A 4-point action plan for flexible working

“I’ve never been one to work from an office. I get most of my work done very remotely,” says … Sir Richard Branson.

That’s right.

One of the world’s most successful entrepreneurs is a passionate advocate of flexible working, both for himself and for his employees.

He predicts those companies that continue to adhere to strict 9 to 5, in-office working policies are “getting left behind.”

Based Richard Branson’s prediction, here’s a 4-point action plan to help you stay ahead of the curve:

Defining moments

Train managers to understand what flexible work means for their people. Is it a day working from home? Leaving early? An extended lunch? Flexibility means different things for different people and one size does not fit all. Understand how it supports each employee, what it means to them, and why it’s good for them.

Three-way benefit

Understand that flexible working needs to work 3 ways: it needs to work for the company and for the team, as well as the person. Ultimately, it should help all three parties perform at the same level or –  higher. Make this goal clear up front.

H + S

Did you know working from home needs to be as safe as working in the office? Create a checklist to help employees make sure it is.

Communication

Not being in the office shouldn’t stop anyone in the office from achieving their goals, so have employees create a virtual presence in the office. Encourage virtual meetings, collaboration and ideas sharing within flexible parameters. Communication is key to success.

For more, download our whitepaper on employee engagement