Small firms told to consider flexible working

Oct 6 2008 by Karen Dent, The Journal

SMALL businesses in the region are being urged to consider allowing their staff to work flexibly and so reduce their own costs.

There are concerns that the economic slowdown may be putting off some firms that would otherwise consider granting flexible requests.

The issue is being flagged up by BT ahead of this year’s Government-backed Small Business Week, which kicks off next Monday. BT is hosting a number of events for the week, including internet seminars, alongside other supporters such as the British Chambers of Commerce and Business Link.

BT Business’s managing director Bill Murphy said: “Recent studies have demonstrated the business benefits of flexible working, from improved staff retention and productivity to cost savings and new business wins.

“BT has itself witnessed a 20% increase in productivity where it has put smarter working practices in place.” Research by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development suggested that almost seven out of 10 employers believed that offering flexible working improved staff attitudes and morale.

“This should be encouraging North East firms to seriously consider their flexible working arrangements,” said Mr Murphy.

“In the current economic climate, some small businesses are now taking a short-term view of investment, which might deter them from developing their flexible working capabilities.

“I would argue, however, that we might soon start seeing an increase in uptake, as flexible working can promote cost savings for businesses.

“The economic climate could therefore ultimately drive uptake of flexible working, particularly in a region like the North East, where people sometimes travel considerable distances for work.”