Why is everyone so hung up on presenteeism at work?

As flexible working becomes more popular, we ask why many businesses still get hung up on presenteeism at work and employees being at their desks?

The candidates we meet on a daily basis are highly professional and motivated individuals, often used to working at a senior level and used to managing their own time successfully. In fact, nearly half of all our jobseekers have earned over £50,000 per annum, in their careers. But they are facing the same major barrier: presenteeism at work.

Getting the job done well

Sadly, businesses are still unsure about the benefits of flexible working for their companies. Many bosses seem to think that if they can’t see their employees they’re not being productive. But they might not realise that productivity isn’t necessarily related to presenteeism in the workplace.

For example, how many employers find their staff spending an inordinate amount of time on social media sites, taking yet another coffee break or discussing holidays with their colleagues, knowing they can still ‘catch up’ on their work after hours?

The crux is that if employees are set clear, measurable goals, does it really matter how they’re achieved?

Limited time, unlimited success

These case studies recently appeared in the Guardian newspaper and neatly explain how flexible workers can be more productive as they know they have a lot to do in a limited amount of time. There are no ‘water cooler’ moments or endless checks of Facebook here. We find flexible workers to be diligent and organised professionals – in fact, an employee that excels in a flexible working format often demonstrates skills way beyond their functional experience.

Financial business sense

What’s more, in many cases, businesses can find highly motivated individuals for less than if they were recruiting for a permanent member of staff. And by talking to us here at Ten2Two, they may even be able to save further money by finding a solution to their recruitment needs that they hadn’t even considered. For example, a senior employee for three days with a junior one in support for the other two, rather than one full time, more expensive person.

Communication is golden

It’s our experience that communication between the employer and employee is the golden rule for flexible working success. Trust is fundamental and by keeping the channels of communication open, this can easily be built upon to ensure the business grows from strength to strength.

To learn more about the benefits of flexible working for your business, get in touch with your local Ten2Two office today. We look forward to hearing from you.