The WFH versus the office debate is far from black and white. While some argue for the benefits of in-person collaboration – team bonding, brainstorming sessions, spontaneous chats – the truth is, full-time office presence doesn’t work for everyone. And businesses that ignore flexible working risk falling behind.
Every year, our Salary Survey highlights compensation expectations, but it doesn’t capture the full picture. For many employees, the perks of flexible working are now more attractive than a significant pay rise.
We’ve found that businesses with a workplace culture where people feel truly valued—built on psychological safety and trust—are the ones our candidates are eager to join. People thrive when they feel heard, and their individual needs are respected.
So, where do you start? Each business and team are unique. What works for others might not work for you. We’ve summarised the different approaches to flexible working so you can see which one (or mix) will suit your culture best.
Work from anywhere
Taking the concept of work-from-home to a new level, “work from anywhere” allows employees the freedom to work not only from their home but from anywhere in the world—whether it’s their home country or an exotic location abroad. Of course, this approach requires strong trust, clear communication, and careful consideration of legal and tax implications. But for some businesses, it’s a game-changer.
Flexible hours
For employees who need to juggle work with other commitments, flexible hours are a lifesaver. Offering a core set of working hours and then allowing employees to adjust their start and end times can provide the balance they need to feel in control of their day. This approach helps businesses accommodate diverse schedules without sacrificing productivity.
4-day work week
With over 200 companies across the UK signing up for permanent 4-day work weeks and initial trials proving to be a success, this model is gaining momentum. For many businesses, a 4-day work week is the perfect solution to help employees find more work-life balance without compromising on output. It’s still early days, but the results so far are promising.
Community spaces
Gone are the days of assigned desks and rigid office setups. The office is evolving into a more fluid and collaborative space where employees can come together in communal areas designed for creativity and connection. Hot-desking, meeting zones, and relaxed workspaces are becoming the norm, providing a balance of quiet zones and social spaces.
When flexible working doesn’t work
The reality is, flexible working isn’t for everyone, and it doesn’t come without its challenges. A proactive approach is key to making it work for your business.
CIPD recommends a “team-based” approach, where you manage the change in working patterns by clearly assigning times, projects, and people to ensure nothing falls through the cracks. It’s important to check in with your team regularly, adjusting policies as needed to ensure everyone feels included and supported.
Not every request will be feasible, and not every business or team can accommodate the same level of flexibility. So, what happens when you need to say no? The key to handling these conversations is honesty, empathy, and clarity.