Flexible approach can boost jobs

15/07/2009

Almost 90% of workers believe flexible working practises can boost the jobs market, new research suggests.

According to a study on flexible working by communications firm Avaya, 67% of employees believe flexible workers are much happier, while 51% say they are more productive.

The study also revealed that UK workers believe the option of working flexibly makes staff more loyal.

Michael Bayer, president of field operations, EMEA Avaya, said that while it would be simplistic to suggest flexible working was a silver bullet for countries tacking unemployment, the downturn will encourage employers to consider a smarter workforce approach.

Bayer said using flexible working was ‘a practical and cost effective way of retaining talented staff who need to balance other commitments’.

According to the findings, the biggest motivator for employers to adopt flexible working practices is increased productivity (59%). This was followed by a desire to retain talented workers with family commitments, and the cost benefits associated with not having all members of staff permanently in the office.