4 Quick Tips for Creating a More Flexible Workplace
December 10, 2013
As one of the leading recruiting agencies in Houston, TX, Murray Resources knows flexibility is an important demand for many of today’s top talent – especially those in the younger generation. But, if you’re like most employers, you probably fear a decline in productivity if you implement a flex schedule.
The good news, though, is that if you do it right, you can get the best of both worlds: happier, more loyal employees without a drop in production. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Tip 1: Create a Policy
Don’t just let one person start coming in at 8 a.m. and leave at 4 p.m., or work from home certain days. You’ll create chaos in the process. Instead, plan out and execute a flex schedule that works for your company and your employees.
For instance, you’ll need to determine which employees can work a flexible schedule (it won’t be conducive for all positions), what those scheduling options will be and who can approve flex schedules.
Also, be sure to determine how you will measure productivity once flex schedules are implemented to ensure it’s not having a negative impact.
Tip 2: Roll It Out Slowly
Rather than allowing the entire company to work a flex schedule at once, roll out the new program slowly. Do a trial run in one division or department for a month or two so you can work out any kinks and address any concerns before making it accessible to everyone else.
Tip 3: Focus on Communication
One of the downsides of flex scheduling is that communication and collaboration can take a hit without a plan in place. So determine ahead of time how teams with employees working from home and coming in and out at different hours will remain cohesive and continue to communicate effectively with one another. Thanks to technology, there are many online collaboration tools you can use to boost communication among your team members.
Tip 4: Make Sure Managers are Properly Trained
Managing employees who are all in the office at the same time vs. employees who are scattered and working difficult schedules will be a challenge at first for even the most adept manager. So ensure your managers are trained properly to supervise these more flexible teams. For instance, since they can’t see their employees actually at work, they need to be checking in with them on a regular basis – either via phone, email or text – to get status updates.
A final note to keep in mind:
Companies with more flexible work arrangements typically have lower employee turnover and increased employee loyalty if – and only if – those schedules are properly devised and implemented well.
If you need help creating a flexible workforce to go with your flexible workplace, give Murray Resources a call. As one of the leading recruiting agencies in Houston, TX, companies all over the city rely on our expertise to source and retain top talent for permanent, temporary, part-time and contract opportunities.