Flexible For Work-Life Balance

How do we know flexible work arrangments work?

We’ve been a remote first organisation since inception in 2012, so have first hand experience in navigating the challenges and reaping the rewards.

We understand that flexible looks different for everyone, but regardless of the arrangments, at the heart of it is the purpose of enabling employees to manage work-life balance.

So how can you make it work in your organisation?

Start by analysing each role and work out whether the role lends itself to flexibility. Training of the leaders to manage flexibility is important, as ensuring the employee has the right tools to do the job effectively. Then it’s a shift of focus on the outcomes rather than hours, and always ensure clear communication. Annette Dixon, Director Working Parents Connect
Improving work-life balance isn’t just for parents, either. Our Administrator, Kym is currently travelling Australia in her bus and flexible work arrangements allow her work from any location (often with incredible views!).
Whenever I can, I get up early and work first thing so then I have the rest of the day to do yoga, then explore where ever I happen to be. If I don’t have the time to work in the morning, due to having to leave a caravan park or needing to get to the next location in order to secure a spot, I can work in the afternoon or evening. Kym Burchall, Working Parents Connect

For parents, flexible work arrangements can be the enabler many families need to return to work while managing family commitments.

Working flexibly for me was so important to be able to continue in a career that I love while also being present for my children. I can’t imagine returning to a 9-5 role anytime soon as the nature of flexible working has allowed me to have the all-important time to ourselves in a busy world with kids.  I do 99% of drop offs and pick-ups, concerts, sporting events and many volunteer positions in and outside of their schools which has given me a great satisfaction in terms of social contact and a broader lens on community including committees.

As my children grow, or as I develop new specialist passions in my career, I may consider more office based time or co-working spaces, but certainly not on a fixed arrangement that would limit the flexibility I have come to thrive in and enjoy so much. Laura Gaugain, Working Parents Connect

Flexible work takes commitment from both sides, and can take some getting used to if it’s new. Our Digital Marketing Manager, Ashley has some great tips for managing time.

  1. Time Blocking has been a game changer for me. By setting aside specific chunks of time for work, family and personal activities, I can make sure I’m fully present and productive in those areas without feeling overwhelmed.
  2. A routine – Having a solid routine provides predictability for both myself and my family.
  3. Accepting help – An important lesson I learned is the importance of accepting help. Whether it’s from my partner, a family member, friend or even outsourcing tasks when possible. Recognising that I can’t do everything on my own and I shouldn’t have to either has been a huge relief.

 

What does flexible work mean to you? Be sure to follow us on our socials and join the conversation! And if your organsiation would like to know more about how you can implement flexible work arrangements or access talent who are accustomed to working flexibly, get in touch with our team here.