The way in which we work has always evolved, but 2020 has seen a dramatic shift the likes of which we have never seen before, in the wake of the coronavirus and the widespread social distancing measures and restrictions that were handed down from the government nationwide. Flexible working was never an option for millions of people working in a plethora of industries until a few months ago, yet now it is something that the vast majority of us will have to get used to, as offices go back to work slowly and there is a completely different mindset and method as to how we function in society and work day-to-day. If you are looking for a new job, you might wish to have a more flexible way of working than you do currently, or you might not have a choice. Working with a specialist recruiter to seek new work will help you find the right solution for your needs.
For those seeking a change in occupation, or those entering the workforce for the first time, it is a very strange time indeed. Flexible working is now a buzz word that many industries are invested in, and it could be the perfect opportunity for those wishing to work from home or work in a more flexible manner within industries that this usually would not be remotely possible. Flexible working patterns are here to stay, as companies shift away from the traditional 9-5 roles and look to maximise the potential of employees to work during hours that suit them. There is reason to believe this new approach could reap rewards, as productivity is maintained or increased.
There are rules and regulations around flexible working that are already in place and you might not know about them. For instance, employees can already apply for flexible working once they have completed 26 continuous weeks of employment with a single employer. This request must be made in a ‘reasonable manner’, including holding a meeting with your employers to discuss the request in detail. Employers may refuse a request for flexible working if they have plans for structural change within the company amongst other things.
There are several benefits to flexible working for employees, including less stress, a better work/life balance and cost savings, as there is less reliance on the daily commute and the costs of food, drink and travel each day. On the whole, flexible working patterns have been shown to increase job satisfaction levels for most people. This is one of the biggest benefits to employers of flexible working – a happy workforce. A happy workforce is more likely to be productive, which passes on to the service that customers receive. Longer opening hours also have a positive impact on the brand and reputation of a company.
As you look for new work in the current climate, you might find that many job roles are listed as flexible, working from home or other forms of remote work. There are many different ways in which our job roles could change over the coming years. The Covid-19 situation has changed the way that we all have to work, and employers are now more likely to offer flexible working conditions and remote working opportunities where possible, as in most cases productivity has not fallen as expected when most people were asked to work from home full-time in March. Whatever choice there is available, if you are seeking work there are ways to ask to work from home and ways to look for remote and flexible job postings. Your expert recruitment agency can help you along the way.
