With its wide variety of roles and responsibilities, a large number of employees, and 24 hour way of life, the hotel industry can embrace the change to flexible working, unlike any other industry.
In this article, we take a look at how the demand for flexible working is increasing in hotels, and the benefits flexible working can bring for both employers and employees.
Demand for flexible working increases
The shift patterns inherent to the industry make flexibility in working hours possible for all employees. Shift swapping is a fundamental part of being a hotel employee. Other working practices such as part-time hours, banked hours, time off in lieu, flexi-time, and annualised hours make flexible working much more accessible.
But new patterns emerging show an even greater desire for flexible working amongst hotel staff. There has been an increase in the number of requests for secondments, sabbaticals, and paternity leave.
According to a report by Caterer.com, 40% of hotel employers say the number of people requesting the right to work flexibly has gone up in the last three years. Amongst the people requesting flexible working, 62% are women seeking to fit work around their childcare needs after returning from maternity leave.
The benefits of flexible working for employers
With the rising demand for flexible working policies in the hotel industry, it’s important to look at how employers can benefit from transitioning to a flexible working model.
Staff retention
Multiple studies have shown the importance of flexible working policies for staff retention. According to Aviva, one in four UK workers has left a job because of a lack of flexible working policies.
New skills and experience
Having a flexible bank of workers means that you have access to the right skills and experience when you need it. New staff can also benefit a business by bringing new ideas and new ways of working,Increased productivity
A survey carried out by BT showed that workers could be up to 33% more productive when they have the option to work flexibly.
The benefits of flexible working for employees
Increased job satisfaction
A recent Staples study discovered that an incredible 90% of workers believe that increased flexibility in the workplace leads to a boost in morale and job satisfaction.
Less stress
According to a new survey by FlexJobs, 81% of respondents thought a flexible job would help them be a better spouse, partner, or significant other. Flexible working allows you to fit your job around obligations and responsibilities outside of work.
Better health
Another potential advantage of a flexible working arrangement is improved employee health. According to the FlexJobs study, almost 75% of employees said work has conflicted with their efforts to look after their health. And, 89% believed a flexible job would help them take better care of themselves.
With so many benefits of flexible working on both the employer and employee side, it seems like a no-brainer to introduce flexible working to all hospitality businesses.
If you are thinking about transitioning to a flexible working model and need advice, our team would be happy to talk to you about creating a flexible bank of staff to support your new way of working.