Workplace flexibility is often touted as a benefit during the recruitment process. The idea of having a flexible schedule is incredibly enticing, drawing in top talent from around the area.
But, when the selected candidate officially joins their team as a new hire, the reality doesn’t always align with the promise. Sometimes, it turns out their options are more limited than they were lead to believe. In other cases, workplace flexibility is functionally non-existent.
Flexible work arrangements are incredibly important to candidates, particularly as more and more professionals face increasing demands in both their professional and personal lives. If you aren’t offering workplace flexibility, here’s why you need to reconsider.
More Productive Employees
One of the biggest benefits of flexible work arrangements is typically the increased level of overall productivity. Employees have the ability to handle their work and their lives in such a way as to make both easier to manage.
For example, instead of using leave to handle a doctor’s appointment, they can simply adjust their schedule. This allows them to work a full day, instead of losing time to address the other obligation, keeping productivity higher while still giving them the ability to take care of some of life’s other demands.
Attracting Top Talent
Offering workplace flexibility can be an excellent selling point when you need to locate highly skilled professionals to fill vacant positions. Generally, it’s a benefit that job seekers hope to find, so they may favor opportunities that come from companies willing to provide it.
If you are seeking in-demand skills, you need to stand out from your competitors. Providing employees with flexible work arrangements can be a great differentiator if other businesses haven’t embraced the idea.
In contrast, if you aren’t providing flexible schedules, but your competitors are, you may have trouble recruiting top talent. If they realize other companies are willing to accommodate this desirable benefit, and you don’t include that in your offering, they may forgo a position in your business for one that provides them with what they need.
Does It Have to Be Completely Flexible?
While an entirely flexible work arrangement can be desirable in the eyes of candidates, it doesn’t always make sense for every industry. Some companies choose to provide flexibility within a set of boundaries, and that can still be touted as an attractive perk.
For example, you may limit telecommuting to a specific number of days a week or require in-person attendance for weekly meetings. Alternatively, you may state that employees must complete their eight-hour shift, but give them a 12-hour window to meet the requirement, such as allowing them to work any time between 7:00 am and 7:00 pm.
If your industry requires some boundaries, attempt to give employees as much flexibility as possible and outline any restrictions clearly. That way everything is upfront and well-defined, giving candidates a clear picture of what you have to offer.
If you would like to know more or are looking for a skilled professional to join your team, the recruitment specialists at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to speak with one of our experienced staff members today and see how our expertise can benefit your company.