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Thursday 17th May 2012

Flexible working is directly correlated to loyalty

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Flexible working is directly correlated to loyalty

Posted by Maggie Berry 10 October 2011 Careers |  Research |  Women |  Women in business A major part of bringing more women into the technology sector is campaigning for flexible working conditions and shared parental leave. So we were interested to come across this survey entitled “Working Parents & Carers Flexible Working Survey 2011” by myfamilycare.co.uk which shed some light on what working parents and carers really think about their options.

You can read the full survey here, but in the meantime, here’s a quick summary of its main points:
•    Over 1,400 parents and adult dependent carers took part in the survey.
•    For several years in a row, employer flexibility has topped the wish list of respondents.
•    Only 40% of respondents answered that they were happy or very happy with their work-life balance based on their current circumstances.
•    The survey found strong links between employee loyalty and work-life balance satisfaction, meaning that businesses that provide flexible working are at a large competitive advantage.
•    Trust and autonomy were two important factors to happiness – these two requests were largely dependent on direct line managers, who also had a strong influence on job satisfaction.

These facts demonstrate what Women in Technology has been arguing as an organisation for several years. While women are widely believed to be more loyal than men, this loyalty is tested by a lack of flexibility or understanding by employers.

One female respondent said:
“In exchange for the excellent treatment I have received I am extremely committed to my employer and put in whatever is needed to get the job done, I never take sick days etc and am determined to show my commitment wherever possible.”

However, those who answered that they were ‘happy’ or ‘very happy’ with their work-life balance are also concerned that the flexibility provided by their employers may negatively affect their career prospects. While providing flexible working conditions is commendable, employers need to ensure that, in doing so, they are also finding ways to provide a clear career direction and progression path.

Are you happy with your work-life balance? What would you change? We want to hear from you!
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