3 things you should know about - flexible working

1 Benefits for all
Many organisations are introducing flexible working arrangements. Whether it is job sharing, flexi-time, working from home, part-time working, or staggered start and finish times, many employers are looking to increase staff retention and productivity by embracing flexible working environments.

Although it depends on your job role and business area, flexible working patterns could help you create that vital work/life balance. That, in turn, could help your employer get more quality work from you.

2 Trust time
Flexible working arrangements function best when there is a high level of trust between employer and employee. Your manager needs to know that you are getting on with work at home, or don’t work less than you are contracted to.

Flexi-time works well for highly time-pressured roles. You can put in the hours when you’re busy; you can start later or finish earlier during quieter times. Part-time work, or staggered start and finish times, can help working parents or carers.

3 Maintain rapport
Advances in IT such as broadband and virtual private networks have enabled many workers to create an office at home, but without the commuting or distractions.

Although e-mail enables you to communicate with clients and colleagues, verbal communication is key to building rapport. Just because you’re not in the office doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t speak to your clients and colleagues daily, or hourly, or whenever you need some advice or people contact.