Wie flexible Arbeitsplatzstrategien den Unternehmen in der Krise helfen können

New technologies are also transforming companies. How and where employees work is fundamentally changing. In this new environment, it's crucial to offer flexible work solutions, including home office and other forms of remote access. This isn't just about working more agilely, but also about attracting and retaining top talent for the company.

Flexible workplaces are in high demand

A recent survey conducted by PowWowNow ¹ , a remote work technology provider, found that 35 percent of respondents value flexible working options over a pay raise. And more than 80 percent said flexible working options would make a job more attractive to them.

Flexible workplace strategies are a huge advantage for companies, although many may not even realize their full benefits.

Flexible workplace strategies as a safety net

Against the backdrop of the COVID-19 crisis, terrorist attacks, and natural disasters, it is impossible for companies today to predict what will come next. As we have seen with COVID-19, preparing for such crises is incredibly difficult. But flexible workplace strategies have already proven their value as a safety net.

Companies that already have the ability to continue operating with widely distributed employees will most likely be better able to weather the storm with minimal disruption. Simply put, flexible work arrangements are a "test run" for more serious situations where remote work is not just an innovative "nice to have" but a necessity.

Of course, not all companies can accommodate remote work. Certain industries, such as hospitality and retail, will be increasingly vulnerable during crises. But for companies where remote work is an option, investing in flexibility can make sense.

With the right processes and technologies in place, companies can worry less about simply maintaining operations. This allows you to focus more on remaining as efficient and effective as you would be under normal circumstances.

What does a successful flexible workplace strategy involve?

With so many potential benefits of flexibility and adaptability in the workplace, the question is: How can companies implement this flexibility?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The right flexible workplace strategy will depend on a number of factors, including geographic location, technology reliance, and employee size.

It's important to remember that when working remotely, companies have much less control over the environment in which employees work. This can raise a whole host of liability issues. For example, what if an employee injures themselves or someone else in the home during working hours? Who is responsible?

Therefore, fundamental success factors for remote working include clear communication with employees and training, investing in cybersecurity and a risk management program, and  purchasing the right insurance .

¹ PowWowNow, Flexible Working in 2019, powwownow.co.uk/smarter-working/flexible-working-in-2019/