According to a recent survey, almost 60% of dads recently asked don’t have the confidence to ask their boss for flexible working arrangements. This is largely because they don’t want to be viewed as lacking in commitment.
It’s our experience that more and more men are choosing a flexible lifestyle, but as the case studies show in this article, communication is key to making flexible working a success. That was certainly an important factor as revealed in our client and Member survey into flexible working. But men in existing roles are afraid to ask for flexible changes in case they are viewed as lacking in commitment.
Yet some men have taken the plunge: the recent part-time power list for example, included more men than ever before. As dads are playing a more active part in parenting their children, they want more time to be able to do the school run and attend plays or sports matches before their children have grown up all too soon. And many employers are beginning to take this on board.
Flexibility requires commitment
So does this all add up to less employee commitment? Not according to this city worker’s blog post. He regards flexibility as an attractive option for employers and employees alike, stating that employee retention is likely to increase if companies offer room to manoeuvre. Productivity is also linked with flexible working and is one of the reasons why Sweden is now adopting a six-hour week. The simple fact is, flexible workers have to be committed in order to make their situation work and if an employer is willing to go down the flexible route, they will appreciate this fact.
So if you’re imagining a more flexible lifestyle but you feel your boss isn’t approachable or that it will never happen where you currently work, it might be time to make some changes. Get in touch with us to see what we can do for you. This could be your year.
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