision -- and not just from the working public. Some of that backlash came from employers that utilize flexible options and recognize the true business value of a virtual workforce:

• According to Global Workplace Analytics (GWA), a typical U.S. business that offered half-time telework could save over $11,000 per employee, per year in real estate, utilities, absenteeism and turnover.
• Global Workplace Analytics also reports that 95 percent of employers indicate that flexible work options have a positive impact on long-term employee retention.
• 46 percent of organizations that offer flexible work options experience reduced turnover, according to GWA.
• 37 percent of 1,500 technology professionals told GWA they would be willing to accept a 10 percent cut in pay in order to have flexible work options.
• Virtual staff typically return to work faster following serious illness, medical issues and surgery.
• According to a survey by Connect Solutions, of those who work remotely even a few days a month, 77 percent reported that they get more done while working off-site and 30 percent reported accomplishing more in less time.

Making Flex Time Work for YOU
Working from home, even a few days a month, requires a great deal of focus and concentration. Employees who are highly motivated and properly managed, however, are able to avoid distractions, and many even become more productive when working remotely.

The keys to success? Choosing the right flex options, the right management approach and the right candidates.

Choose the right work flex options.
Not all types of work are equally suited to flexibility. Evaluate positions within your company to identify where you might be able to offer:

• Flexible start/stop times
• Telecommuting
• Job sharing
• Compressed workweeks

Take the right management approach.
To ensure high performance (whether employees work on- or off-site) and guard against an "us against them" mentality, tweak your approach to management:

• Choose technology carefully. Consider cloud- or Internet-based vehicles for storing, sharing and collaborating on work. Once you've chosen the people and technology, make sure everyone has the equipment, training and support they need to succeed.
• Make yourself available. If your employees are working extended hours away from the office, they must feel comfortable contacting you outside the typical nine-to-five. Whenever possible, answer their calls immediately. Respond promptly to voicemails and emails.
• Foster a sense of community. Combat divisiveness, isolation and insecurity by:
  • Handling sensitive issues with discretion
  • Proactively building relationships between on-site and virtual employees
  • Providing regular, timely feedback for all employees -- no matter where or when they work

Find the right people.

• Identifying employees who have what it takes to be strong virtual workers takes a bit of skill and a lot of practice. Look for candidates who are disciplined, self-motivated and communicate well in writing.

Wood Personnel Services can help you hire candidates who will thrive in a flexible work environment. Email Tonya Davidson at tdavidson@woodpersonnel.com to get started.

If you learn how to leverage and manage flex time, morale and retention will increase among current team members. You'll also have a strong weapon in your arsenal for attracting top talent! In the long run, offering greater work flex will become your recruiting secret weapon -- by building your employment brand and helping you attract the best and the brightest job seekers.