Embracing flexible working

Irish workers and their bosses are reaping the rewards of flexible working. Get the job done while focusing on your own wellbeing.

Microsoft’s latest Work Trend Index shows that Ireland has not only adapted to flexible working but is embracing it. This is encouraging as Irish businesses rethink how to be competitive on the global stage. The role of leaders has never been so critical in this change, as every person and team will have preferences. It’s critical leaders have open and honest discussions with each employee and the team as a whole about what flexible work means for them to maximise their impact and nurture their wellbeing. Organisations will be able to attract and retain the very best talent from the hyper-competitive job market with this progressive thinking.

Manage Flexible Workers

How do you manage your staff when they aren’t in the office? It’s simple, really. Is the work getting done? If you answered yes then that’s how you manage your team now. Step in when goals aren’t being met or an executive decision needs to be made.

It’s important that managers schedule regular conversations with employees; be their role model, coach and ear for the company. Make sure they are aware it’s a hybrid model and that means they can attend the office or stay online for meetings.

Remote Workers

Remote working is great but don’t ignore the importance of relationships with colleagues. Spontaneous brainstorming and working out work place issues can happen naturally when you talk to other members on your team so try and incorporate at least two days a week for the office when and where possible.

Technology is great but sometimes issues or great ideas can only come when it’s a face to face meeting. With so much demand for people’s working time, employees are now more likely to prioritize their health and wellbeing over work than before the COVID-19 pandemic. Its fantastic the country has been forced to look at how we work and that companies are responding to this with a positive attitude towards staff.

Working remotely or at the office? Here are some of our essential picks to help with your workday.