Flexibility is the key to a happy workforce and now more than ever is necessary to retain talent.
In terms of what the current workforce market is seeking – it’s clear that flexibility at work remains the top priority. Being open to flexible working arrangements such as job-sharing can help your company to attract and retain your best and brightest employees.
…having a good work life balance is the most important driver to the Australian workforce and only two out of three employees feel their employer provides this. As one in three do not, it is an opportunity for these employers to place higher importance on providing flexibility for their employees.
The following are some scenarios where job-share benefits both the employer and employee:
Parental leave – parentál leave periods such as maternity leave can be hard for HR teams to fill. Often returning parents want to return on a part-time basis for a period of time because they are overwhelmed with the thought of going back to full-time work (and rightly so!). If your outgoing employee can have a say in who fills their role while they are on leave, and who they will share their job with when they return, it will increase their confidence and also yours as an employer. Your incoming employee will also have a sense of security knowing that the employer will be open to a flexible working arrangement if the opportunity to continue post parental leave period arises.
Returning from parental leave – many employees have a preference for returning to work on a part-time basis as they adjust to balancing work and family commitments. Job-share arrangements are ideal in this scenario. Approximately a quarter of all job-seekers are looking for part time roles.
Currently in Australia approximately 25% of the work-force is working on a part-time basis.
Caring for others – According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics – At least 2.65 million Australians provide ongoing care and support to a family member or friend. That’s more than 1 in 10 Australians. Supporting your existing employees and incoming employees by allowing a job-share arrangement is a real life way that you can improve the lives of others.
Transitioning to retirement – In this scenario, job-share is a great way to support your existing employees as they transition to retirement and also support incoming employees to learn from an experienced co-worker. This benefits the overall knowledge base of your organisation.
Career break – Burnout is a real thing affecting your employees. It can lead to disengagement and we’ve all heard of what’s been phrased ‘the great resignation’. If employees have the option to engage in job-share either to have a complete career break for a period of time or to reduce their hours, the likelihood is that they will stay with your organisation for longer.
Flexible working arrangements are also legally mandated in certain situations. Take a look for yourself on the Fair Work Ombudsman website (Australia) Flexible working arrangements – Fair Work Ombudsman
If you’re in New Zealand view the equivalent (well it’s actually better) at Employment New Zealand Flexible work » Employment New Zealand
