Flexible and dynamic working in today's market

In a fast-paced world, the ability to effectively manage a positive work/life balance is a top priority for employees, which is where dynamic working can play an important role. 

But what exactly is dynamic working and how can it benefit employees and organisations alike?

What is dynamic working?

Dynamic working recognises that employees’ lives do not neatly fall into a typical 9-5 schedule and that individuals are productive at different times of the day. The principle of dynamic working is to focus on the output and key deliverables of an individual rather than the number of hours spent at work. Ultimately if output levels are high and all responsibilities are taken care of, then it doesn’t really matter where and when they are achieved.

This concept is facilitated in the modern workplace through the use of technology whereby it is now possible to log on to a remote desktop and have full access to the same suite of software and information as if working in the office; skype calls and smartphones also enable communication on the move in a way which simply wasn’t possible a few years ago. The exact patterns of work will vary according to the individual, but it may mean flexing around core office hours allowing employees time to attend family commitments, training or health and well-being appointments.

Benefits to employees

The benefits will vary according to the way in which employees integrate dynamic working it into their lives, but overall there are a number of positive effects on those individuals who chose to make the most of the flexibility. 
Job satisfaction
Employees who are allowed to work dynamically often feel more valued and trusted by the company for which they work, they are therefore more inclined to stay and progress in their careers over the long-term. The benefits of this are that individuals will further develop their skills and gain more specialised experience, thus improving their overall profile in the market.
Improved work/life balance 
Dynamic working can facilitate family-friendly working by enabling time for school runs and/or nursery drop offs. It can also allow an individual to pursue a particular hobby or interest such as training for a sporting event for example. 
Reduced travel time
There are further benefits to an individual’s overall well-being as commuting and travel times are often reduced by working from home or at different times of the day. Travelling at peak time can be stressful, time-consuming and expensive whereas employees could easily work during this time if they were able to work dynamically.
Advantages
Georgina Smith, senior marketing manager at DWF LLP has been working dynamically for several years and believes there are huge advantages, not only for herself but for the organisation overall.
On the topic of dynamic working, Smith had this to say; “I am able to manage and prioritise my time, and my work in a way that works for me, but also works for the business. Allowing for a better work/life balance. I travel quite a lot with my job, and agile working has allowed me to manage my travel with my work in the best way possible.” 
This flexibility has enabled her to be more productive through the ability to work from any location, anywhere, at a time that best suits not only her working schedule but her life as a whole. 

Benefits to the employer

Whilst benefits to an employee may seem obvious there are also distinct advantages for hiring managers.
Staff engagement
Happy and healthy employees are much more likely to feel engaged with a business, which in turn builds a sense of loyalty, commitment to stay long-term and drive to perform well. This in itself can also help to attract future employees.
Productivity
Allowing individuals to work at a time and in a manner which suits them will reap benefits in productivity, as dynamic working encourages individuals to be more accountable for their own performance. Most people enjoy being measured on key deliverables rather than time spent at a desk.
Talent attraction
In today’s candidate-driven market and in an environment where specialist skills and experiences are extremely sought after, the competition for top talent is high. With 62% of people admitting to turning down a role simply because another position offered better benefits, it is clear that offering dynamic and flexible working can have a positive impact on attracting talent.
Geographically, dynamic working often enables a business to target potential employees many miles further afield and also tap into those individuals who may be returning to work or have other commitments which might otherwise preclude them from applying for the job.
Reduced cost
Once the concept of dynamic working is fully embedded into company culture it may help an organisation to reduce costs associated with fixed office and desk spaces; hot-desking is a popular option for forwarding thinking businesses. Additionally, with the capability to work from home or from other locations remotely, there may be a significant reduction in the occurrence of sick days and unpaid leave.

Summary

More and more candidates are actively seeking employers who embrace this culture and clients are reaping the benefits of expanding their candidate pool and achieving much higher levels of staff engagement.
Conversations surrounding the benefits of flexible and dynamic working are very much welcomed. If you would like any further information, to explore jobs that offer dynamic working or to discuss how your organisation could make the best use of these benefits, please get in touch. Alternatively, call your local office or submit a job spec and one of our expert consultants will be in touch with you. 
Kate Upton
Michael Page