Can Flexible Business Models Boost Employee Productivity? | #hrmanagement #hrexecutive

With the pandemic forcing many companies to rethink the flexibility of their business models, offering remote or hybrid working options for employees has become a new normal amongst many organisations.The high demand for flexible working is evident amongst both employers and their employees, as 78% of CEOs have said remote collaboration is here to stay. In a separate survey conducted by Owl Labs, one third of survey respondents said they would even take a pay cut of up to 5% in exchange for the option to work remotely at least some of the time; a quarter would take a 10% pay cut; and one fifth would take an even greater cut. 

With evidence showing that employees who work from home are more optimistic about work (89%) than those working in the office (77%). It seems reasonable for employers to incorporate flexible working strategies that could benefit both the wider business and its employees. One report estimates US employers can save an average of $11,000 per year for every half-time telecommuter. But can employees continue to work productively under a flexible working business model?

Key statistical reports have suggested that flexible working boosts productivity and performance amongst employees. 47% of businesses have noticed increased productivity levels amongst employees who work remotely, 30% of employees did more work in less time while working remotely, and performance boosted 22% when employees were permitted to work from home.

If flexible working can boost productivity and performance amongst employees, what can businesses do to maintain these increased levels of productivity? Some key strategies include using digital communication software such as VoIP phones or virtual conference platforms to communicate efficiently amongst teams. This provides a reliable platform for employees to discuss tasks as they carry out work within a hybrid or remote business model. 

Another means of maintaining increased productivity levels involves recognizing and championing the success of remote workers, as 37% of workers think the biggest driver for great work is recognition. This could be achieved through creating a rewards system for employees, or by simply recognizing and mentioning employee wins within the channels of your chosen remote collaboration software. Either way, allowing remote employees to feel valued and recognized for their hard work could be vital to maintaining increased productivity levels amongst employees working within a flexible business model.