Commentary: Some firms maximise flexible work arrangement options in efforts to attract and retain talent

Source: CNA
Article Date: 15 February 2024

Balancing a career and childcare is a perpetual challenge for working mothers. Flexible work arrangements offer valuable support, enabling them to fulfill professional responsibilities while meeting their family's needs. Options like remote work, flexible hours, and compressed workweeks contribute significantly to achieving a better balance between work and family life, reducing stress levels and boosting job satisfaction.

Ms. Carene Song faces an even greater challenge due to her 11-year-old son's special needs. However, her company's policy, which permits employees to work remotely for two days each week, has significantly eased her ability to balance work and motherhood effectively.

Quoting the article " Some firms maximise flexible work arrangement options in efforts to attract and retain talent" penned by CNA:

" Ms Song’s employer explained that such work arrangements are crucial for talent retention.

“Life is more than just work, right? This keeps our employees healthier – both mentally and physically, and helps promote a more balanced way of working … and that will help us create a sustainable, long-term workforce,” said UOB's group human resources head Dean Tong.

The bank implemented its flexible work policy two years ago. It said its employees have benefited from the initiative and there has not been any dip in productivity.

“Some managers were initially a little apprehensive about trying out some of these new ways of working,” Mr Tong said. “But eventually – especially with the COVID-19 experience – we have learnt to work with managing output, rather than observing people in the office to see whether they are doing work or not.”

He added that the firm is continually implementing new initiatives to improve working conditions for its staff, and expects more such policies to be announced in later in the year.

This comes as a tripartite workgroup isdeveloping guidelineson flexible work arrangements (FWAs) – set to roll out later this year – that employers will have to follow. "

The excerpt from the article highlights the positive impact of flexible work arrangements (FWAs), particularly in Ms. Carene Song's case, who benefits from remote work to manage her responsibilities as a mother of a child with special needs. Dean Tong, UOB's group human resources head, emphasises that such policies are crucial not only for talent retention but also for promoting employee health and work-life balance.

Some might find it commendable that UOB recognises the importance of work-life balance and mental well-being for their employees. Allowing flexibility in work arrangements acknowledges that employees have lives beyond the office and helps in creating a supportive workplace culture.

Additionally, the shift towards managing output rather than physical presence in the office is a progressive approach, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. This adaptive mindset demonstrates flexibility and trust in employees' ability to deliver results regardless of their location.

UOB's approach to flexible work arrangements appears to be a win-win situation, benefiting both employees and the organization. By prioritising employee well-being and adapting to changing work dynamics, UOB sets a positive example for other employers navigating the evolving landscape of work expectations and regulations.

Source: Some firms maximise flexible work arrangement options in efforts to attract and retain talent

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