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How To Boost Employee Retention In A Post-Pandemic World
Covid has changed the way the world works. From how we socialise, to how we travel, there’s no doubt we have very different expectations and needs in a post-pandemic society.
One of the biggest shifts is how we work. Due to necessity, flexible working has become the norm over the past two years – and it looks like it’s here to stay.
Understanding flexible working is an expectation
Although many of us are able to return to the office now if we want, lots of us are resisting the everyday commute becoming the norm again. Ninety-five percent of workers say they prefer working from home in some capacity, according to the Flexible Work Report¹. There’s a clear expectation for flexible work arrangements to continue; 62 per cent of employees say they wouldn’t even consider a new employer who doesn’t have a flexible working policy, and 81 per cent of people insist that a company that allows for flexible working is really important to them when looking at future roles.
Offering practical support
Navigating this ‘new normal’ and negotiating a hybrid working balance that suits both employers and employees is now an important consideration for businesses. Those who don’t support staff in their desire to maintain a flexible work situation risk losing talent.
But just agreeing to your employees working flexibly isn’t enough; it’s about supporting them to work effectively and productively from anywhere. Research shows that both employers and employees get the best out of hybrid working when their home office reflects the ergonomics of a traditional office environment.
Flexiworks, part of Officeworks, is a new, easy-to-use online platform that helps your employees set up a safe, productive ‘work-from-anywhere’ space that’s beneficial to them and your business. It’s a self-service platform, that lets you fund your employees with a fixed amount of money to spend on a tailored Officeworks range. They can choose whatever suits them, within the budget you’ve set – from desks and chairs, to monitors and sound equipment.
Supporting your team to work-from-anywhere is a great part of an employee benefits program, and can help boost employee retention. When employees know they’re supported by their employer they’re increasingly likely to perform well, and remain loyal to the company. The Flexible Work Report has found that employees feel 59 percent more trusted, 53 percent more empowered and 51 percent more respected when supported by their employer in their transition to working at home.
Making life easy
With Flexiworks, you can offer your team the option of choosing anything from the full Officeworks catalogue of over 40,000 products, or let them pick from a pre-selected approved range or items. All employees can get access to a free Online Workspace Assessment that provides product recommendations based on their current workspace, and if they need it, the option for a virtual 1:1 with a Flexiworks partnered Ergonomic Specialist. There’s also free delivery for items over $55, or the option to click and collect from their preferred Officeworks store.
Plus, because it’s about supporting employees, and not giving them extra work, the platform cuts out the need for corporate credit cards, expense claims, or having to provide invoices for work-related expenses. There’s no admin involved; all employees have to do, is choose the equipment that will help them, and enjoy using it.
To find out more about how Flexiworks can benefit you and your business, and to register your business interest in the platform, visit flexiworks.com.au.
