Flexible working involves making a change to when, where or how an employee works.
Some form of flexibility can be built into almost all jobs, regardless of the organisation's size or sector.
When considering flexible working, it's best to start by thinking about what might be possible.
Types of flexible working
There are many different types of flexible working.
For example:
- part-time hours
- staggered hours
- remote working
- working from home
- hybrid working
- flexitime
- job sharing
- compressed hours
While some might not be practical for every job, it's likely other types will work.
Find out more about different types of flexible working
Benefits of flexible working
Flexible working can benefit both employees and employers.
For employees, it can help:
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balance work with other parts of their life
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improve health and wellbeing
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open up more jobs to them
For employers, it can help:
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attract and keep staff
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their employees be more productive
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keep employees happy and motivated
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recruit for jobs that are hard to fill
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improve diversity and inclusivity
As an employer, it's good practice to have a policy on flexible working. A policy can help managers and employees discuss and agree flexible working in a consistent way. Read more about having a flexible working policy.
How to agree flexible working
Employees and employers can agree any flexible working arrangement that meets both their needs.