All I want for Christmas…flexible working hours!

December 2016

All I want for Christmas…flexible working hours!

Kiwi employers say their workers prefer flexible working arrangements rather than more holidays

• Other than additional remuneration, 55% of New Zealand CFOs say flexible working hours top their employees’ wish list, followed by 23% who say more time off.

Auckland, 19 December 2016 - The holidays are coming up which is a great opportunity for employers to look at their employees’ wish list for 2017. Independent research commissioned by specialised recruitment company Robert Half shows Kiwi employees are keener on lifestyle benefits rather than more holidays when thinking about non-financial rewards.

When asked about additional benefits other than more pay, more than half (55%) of New Zealand Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) and finance leaders say flexible working hours topped their employees’ wish lists. Surprisingly, less than one in four (23%) say their employees would prefer more annual leave, indicating flexible working arrangements is a more attractive incentive than more time off for Kiwi employees.

Megan Alexander, General Manager Robert Half New Zealand said: “New Zealand workers would value flexible working hours. In the digital age and with a more mobile workforce, it's no longer the case that every employee needs to be in the office from 9 to 5 to be productive. In many cases, managers are actively encouraging their employees to take advantage of their flexible work arrangements as they constitute an attractive alternative to salary increases.”

“Companies can differentiate themselves by offering little extras, such as flexible working hours, the option to work from home and more holidays. Not only will this boost staff morale and productivity, but companies are also recognising the added value in gaining the reputation of an employer of choice, helping boost their talent acquisition strategies.”

Other than additional compensation, which one of the following would top your employees’ wish list?

The emphasis on flexibility can also refer to tangible non-financial benefits that extend far beyond offering flexible hours and working from home. Other benefits, such as childcare facilities, laundry and ironing services, sports facilities and medical care, also fall in this category, even if only 7% of CFOs think it tops their employees’ wish list.

“It appears, above all else, Kiwi workers would prefer a more flexible attitude towards their set working hours rather than more time off or other non-financial incentives. These benefits can go both ways, as the potential advantages for employers are well-known – such as reduced costs, improved output and increasing employee loyalty. When flexible working is used appropriately with the necessary level of buy-in from both employers and employees, it can be to everyone's advantage,” Megan Alexander concluded.

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