Why Flexible Working is No Longer a Benefit

Flexible working has been steadily gaining momentum for years. With the outbreak of COVID-19, however, this trend has reached a tipping point.

For many employers, flexible working arrangements became the only feasible way to navigate the unprecedented challenges brought on by the pandemic. Now, 78% of workers report wanting increased flexibility in their work moving forward. Employers who deny this demand will face significant challenges retaining talent. This marks a fundamental shift in how organizations must approach workplace flexibility.

The reality of flexible working

Historically, flexible working was regarded as a perk—a discretionary benefit extended to employees. The underlying assumption was that workers should feel grateful for this privilege and reciprocate with loyalty.

Today, this perspective is outdated. Flexible working is increasingly seen as a baseline expectation rather than a luxury. Employers need to reassess their mindset to remain competitive in attracting and retaining top talent.

The reality is that flexible working benefits both employees and employers. It boosts productivity, enhances job satisfaction, and expands access to a diverse talent pool. Workers who value flexibility now have more opportunities to switch to companies offering more accommodating arrangements.

Even before the pandemic, a study by Aviva revealed that 22% of UK workers had already changed jobs or departments to secure greater flexibility. Organizations that treat flexible working as a "favor" risk alienating employees and losing talent to more progressive competitors.

Facilitating flexibility

Organizations must understand that framing flexibility as a "benefit" can create structural challenges and harm workplace morale. For instance, 46% of employees feel awkward discussing personal commitments with their employers, while a fifth believe they would be denied more flexibility even if they asked for it. This creates an environment where employees hesitate to request the arrangements they need, ultimately undermining trust and confidence in their employers.

By normalizing flexible working as a standard practice, businesses can break down these barriers and foster an atmosphere of mutual respect and collaboration. Employees who feel supported in balancing their professional and personal lives are more likely to demonstrate loyalty, engagement, and higher levels of productivity.

However, simply offering flexible working options is not enough. Organizations need to actively invest in tools, resources, and policies that enable employees to thrive in flexible environments.

The new normal requires new benefits

Companies that fail to fully embrace flexibility risk falling behind in the race to attract and retain top talent. The most forward-thinking organizations are not just offering flexible arrangements; they are enhancing them with additional benefits that make flexibility more effective and appealing.

These benefits might include:

• Advanced digital tools and communication platforms to support remote and hybrid work environments.
• Technology stipends or equipment upgrades to ensure employees have the resources they need.
• Flexible holiday policies that complement adaptable work schedules.
• Upskilling opportunities that empower employees to grow professionally while working flexibly.
• Increased autonomy to foster trust and encourage employees to manage their work-life balance effectively.

Even if two companies offer ostensibly similar flexible working policies, the one that invests in making flexibility more seamless and rewarding will inevitably have the edge.

Flexibility as the foundation for success

As workers adapt to the post-pandemic landscape, organizations must do the same. This requires a shift in mindset: flexibility is not a favor—it is a fact of modern working life. Companies that prioritize employee well-being and adapt to changing expectations will not only retain their top talent but also attract new hires eager to work in forward-thinking environments.

By offering meaningful resources, clear communication, and a commitment to making flexibility the norm, businesses can create a thriving workplace where both employees and employers benefit.

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