Workplace
Flexibility
IMPLEMENTING A SUCCESSFUL PROGRAM THAT INCREASES PRODUCTIVITY
Workplace flexibility: it’s a hot phrase right now,
buzzing through offices and across industries. HR
professionals have embraced it and while many are
adapting their office to accommodate the wants –
and needs – of employees, few really know how to put a successful
flexible workplace program into place. Some big-name companies
have moved away from flexible procedures, while others complete-ly
ignore the pursuit of something they view as unattainable. But,
the truth is, when deployed correctly, workplace flexibility can be
the competitive factor that attracts – and retains – top talent. It
also can help boost company productivity. It just takes time, effort
and the occasional trial and error.
Companies of all sizes can learn how to introduce and master
a productive, flexible work environment in their offices. There are
many formulas that work seamlessly for employees and manage-ment
alike, and many others that won’t work. Everyone assumes
there are pitfalls to going flexible – and they’re right. But overcom-ing
them is possible and can make a company stronger.
If a flexible work environment is an idea you’ve toyed with, or
are even curious about, there are certain tips to keep in mind as to
how to transform a traditional workplace.
productivity
DO RESEARCH
With more companies adapting a flexible workplace environment,
there is no shortage of resources to refer to as you create a plan
that will work for your office. Read articles on companies using
a flexible workplace model, and talk to management about rele-vant
experiences putting that model into action. Find out which
policies have soared beyond expectations, and which have crashed
and burned. Use that information to create a plan that implements
tailor-made procedures for your office environment and compa-ny
culture.
Networking with other HR professionals, who may be able to
share their successful experiences, is also a great way to learn dos
and don’ts when implementing a flexible workplace policy. Most
importantly, ask your employees. They’re a great resource, so talk
to them and find out how they would feel – and what they would
like to see – in the company’s flexible workplace policy.
EASE INTO THE PROCESS
If the concept of a flexible workplace is new to your company, ease
into flexible work arrangements rather than springing an entirely
new environment on employees and management. Test the flex-ibility
waters by doing a trial where you divide virtual-eligible
employees into four groups and have them rotate working from
By Kim Shepherd
Rawpixel/Shutterstock
HRPATODAY.CA ❚ OCTOBER 2014 ❚ 43
